Acts of 2017 Final Summary
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Act NumberTopicARK. CODE ANN.BILL NO.SPONSORTITLEDESCRIPTIONPROGRESS
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561Education - Civics6-16-0124SB519WallaceHistory in the Classroom; Separate Holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Replaces the state celebration of Robert E. Lee's birthday with a memorial day in October; amends history curriculum requirements to include instruction on Martin Luther King Jr. and the pursuit of civil justice; amends Civil War curriculum.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-061 Resources for Historical Contributions Made by African Americans
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1013School Safety6-18-0713HB1509LedingSudden Cardiac ArrestRequires school districts to develop procedures for training staff in first aid techniques related to sudden cardiac arrest in conjunction with the Department of Health; requires coaches to receive training annually.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-015 Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act
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1015School Discipline6-18-0516HB1859DavisEffective School DisciplineRepeals the existing reporting requirements regarding disciplinary actions taken by schools against students; requires annual reports and publishing of information on the number of suspensions and expulsions in various demographic groups.
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1039Dyslexia6-41-603, 6-41-606, 6-41-611SB708ElliottReport on Website Dyslexia Intervention ProgramsRequires school districts to publish on their websites a report on the dyslexia intervention programs used and the number of students who received intervention during the previous year by July 15 each year.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-007 Update on Reading LegislationCommisioner's Memo #LS-18-105 Dyslexia Requirements09-14-2018 SBE Gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Instructional Materials
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1044Appropriation
6-17-1117n, 6-17-707n, 6-20-2305nSB168Joint Budget CommitteeAppro-ADE Grants and Aid to Local School Districts and Special ProgramsAppropriates funds to the Department of Education for grants and aid to local school districts and special programs.Commissioner's Memo # FIN-18-015 State Aid Notice 2017-18 PreliminaryCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-024 Act 1044 of 2017 - NSL Matching Grant ProgramCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-026 Act 1044 - NSL Matching Grant ProgramCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-022 Act 1044 of 20107 - NSL Matching Grant Program Award
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1059School Discipline6-18-0507SB609Elliott
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1062Education -Physical Activity6-16-0132SB549StubblefieldPilot Program Providing Various Amounts of Extra Weekly Physical Activity-Unstructured PlayDirects the Department of Education to select 4 schools to participate in a pilot program that provides various amounts of extra weekly physical activity including unstructured play to students in grades K-6.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-068 Extended Recess Pilot: Grades Kindergarten through Grade 6
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1063Licensure - ReadingSB502ElliottRight to Read ActAn act to create the Right to Read Act; to require licensed teachers at the elementary level to be proficient in scientific reading instruction; to require all other license teachers to have a cursory knowledge of scientific reading instruction.02-08-2018 SBE Final Approval ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure (and Repeal of ADE Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program)07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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1064GraduationSB443GarnerCareer Focus Graduation Credits to a Student who Enlists in the MilitaryAwards two units of career focus graduation credits to a student who enlists in the military in an early entry program and completes basic training.Commissioner's Memo #LS-17-091 High School Credit Based on Military Credit
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1065Student Inter-Disctrict TransferSB371 ClarkAttendance Student of Armed Forces Member; Restricts Prohibitions on Student Transfers…Allows a child of a parent who relocates within the state due to the parent's mobilization as an Armed Forces member to attend school in either district; restricts prohibitions on student transfers to schools currently under desegregation orders.
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1066School ChoiceSB372ClarkRequirements Before a SD can Exempt Itself from Transfers Under School Choice ActRequires that in order for a school to exempt itself from transfers under the School Choice Act the district submit proof that a desegregation order is still active and provide specific language the district believes limits its participation.Commissioner's Memo #COM-19-001 ADE Proposed Rules (Amendments) -- For Public Comment Release07-12-2018 SBE Consideration for Release for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing The Public School Choice Act of 201509-14-2018 SBE Gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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1069Legal SB662.FilesRequires Schools to Allow Access During School Hours for RecruitmentRequires schools to allow access during school hours for recruitment activities conducted by representatives of a youth group that is a patriotic organization as defined in federal code such as the Boy Scouts.
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1099LegalHB1935LoweryMedical Marijuana Amendment/Public School StudentSpecifies that the medical marijuana amendment does not require a public school to permit a qualifying patient student to be present on school grounds if a school official believes the student is impaired.
