PK–12 Public Schools · Hot Springs, Arkansas

Become an Eagle

Cutter Morning Star Admissions in Hot Springs, AR

Cutter Morning Star admissions cover four paths: residency, Arkansas School Choice, virtual or hybrid learning, and homeschool hybrid options. Our admissions team will help you find the right fit for your family.

What we believe

At Cutter Morning Star, learning is about more than academics —

it is about belonging.

Welcome, families

A small district where enrollment still feels personal.

Cutter Morning Star serves 610 students across PK–12 on two buildings in Hot Springs. Families choose CMS for close relationships, strong academics, athletics, fine arts, and career pathways—including eligible virtual and hybrid options that keep students connected to the Eagle community.

There is no tuition to attend as a public school student in Arkansas. Your enrollment path may depend on where you live, whether you are transferring through School Choice, or whether virtual or hybrid learning is the right fit. Our team will help you understand deadlines, paperwork, and next steps—without pressure.

CMS students on campus

Your situation

Which enrollment path might apply?

Not sure? Call (501) 262-2414 or use our get started page.

School Choice

Families outside the district often apply through Arkansas School Choice before the June 1 deadline for the upcoming school year.

Residency

Moving into Garland County or the Hot Springs area? Your paperwork and timeline may differ from a transfer application.

Virtual & hybrid

Eligible students can blend home-based learning with district support while staying enrolled with CMS where rules allow.

Homeschool hybrid

Qualifying homeschool-hybrid families may use Connect Care—we will explain how it aligns with Arkansas requirements.

Why families choose CMS

Small enough to know you. Big enough to offer variety.

610

Students district-wide—large enough for teams, clubs, and programs; small enough that staff still know your child’s name.

13

Average class size—room for relationships and attention while students still access athletics, fine arts, and pathways.

PK–12

One district, two buildings on Spring Street—elementary (PK–6) and high school (7–12) with a shared Eagle culture.

Figures update annually. View district data on My School Info (opens in new tab).

Our buildings

Visit the school that fits your child’s grade

Walk the halls, meet principals and counselors, and ask about a typical day before you commit.

Your Enrollment Questions, Answered:

Families who live within the district can enroll, and eligible families outside the district may be able to attend through Arkansas School Choice. Some Arkansas students may also qualify for virtual or hybrid options.

Cutter Morning Star offers a few paths, including standard enrollment for resident families, School Choice for eligible out-of-district families, and alternative learning options. The admissions section helps families find the one that fits.

Resident families can enroll each year, while School Choice applications follow an annual state deadline. Families considering a transfer should check the current year’s dates early so they do not miss the window.

No. Cutter Morning Star is a tuition-free public district, so there is no fee to apply or enroll for resident or eligible School Choice families.

Families who are unsure can speak with the admissions team, who can review a child’s situation and point them to the right next step. Call (501) 262-2414 to talk it through.

Still Weighing Your Options?

Enrollment decisions do not have to happen in one call. If you are still comparing school choice, residency, virtual learning, or homeschool hybrid, the Cutter Morning Star admissions team can walk through your family's situation and point you toward the right next step. There is no obligation and no pressure to decide today.

Ready to take the next step?

Share a few details through our enrollment hub or call the district office. We aim for same-day replies on most school days.