Transforming Lives Through
Biblical Education
FREE released-time Bible education for public school students. Building character, purpose, and self-worth through God’s Word.
Why Choose Starlight Bible Academy?
Free and transformative Bible education during school hours
Absolutely Free
No cost to participate. The benefits are life-changing and completely accessible to all families.
Biblical Teaching
Equipping children with the wisdom and guidance of the Bible to foster personal growth, discover purpose, and build a strong moral compass.
Just One Hour Weekly
Convenient one-hour sessions during encore time, held at local churches.
What We Teach
Comprehensive character development through Biblical principles
Life Skills
Learn responsibility and develop skills for daily life through Biblical wisdom.
Character Development
Develop core values and morality that create better children, students, and citizens.
Purpose & Self Worth
Finding meaning to life and grow positive self-esteem through understanding God’s love.
Want to help support us?
Your tax-deductible gift goes directly to sharing God’s Word with young students.
Our Impact
Lessons from the Bible help our youth become better children at home, better students in the classroom, and better citizens in the community.
“One of the most important ways to express warmth and loving support to our children is to make an unconditional commitment to them for life.”
– Gary Smalley
Our Mission & Vision
Our Mission
Transform lives through Biblical education, character development, and spiritual growth.
Our Goal
Begin at Sycamore Elementary School in fall of 2025 and expand to all schools in the Upper Cumberland region.
Partnership
Proudly partnered with churches of Christ to provide safe, nurturing educational environment.
“And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.”
– Daniel 12:3
How We Do It
Simple, legal process that respects both education and faith
1
Parent Permission
Parents must give written permission for their child to participate.
2
Encore Time
Classes are held during designated encore periods at school.
3
Off School Grounds
Held at local churches maintaining legal compliance.
4
One Hour Weekly
Just one enriching hour per week of character-building education.
Legal Foundation
Our program is based on the 1952 Supreme Court ruling that allows “released-time” religious instruction during school time off school grounds.
“A law forgotten is now a law to remember. Seize the opportunity!”
What Families Are Saying
Real stories from families who have experienced transformation
“This is absolutely what we wanted in our schools so THANK YOU for bringing Jesus to our children! We appreciate you so incredibly much!!! What a blessing!“
– Grace, Parent
Locations
We’re adding new locations each year! Find the location nearest you below.
Sycamore Elementary School
Sycamore Church of Christ
Tuesday & Wednesday 9:00 AM – 2:45 PM
Coordinator: Kevin Daughrity
1144 Crescent Drive
Cookeville, TN 38501
Email
Sponsored by Sycamore Church of Christ
Dodson Branch School
Dodson Branch Community Center
Tuesday & Wednesday 8:25 AM – 1:45 PM
Coordinators: Shanna Anderson & Shirley Holloway
16160 Dodson Branch Hwy
Cookeville, TN 38501
Email
Sponsored by Zion Church of Christ
Capshaw Elementary School
Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ
Tuesday & Wednesday 9:00 AM – 2:50 PM
Coordinator: Stacey Gonzales
521 South Jefferson Avenue
Cookeville, TN 38501
Email
Sponsored by Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ
Parkview Elementary School
Willow Avenue Church of Christ
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM
Coordinator: Lucinda Moss
1150 South Willow Avenue
Cookeville, TN 38506
Email
Sponsored by Willow Avenue Church of Christ
Baxter Primary School
Baxter Church of Christ
Friday 9:00 AM – 2:55 PM
Coordinator: JR Smith
224 Buffalo Valley Road
Baxter, TN 38544
Email
Sponsored by Locust Grove, Double Springs, Silver Point, and Baxter churches of Christ
Cornerstone Elementary School
Baxter Church of Christ
Thursday 8:15 AM – 2:45 PM
Coordinator: JR Smith
224 Buffalo Valley Road
Baxter, TN 38544
Email
Sponsored by Locust Grove, Double Springs, Silver Point, and Baxter churches of Christ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from parents about our program
Is this program really free?
Yes! There is absolutely no cost to participate. The program is funded through donations and church support. All materials, instruction, and activities are provided at no charge to families.
How is this legal in public schools?
Our program is based on the 1952 Supreme Court ruling that allows "released-time" religious instruction during school hours as long as it takes place off school grounds. This is completely legal and has been practiced across the nation for over 70 years.
What if my child misses regular class time?
Classes are scheduled during encore times (like art, music, or PE) so students don't miss core academic subjects. We work closely with schools to ensure minimal impact on regular education.
What denomination teaches the class?
Classes are held at and supported by churches of Christ, however our curriculum is non-doctrinal. While rooted in biblical principles, the focus is on character development and moral values that benefit all children regardless of religious preference.
How do I enroll my child?
Enrollment is simple and free! You can enroll online at starlightbibleacademy.com, call us at (931) 526-5427, or visit us at Sycamore Church of Christ. Parent permission is required for participation.
Location
Sycamore Church of Christ
1144 Crescent Dr, Cookeville, TN 38501
Phone
(931) 526-5427
Website
starlightbibleacademy.com
