Hayesville Middle School 
Released Time Bible Education Program

Legal Foundation

RTBE is constitutionally permitted under the U.S. Supreme Court decision Zorach v. Clauson (1952), which allows students to be released during the school day for off-campus religious instruction when participation is voluntary, parent-authorized, and privately funded.

Program Overview

 Released Time Bible Education (RTBE) is a voluntary, parent-authorized, off-campus Bible education program that allows public school students to receive Bible instruction during the school day. RTBE operates independently from Clay County Schools and is fully funded and administered by the Appalachian Christian Leadership Council (AppCLC).

Key Program Characteristics

• 100% voluntary participation
• Written parent permission required
• Off-campus instruction only
• No school funding or staffing
• Community-supported and privately funded
• No academic penalty for non-participation
• Students remain under full supervision at all times

Program Commitments

• Operate legally, ethically, and transparently
• Protect students emotionally, physically, and spiritually
• Respect parental authority
• Protect Clay County Schools from operational burden
• Launch only when fully prepared and fully funded

Closing Assurance

The RTBE program is designed to be community-supported, parent-directed, and completely independent from Clay County Schools. Our commitment is to move carefully, responsibly, and transparently while providing a safe and positive opportunity for Clay County families.