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1105FiscalHB1575LoweryLimit the Amount of Fund Balances a School District May MaintainEstablishes a maximum net legal balance for public schools of 20% of the public school district's current year net legal balance revenues and requires schools exceeding that balance to transfer the excess funds to the school's building fund.Commissioner's Memo #FIN-18-006 New Coding Requirements for FY18: Act 1105 of 2017
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1113Fiscal/AccreditationSB691ClarkAdditional Compensation for Teachers in Grades 5 and 6Adds teachers of grades 5 and 6 to the eligibility for additional compensation for volunteering to teach more than the maximum number of students per day. Sets the maximum student number at 150 for grades 5-12.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-027 Act 1113 - Compensation for Teaching More Than the Maximum Number of Students Permitted
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1118Concurrent CreditSB673IrvinConcurrent CreditConcerning a reduced tuition rate for endorsed concurrent enrollment courses; Concerning tuition for endorsed concurrent enrollment courses.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-002 Act 1118 of 2017 Concurrent CreditCommissioner's Memo #CNU-18-019 Benefits of Collecting Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications
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1124FiscalSB329ClarkSchool District PurchasingTo raise the price threshold for the purchase of commodities that school districts must procure by soliciting bids and to provide annual adjustments in the purchase price threshold based on inflation.Commissioner's Memo #CNU-18-012 Arkansas Small Purchase Threshold for School Food Authorities beginning July 31, 2017
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129FiscalSB23B. JohnsonSpecial Needs Isolated Funding for Public SchoolsChanges the student population density ratio that is required for special needs isolated funding from 1.3 students per square mile to 1.5 students per square mile.Commissioner's Memo # FIN-18-015 State Aid Notice 2017-18 Preliminary
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160Higher Ed.HB1303C. DouglasTeacher Opportunity Program/Prioritize Funding/Certain FieldsPrioritizes funding from the Teacher Opportunity Program to go to teachers seeking additional education in STEM fields computer science, literacy, Pre-K or special education.
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173Education EnrollmentHB1208LoweryPrivate/Home School Students Enrollment in Public School for Academic CourseAllows public school districts to adopt policies authorizing private-schooled or home-schooled children in the public school's district to enroll in limited numbers of classes at the public school.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-009 Enrollment of Private School or Home School Students12-14-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Home Schools04-12-2018 SBE granted final approval for ADE Rules Governing Home Schools
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174Appropriation
HB1078Joint Budget CommitteeAppro.-Personal Services and Operating Expenses - School for the BlindAppropriates funds to the Department of Education - School for the Blind02-08-2018 SBE Approved for public comment ADE Rules to Implement the Braille and Large Print Textbook Appropriation
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184Appropriation
SB59Joint Budget CommitteeAppro.-Facilities/TransportationAppropriates funds to the Department of Education – Division of Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation for operations.
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196LegalSB281B. JohnsonSchool District Coordinators Technical CorrectionsRepeals obsolete language relating to salary for county education boards which no longer exist
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220Appropriation
SB321Joint Budget CommitteeAppro.-ADE/General ImprovementsAppropriates $100000 to the Department of Education from the General Improvement Fund for various capital projects.
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246FiscalHB1155CozartMinimum Teacher Compensation ScheduleRaises the salaries included in all categories of the Teacher Minimum Compensation Schedule.
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267LegalSB32HickeyProhibit Sex Offender from Entering CampusRequires registered sex offenders attending a ticketed event on a school campus to be the parent or legal guardian of a child attending the school and to be accompanied by a security guard of the same gender as the offender.
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268Appropriation
SB319Joint Budget CommitteeAppro.-Facilities/TransportationAppropriates $1000000 to the Department of Education - Division of Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation from the General Improvement Fund for grants.
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275LegalHB1415ShepardTechnical Corrections Title 6 Education CodeMakes technical corrections to Title 6 concerning education.
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294Educator Effectiveness/ LicensureHB1425VaughtTeacher Licensure Establishes expanded criteria for teacher licensure creates additional licenses and provides for a tiered teacher licensure system.10-12-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Educator Licensure and Repeal of Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program ApprovalCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-032 ADE Rules -- Public Comment Release02-08-2018 SBE Final Approval ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure (and Repeal of ADE Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program)07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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295Educator Effectiveness/ LicensureHB1424VaughtTESS -Teacher Excellence and Support SystemAmends various provision related to the Teacher Excellence and Support System.Commissioner's Memo #LIC-17-030 Novice Teacher Mentoring and Beginning Administrators Induction08-10-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Educator Support and Development, as well as repeal of Rules Governing the Teacher Excellence and Support System, Leader Excellence and Development System, and Educator Mentoring ProgramsCommissioner's Memo # COM-18-011 ADE Proposed Rules and Repeals Commissioner's Memo # LIC-18-008 Beginning Administrator Quest 1: BloomBoard/Ed Reflect Nuts and Bolts10-12-2017 SBE: Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Educator Support and Development
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298FiscalHB1307SorvilloHealth Insurance Contributions/Public School EmployeesRequires the health insurance contributions made by the Department of Education to take place in 12 equal monthly installments rather than 11; increases the Department's transfer from $35 million to $55 million.
