Satanic Temple Offering ‘Hellion Academy’ Religious Program for Elementary Students in Ohio

MARYSVILLE, OH. (THECOUNT) — Parents and community members are expressing concern after the Satanic Temple announced the launch of a controversial religious program for students at Edgewood Elementary School in Marysville, Ohio. The program, called the Hellion Academy of Independent Learning (HAIL), has been made available under the state’s Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) initiative, sparking debate over the appropriateness of such teachings for young children.

HAIL offers monthly off-campus sessions during school hours, purportedly focusing on critical thinking, community engagement, and creative expression. However, its association with the Satanic Temple has ignited strong reactions, with many questioning whether such an organization is appropriate for impressionable students.

Community Backlash Over Satanic Affiliation

The Satanic Temple’s campaign director, June Everett, explained that the program was introduced after a parent requested an alternative to the Christian-based LifeWise Academy, which offers weekly Bible lessons. Everett stated, “When districts allow one religion, they open the door for all.” She emphasized that the Satanic Temple only establishes such programs when explicitly invited by parents and when other religious release programs are already in place.

While Everett attempted to clarify that the group is non-theistic and does not engage in traditional worship practices, the program’s name and association have provoked unease among some community members. HAIL is the first release-time program launched by the Satanic Temple in Ohio, though its After School Satan Club has operated in other districts across the state.

Satanic Temple’s Agenda Under Scrutiny

Everett told WOSU that the Satanic Temple aims to offer an inclusive alternative to existing programs and is often misunderstood. “We aren’t worshipping the devil and sacrificing babies and using blood. It’s actually the opposite,” she explained. Despite this clarification, concerns persist over the group’s use of Satanic imagery and its potential impact on young students.

The RTRI initiative allows religious programs to operate during school hours as long as they are conducted off-campus and with parental consent. Everett noted that HAIL operates monthly rather than weekly, citing limited resources compared to programs like LifeWise.

Religious Freedom or Dangerous Precedent?

Joel Penton, founder and CEO of LifeWise Academy, addressed the situation by highlighting Ohio House Bill 445, which seeks to clarify RTRI policies statewide. He expressed support for giving families choices in religious education, stating, “We believe all families should have the opportunity to choose religious study during school hours and we trust parents to make the best choice for their children.”

While the Satanic Temple argues that its programs promote critical thinking and inclusivity, some community members remain uneasy about the precedent set by introducing programs tied to Satanism into public education. The debate underscores broader questions about the balance between religious freedom and protecting the values and preferences of local families.

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