LEARNS ACT 2023
We all share the same goals of building a world class education system accessible to all in Arkansas. We aren’t satisfied with the status quo where Arkansas lags much of the rest of the country in education.
However, Gov. Sarah Sanders’ LEARNS Act…
Undermines public education through the costs of what would be the biggest voucher scheme in the country
Puts more requirements on traditional public schools without holding private and other schools who accept public vouchers accountable
Repeals the Teacher Fair Dismissal Act and the Public School Employee Fair Hearing Act
Silences educators and hurts kids through unclear “anti-indoctrination” language that will silence discussion on important topics like race and reproductive health
Allocates ZERO new dollars to improving or expanding access to early childhood education
Creates non-evidence-based, coercive takeovers of “failing” public schools by charters or private companies through contracts with unspecified time periods
Includes some evidence-based, proven strategies – such as AR High Impact Tutoring Program – only as pilot and grant programs set up in such a way that will exacerbate the equity gap between high and low wealth districts
Read our full comments and suggestions to state lawmakers regarding SB294 (LEARNS ACT)
Feb. 27 Press conference on SB294 held at the Arkansas Education Association where Bill Kopsky of the APPP, Carol Fleming of the AEA, Olivia Gardner from Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, and Tom Masseau of Disability Rights Arkansas spoke on the problems that Arkansas LEARNS poses to public schools.
Executive Director Bill Kopsky testifies against SB294 during the House Education Committee meeting on Feb. 28.