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327Legal:Succeed ScholarshipHB1461WingPrivate School Eligibility to Participate in the Succeed Scholarship ProgramExpands the criteria that allows a private school to participate in the Succeed Scholarship program to include private schools accredited as providing services to severely disabled individuals.
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344Board/ComsissionHB1019CozartMembership of School Leadership CouncilAdd the chairpersons of the House and Senate Education committees to the School Leadership Coordinating Council increasing its membership from 13 to 15.
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375Facilities/Trans.HB1002McElroySeat Belts on School BusesCreates a petition process whereby ten percent of a school district's electors can place a ballot question for funding and requiring the use of passenger restraint systems in any new school buses that the district purchases.
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379LegalHB1435TuckerRequires Public School and Open-Enrollment Charter Post Child Abuse Hot-line Telephone NumberRequires schools to post the Child Abuse Hotline number in a clearly visible location on their premises as well as in all bathrooms in a manner that allows a student to privately access the information.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-003 Act 379 Child Abuse Hotline Posters
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398Facilities/Trans.HB1144McElroySafety Camera on School BusesAllows public school districts or open enrollment charter schools to install automated school bus safety cameras to automatically record vehicles illegally passing a school bus.
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416Educator Effectiveness/ LIcensure/ReadingSB328ClarkTeaching License Applicant to Pass Stand-Alone Reading and Multi-Subject TestRequires the State Board of Education to test applicants for first-time teacher licensure for elementary education K-6 and for special education K-12 in the subject matter content pedagogy and knowledge of beginning reading instruction.Commissioner's Memo #LIC-18-006 Act 416 of 2017 Special Education K-12 Licensure Assessment RequirementsCommissioner's Memo #LIC-18-007 Act 416 of 2017 - Teaching Reading Assessment for Elementary K-6 and Special Education K-12 LicensureCommissioner's Memo #LIC-18-013 Act 416 of 2017 - Teaching Reading Assessment Web Page Now Available10-12-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Educator Licensure and Repeal of Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program ApprovalCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-032 ADE Rules -- Public Comment Release02-08-2018 SBE Final Approval ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure (and Repeal of ADE Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program)07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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427LegalHB1154CozartProfessional Development Funding Increases to be used for Professional Learning CommunitiesRequires the Department of Education to use any additional funding that is over the required amount for for teacher professional development for the development and administration of professional learning communities.Commissioner's Memo # COM-17-061 Proposed Rules for Public Comment06-08-17 State Board of Education Approved Proposed Rules Governing Professional Learning Communities for Public Comment.Commissioner's Memo #COM-17-057 Letter of Intent: PLC Pilot ProjectCommissioner's Memo #COM-17-059 PLC Pilot Project.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-004 ADE Proposed Rules-Public Comment ReleaseCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-007 Professional Learning Communities Pilot Project AnnouncementCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-005 Emergency Rules -- ADE Rules Governing Professoinal Learning Communities; ADE Special Education and Related Service Procedural Requirements and Project Standard, Section. 18.00 Residential PlacementCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-037 Final Rules - Professional Learning CommunitiesCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-051 Letter of Intent: Professional Learning Communities Pilot ProjectCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-089 Professional Learning Communities Project Announcement
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428LegalHB1266RicheySchool Board Member or Spouse be a Volunteer or Registered VolunteerProhibits a school board member or spouse from volunteering for the school district unless approved by the board of directors of the district.
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432SPEDHB1308CozartBuilding Better Futures ProgramRepeals and replaces the Building Better Futures High School Program a career placement program for students with intellectual disabilities. Creates a separate Building Better Futures Program alongside the High School Program.
