LifeWise Launches Bible Classes for Yorkville Public School Students During School Hours
LifeWise Academy, a program dedicated to providing Bible-based character education to public school students during school hours, is celebrating its expansion into Yorkville, Illinois. This new chapter will offer students in Yorkville School District 115 the opportunity to participate in engaging and age-appropriate Bible classes, fostering spiritual growth and positive character development. As a non-denominational program, LifeWise Academy aims to reach public school students with the Gospel.
LifeWise Yorkville Illinois, October 21, 2024, Facebook,https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BuhJy7RWf/
The program officially launched on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. LifeWise is currently offering Bible classes to students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades at Yorkville Intermediate School (YIS).
Illinois law recognizes students' right to be excused from school to participate in religious instruction. According to the Illinois School Code (105 ILCS 5/26-1), a child shall be excused from school for religious reasons, including participation in religious instruction, upon a parent's or guardian's written request.
Michelle Moody, Yorkville LifeWise Program Director, stated, “In 1952, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of having Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI). With parent permission, students are able to go off campus and learn the Bible,”
The 1952 Supreme Court ruling referenced by Moody is Zorach v. Clauson, which permits students to leave public school during regular class hours for religious instruction under certain conditions: the program must be conducted off school property, privately funded, and participation must be voluntary with parental permission.
The time at which students are released from school varies depending on the school district and its agreement with LifeWise. However, released time for religious instruction does not occur during core academic subjects.
Director Michelle Moody stated, “Each school is different; it depends on what the principal feels would be best for the students, but at this school [YIS], it is during their lunch/recess break.”
LifeWise collaborates closely with school administrators to ensure minimal disruption to the regular school schedule.
Moody stated, “In August, we spoke to Superintendent Dr. Zediker about starting LifeWise. We have since been in contact with Assistant Superintendent [for Learning and Instruction PK-6] Dr. Melton and the [YIS] principal, Mr. Weber.”
The LifeWise program is designed to complement the existing public school curriculum by focusing on character development and spiritual growth.
LifeWise Yorkville Illinois, March 14, 2025, Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BtpvrAyrV/
Students are taught strong moral values, ethical decision-making, and a deeper understanding of biblical teachings. The curriculum is tailored to be both educational and engaging, utilizing storytelling, interactive activities, and discussions to make the Bible relevant and accessible to elementary and middle school students.
Moody stated, “The program helps strengthen students’ character development and mental health and supports educators’ efforts in building strong students.”
LifeWise Academy partners with local churches and community volunteers to deliver its curriculum in off-campus facilities nearby.
Yorkville LifeWise Program Director Michelle Moody said she got involved because “I wanted students to learn the love of the Lord.” After careful thought, prayer, and encouragement from her husband, Moody decided to take on the role.
Local community interest and support continue to grow as more individuals learn about the program.
“This is a new type of program we are introducing to Yorkville, so people are unsure how it will happen, but overall, everyone I have spoken to has found this program to be positive,” said Moody.
According to the Yorkville LifeWise Facebook page, the program is also open to homeschool students. However, each homeschool parent must provide transportation.
LifeWise is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that relies on donations and does not impact the taxpayer.
Moody explained, “It is privately funded, meaning it is funded by the generosity of others. We don't even ask the students' parents for any money.”
LifeWise Yorkville Illinois, March 30, 2025, Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16WDFevvwR/
LifeWise Academy plans to expand to other schools within the Y115 district.
“I have big goals to have all of Yorkville participate in LifeWise within the next two years,” Moody said.
You can get involved here if you want to register your child, donate, or contribute to the spiritual and moral development of the next generation in Yorkville.