Petitions

95% of children in Arkansas attend public schools. The siphoning of funds towards private and home schools for a small percentage of students will cause irreparable harm to public schools. Public taxpayer money belongs in public schools.  The primary stated goal was to help low income students, regardless of zip code, to attend private schools. This has not happened.  Public schools provide a wide array of activities and services for all students. When funding is reduced, public schools are forced to cut programs and staff. Small rural schools are especially vulnerable. Art, music, foreign languages, and other important elective classes are usually the first to be cut. These are some of the very programs that students need to build self esteem and to stimulate interest and brain growth. 

This is taxation without representation. The superintendent and board are attempting to take a critical step for the district without consulting and informing stakeholders. 

While nominally honoring diversity, the district is alienating families with LGBTQ+ children or family members.    These books are not required reading, but can be selected.  Those who do not approve do not have to read them.   Banning books violates first amendment rights. 

Again, all students have a right to a free, safe, equitable public education .   Students cannot learn if they are afraid, and they certainly cannot learn if they are kept home from school out of fear of deportation.    It is important for our students that are immigrants , but also important that ALL students know that they are safe at school and that their school district will stand up for them.