This school year, nearly 100,000 students in 34 states will step out of their classrooms to hear God’s word in LifeWise Academy’s released time Bible programs. Just three years ago, fewer than half that number participated. Now, over 1,100 schools are on board — all because parents and churches demanded it.

Joel Penton, CEO of LifeWise, says it plainly: “Students who receive religious instruction are more equipped to navigate today’s challenges. Parents and teachers tell us that students’ behavior improves and that they’re more engaged both inside and outside the classroom.”

Why is this so important? Because the world is coming after our children.

In Temecula, California, middle school girls recently staged a walkout after discovering they were expected to share locker rooms with biological boys.

Instead of restoring modesty and privacy, the school district forced girls to file either a religious exemption or a mental health accommodation if they want to stay decent.

Parents pushed back, saying their daughters aren’t “sick” or “anxious” — they just deserve privacy. Board member Dr. Joseph Komrosky promised to keep fighting for their innocence and safety.

This is exactly why Bible-based programs are so vital. Children facing situations like this need a firm foundation in God’s word — a moral compass strong enough to stand against cultural confusion, peer pressure, and worldly lies.

In Washington State, the assault goes even further. SB 5462 now requires LGBTQ “inclusive” curriculum in every subject, every grade — with no opt-out. Unlike comprehensive sex-ed laws where parents could excuse their children, this law systematizes ideology across math, history, and beyond.

Parents are left with a stark choice: accept what undermines Biblical teaching or remove their children entirely. Even the Supreme Court’s affirmation of parental rights is conveniently sidestepped by making “inclusion” part of the overall curriculum design.

This isn’t education. It’s indoctrination. It is a direct attack on God’s design and the family’s authority to raise children in truth. Families who don’t agree will have to leave the system entirely—or watch their children be steeped in content that undermines Biblical teaching on sex, identity, and morality.

Released time programs put tens of thousands of students in front of God’s word weekly. Kids learn His design for life, and return equipped to live faithfully in their classrooms and communities.

They hear truths like Genesis 1:27 — “male and female created He them” — the foundation of God’s creation. They learn right from wrong. They develop the strength to stand firm in the classroom, in sports, in conversations with friends, and in the halls of culture.

Every new program, every hour engaged in learning the Bible is another opportunity to equip kids in the battle for Christ.

Released time alone isn’t enough. Children need constant exposure to scripture at home. Chick tracts and comics are perfect tools for this. They are simple, engaging, full of God’s truth, and easy for kids to carry wherever they go. When your kids have gospel-focused materials on hand—whether in their backpack or by their bed—they’re constantly being reminded of God’s truth in a world full of confusion.

Training begins in the home. Released time reinforces it. Together, these efforts equip our children to face the world boldly — to reject lies, stand for God’s design, and honor Him in every decision.

The question is: will you train them, or will you let the world shape them?