UPDATE: LifeWise Academy is rapidly expanding its faith-based educational program in Ohio, with enrollment skyrocketing from 13 students in March 2024 to 75 students this school year. The initiative, which allows students to leave public school for religious education during school hours, is gaining traction and attention in Hilliard, Ohio.
Around lunchtime, children in Clark County are excused from their regular classes to engage in Bible study, prayer, and worship. This practice occurs under “released time” religious instruction laws, which require parental consent. Nikohl Hamilton, the program director for the local chapter, leads this transformative effort, sharing that her own son, Ethan Hamilton, is among the enthusiastic participants.
The program started as a pilot in March 2024, and its rapid growth highlights a significant interest in faith-based character education during school hours. By the end of the pilot year, enrollment jumped to 30 students, demonstrating a strong community response. As the current academic year commenced, LifeWise Academy has now reached 75 students, reflecting a clear demand for this type of instruction.
Officials affirm that this initiative is not only about religious education but also about fostering character and moral development among the youth. The program emphasizes values such as kindness, respect, and service, aiming to equip the next generation with essential life skills through a faith lens.
The expansion of LifeWise Academy comes amid growing conversations about the role of faith in education and how it intersects with public schooling. As the program continues to evolve, parents and community leaders alike are expressing their support for this unique educational opportunity.
Moving forward, LifeWise Academy plans to further increase its offerings, potentially reaching even more students in the coming years. The organization is committed to making a lasting impact on young lives by integrating faith into their educational experience.
As this story develops, observers are encouraged to watch for updates on the program’s growth and its effects on the broader educational landscape in Ohio. This initiative may well set a precedent for similar programs across the nation, as communities seek to blend academic learning with spiritual growth.
Stay tuned for further updates on how LifeWise Academy is shaping the future of education in Ohio.
