SALEM, Ohio - Confusion continues over whether LifeWise Academy, a program offering Bible-based character lessons during the school day, will operate in Salem City Schools.

The organization’s website lists two Salem schools and says it works with staff to teach religious lessons during public school hours without interfering with core academic classes.

In a statement to 21 News, LifeWise said:

“Salem families have initiated a request to bring LifeWise Academy to their community because they see the value in Bible-based character education during public school hours. As studies have shown, students who participate in such programs have improved behavior and academic performance. We are pleased to work with them, as well as the school district, to integrate Bible lessons into public school hours in accordance with federal and state release time religious instruction laws.”

But Salem City Schools and its board president say no such partnership exists. Board President Brittany Maniscalco issued the following statement:

“The Salem City School District deeply values the diverse beliefs, backgrounds, and traditions of our students and families. Our district has no agreement or affiliation with the LifeWise program. However, we will continue to follow Ohio House Bill 8 as required. Our priority is to ensure that all instructional time during the school day remains focused on our district’s academic curriculum and programs that serve every student.”

Heather Smith, a Salem resident and Youngstown City Schools teacher, said she first began tracking LifeWise’s presence last year and has raised concerns about the program’s transparency and curriculum. She said she received a flyer from a LifeWise director showing the program’s involvement in Salem schools.

Smith told 21 News she approached the director at a local event and asked where students would be going for Bible classes. She said she was told that information would not be disclosed to the public “to protect the children.”

“To me, the whole weirdest part is that it has to be during the school day,” Smith said, adding that she believes this takes away valuable instructional time. “My goodness, we’re worried right now about passing test scores — what are they going to do, go pray that they pass a test?”

As of now, Salem City Schools maintains there is no agreement with LifeWise.