Arkansas residents took time on Tuesday to engage in direct democracy with state leaders on a topic that is universally seen as a pillar to community strength – quality education for kids of all ages and backgrounds.
Their overall message was straightforward to the elected officials who write legislation: Support public schools, help kids and be cautious about “distractions,” such as efforts to privatize education in the state.
The Arkansas Citizens First Congress, a coalition of 54 grassroots groups, organized the event to inform lawmakers that many residents want them to build upon what they view as the state’s progress with education.
“We have a rapidly-improving education system, but it’s not good enough and it’s not good for everyone yet,” Alyce Love, a retired teacher and coalition member, said in a statement.
“We have to continue expanding quality pre-K programs, after-school programs and summer programs. We must improve teacher quality and reduce the gap in pay between wealthy and low-income districts.”
She and other coalition members voiced concerns that the state has retreated from programs and financial support for schools.
Specifically, they questioned two pieces of legislation, House Bill 1733 and House Bill 1593. The first bill would convert public school districts to private charter corporations, according to the Arkansas Citizens First Congress. The second bill would create a voucher system for private schools.
Coalition members contend that charter schools and voucher programs fail to improve education in schools. They also have less accountability to residents and have created questionable results, Love said.
On Tuesday, state lawmakers talked about bills to ensure that money for low-income students is spent wisely so that it benefits their education and to incorporate community forums into school district evaluations.
Those community forums, supporters said, could be a way to boost parental involvement in education.
Shirley Renix, a coalition member, reminded lawmakers about giving support to special needs students.
“All people are special. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to give these children what they need to be successful,” Renix, a parent of a special needs student, said in a statement.
In February, the coalition group held a similar event at the state Capitol. During that event, coalition members reminded lawmakers to “put families first.”