The Ocean City School District Board of Education meeting held on November 22, 2024, featured significant discussions regarding the potential introduction of Lifewise Academy and the district's approach to inclusion for students with disabilities.

Mary Fleming, a resident of Ocean City, expressed her concerns about Lifewise Academy's mission, which she described as targeting the "unchurched." She highlighted the potential for the program to act as a recruitment tool for specific religious beliefs, raising worries about the implications for inclusivity within the school district. Fleming urged the board to thoroughly examine all aspects of the proposal to ensure it does not discriminate against students with diverse beliefs.

Pam Jeanette, another local resident, shifted her focus from Lifewise to the district's support for inclusive education. She shared her experiences with her son, who has Down syndrome, emphasizing that while he had a positive experience in high school, the school environment lacked true inclusion. Jeanette criticized the district for not fostering a unified atmosphere where students with disabilities are integrated with their peers. She called for more effort from the school to create inclusive opportunities, stating that inclusion requires commitment and effort rather than simply following the path of least resistance.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for careful consideration of educational programs and a stronger commitment to inclusivity for all students. The board is expected to reflect on these discussions as they move forward with their agenda.