As students return to the classroom this fall, approximately 12,000 Arkansas students will have the opportunity to attend over 120 private schools under the recently implemented LEARNS Act.

This groundbreaking education reform introduced Educational Freedom Accounts (EFAs), empowering parents with more choices in their children’s education. The legislation creating the program was signed into law in March 2023, with a three-year phased implementation; by the 2025-26 school year, EFAs will be available to all students.

Arkansas has set funding at almost $7,000 per student, making private schools around the state more accessible.

By taking this step, Arkansas has joined the growing movement of states across the country leading on school choice and educational innovation.