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442FiscalHB1533C. DouglasAllow a SD to Purchase a Motor Vehicle from a Motor Vehicle Dealer Under Special CircumstancesAllows school districts to purchase a new motor vehicle from a motor vehicle dealer if the purchase price doesn't exceed the fleet price awarded by the Office of State Procurement at the time the district submits the purchase order for that make and model
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445FiscalSB303CheathamEnhanced Transportation Funding - EmergencyDistributes enhanced transportation funding to certain school districts for the 2016-17 school year in various amounts up to $76273Commissioner's Memo #FT-17-003 Act 445 of 2017 Enhanced Transportation Funding
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449School BoardHB1589VaughtApplicability of Certain Ethics Laws to Members of School BoardIncludes school board members in the ethics law under the definition of public official. Prohibits legislators who are members of a school board from appearing for compensation on behalf of the board.
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453HomeschoolHB1481LoweryAllow Home-Schoolers Participation in Interscholastic Activities at Private SchoolsAllows home-schooled students to participate in interscholastic activities at private schools under certain conditions.
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462Charter SchoolsSB304J. HendrenPublic Charter Authorizing Panel MembershipAuthorizes individuals from outside the Department of Education to serve on the public charter authorizing panel.
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478Graduation Requirements/ CivicsHB1539CozartCivics Test before GraduationRequires the passing with at least 60 out of 100 correct answers of a civics test identical to the civics portion of the naturalization test used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services in order to receive a high school diploma or its equivalent.Commissioner's Memo # LS-18-006 Update Legislative Actions from Learning Services02-08-2018 Stacy Smith presented Arkansas Civics Exam Update to SBE
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480Graduation Requirements/ Personal FinanceHB1442DavisPersonal Finance and Job ReadinessAmends personal finance curriculum standard to include job seeking skills soft job skills and employment benefits; requires high school students to earn a course credit under this curriculum for graduation.Commissioner's Memo # LS-18-006 Update Legislative Actions from Learning Services
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509Career Education SB288J. HendrenWorkforce Development ActAuthorizes the creation of workforce development center authorities to include 4 or more sponsors including school districts vocational schools and cities or counties to apply for funding and promote workforce development opportunities in an area.
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541School SafetySB12G. StubblefieldEmergency or Security Records Exempt from FOIAExempts public school emergency and security records from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act including those of higher education institutions.
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542Facilities/Trans.SB308ClarkCharter Right to Underutilized BuildingsGrants public charter schools access to unused or underutilized facilities of public schools; creates a leasing process by which a charter school may lease such facilities.Commissioner's Memo # COM-19-006 CAPSAFT -- Third Public Comment Release
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554Career Education SB423EnglishCareer and Technical EducationRequires the Department of Career Education to develop a list of third-party industry-recognized technical skills assessments that it has reviewed and approved for use.
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564Educator Effectiveness/ LicensureHB1591VaughtPLSB - Professional Licensure Standards BoardExpands the Professional Licensing Standards Board membership to include two public school teachers. Makes various changes to the Board's duties with regard to teacher education programs and teacher licensure. Requires non-licensed educators to be accoutnable for the Code of Ethics09-14-17 State Board of Education approved for Public Comment Release: Proposed Rules Governing the Code of Ethics for Arkansas EducatorsCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-025 ADE Rules Governing the Code of Ethics for Arkansas Educators02-08-2018 SBE Final Approval ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure (and Repeal of ADE Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program)07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure07-12-2018 SBE Final Approval For ADE Rules Governing Code of Ethics for Arkansas Educators
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586Fiscal/School BoardHB1632C. DouglasVerification of Information Contained in Write-In Candidacy for School Board Requires that a candidate petitioning for write-in status as a candidate for school board of directors have their information verified by the county clerk before their petition is accepted.
