Letters to the Editor: July 23, 2022

I am concerned that local public schools are adopting a once-a-week Bible study program during the school day for “weekly Bible-based character education class”. The program is offered by LifeWise Academy, part of Stand for Truth, whose mission is to equip believers to “stand for the historic Christian faith.” More than 100 schools will participate this coming year. At Van Wert Elementary, 90% of students participate, while the others remain in the classroom with their teacher.

I appreciate the delineation of funding as outlined in the article, but I think use of school time is not appropriate and could disrupt school-based learning. School personnel are tasked with supporting the education of all students during the entire school day and are responsible for standards of curriculum and behavior. How are the children who participate in Bible study supervised and protected during this offsite program? Children who do not participate may be negatively impacted and labeled, adding to the challenges our schools and students face every day, including bullying and discrimination.