FORT SMITH, Ark. — Additional families in Arkansas will now be eligible for the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program, including children of veterans, military reserve members, first responders, and law enforcement officers, plus students who previously attended D-rated schools.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced that they will begin accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year on April 1.
“I’m a mom of three, so I know that every child in our state learns a little bit differently. Education Freedom Accounts recognize that parents’ choice, not random geography, should be the primary determining factor in where a child goes to school,” said Gov. Sanders. “I’m proud that we are prioritizing Arkansas’ heroes and their families in this year’s expansion.”
The 2024-2025 school year will mark the second year of the EFA program's implementation under Gov. Sanders’ LEARNS Act.
“We are pleased to extend EFA program eligibility to these additional categories of students,” Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “For most parents, public schools will be the first and best choice for their child, but a one-size-fits-all approach does not meet the needs of all students and families. Parents want and deserve options. The EFA program provides that, and now additional children will be eligible for those opportunities.”
Eligible students for the 2024-2025 school year include the following:
- First-time kindergarteners
- Students coming from “D” or “F” schools or “Level 5” districts
- Students coming from the Succeed Scholarship Program
- Homeless students
- Current or former foster care students
- Students with disabilities
- Children of active-duty military
- Veterans
- Military reserves
- First responders
- Law enforcement officers
During the 2023-2024 school year, 5,407 student applications were funded, and over 100 schools were approved to participate.
To apply as either a parent or provider, please click here.
Additionally, the Arkansas Department of Education has released an updated and improved charter school application available until June 14.
Once submitted, the department will review the applications and offer feedback. Then, applicants will then have until August 9 to submit their final version.
The Charter Authorizing Panel will review applications this fall, after which panel decisions are subject to review and approval by the State Board of Education.
To access the new charter application, please click here.
go to https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/office-of-school-choice-and-parent-empowerment/charter-schools
Governor Sanders Announces Additional Families Eligible for Education Freedom Account Program
Children of Veterans, Military Reserve Members, First Responders, Law Enforcement Officers Can Apply