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588Educator Effectiveness/ LicensureHB1552McNairLifetime Teaching LicenseMakes teachers who have undergone voluntary retirement early voluntary retirement or disability retirement eligible for a lifetime teacher's license; repeals professional development hours requirement of lifetime teaching license holders.Commissioner's Memo #LIC-18-003 Lifetime Teaching License Changes10-12-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Educator Licensure and Repeal of Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program ApprovalCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-032 ADE Rules -- Public Comment Release02-08-2018 SBE Final Approval ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure (and Repeal of ADE Rules Governing Educator Preparation Program)07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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589Fiscal/School BoardHB1523SturchTraining of Members of the School BoardRequires a vacancy to occur on a school district board if a board member fails to receive the mandatory six hours of training each year unless the failure was due to military service or a serious medical condition.Commissioner's Memo # COM-18-102 Final Rules Governing Required Training for School Board MembersCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-042 Proposed Rules for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Education Service Cooperatives and ADE Rules Governing Required Training for School Board Members
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592HomeschoolHB1474LoweryParticipation of Home-Schooled Students in Interscholastic ActivitiesAuthorizes home-schooled students to receive approval to participate in interscholastic activities of public schools of the student's district.12-14-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Home Schools04-12-2018 SBE granted final approval for ADE Rules Governing Home SchoolsCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-2018 Final Rules Effective June 25, 2018
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601AssessmentHB1640AllenStudent to Choose Which Grade to Take ACT Under Voluntary Universal ACT Assessment ProgramAuthorizes the ACT Assessment Program to provide students with the opportunity to take the ACT Assessment in grade 12. Requires the district to continue to allow students to choose to take the ACT in grade 10 or 11.
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635HomeschoolHB1574LoweryHome SchoolsSpecifies that if a parent intending to homeschool their child does not provide notice of their intent to enroll the child in public school interscholastic activities it does not preclude the child from participation in interscholastic activities.12-14-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Home Schools04-12-2018 SBE granted final approval for ADE Rules Governing Home SchoolsCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-2018 Final Rules Effective June 25, 2018
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637Legal:Succeed ScholarshipHB1056LowerySucceed Scholarship ParticipationAllows the superintendent of a student's district to waive the requirement that a student must have attended public school for 1 year before being eligible for a Succeed Scholarship.
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666TaxHB1014LedingTeacher's Classroom Investment DeductionTo create the Teacher's Classroom Investment Deduction an income tax deduction of up to $500 for classroom supplies athletic equipment and food and clothing for students purchased by full-time teachers aides and principals.
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681FiscalHB1597Joint Budget CommitteeReAppro- ADE and its Various DivisionsReappropriates funds to the Department of Education from various funds for grant payments initiatives operations infrastructure maintenance archiving and other various projects.
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709Higher EdSB27ClarkTeacher Candidate Loan Forgiveness Program Creates a loan program for teachers-in-training intending to be licensed in high-needs areas; establishes a schedule of forgiveness for such loans at a rate of 20% per year the teacher is employed in a high-needs area.
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741FiscalHB1689CozartFunding and Indebtedness; Public Employee Health Insurance; Education Service CooperativesMakes changes to school funding and reporting provisions; authorizes an education cooperative to borrow from the revolving loan fund and other sources; includes minimum health insurance contributions in the definition of “local contribution rate.”Commissioner's Memo #FIN-17-044 Act 471 of 2017 & Public School Employee Health Insurance Contribution Rates UpdateCommissioner's Memo #RT-17-032 Acts 741 and 745 of the Regular Session of the 91st General AssemblyCommissioner's Memo #FIN-18-007 Fiscal Year 2016-2017 Final Student Growth Funding and Resulting Funding AdjustmentsCommissioner's Memo #FIN-18-016 Act 741 of 2017 Section 6 Concerning School District Foundation FundingCommissioner's Memo # FIN-18-015 State Aid Notice 2017-18 PreliminaryCommissioner's Memo #FIN-18-018 Open-Enrollment Public Charter School Preliminary State Aid Notice 2017-2018 08-09-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing Data Reporting, the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, and Information Systems AND REPEAL OF ADE Rules Governing the Issuance of Local Education Agency Numbers, ADE Rules Governing the Processes to Ensure the Quality, Security, Validation and Timeliness of Public School Data in the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, ADE Rules Governing the Final Close of Public School Financial Records, and Ade Rules Governing the Arkansas Educational Financial Accounting and Reporting System and Annual Training Requirements.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-042 Proposed Rules for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Education Service Cooperatives and ADE Rules Governing Required Training for School Board Members09-14-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment ADE Rules Governing the Calculation Methods for Declining Enrollment and Student Growth Funding for Public School Districts
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742Charter SchoolsHB1902BentlyAgricultural SchoolAllows the public charter authorizer to designate a public charter school as a School for Agricultural Studies; establishes requirements for a charter school's agricultural studies plan in order to be eligible for designation as an agricultural school.
