The Anchor Learning Center and Bearden Learning Center are released time Bible education programs which offer elective credit Bible classes to public school students during the school day, at no cost to the student.

At both programs, students are released from campus to study the Bible off-site in safe, welcoming environments. Classes build biblical literacy, nurture transformed hearts, and equip teens to live out their faith at school, at home, and in the community.

The Anchor Learning Center began in the Fall of 2024, with the Bearden Learning Center starting in the fall of 2026.

What Makes Released Time Legal?

No Public Funds

Classes are privately funded and staffed. No government money or resources are used.

Parental Permission

Participation is voluntary and requires written consent from a parent or legal guardian.

Off School Property

Students leave school grounds to attend class at our off-site location during the school day.

Affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court

Released Time Religious Education is fully legal and has been affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court (Zorach v. Clauson, 1952).

Mission

Both programs exist to make disciples (Matt. 28:18-20) by teaching students (2 Tim 3:16-17) the Gospel of Jesus (Rom. 3:23-26) through the foundation of Biblical literacy (Joshua 1:8), leading to a transformed heart (Rom. 12:1-2) that produces fruit (Gal. 5:22-23) and serves others in His name (1 Pet. 4:10-11) by His grace, for His glory (Eph 2:8-10).

Vision

Tennessee is one of a handful of states to offer high school credit for Released Time Bible Education classes, we want want to see these classes offered to all Knox County students and others across Tennessee.

Greater Knoxville Inter-Club Championship and Church Network/Friends Scramble

Benefitting Released Time Bible Programs in and around Knoxville