COLUMBUS, Ohio-The LifeWise Academy, a Christian education nonprofit, is expanding in Ohio, allowing students to attend off-site religious lessons during school hours, a practice legally permitted in the state.
However, proposed legislation could require schools to adopt policies allowing such programs. LifeWise’s model involves students leaving school weekly for Bible study, raising concerns among some parents about missed classes and exclusion. While supporters see it as a chance to instill values, critics worry about its impact on secular education and its conservative stance on social issues like LGBTQ+ rights. Despite controversy, the organization’s growth reflects a broader trend of increasing interest in released-time programs nationwide.