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743FiscalHB1729CozartPublic School FundingIncreases the school foundation funding amount by $67 to $6 713 per student for the 2017-18 school year. Increases the other per-student funding amounts. Creates a table of enhanced transportation funding showing amounts by district.Commissioner's Memo # FIN-18-015 State Aid Notice 2017-18 Preliminary
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744AccountabilityHB1608Della RosaAccountability System under Every Student Succeeds ActRevises requirements for the Department of Education's school ratings system and the required annual reports.02-23-2018 SBE Approved for Emergency Promulgation: ADE Rules Governing Public School Rating System on Annual School Pereformance Reports and the School Recognition Program02-23-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Public School Rating System on Annual School Pereformance Reports and the School Recognition Program08-09-2018 SBE gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing the Public School Rating System on Annual School Performance Reports and the School Recognition Program
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745Clean-up State Board Accountability Fiscal AssessmentHB1646CozartADE Clean-upMakes various changes public education provisions including repeal of sections that define structure of the Department of Education and sections setting student progress tracking plan requirements; establishes an Unsafe School Choice Program.Commissioner's Memo #RT-17-032 Acts 741 and 745 of the Regular Session of the 91st General AssemblyCommissioner's Memo #LIC-18-019 Background Check Procedures Change http://adecm.arkansas.gov/ViewApprovedMemo.aspx?Id=3452Commissioner's Memo #COM-19-019 ADE Proposed Rules Release for Public Comment08-09-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing Data Reporting, the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, and Information Systems AND REPEAL OF ADE Rules Governing the Issuance of Local Education Agency Numbers, ADE Rules Governing the Processes to Ensure the Quality, Security, Validation and Timeliness of Public School Data in the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, ADE Rules Governing the Final Close of Public School Financial Records, and Ade Rules Governing the Arkansas Educational Financial Accounting and Reporting System and Annual Training Requirements.09-14-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing Consolidation and Annexation of School Districts
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746Licensure & EmploymentHB1579VaughtCriminal Background ChecksAuthorizes the state for purposes of educational licensing to submit fingerprint records to the federal Nexrt Generation identification System and to participate in programs that provide notification of arrest subsequent to checks.07-13-17 SBE Approved Proposed Rules Governing Background Checks for Public CommentCommissioner's Memo #LIC-18-004 State and Federal Criminal Background Checks Legislative UpdateCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-004 ADE Proposed Rules Public Comment ReleaseCommissioner's Memo #LIC-18-019 Background Check Procedures Change http://adecm.arkansas.gov/ViewApprovedMemo.aspx?Id=3452
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747School DayHB1905C. DouglasDelay School or Release School Early due to Contagious Disease or Utility ShortageAuthorizes schools to delay school or release school early due to contagious disease outbreak or utility outage.Commissioner's Memo #RT-17-028 Update to Inclement Weather Memo http://adecm.arkansas.gov/ViewApprovedMemo.aspx?Id=2262
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765Professional DevelopmentHB1417SturchProfessional Development/ Human TraffickingAllows a police department to impound the motor vehicle of a person arrested for sexual solicitation; requires a $500 fee to release the vehicle from impoundment to be deposited in the Human Trafficking Victim Support Fund.Commissioner's Memo # LS-18-006 Update Legislative Actions from Learning Services
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801Facilities & TransportationHB1929CozartAdvisory Committee on Public School Academic Facilities - Membership Revises membership of the Advisory Committee on Public School Academic Facilities and provides all members of the committee be appointed by the Commission for Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation.
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834Appropriation
SB168Joint Budget CommitteeThe Department of Education Appropriation for the 2017-2018 Fiscal Year Appropriates funds to the Department of Education for grants and aid to local school districts and special programs.
