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FAQ

Released Time Ministry "Need to Know" Information

  • What is "Released Time" Religious Education?"
    Released Time (“RT”) is the only legal means by which public school students may study their faith academically and devotionally during the school day. Schools may enter into a cooperative arrangement with the community group offering the classes. School personnel are required to remain neutral, neither encouraging nor discouraging students’ participation. While RT is equally available for any faith, School Ministries Ohio helps Christians offer Bible classes for the public school students of their communities.
  • Who is School Ministries Ohio?
    School Ministries Ohio educates, equips and encourages Christians to offer Bible classes for their community's public school students (K-12). As part of School Ministries, the nation's largest association of Released Time Bible Education programs, we mentor local leaders to create programming tailored to their students and values to start, grow and sustain Released Time Bible classes in keeping with time-tested resources and the nation's best practices.
  • I've heard of LifeWise. How is School Ministries Ohio different?
    I've heard of LifeWise. How is School Ministries Ohio different? We are a released time training organization - not a program, like LifeWise. We serve without charge to provide members of School Ministries with access to all resources, tools, training and ongoing coaching they need to thrive. After nearly two decades, we remain committed to helping community leaders customize their own local School Ministries’ programs. As good stewards, this helps keep funds local, control costs and decision making, while developing strong relationships with area churches to meet the unique needs of their students and schools.
  • Can an established program become affiliated with School Ministries?
    Yes, we have helped many do so successfully. Our experienced coaches will evaluate your unique needs and guide you through the detailed process.
  • Is Released Time legal?
    Yes! RT has been around for more than a century, and was declared constitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1952. In addition, Released Time is the subject of statutes either requiring or permitting RT under specified circumstances in more than half of all U.S. states. See releasedtime.org. However, while Released Time is constitutional, it is not a constitutional right. Ohio's law is permissive: a community cannot force a school district to released students for a Released Time program. When schools cooperate, we educate about the three requirements of Released Time Education (RT): Parent permission must be given. Instruction should take place off school grounds. No state resources may be used.
  • Do these programs violate the separation of the church and state?
    No. Released Time classes honor the judicial doctrine of “separation of church and state” by following constitutional requirements established by the U.S. Supreme Court and affirmed by federal and state courts. The constitutionality of Released Time was recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1952 and upheld since, as an expression of our right to the “free exercise of religion” protected by the 1st Amendment. Prominent voices across America’s ideological and theological spectrum agree on the constitutionality of Released Time.
  • How does Released Time help students?
    It can help students find meaning and know they matter in a dark and hurting culture. Released Time is proven to help students academically, behaviorally and in character development. Teachers and volunteers provide much needed adult mentorship. Studies consistently show that students who take it, thrive.
  • Is academic credit available for students?
    Yes. Ohio Revised Code 3313.6022 provides that students may earn up to 2 hours of academic credit for high-school level classes which meet the law's requirements.
  • Who determines the curriculum?
    The organization offering the Released Time classes has the responsibility and right to choose the curriculum. Christian organizations may teach Bible classes and are not required to teach all religions.
  • Do Released Time Bible education classes interfere with required classes?
    No. Released Time classes do not interfere with your child’s mandatory school courses or after-school activities. The class schedule is set by school personnel in consultation with Released Time staff. Frequently, Released Time classes are scheduled for times when other electives are offered.
  • What must I do for my child to attend a Released Time program?
    Parents or guardians are required to sign permission forms provided by the local Released Time program. By law, the program must be FREE to schools!
  • Are Released Time Bible classes are already offered or approved in my area?
    Very likely. Ohio has more released time programs than any other state in the nation. Seventy percent of Ohio's school districts already have a policy in place permitting Released Time. Even if your school district does not currently have a RT policy, we can help you request one.
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