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Community group pitches LifeWise release‑time program to Oldham County schools, pledges compliance with new Kentucky law
Summary
Representatives of LifeWise Academy asked the Oldham County Board of Education to allow a release‑time character education program in district schools and said they will supply insurance and background checks required by a new Kentucky law effective June 27.
Representatives of LifeWise Academy on June 9 told the Oldham County Board of Education they can provide a release‑time, character‑based program that the group says increases attendance and reduces suspensions, and that the program will comply with a new Kentucky law coming into effect June 27.
Cassie, identified in the meeting as the program director of LifeWise in Oldham County, and Jenny, an Oldham County resident and Locust Grove Elementary parent, described “LifeWise Academy” as a release‑time character education program in which public‑school students would attend a one‑hour (50‑minute in Oldham County) session during the school day off school property. Cassie said the program is founded on a 1952 U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing limited off‑campus religious or moral instruction under specific criteria.
Cassie told the board LifeWise will follow local requirements and the new Kentucky law, and that the organization will provide documentation in writing by the next board meeting. She said LifeWise already carries liability insurance that lists the district on its certificate and that the group will provide information on teachers, volunteers and drivers and background checks to meet the law’s requirements.
“We are going to apply to you all in writing by the next board meeting,” Cassie said, adding that LifeWise would include proof of insurance and background checks in that submission. The presenters said they had met with Locust Grove staff about scheduling and safety procedures.
The presenters gave the board an example from another district, saying a principal reported improved attendance and a greater sense of belonging on days students attended LifeWise sessions and that suspensions for participating students decreased by more than 50 percent. They requested the board review LifeWise’s written materials and advised the board they would be available to answer questions or be placed on a future agenda.
Board members acknowledged receipt of LifeWise’s email and said staff would review the organization’s written submission before the next meeting.
No board action was taken at the June 9 meeting; presenters asked for consideration and offered to return with documentation and follow-up answers as requested by staff.
