Board discusses religious "release time" policy during first reading as residents raise transparency concerns

The Willoughby‑Eastlake City Schools Board of Education held a first reading April 14 of a proposed religious release‑time policy (Policy 5223) and heard public comment urging clearer rules on materials and parental access.

The policy outlines how private providers can hold religious instruction during the school day if parents request release time for their children. Deborah Wilden, a resident who spoke during public comment, said she reviewed the draft and was concerned that a provision would bar students from bringing materials back to school. "The parents who are agreeing to release their children have a right to this information," Wilden said, urging the board to amend the policy so returning materials be kept secure in students' backpacks and that students receive a reminder before removal from the program.

Board members framed the discussion around partnering with families and legal review. Board member Miss Menser said the district must run the draft by legal counsel but expressed support for working with families: "When we are talking about our students ... we are trying to do what parents and families want for their children." Dr. Ward, the superintendent, described the item as early in the process and said the district will seek legal guidance and community input before taking final action.

Discussion at the meeting addressed two recurring points in the draft: (1) whether materials provided by outside providers should be allowed to return to school with students and, if so, how the district and parents should manage that; and (2) whether the policy should refer to "core" courses or "graded" courses when defining permissible release times. Board members and commenters noted the practical effect on scheduling and on student coursework if release time coincides with graded instruction.

No vote was taken; the policy was presented for a first reading and will return for further review. Board members directed staff to consult legal counsel, to consider wording changes (for example, replacing the term "core curriculum" with "graded courses" where appropriate), and to continue community engagement ahead of a second reading.

The district repeatedly referenced the choice to partner with families rather than to favor specific third‑party providers; several board members emphasized that release time is intended to respect family choice rather than to integrate religion into district instruction. Dr. Ward also noted that, to date, there are no active parent requests for release time in the district in the last month.

The board scheduled the policy for a second reading at its next public meeting; any final adoption will follow legal review and additional public input.