The Arkos Academy model is a pioneering program to support the Defense Community, Veterans, and their Families by providing comprehensive educational support to their children. It leverages public education, Department of Defense resources, and industry to create a nurturing learning environment for children from infancy to five years old. Additionally, the Arkos Academy model focuses on facilitating career exploration and development for Arkansas's Military, Veteran, First Responder (MVFR), and Defense Community families, empowering them to pursue professional aspirations while ensuring the well-being of their children. This initiative is poised to become a cornerstone of educational excellence in Arkansas by fostering positive change in early childhood education and workforce expansion. By aligning with the Learns Act and incorporating reformative strategies, the Arkos Academy model aims to enhance the quality of life for MVFR and add significant value to the state.

 

Three initial proposed sites:   

Fort Smith, Camden, and Jacksonville, with prospective expansion to and White Hall —were strategically selected based on military population density, community need, and existing infrastructure. These pilot schools will serve as hubs for both early learning and family support, fostering economic stability and workforce resilience while improving school readiness, child health, and parental employment outcomes.