Bible Education forUpper Arlington School District Students

No, while LifeWise is held during the school day, it does not interfere with students’ mandatory courses. The class schedule is set by school personnel in consultation with LifeWise representatives. Classes are held during non-core academic periods, such as during lunch or electives.

LifeWise classes focus on core themes of the Bible, what we refer to as the “main and plain things” of Scripture, with emphasis on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each lesson reviews a Bible passage as well as a “Living LifeWise” character trait, such as respect, love or kindness.

LifeWise is complementary to before and after-school programs. The primary distinctive feature of LifeWise is that it operates during the school day, thereby engaging with all students whose parents have given permission for them to attend.

LifeWise Upper Arlington classes are held during the lunch period for all grades, using a “pop-up” classroom model. Safe, accessible spaces near each school are transformed into temporary classrooms. All locations are locked, handicap accessible, and follow strict safety protocols. Students are transported by van, school bus, or walk—depending on proximity to the school. They are always accompanied by trained LifeWise staff who have completed FBI/BCI background checks (including fingerprinting) and child safety training. All LifeWise vehicles are handicap accessible, inspected annually by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and operated by CDL-licensed drivers who undergo required drug and alcohol testing. We also work closely with families to accommodate students with food allergies during the lunch period, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience for all.

The class schedule is set by school personnel in consultation with LifeWise representatives. For elementary students, LifeWise Upper Arlington is offered during lunch and recess every other week. For middle and high school students, LifeWise Upper Arlington is offered during lunch once a week.

All LifeWise Upper Arlington employees, volunteers, and board members are required to complete an FBI & BCI background check (+ fingerprinting). Required child safety training and continuing education are provided with the assistance of the LifeWise Support Center. All employees are hired considering their experience and pastoral references to ensure their involvement and standing in the local church. Teachers complete LifeWise teaching certification and receive comprehensive training to ensure they are well-prepared to lead in the classroom and manage students. LifeWise Upper Arlington teachers have BLS/CPR training as well as epipen training. Bus drivers are required to hold a valid CDL license and undergo drug/alcohol testing.

Participation in LifeWise Upper Arlington is completely voluntary and requires parent or guardian approval. Students may only attend with signed permission forms—one for LifeWise and an annual permission slip from Upper Arlington City Schools. Both forms must be completed before a child may participate, and parents may withdraw their child from the program at any time.

LifeWise Upper Arlington has been intentional in their planning for students who will need additional support in the classroom. Upper Arlington School District does not share individual IEP/504 plans with LifeWise Upper Arlington, however LifeWise teachers work with parents to ensure individual needs of students are accommodated. LifeWise Upper Arlington vehicles and spaces are handicap accessible.