In a letter to families and community members on Sept. 16, superintendent Lisa Hoffman addressed the Beacon’s reporting that LifeWise Academy is currently enrolling in Quakertown Community Elementary School for the upcoming school year.
“LifeWise is not a Quakertown Community School District program, and QCSD has no affiliation or partnership with LifeWise Academy,” Hoffman said. “The program is not operated by QCSD or Quakertown Elementary School, and religious instruction does not take place in our schools.”
Hoffman explained that LifeWise is independently operated, funded and voluntary. All students interested in the Christian-based education program must also have parental permission.
Due to Pennsylvania law, Quakertown district is required to excuse a student for 36 hours per school year to attend classes for religious instruction.
While Hoffman said this is mandated by the state, “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,” Hoffman said.
Full letter embedded below:
