Montana Now Requires Schools To Allow for Weekly Religious Instruction

Starting July 1, 2025, public schools across Montana will be required to allow students to step away from class once a week for religious instruction.

This new law, passed by the Montana Legislature, updates an existing rule to make it mandatory for school districts to provide what’s called a “released time” program.

What Is "Released Time" Religious Instruction?

"Released time" means students can leave regular school classes to attend religious education outside of the school building without it counting against their attendance. With this new law, school districts must allow students at least one hour per week for this kind of instruction, as long as the student's parent or guardian makes a written request. That request has to be renewed each school year.

Religion in Schools But Not In School

This law doesn’t allow religious classes to be taught inside public school buildings. Instead, any instruction must happen off-campus and can’t use public school resources or funding. The idea is to give families the option of faith-based education during the school day without mixing church and state.

It Counts as School Time But Not School Curriculum

Even though the student is away from the classroom, the released time still counts as part of the official school day. It won’t hurt a student’s attendance record or the school's state funding. It’s treated just like any other part of the school week in terms of scheduling and accountability.

Could Students Earn Credit for Religious Classes?

Yes, but it’s optional. School boards may choose to offer academic credit for completed religious instruction. If they do, the course must be evaluated using the same secular standards used for any other class - things like the number of hours taught, the syllabus, how students are graded, and whether the instructor is qualified. The school can’t judge the course based on religious content or which denomination teaches it.

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Supporters Say It Puts Parents in the Driver’s Seat

Supporters of the law say it protects families’ rights to raise children according to their faith. Greg Chafuen, Senior Counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom, said the new law “respects parents’ educational decisions” and gives them the ability to have their children “briefly excused from school to receive off-campus religious instruction.” He added that putting parents in charge of these choices follows “the best of our traditions.”

What Does This Mean for Montana Families?

For families who want their children to receive religious education during the week, this law makes it easier to fit that into their schedule. Schools must now allow the time, and there’s potential for academic credit, too, if the district decides to adopt that policy. On the flip side, the law still protects public schools from becoming involved in religious teaching themselves.

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When Does This Go Into Effect?

The new requirements kick in on July 1, 2025. If you're a parent interested in enrolling your child in a religious instruction course during the school day, talk with your school district to find out how they’re planning to implement the change, and don't forget to submit a written request each year.