Written by: JR Robinson

LifeWise Academy, a program offering Bible studies to public school students, is making significant strides in the Memphis area. The organization, which operates in Shelby County, is transforming young lives through weekly Bible education sessions.

Growing Presence in Shelby County

Currently serving seven schools in Shelby County with 144 students enrolled, LifeWise Academy is poised for further expansion. The organization is preparing to extend its reach to two new schools in the Cordova area:

• Mt. Pisgah
• Cordova Middle School

In addition to these upcoming locations, LifeWise has recently launched a program at Sheffield Elementary School, marking another milestone in their growth.

Leadership and Partnerships

The Shelby County chapter of LifeWise Academy is led by Executive Director James Brodnax, who also serves as the pastor at Embassy Of Faith International. The organization's success in the region is bolstered by the efforts of Regional Area Director Tara Crawford, who has been instrumental in bringing the program to new schools.

LifeWise Academy has also formed a partnership with United Way, which is expected to further support their mission and reach in the community.

Impact on Students

LifeWise Academy's approach involves transporting students from their schools once a week for Bible study sessions. This program aims to empower and shape young lives through biblical education. The organization believes that by providing character education based on biblical principles, they can positively influence student behavior and academic performance.

Legal Framework and Community Support

The program operates within a legal framework established by a Supreme Court ruling, allowing released-time religious education during school hours. This model has gained traction across the country, with strong community support. National polls indicate that 76% of Americans favor teaching moral and character education, while 56% support teaching biblical values in public schools.

Benefits of Bible Education in Schools

LifeWise Academy's program is designed to complement public education by:

1. Increasing student attendance
2. Decreasing in-school and out-of-school suspensions
3. Providing additional educational support

The organization believes that biblical education can help students develop strong moral foundations, improve decision-making skills, and foster a sense of purpose and community engagement.

As LifeWise Academy continues to expand in the Memphis area, it remains committed to its mission of bringing biblical education to public school students, aiming to positively impact the next generation of leaders in Shelby County.