Supporters of the Arkansas education amendment are continuing to collect signatures as the deadline approaches.

Supporters of the Arkansas Educational Rights Amendment of 2024 are making strides in their efforts to gather signatures for the ballot initiative despite facing well-funded opposition groups. The initiative aims to hold private schools that receive state funding to the same standards as public schools, with a deadline of July 5 to collect the required signatures.

The coalition behind the proposed constitutional amendment, For AR Kids, includes several prominent groups such as the Arkansas Conference of the NAACP and the Arkansas Education Association. They have reported collecting 25,000 signatures so far, with estimates of reaching between 45,000 and 50,000 in total.

While fundraising efforts have been outmatched by opposition groups like Arkansans for Students and Educators, For AR Kids remains focused on signature collection. The financial documents show a significant difference in funds raised, with the opposition group receiving substantial contributions from figures like Walmart heir Jim Walton.

The proposed amendment includes provisions for equal standards between public and private schools, universal access to pre-K, and other educational programs. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of identified funding for these programs, with estimates suggesting a cost of over $1 billion to taxpayers.

Despite these challenges, For AR Kids remains determined to push forward with their initiative. With a strong legal team in place, they are prepared to defend the measure against any potential legal challenges that may arise. The outcome of this battle will have significant implications for the future of education in Arkansas.