During the Ocean City School District Board of Education meeting on November 22, 2024, significant discussions centered around the proposed Likewise Academy program, which aims to integrate religious education into public school curricula. Community members expressed strong opinions regarding the implications of this initiative, particularly concerning its impact on students with special needs.

One parent passionately advocated for the inclusion of social and emotional learning programs, emphasizing the necessity of such initiatives for all students, especially those with disabilities. She urged the board to find funding for these programs, highlighting the importance of equitable opportunities in education.

Conversely, Dr. G. Marie Mason, a public education advocate and educator, raised critical questions about the Likewise Academy's approach. She expressed concerns about the qualifications of instructors, the curriculum's adherence to educational standards, and the program's ability to accommodate students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Dr. Mason questioned whether the program would provide necessary resources for students with disabilities, such as braille materials and sign language interpreters.

Dr. Mason also challenged the timing of the program, suggesting that religious education could be offered outside of school hours, allowing public education to remain secular. She underscored the diversity of beliefs within the community, asserting that the school system should reflect this inclusivity.

The discussions at the meeting highlighted the ongoing debate over the intersection of education and religious instruction, with community members advocating for both the support of special needs programs and the preservation of a secular educational environment. The board's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and determining the future of the Likewise Academy initiative within the Ocean City School District.