WESTERVILLE, Ohio-The Westerville City Schools Board of Education is considering rescinding a policy that permits students to leave school for religious instruction during the day. At a recent board meeting, many attendees expressed their opinions, with some advocating for the continuation of the LifeWise Academy program, which currently pulls about 300 students from recess and lunch for Bible-based education. Board President Kristy Meyer emphasized concerns about disruptions to the school day, stating that the focus should be on education. Supporters of the program argue it benefits students, while opponents believe religious instruction should occur outside of school hours. The board has conducted its first reading of the proposed policy change, with a second reading and vote still pending.
