How Arkansans Use Education Freedom Accounts: Spending Taxpayer Money Wisely
Spurring Education Freedom
As Arkansas navigates the first year of its groundbreaking Education Freedom Accounts, thousands of students are already benefiting from the program. Education Freedom Accounts, launched under the LEARNS Act, allow students to access critical educational resources outside traditional public schools. Our new analysis delves into how families are using these accounts, empowering students and reshaping Arkansas’s educational landscape.
Students with Disabilities Front and Center
One of the most significant trends emerging from the program is its impact on students with disabilities. At least 44 percent of EFA enrollees have disabilities, demonstrating how these accounts are addressing a vital need in the state’s education system. Moreover, this number is even higher when considering the significant proportion of Succeed Scholarship students who also have special needs and have transitioned to the EFA program. It is this segment of students who are particularly benefiting from the newfound flexibility and options provided by EFAs.
Expanding Eligibility
Arkansas’s phased rollout of Education Freedom Accounts means that only a subset of students are currently eligible. By the 2025-2026 school year, all students who meet basic residency and public school enrollment criteria will be eligible, regardless of income or zip code. The current subset includes students from underperforming schools, those with special needs, and those from military and first responder families. This broadband rollout ensures that the benefits of EFAs will be felt across all demographics as the program matures.
Flexibility in Spending
One of the most critical aspects of Education Freedom Accounts is the array of eligible expenses. These funds can be used for tuition, fees, uniforms, and a wide range of other educational expenditures. From private school tuition to technology and educational materials, EFAs have given families the autonomy to craft their children’s educational journey. This is especially important for families who need to accommodate special requirements or unique learning environments.
Digital Efficiency
To streamline the process of distributing and managing EFA funds, the Arkansas Department of Education has partnered with ClassWallet, a digital marketplace and payment platform. This partnership enables families to securely track and execute tuition payments and other purchases, ensuring a seamless and efficient use of these critical funds. By leveraging technology, the education system can optimize spending and minimize administrative hurdles.
Encouraging Early Results
Despite being early in its implementation, the EFA program is already showing promising signs. Over 4,800 students have been approved and are actively utilizing their accounts, demonstrating the high demand for educational alternatives in the state. Furthermore, the program is expected to come under budget this year, indicating that families are using the funds effectively. These early indicators suggest a positive trajectory for Education Freedom Accounts in Arkansas.
