VERMILION — The LifeWise Academy program officially launched in Vermilion this fall, offering voluntary, off-campus religious instruction to elementary students. The program’s arrival has sparked conversations across the community, drawing both support from participating families and questions from others about its role in public education.
LifeWise Academy’s Program
Kammera Rice, program director for LifeWise Vermilion, said the program is designed to give families an option for faith-based character education while following state and district guidelines.
“Classes are held off school property, are privately funded, and require written parental consent,” Rice explained. “We serve students in grades one through three, transporting them by bus during their lunch period. Lessons focus on scripture and character traits like kindness, gratitude, and respect, and we provide take-home materials so families can be part of the learning.”
Rice added that the program follows strict safety protocols, including background checks for all volunteers, locked doors during sessions, and at least two adults present with students at all times.
Open House Atmosphere
The LifeWise open house on Thursday evening drew roughly 30 attendees inside and an estimated 25 to 30 protesters outside.
Inside, organizers created a warm and welcoming environment, offering snacks, desserts, and refreshments for visitors. Informational materials were available explaining LifeWise’s mission, its curriculum, and program goals. Supporters and organizers were open to discussing their approach and answering questions throughout the event.
Outside, protesters gathered peacefully to share their concerns. By most accounts, the group remained respectful and non-disruptive, though some supporters expressed disappointment that their presence might have made young attendees uncomfortable at what was intended to be a welcoming family event.
Perspective From A Grandparent
Cara Turner, a local grandparent involved with LifeWise, said she became interested after learning about the program from its regional leadership and later observing a session.
“I looked into what LifeWise was about and shadowed a class,” Turner said. “I’ve never seen such happy kids and happy adults. They were singing, learning, and sharing stories. For me, it felt like a positive, joyful experience.”
Turner later joined the board to help guide the program locally.
Support From Local Families
Rick Lalonde, a board member for the Firelands chapter of LifeWise, said his involvement stems from wanting children to have a strong sense of purpose and values.
“I want kids to know they’re loved and that they matter,” Lalonde said. “For us, LifeWise helps balance what they learn at school with what we teach at home. It’s one hour a week, and parents make the choice to send their children.”
Lalonde also emphasized that LifeWise operates within state law under the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling allowing release-time religious instruction. “Parents have the right to choose this program,” he said. “Some supporters felt protests at the open house took away from what was meant to be a welcoming experience for families.”
Concerns From Opponents
Kitty Schwanitz, director of the Lorain & Erie County Secular Education Association (formerly known as Parents Against LifeWise), who helped organize the protest. Schwanitz believes Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) programs raise broader issues of transparency, oversight, and the separation of church and state.
“My concerns aren’t about individual teachers or students,” Schwanitz said. “They’re about the larger structure. LifeWise promotes a curriculum rooted in specific religious beliefs, yet many families may not fully understand that. We believe religious instruction is best left to families, outside the school day.”
Schwanitz said her group plans to continue monitoring the program and engaging with school leaders to ensure district policies are followed.
School District’s Role
The Vermilion Local Schools Board of Education approved LifeWise Academy under state guidelines but maintains that participation is optional. District policies prohibit recruitment or religious activities on school grounds during instructional hours, and officials have stated they will review any reported concerns. Before the recent change in state law from ‘may’ to ‘shall,’ the board had previously voted against allowing LifeWise to operate within the district.
Looking Ahead
Rice said LifeWise currently has three students enrolled and expects more families to join in the coming months. The program hopes to expand in future years while continuing to work within district guidelines.
Opponents plan to continue advocating for increased transparency and ongoing dialogue within the community.
Parental Choice Remains Central
Under Ohio law, parents have the right to decide whether their children participate in LifeWise Academy or any other Release Time Religious Instruction program. LifeWise sessions are scheduled during lunch and recess to avoid interrupting classroom learning. While supporters and opponents continue to disagree about the program’s role in the community, participation is voluntary and ultimately a decision for families to make.
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