Politics

How ProPublica Reporters Became Private School Owners in 24 Hours

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 05/10/2026, 11:24:24 UTC.

Briefings

ProPublica reporters in Arkansas, West Virginia, and North Carolina partnered with local newsrooms to establish three private schools within 24 hours. Arkansas allowed them to register as microschools for public funds with minimal paperwork, while West Virginia and North Carolina accepted applications without requiring inspections or credential verification. The schools, named Curiosity Academies and the Assembly Academy, were funded by taxpayer vouchers but did not enroll students. The Arkansas Department of Education spokesperson noted the schools missed the initial deadline but could apply for the following year.

Key points

• Three private schools were established in Arkansas, West Virginia, and North Carolina within 24 hours by ProPublica reporters working with local newsrooms.
• Arkansas permitted microschools to receive public funds without accreditation, curriculum requirements, or background checks, whereas other states required inspections or credential verification.

Context and limitations

The experiment occurred in early September 2026; the Arkansas Department of Education indicated the schools missed the initial school year deadline but may apply for the following year. Specific enrollment numbers, student demographics, and long-term outcomes remain unknown.

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