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862School DayHB1457C. DouglasClosing School; School Day; Inclement WeatherAuthorizes school districts or charter schools to develop and implement programs for alternate instruction methods to be used on days when school is closed due to inclement weather or other circumstances.Commissioner's Memo #LS-17-093 Alternative Methods of Instruction http://adecm.arkansas.gov/ViewApprovedMemo.aspx?Id=3294Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-018 Alternative Methods of Instruction - DEADLINE EXTENDED and Webinar
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863HomeschoolHB1740LoweryHome school student enrollent and Re-enrollment into Public SchoolRequires public schools to afford home-schooled students attempting to enroll or re-enroll in a public school the same rights and privileges as other public school students; establishes information a re-enrolling student is required to provide.12-14-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Home Schools04-12-2018 SBE granted final approval for ADE Rules Governing Home SchoolsCommissioner's Memo #COM-18-2018 Final Rules Effective June 25, 2018
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864Facilities & TransportationHB1925C. DouglasAcademic Facilities Review Conferences Increases from 60 to 120 days prior to the application deadline the period in which a district may request an academic review conference and have it scheduled within 90 days of the request. Makes changes to conference procedures.Commissioner's Memo #FT-18-003 Clarification of Partnership Program "Complete Application" and Act 864 of 2017
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867School DayHB1627SturchPublic School Student AttendanceRepeals the mandatory requirement that students in grades 9 through 12 physically attend a full school day consisting of 350 minutes of planned instructional time each day.Commissioner's Memo # COM-18-010 Student Attendance and Distance Learning 04-12-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Proposed Rules Governing Mandatory Attendance for Students in Grades 9-12Commissioner's Memo #CM-18-086 Public Comment Period for Various ADE Rules
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869AccreditationHB1648C. DouglasRevises accreditation review timelinesRevises accreditation reviews for public schools every 4 years instead requiring such reviews to happen for schools identified as being at high risk of failing to meet the standards; amends reporting requirements for findings of such reviews.02-23-2018 SBE Approved for Emergency Promulgation: ADE Rules Governing Public School Rating System on Annual School Pereformance Reports and the School Recognition Program02-23-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Public School Rating System on Annual School Pereformance Reports and the School Recognition Program08-09-2018 SBE gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing the Public School Rating System on Annual School Performance Reports and the School Recognition Program09-14-2018 SBE Gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Instructional Materials
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871School of Innovation/PLCHB2052Cozart Professional Learning Communities Requirement for Schools Seeking Schools of Innovation DesignationAllows a school district to develop plans for the issue of high school course credit based on demonstration of competency at a subject without completing hours of classroom instruction.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-052 Public Comment Period for ADE Rules Governing Diplomas for Veterans of WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War and ADE Rules Governing Schools of Innovation
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872Course CreditHB1459C. DouglasHigh School Course CreditAllows a school district to develop plans for the issue of high school course credit based on demonstration of competency at a subject without completing hours of classroom instruction.
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873ReportingHB1407C. DouglasElectronic Signatures for Submitted Reports to ADE and Career EducationAllows school districts to submit signatures electronically for purposes of submitting reports or data to the Department of Education or Department of Career Education.
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874SPEDSB518B. JohnsonSpecial EducationRepeals provisions that governed the State Board of Education's responsibilities with regard to special needs students; requires all local educational agencies to ensure that all disabled children within their jurisdictions have educational access.08-09-2019 ADE Approved for Public Comment: ADE Special Education and Related Services Sections 2.00 Definitions and 5.00 Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
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894Legal: Succeed ScholarshipHB1567HammerSucceed Scholarship for Children in Foster CareAllows children in foster care to be eligible for scholarships from the Succeed Scholarship Program.Act 8
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910School BoardHB1621LowerySchool Elections-DatesAllows the date of annual school elections to be the date of the preferential primary election.
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911LegalHB1980Dotson"In God We Trust" MottoRequires schools to display a poster stating “In God we Trust” beneath the United States and Arkansas flags when voluntary contributions are sufficient to cover the costs.
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929Clean UpSB562EnglishRepeals Obsolete LawsRepeals various obsolete laws related to public education. Deletes all conditions for offering textbooks except the requirement the publishers maintain at least one book depository in the state.Commissioner's Memo #COM-18-052 Public Comment Period for ADE Rules Governing Diplomas for Veterans of WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War and ADE Rules Governing Schools of Innovation02-08-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment ADE Rules Governing Instructional MaterialsCommissioner's Memo #COM-19-001 ADE Proposed Rules (Amendments) -- For Public Comment Release07-19-2018 SBE Approved for Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Instructional Materials
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930AccountabilitySB647CozartPublic School Accountability SystemRepeals the Comprehensive Testing, Assessment, and Accountability Program Act; creates the Educational Support and Accountability Act, establishing new assessment standards and powers of the State Board of Education. 08-10-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Educator Support and Development, as well as repeal of Rules Governing the Teacher Excellence and Support System, Leader Excellence and Development System, and Educator Mentoring ProgramsCommissioner's Memo # RT-18-005 Student Success Plans, Academic Improvement Plans, Intensive Reading Instruction and Arkansas Student Intervention SystemCommissioner's Memo # LIC-18-008 Beginning Administrator Quest 1: BloomBoard/EdReflect Nuts and Bolts10-12-2017 SBE Final Approval: ADE Rules Governing Educator Support and Development04-12-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed Rules Governing the Arkansas Educator Support and Accountability Act and REPEAL of Rules Governing the Monitoring of Arkansas Comprehensive School Improvement Plans, Rules Governing Access to Public School Information on Arkansas Comprehensive School Improvement Plans, Rules Govenring the Arkansas Comprehensive Testing, Assessment and Accountability Program (ACTAAP) and the Academic Distress Program, and Rules Governing the Assess Scores for Students Attending the Arkansas School for Math, Sciences and the Arts of the University of ArkansasCommissioner's Memo #CM-18-086 Public Comment Period for Various ADE Rules Commissioner's Memo #COM-19-019 ADE Proposed Rules Release for Public Comment08-09-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing Data Reporting, the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, and Information Systems AND REPEAL OF ADE Rules Governing the Issuance of Local Education Agency Numbers, ADE Rules Governing the Processes to Ensure the Quality, Security, Validation and Timeliness of Public School Data in the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, ADE Rules Governing the Final Close of Public School Financial Records, and Ade Rules Governing the Arkansas Educational Financial Accounting and Reporting System and Annual Training Requirements.
