Arkansas ranks 43rd in child well-being as education, health scores decline, report finds

June 16, 2026 - 08:30

A new report shows Arkansas has fallen to 43rd in the nation for child well-being, marking a continued decline in key areas like education and health. The annual Kids Count Data Book, released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, ranks states based on economic stability, education, health, and family and community factors. Arkansas has struggled to hold its ground, with education scores dropping significantly. The state now ranks 46th in education, reflecting low fourth-grade reading proficiency and a high number of high school students not graduating on time. Health rankings also slipped, with Arkansas coming in at 44th. Child obesity rates remain high, and the state continues to see a troubling number of children without health insurance. On a slightly brighter note, economic well-being ranked 39th, though many families still face poverty and housing insecurity. The report highlights that more than one in five Arkansas children live in poverty. Advocates say the state needs to invest more in early childhood programs, mental health services, and access to nutritious food. Without those changes, they warn, the downward trend could continue, leaving more children behind.