Dear QCSD Families and Community Members,
I am writing to clarify the Quakertown Community School District's role regarding today's Bucks County Beacon article about LifeWise Academy.
Today's article is headlined "LifeWise Academy Brings Bible Study Program to Quakertown Elementary." LifeWise is not a Quakertown Community School District program, and QCSD has no affiliation or partnership with LifeWise Academy. The program is not operated by QCSD or Quakertown Elementary School, and religious instruction does not take place in our schools.
LifeWise is an independently operated, voluntary program that takes place off school property. Child participation is strictly a parent-driven choice and requires explicit, written parental permission.
Pennsylvania law provides that, upon written parental request, "a student shall be excused from school to attend classes for religious instruction” for up to 36 hours per school year. QCSD is required to comply with this provision, just as it complies with other applicable state laws governing student attendance.
Fulfilling that legal responsibility should not be interpreted as district sponsorship, partnership, promotion, or endorsement of LifeWise Academy or its religious instruction.
QCSD does not promote or provide religious instruction. Our responsibility is to provide a high-quality public education, follow applicable laws, and respect the rights and choices of all of our families.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lisa Hoffman
Superintendent
Quakertown Community School District