The Ohio County Board of Education offered a perfect example Monday evening of how debate over a controversial subject could — and should — be done.

At its latest meeting, the board discussed whether to allow Lifewise Academy to transport students off campus during school hours for a Christian education course. Groups representing both sides of the argument were in attendance.

Some touted Lifewise as a program that helped students perform better at school in both behavior and academics. Others decried the insertion of religion into public schools, as well as voice concerns about students missing instructional time for the course.

The discussion remained civil and calm. Both sides offered their points respectfully. There was no shouting, no arguing, no inflamed tempers. Board President David Croft conducted the meeting making sure that wouldn’t happen.

In the end, the board voted 3-2 not to allow Lifewise to transport students off campus. After the decision was made, there was no uproar. The discussion ended as its started — respectfully.

And that’s how such debates should be handled. Opposing sides can be resolute in their opinions, but courteous in how they’re presented. That makes for true civil discourse.

A round of applause goes to all those involved. Let’s use their example as the blueprint for the future.