TEAM SPORTS
Are they in? Are they out? We have a clear answer now. Below the direct email from DARELL SMITH, assistant commissioner of the ADE-
From: "Darrell Smith (ADE)" <Darrell.Smith@ade.arkansas.gov>
Subject: EFA- TEAM Sports eligiblity
Date: September 9, 2025 at 10:20:27 AM CDT
To: PARENT EMAIL REMOVED FOR PRIVACY
PARENT NAME REMOVED FOR PRIVACY,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your perspective. We recognize the importance of physical activity and team sports in students’ growth, confidence, and overall well-being, and we appreciate the opportunity to clarify how these expenses are managed within the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program.
Current Policy
Currently, team sports and related expenses for homeschool students are eligible under the EFA program. These expenses fall into the same expense category as extracurricular activities, physical education, and field trips, which are capped at 25% of the total annual funding. This means families can use up to one-quarter of their student's EFA funds for these types of activities, including team sports.
Examples of Eligible Expenses
Registration or participation fees for team sports (soccer, basketball, baseball, etc.)
Required team uniforms or equipment
Lessons, private instruction, or structured training in a sport such as gymnastics, soccer, or martial arts
Public School Participation
I also want to note that homeschool students remain eligible under Arkansas law to participate in team sports at a public school. Doing so does not affect a student’s EFA eligibility, and for some families, this option may provide additional opportunities without drawing from their EFA balance.
Thank you again for reaching out and for your dedication to your child’s education and well-being. If you have any questions about submitting requests for these expenses, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.
Darrell Smith, Ed.D.
Assistant Commissioner
Arkansas Department of Education
Office of School Choice and Parental Empowerment
Office: 501-682-4397
Cell: 501-231-2385
So, to sum things up you are best served overall utilizing team sports at your local school as much as possible to save you funds for other endeavors but where this option isn’t suited for you or available you absolutely can utilize funding to cover the fees and equipment required to participate in team sports. We are glad to see a good outcome to this question and that it is on the best favor and interest of all students, especially those of low income and in Rural Areas.