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Kingsport Times-News

December 9, 1997

Principal praises released time
By TIM WHALEY, Times-News Staff Writer

Lynn View Middle Schools's "Released Time for Christian Education" pilot project received a glowing review from supporters and Lynn View's principal at the Sullivan County Board of Education meeting Monday night.

Lynn View principal Dennis Houser backed up the report from released time supporters, saying the project was worth the effort. "The results of the program have been very positive," Houser said. "I believe many of the students have benefited from the program, and I would recommend that the program be continued for the rest of the year."

In addition to continuing the eighth-grade class this year, Released Time Steering Committee member Paul Bentley asked the board to include sixth- and seventh-grade students next year.

"The pilot program has shown in just a few short weeks that the young men and women who attended ... made a marked improvement not only in biblical knowledge, but demonstrated better behavior patterns at home and school," Bentley said.

Bentley cited student comments on evaluations that indicated a greater ability to "make right choices" and "deal with pressure" due to biblical knowledge.

Bentley also said parents indicated their children improved their behavior, attitude and grades. Meanwhile, Bentley said teachers stated that there was greater community involvement because of the program.

Although allowing religious freedom, Bentley said the program keeps in place the constitutional wall separating church and state.

The board will address released time at its Jan. 12 meeting.

After the meeting, Superintendent John O'Dell said he doesn't know what he will recommend to the board next month.