Arkansas children have the best chance to thrive when they have quality education. The state constitution guarantees the right to a free, adequate and equitable education for every child. That’s because providing educational opportunities to all Arkansas kids is essential for the future of our communities.
Ensuring a quality public school system requires investments from the state government. In 2002, the Arkansas Supreme Court made a ruling that led to an overhaul of public school funding. Every two years, the Arkansas House and Senate Education Committees work together to decide how public education will be funded until the process restarts in two years. Although Arkansas’s education funding has increased over the years, it lags behind other states in per-pupil funding.
While many educational policy reforms have been enacted, and some educational outcomes have improved, we must acknowledge that much more work needs to be done. The evidence is clear that money spent equitably in education produces improved student outcomes. The key resources that make a difference for students are smaller class sizes, additional instructional supports, early childhood programs, and competitive teacher compensation.
Join us in the fight for children’s rights and family support. Your involvement can help shape a better future for our community.
