Release time programs, which allow students to leave school during the day for religious instruction, date back to the early 20th century. LifeWise Academy, known for its "big red bus" that shuttles children to offsite religious lessons, is described as the first of its kind to create scalable models and make Bible education accessible to families across the country.
The curriculum, which covers the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, connects biblical narratives to the Gospel message while promoting character transformation. The program has shown benefits such as improved academic performance, enhanced mental health and reduced disciplinary issues.
Since its inception in 2019, LifeWise has expanded from two programs to 325, operating in 12 states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania and Georgia. Additionally, enrollment has surpassed 35,000 students, with the program funded entirely through private donations at no cost to schools or families.
However, the growth of such programs has sparked both enthusiasm and controversy. Advocates praise them for offering students spiritual education, while critics, including some parents and religious minorities, argue they can marginalize non-Christian students and blur the line between church and state.
Satanic Temple's HAIL program to promote religious pluralism
In response, the Satanic Temple, a non-theistic religious organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), has launched a religious program called Hellion Academy of Independent Learning (HAIL) at Edgewood Elementary School in Marysville, Ohio. This program seeks to promote religious pluralism and challenge religious exclusivity in public spaces. (Related: SATANISTS to volunteer in Florida schools following signing of new law that allows religious personnel to be employed in public schools.)
HAIL will operate once a month, offering students activities focused on self-directed learning, empathy, problem-solving, creative expression and community service. The program also promises to incorporate guest speakers and interactive learning experiences designed to promote critical thinking and inclusivity.
The introduction of HAIL has drawn mixed reactions.
LifeWise CEO Jowl Penton stated that their organization is not afraid of other organizations like Satanic Temple. "LifeWise isn't fearful of other organizations offering [release time religious instruction]. We believe all families should have the opportunity to choose religious study during school hours and we trust parents to make the best choice for their children." But then, he also urged lawmakers to pass Ohio House Bill 445, which would require school districts to authorize religious release programs.
Director of Campaign Operations for the Satanic Temple Erin Helian argued that such programs exploit peer pressure to attract students. "It is sad these programs feel the need to use the peer pressure to gain adherents to their religion," Helian said in a press release. "However one measures a religion, it is not a good look to prey upon children by bribing them with field trips and snacks."
Moreover, ordained Minister June Everett for the non-theistic organization clarified their stance with the interdenominational educational program. "We aren't trying to shut the LifeWise Academy down. But I do think a lot of school districts don't realize when they open the door for one religion, they open it for all of them."
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Watch this video of The Satanic Temple performing an "unbaptism" – a mockery of the Christian sacrament.
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