LifeWise Academy set to transform education in Decatur

During a recent government meeting, Vanessa Bittner, program director for Lifewise Academy, presented plans to introduce a new program in Decatur aimed at providing religious education to public school students. Lifewise Academy, which has already been established in several Indiana school districts, operates under a legal framework that allows students to be released from school for religious instruction, provided that parents give permission and the program is privately funded.

Bittner, a Beaumont graduate and lifelong educator, explained that the program is designed to address rising concerns about student mental health, including anxiety and depression, while also improving Bible literacy and school attendance. The initiative has seen success in other districts, with enrollment rates between 60% and 80% among eligible students.

The program will involve students being dismissed from their regular classes, such as library or art, to attend Bible education sessions at a nearby church, Cornerstone Community Church. These sessions will focus on biblical stories and character development, with the aim of fostering positive behavior and respect among students.

Plans for Lifewise Academy include launching programs for grades 1 through 4 in the upcoming school year, with future expansions to high school and middle school programs anticipated in subsequent years. The high school program will offer elective Bible classes, potentially for college credit, while also providing internship opportunities for students interested in ministry.

Bittner emphasized the importance of community support, including volunteers and financial sponsorship, to make the program successful. The initiative has already garnered school board approval and aims to officially launch between October and November of this year.