Lifewise Academy, in the South Knox School Corporation (Vincennes, Indiana), has chosen to have a police officer in the classroom. An email between the local Lifewise director and the school district indicates concerns that students with behavioral issues may be attending Lifewise.
The email from Lifewise to parents, which welcomed them to the program and provided information, also stated that an officer would be present at the church whenever students are on site.
Student safety is important, and supporting students with behavioral issues is an ongoing process. School Resource Officers are not involved in general behavioral issues or in helping students regulate their emotions. I asked the Lifewise South Knox Director what the policy said about the Sheriff’s Department assisting with students’ behavior. The director said the safety plan does not include this language. The Knox County Sheriff’s Department also said it could not assist with behavioral issues. Any indication that the officers would be involved in these scenarios is incorrect.
Lifewise told the school, “The Sheriff’s Department… they are working on a policy for potential behavior issues.” No policy on behavior was discussed. These lies are a normal part of the Lifewise process. Why did Lifewise put on a show for volunteers and the school district? Maybe this lie made volunteers and parents feel better? There really is no explanation.
Agreement With Sheriff’s Department
Lifewise Academy South Knox has a security services agreement with the Knox County Sheriff’s Department. The agreement is below. They are paying $52 per hour for an officer to be stationed at the Lifewise location.
The Lifewise director said safety is the top concern. I asked whether Lifewise South Knox conducts Indiana State and FBI fingerprint-based background checks or the standard Lifewise ADP background check. They confirmed that Lifewise South Knox conducts a criminal background check through ADP. By contrast, all public school teachers must complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Previous Violations at South Knox
South Knox Schools previously allowed Lifewise to use the school district’s buses and staff. A public records request for a memorandum of agreement between the district and Lifewise indicated that no records exist. Public records of communications did not show any contracts or discussions about using the buses. Additional questions have been sent to the district, and updates will be posted if more information is provided. See the full story below.
South Knox Schools Allow Lifewise to Use District Buses
The South Knox School Corporation has allowed Lifewise Academy to use the school district’s buses. At a board of education meeting, Lifewise local director Morgan Schutter said Lifewise started a month late because of bus issues. Schutter also said Mr. Case would be the bus driver for Lifewise.