EVERETT, Washington, United States — October 23, 2026
Everett Public Schools in Washington state has agreed to change policies challenged by LifeWise Academy, a provider of voluntary Bible education outside school grounds during school hours.
According to The Christian Institute, the dispute included a requirement for students to conceal Bibles and related materials in sealed envelopes when returning to school after participating in the programme. LifeWise also challenged restrictions on its participation in community events and distribution of information.
Under the reported settlement, the district agreed to amend its policies, issue a public apology, pay $275,000 in legal fees and provide religious-liberty training.
The case has raised questions about how public schools should balance religious expression, equal treatment and the rights of students who take part in voluntary faith-based programmes. The settlement concerns the district’s policies; it does not require public schools to endorse religious teaching.
