Coastal School Ministries
Coastal School Ministries partners with Horry County Public Schools to provide a unique opportunity for students to learn about the Bible and grow their faith. Our Released-Time Bible Education classes offer a safe and welcoming space for students to explore biblical principles and build a strong foundation for their beliefs.
Learn more about Release-Time Education here: https://www.releasedtime.org/
Give your student a strong moral foundation with Coastal School Ministries. We offer released-time Bible education that provides a safe and engaging space for students to explore their faith and develop a deep understanding of biblical principles.
Coastal School Ministries
In the 1952 U. S. Supreme Court decision in Zorach v. Clauson Justice William Douglas wrote, “When the state encourages religious instruction or cooperates with religious authorities by adjusting the schedule of public events to sectarian needs, it follows the best of our traditions. For it then respects the religious nature of our people and accommodates the public service to their spiritual needs.”
History & Facts
- In 2000, Coastal School Ministries (CSM), formerly Horry C.A.R.E.S., was formed under the guidance, direction, and support of national released-time ministry School Ministries, Inc.
- In January 2001 CSM offered a pilot released-time program to St. James Middle School with 150 students attending and 40 giving their lives to Christ.
- On August 7, 2001 the Horry County Council passed a resolution of support (#114-01) for released-time programs offered through Horry C.A.R.E.S. (now CSM).
- On June 2, 2006 the South Carolina Released-time Credit Act was signed into law by Governor Mark Sanford. Now a law as Act 322, it states that released-time is legal according to the United States and South Carolina Constitutions and that local school boards have all the power they need to grant elective high school credit for Bible classes taken off campus.
- Horry County School District has approved a released-time policy county-wide and granted approval for high school credit.
The Problem & Our Solution
In a world filled with shifting values and constant pressure, students need an anchor. They’re bombarded with messages that often leave them feeling isolated, anxious, and without a clear sense of purpose. At Coastal School Ministries, we believe that biblical principles are the timeless guide they need. Our program isn’t about rigid rules; it’s about providing a compassionate community where students can ask tough questions, build lasting friendships, and find their baseline for right and wrong.
We provide a crucial off-campus outlet for students to deepen their spiritual roots, ensuring that a relationship with God is not just a Sunday activity, but a living foundation for their daily lives. Our curriculum is designed to be accessible and relevant, helping students navigate the challenges they face with confidence and hope.
What We Offer
- A Solid Foundation: Students receive a concentrated amount of instruction. High school students get 135 hours per semester, while middle school students receive 68 hours per semester. This is a powerful commitment to their spiritual growth, especially when you consider that an adult attending one weekly church service only receives about 52 hours per year.
- A Safe Haven: We create a no-judgment zone where students feel comfortable asking anything. Our teachers are mentors who guide them with care, helping them discover the relevance of the Bible to their own lives.
- A Community of Believers: Our classes foster genuine connections. Students form friendships with peers who share their values, creating a powerful support network that extends far beyond the classroom.
Join Our Mission
Our work is powered by the generosity of people who believe in the power of faith-based education. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are completely funded by individuals, churches, and businesses. Your support is not just a donation; it’s a direct investment in the spiritual lives of students in Horry County.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us meet essential needs and expand our reach. Your generosity helps us provide:
- Transportation: Covering the cost of buses to safely transport students from public schools to our off-campus facilities.
- Dedicated Educators: Ensuring our teachers and mentors are well-trained and passionate about guiding students.
- Quality Materials: Supplying Bibles and curriculum resources that make learning engaging and impactful.
- Program Growth: Allowing us to bring this life-changing program to more schools and serve a greater number of students.
Coastal SchoolHelp Reach Students in Our Schools!
