National School Choice Week: A Celebration of Educational Options in Arkansas
National School Choice Week kicked off on January 28, 2026, in Arkansas and nationwide, emphasizing the importance of helping parents select the best K–12 schools for their children. With an impressive participation of over 510 schools and organizations across the state, the event aims to illuminate the educational landscape available to families in the Natural State.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has officially declared January 25–31 as "Arkansas School Choice Week" through a proclamation. This week is dedicated to showcasing the myriad options families have when it comes to education. Parents can explore a variety of learning environments, including public and charter schools, magnet institutions, private schools, online platforms, home-schooling opportunities, and alternative educational settings.
To assist parents in navigating these choices, a valuable resource is available at
schoolchoiceweek.com/arkansas. This platform provides a free guide, ensuring that families have access to accurate and straightforward information when considering their options. As Andrew Campanella, CEO of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, stresses, "As options continue to expand in the Natural State, it's crucial that parents understand the options available to them without any confusing jargon."
The excitement surrounding this year's celebration is amplified by new educational initiatives. Emmy Henley, managing director of The Reform Alliance, noted that there has never been a more promising moment for parents looking to explore educational possibilities for their children. With programs such as the universal Education Freedom Account (EFA) for private and microschools, the expansion of open enrollment across districts, and a reduction in bureaucratic challenges for charter school growth, parents are encouraged to investigate the diverse avenues available to them.
Running until January 31, 2026, National School Choice Week highlights the significance of every educational option available to families. The initiative, organized by the nonprofit National School Choice Awareness Foundation, provides a platform for parents, educators, and community leaders to come together, discuss, and promote the benefits of school choice.
The emphasis on parental choice in education aims to empower families, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions that best suit their children’s learning preferences and needs. As communities come together to support School Choice Week, the hope is that more parents will feel confident exploring the educational resources at their disposal.
As this week unfolds, numerous events are taking place across Arkansas, fostering discussions about educational options. Parents are encouraged to engage with schools and organizations and learn how they can better support their children’s educational journeys.
In conclusion, National School Choice Week serves as a reminder of the incredible variety of educational choices available to families in Arkansas. With the support of community leaders, parents can confidently navigate the changing educational landscape and ensure their children have access to the opportunities they deserve. Together, education stakeholders are uniting to champion the cause of school choice, allowing every child the chance to thrive in a learning environment that fits their needs perfectly.