PK–12 Public Schools · Hot Springs, Arkansas

Admissions

About our enrollment process

From School Choice transfers to new residents and virtual learners—here is how families move through enrollment at Cutter Morning Star, step by step.

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How it works

Every family’s path is a little different.

Some students enroll because their family lives in the district. Others apply through Arkansas School Choice, move into Garland County, or explore virtual, hybrid, or homeschool-hybrid options. CMS does not use a one-size-fits-all checklist—we help you confirm which rules apply to your student’s grade, location, and learning plan.

Reaching out through apply / get started or calling the district office does not commit you to enroll. It starts a conversation so we can route you to the right campus team and explain paperwork before deadlines pass.

Deadline

June 1

School Choice applications for 2026–27 close for many transfer families. Submit interest early so CMS can help confirm options.

Class size

13

Average class size across 591 PK–12 students—room to be known while still accessing athletics, arts, and pathways.

Your path

PK–12

On campus in Hot Springs or virtual and hybrid where eligible—Eagles activities when rules are met.

Typical flow

Six steps most families follow

Steps may reorder slightly depending on your path—our office will clarify when you call.

  1. Learn which path fits

    Review whether School Choice, residency-based enrollment, virtual/hybrid, or homeschool-hybrid (Connect Care) applies. Moving into Garland County or comparing smaller public schools near Hot Springs? Start here.

  2. Reach out to CMS

    Call (501) 262-2414 or share details through our 2026–27 enrollment hub. Tell us your student’s grade level and learning preference so we connect you with elementary or high school staff.

  3. Plan a campus visit

    Walk elementary (PK–6) or high school (7–12), meet principals or counselors, and ask about schedules, activities, and support. You can also contact us to schedule a tour.

  4. Complete state & district requirements

    If School Choice applies, file the Arkansas application before the deadline. Residency, virtual, and hybrid families may have different forms—our team will list immunization records, prior school documentation, and proof of residence when needed.

  5. Confirm placement & programs

    Work with campus staff on schedules, special services, athletics eligibility (where applicable), and career or virtual pathways. Popular grades and programs can fill as deadlines approach.

  6. Prepare for the first day

    Pick up supply lists, bus information, and handbook details through family resources. Typical dismissal is 2:45–2:50 PM Monday–Friday—confirm with your student’s building office.

By path

What changes for each type of enrollment

The same caring district—different paperwork and timelines depending on where you live and how your student will learn.

School Choice transfers

Many families living outside the district apply through Arkansas School Choice. Applications for 2026–27 close June 1, 2026 for many transfer situations.

CMS can help you understand eligibility and timing before you file with the state. Do not wait until the final week if a specific grade or program matters to you.

New residents

Moving into Garland County or the Hot Springs area? Residency-based enrollment may apply instead of School Choice.

Plan to share proof of residence and prior school records when you meet with our office. We will walk you through district registration steps.

Virtual & hybrid

Eligible students can learn at home with district support while remaining enrolled at CMS.

Athletics, band, and activities may be available when eligibility rules are met—ask before you file paperwork so you know what applies to your student.

Homeschool hybrid

Connect Care is our support pathway for qualifying homeschool-hybrid families.

We will explain how it aligns with Arkansas homeschool rules and what documentation is required before you commit.

Students in the CMS library

Paperwork

Documents families often need

Exact requirements depend on your path. Our team will give you a tailored list—this is a helpful starting point for conversations with the district office.

Most families

  • Proof of age and identity
  • Immunization records (or exemptions per state law)
  • Prior school records or transcripts
  • Emergency contact information

When applicable

  • Arkansas School Choice application (transfers)
  • Proof of residence in district (new residents)
  • IEP / 504 records (if your student receives services)
  • Virtual, hybrid, or homeschool-hybrid agreements

Campus contacts

Who helps at each building

District enrollment questions: laura.baber@cmseagles.net · Speak to admissions

Quick answers

Questions families ask first

Many Arkansas families apply through School Choice before June 1, 2026. Submit interest through our enrollment hub or call the district office—we will help confirm whether that path fits your situation.

Yes, where eligible. We will explain what applies based on your student’s grade level, location, and learning needs—including how students can stay connected to athletics and activities when rules allow.

There is no tuition to attend as a public school student in our district, the same as other Arkansas public schools. Some activity, athletic, or program fees may apply.

Contact the district office as soon as you know your move date. Mid-year enrollment depends on space, grade level, and documentation—we will explain what is possible for your student’s situation.

Many families ask about athletics eligibility before they enroll. Rules may vary by grade level, enrollment path, and Arkansas requirements—ask us when you submit interest so you understand what applies before filing paperwork.

Come with questions about your child’s grade, learning style, and activities they care about. If you are transferring, prior report cards or school contact information help us plan. Our team will tell you if immunization or residency documents are needed at that stage.

Next steps

Ready to move forward?

Start Apply / get started
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Questions about your path?

Our team can walk through School Choice, residency, and virtual options in one conversation—before you file anything with the state.

Apply / get started (501) 262-2414