Everett school district settles Bible study lawsuit, pays $275,000 and revises policies
Everett Public Schools agreed to pay $275,000, issue a public apology and change its rules after a federal court found it discriminated against the LifeWise Bible study program.
Everett Public Schools resolved a lawsuit alleging viewpoint discrimination against the off-site LifeWise Bible study program by paying $275,000 to cover the ministry’s legal fees and issuing a six-month public apology. The settlement requires the school board to complete religious-liberty training and to revise policies governing religious activities and student release procedures. It follows a spring injunction that forced the district to treat LifeWise on par with secular organizations and to remove obstacles to student participation.
Board members acknowledged past offensive comments and pledged neutral, law-compliant administration of all programs. LifeWise CEO Joel Penton hailed the deal as a victory for families seeking Bible education during school hours. The district emphasized that it did not lose the case but chose to respect the court’s guidance.
Why it matters
The settlement clarifies how public schools must handle religious programs, impacting students' access to faith-based education.
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