The Impact of the Educational Freedom Account Program on Arkansas Public Schools

The Arkansas Educational Freedom Account (EFA) program, created by the LEARNS Act of 2023, has sparked intense debate about its effects on the state’s public school system. This state-funded initiative provides families with nearly 90% of the state education funds per student—approximately $7,208 for the 2025-26 school year—to cover private school tuition, tutoring, homeschooling, and other approved educational expenses. While proponents argue it expands educational choices, critics warn it drains vital resources from public schools, threatening their quality and sustainability.

Arkansas public school building with students arriving

What the Educational Freedom Account Program Means for Funding

The EFA program is funded by reallocating money that would otherwise support public schools. This year, the Arkansas legislature approved an additional $122 million for the program, with a $70 million reserve set aside to support future growth. With over 44,000 students currently enrolled, the program is moving toward universal eligibility, allowing more families to use public funds for private education or homeschooling.

This shift means public schools face a direct loss of $122 million in funding this year, with the potential for more reductions as the program expands. For many districts, this loss represents a significant portion of their budgets, which are already stretched thin. Public schools rely heavily on state funding to pay for teacher salaries, classroom resources, extracurricular programs, and facility maintenance. Losing millions in funding threatens their ability to provide quality education to the majority of Arkansas students.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5euMYhitCI

Democratic Concerns and Mike Middlebrook’s Position

Democratic leaders and educators like Mike Middlebrook have voiced strong concerns about the negative impact of the EFA program on public education

Recently Our Republican State representative; of district 34 was proud to meet with educators and staff of the Blytheville School System. As they encouraged and honored him in advance; for taking their concerns of pay increases and more public funding for public school system straight to Governor Huckabee

Looks like he returned a message that the Educational Freedom Account program created under the LEARNS Act. Will be taking roughly 122 million dollars from public school system and an additional $70 million for future projects. No mention of a pay increase of increase funding for public schools. We Deserve Better

(I) Mike Middlebrook would not be surprised if the same funding is used for Turning Point USA- As Governor Sanders Signs Proclamation Encouraging Arkansas Students to Initiate a Turning Point USA Chapter in Their Schools

Turning Point USA, Inc. (TPUSA) is a American nonprofit organization that advocates for conservative politics on high school, collage, and university campuses. It was founded in 2021 by Charlie Kirk - Did our Republican State Rep. Joey Carr; share that information at his school visit?

Middlebrook and other critics argue that the EFA program undermines public education by diverting funds to private and homeschooling options that serve fewer students overall. They point out that while families gain more choice, the public school system loses critical resources, which could lead to larger class sizes, reduced programs, and lower teacher retention. This could widen educational disparities, especially in rural and low-income communities where public schools are often the only option.

How the EFA Program Affects Public School Students and Teachers

Public schools educate the vast majority of Arkansas children, including those with special needs and from disadvantaged backgrounds. The loss of funding due to the EFA program can have several consequences:

• Teacher Pay and Retention

With less money available, schools may struggle to offer competitive salaries. This can lead to higher turnover rates and difficulty attracting qualified teachers.

• Class Size and Resources

Budget cuts often mean larger class sizes and fewer materials, which can reduce the quality of instruction and individual attention students receive.

• Extracurricular and Support Services

Programs like sports, arts, counseling, and special education services may face cuts, limiting opportunities for student growth and well-being.

• Facility Maintenance and Upgrades

Aging school buildings may not receive necessary repairs or improvements, affecting the learning environment.

Empty public school classroom with desks and chairs

Arguments from Supporters of the EFA Program

Supporters, mainly Republican legislators like Joey Carr and others aligned with Trumpism policies, argue that the EFA program empowers families to choose the best educational setting for their children. They claim that competition will drive public schools to improve and innovate. The program also aims to provide relief for families dissatisfied with public schools by offering access to private education or homeschooling with state support.

They highlight that the program is designed to phase toward universal eligibility, meaning more families can benefit from educational freedom. The additional $70 million reserve is intended to accommodate this growth and ensure the program’s sustainability.

Balancing Educational Freedom and Public School Support

The debate over the EFA program reflects a broader question about how to balance educational choice with the need to maintain strong public schools. While expanding options for families is important, it should not come at the expense of the public system that serves most students.

Policymakers face the challenge of ensuring that public schools receive adequate funding to provide quality education while allowing families the freedom to pursue alternatives. This requires careful budgeting, transparency, and ongoing dialogue with educators, parents, and communities.

Public school playground with children playing during recess

Moving Forward: What Can Arkansas Do?

Arkansas must consider the long-term effects of the EFA program on its public schools. Some steps to address concerns include:

• Increasing overall education funding to offset losses from the EFA program

• Monitoring the program’s impact on public school enrollment and resources

• Engaging educators and families in discussions about funding priorities

• Exploring hybrid models that support both public schools and educational choice