Arkansas parents are celebrating the first year of the Education Freedom Accounts program, made possible by the Arkansas LEARNS Act, which provides students with more school choice options. Parent Pamela Esters shared that the program has made a significant difference in her son Phoenix’s education. Phoenix, who is battling cancer, vision impairment, and autism, can now attend Easterseals Academy in Little Rock without his family having to pay for it.
Esters expressed her gratitude for the program, stating, “When you come from a place of not being able, and there’s something out there that can help you afford the things you need for your children, your grandchildren, there’s no way to describe it.”
Steve Grappe, another parent, initially had doubts about the LEARNS Act but is now focused on ensuring that the law provides for everyone, whether in public or private schools. He emphasized the need for more resources, teachers, and individual education plans for students with disabilities in public schools.
Governor Sarah Sanders announced that more Arkansas students will be eligible for Education Freedom Accounts in the upcoming school year. The eligibility criteria will be expanded to include children of veterans, military reserve members, first responders, law enforcement officers, and students who were previously in D-rated schools. This expansion aims to provide more families with access to educational opportunities through the program.