LifeWise Academy coming to Atlanta ISD

Anna Puckett had a vision and made it a reality.

Beginning January of 2026, LifeWise Academy in Atlanta will offer classes to Atlanta ISD students in grades 3–5. Students will travel from the Atlanta Elementary School to the Atlanta Methodist Church across the street where they will receive Bible-based character education.

LifeWise Academy, based in Hilliard, Ohio, is a released time religious instruction program providing Bible-based character education to public school students. With parent permission, students are released from school for forty-five minutes per week to attend off-campus classes.

So, with the guidance from God and tons of support, Puckett took the steps to bring her vision to life.

“I completed LifeWise training in Ohio, where the program is headquartered, and spent time learning directly from leaders and communities who have successfully launched. That experience solidified my confidence in the program’s structure, legal framework, and spiritual impact,” she said. “From there, it has been a season of prayer, planning, building local partnerships, fundraising, volunteer recruitment, and community engagement—all done with excellence and care.”

Puckett added, “I also want to thank everyone who has partnered with LifeWise Atlanta. We could not provide this program to our students without the support of our community.”

Puckett described how this all came about.

“I first learned about LifeWise Academy through a Facebook post by my friend Katie, who is the Program Director for LifeWise at Red Lick ISD. As I listened to her share about the program, I remember thinking, Is this even legal? Once I realized it truly was possible, I began researching, asking questions, and praying,” she said.

“After several conversations with Katie, I knew I wanted to be involved in some capacity. I initially thought I would serve as a teacher, but through prayer, the Lord clearly directed me toward the pioneer phase of the program. When the opportunity to step in as Program Director was presented by a member of the steering committee, I felt confident this was exactly where God was calling me.”

The program itself helps strengthen students’ character development and mental health and supports educators’ efforts in building strong students. Students learn the Bible chronologically, with each lesson relating a Bible passage to a relevant character trait that students are encouraged to practice in their families and communities.

“I chose LifeWise because it is unapologetically gospel-centered and unified. LifeWise is open to all denominations and focuses on the main and plain truths of Scripture rather than doctrinal differences. The program is built on 17 core statements of faith and uses a trusted, plug-and-play process and The Gospel Project curriculum that allows teachers to focus on students and planting seeds,” Puckett remarked.

“Beyond the spiritual impact, districts have seen improved attendance and decreased behavioral issues, making it a benefit to both students and schools. It’s a model rooted in excellence, integrity, and unity within the body of Christ.”

Her expectations and vision for the program are to take it beyond just Atlanta ISD.

“My vision is large. Anything is possible with God working with us. We are launching with third, fourth, and fifth grade at Atlanta Elementary and we already have strong enrollment with room to grow. This is a mission field right here in our backyard,” Puckett said.

“With youth mental health challenges at an all-time high, students desperately need a biblical foundation and a guidebook for life rooted in truth and hope. My longterm goal is for every student in Atlanta ISD on each campus to have the opportunity to hear the gospel, and eventually to see this program expand throughout other districts in Cass County.”

Sometimes things we desire we must put in God’s hands and that’s exactly what she did.

“I am most excited about seeing our community come together with one shared purpose: reaching students with the gospel. This program will take all hands-on deck through prayer, volunteering, giving and simply spreading the word. Our community has been incredibly supportive of my family over the years, and I have no doubt that people from all churches and backgrounds will link arms to make this possible,” Puckett remarked.

“LifeWise cannot happen without prayer and the collective effort of the community, but when everyone uses their gifts for His glory, the impact can be life changing. This is a joy to share because it’s something I truly believe God has called me to.”

LifeWise Bible education lessons will be during the school’s elective time, one day a week for 45 minutes.

Enroll your student, donate to the program and find opportunities to serve within the program at lifewise.org/atlantaTX.