View these frequently asked questions about us. If you don’t find an answer to your question, feel free to reach out to us.
Who can attend the program?
Any student may attend Released Time Bible Education classes regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin or handicap. However, each student must have written parental permission.
What are the ages of students who attend RT?
Currently our programs target students in the 3rd through 5th grades.
Who are the teachers?
Our instructors are qualified teachers with a firm grasp of the Bible and the ability to relate to youth. All volunteers are subject to a personal background check and are professing Christians, committing their time and energies out of love for Christ and the children.
What is the curriculum?
The curriculum is non-denominational and determined by the CLCA Board of Directors. The RTBE program utilizes history, geography, music, journaling, memorization, recitation and other teaching techniques to help young people understand the Bible. The curriculum is based on biblical principles and character studies of the Bible, while emphasizing a student’s relationship to God, self and others. The Holy Bible is the primary curriculum source used. Additionally, other resources are added from time to time that aid in practical application exercises, games, puzzles and crafts. Lessons will include such topics as the Ten Commandments, Life of Christ, Days of Creation, conflict resolution, peer pressure, etc., all based on lessons from the Bible.
Where are classes held?
The classrooms are located off-campus at nearby locations, usually a church. RT personnel supervise the movement of students between locations.
Who sponsors the program?
RT in Richmond County is a ministry of Christian Learning Centers of Augusta (CLCA). CLCA is community owned, with the Board of Directors made up entirely of local Christian citizens who are members of churches that span across many denominations such as Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Non-denominational, etc.; all of whom agree with our Statement of Faith. Christian individuals, civic clubs, churches, businesses, foundations, etc., support CLCA with needed resources. CLCA is incorporated and is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization.
What are the legal guidelines for the program?
- Classes are during school hours and therefore must be held off school or governmental property.
- Written permission must be given by parents.
- No tax dollars can be used to support the program.
- Entanglement with the public school system must be avoided and the school system remain neutral.
What is the benefit of attending the RT Program?
RTBE teaches children how to grow to cherish and care for themselves and others. RTBE teaches values such as honesty, compassion, integrity and loyalty. Human worth and dignity are taught, as well as basic social skills needed to function productively in our society. All teachings are based on biblical principles. Increased respect for self and others is noted as well as an increased interest in learning. The program lowers at-risk behavior and demonstrates that there are moral absolutes established by a loving God. Most importantly, lessons are designed to bring the students to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Based on a study of Released Time (RT) conducted by The National Council on Crime and Delinquency:
- RT reinforces positive character behavior in students.
- RT improves academic performance!!
- RT fosters the involvement
of communities and parents in the schools.
Has RTBE been evaluated by an outside organization?
The National Council on Crime and Delinquency (NCCD) conducted an evaluation of the Oakland, California Released Time Program during the entire 2002-2003 school session. They reported that a comparative review between the academic performance scores of all 4th & 5th graders in RTBE revealed that students performed better than their classmates as a whole in almost every category. RTBE reinforces key literacy components such as spelling and reading comprehension. RTBE also provides youth with strong adult mentoring and bonding, which reinforces positive moral and character development that is opposed to engaging in criminal or delinquent behavior.