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931FiscalSB645EnglishBonded Debt AssistanceRepeals restrictions on a school district's use of debt service savings produced by refunding outstanding bonds; amends various other provisions related to state bonds issued to schools and school districts.Commissioner's Memo #FIN-18-011 Act 931 of 2017 Concerning Bonded Debt AssistanceCommissioner's Memo # FIN-18-015 State Aid Notice 2017-18 PreliminaryCommissioner's Memo # COM-19-010 CAPSAFT Rules for Public Comment
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933Charter SchoolsSB416ClarkLimited Public Charter SchoolsRepeals references to “limited public charter schools” in the Charter School Act; creates a procedure for holding a charter school's funds for 1 year after a revocation of the school's charter; amends enrollment preferences and funding determinations.Commissioner's Memo #FIN-18-018 Open-Enrollment Public Charter School Preliminary State Aid Notice 2017-2018 Commissioner's Memo #FIN-18-023 Open-Enrollment Public Charter School Final State Aid
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934Higher EdSB26ClarkScholarships for Teaching Students Who Agree to Teach in High-Needs AreasAllows for expanded scholarships to teaching students who sign agreements to enter into teaching service in high-needs subject areas once their teaching education is completed.
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935Facilities & TransportationSB646EnglishAcademic Facilities Clean-upAmends provisions of the Academic Facilities Funding Act; requires school districts to publish notice of a bond sale on two separate dates; expands definition of “building;” more.
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936AccountabilitySB596EnglishAccountabilility Clean Up - Companion to Act 930Amends various provisions concerning qualifications for public school grants funding assessments and others; repeals various provisions related to student assessments and powers of the Board of Education.Commissioner's Memo # RT-18-005 Student Success Plans, Academic Improvement Plans, Intensive Reading Instruction and Arkansas Student Intervention System04-12-2018 SBE approved for Public Comment: ADE Proposed Rules Governing Parental Involvement Plans and Family and Community EngagementCommissioner's Memo #CM-18-086 Public Comment Period for Various ADE Rules Commissioner's Memo #COM-19-008 ADE Rules -- FINAL07-12-2018 SBE approved Release for Public Comment: ADE Rules Governing Student Permanent Records09-13-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing Consolidation and Annexation of School Districts09-14-2018 SBE Gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Student Permanent Records
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937National Board Certified TeachersSB555ClarkAnnual Incentive Bonus for National Teacher CertificationMakes revisions to the payment of state incentive bonuses for National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification.Commissioner's Memo LIC-18-011 National Board Certified Teachers New Data Required in FMS for Cycles 2 and 6 and NBCT Annual Bonus Payment Chart12-14-2017 SBE Approved for public comment Proposed Rules Governing Eligibility and Financial Incentive for National Board Professional Teaching Standards Candidacy and Certification02-23-2018 SBE Approved for Emergency Promulgation: ADE Rules Governing Eligibility and Financial Incentives for National Board for Professional Teaching Candidacy and Certification
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938Public School EmploymentSB570ChesterfieldRepeals Requirement for Duty-Free Lunch Period to Full-time Nonexempt Classified EmployeesRepeals the requirement that public schools provide a duty-free lunch period to all full-time nonexempt classified employees.
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939Digital Learning SB506EnglishTask Force on Quality Digital Learning ProvidersCreates the Task Force on Quality Digital Learning Providers to make recommendations to improve the quality of digital learning for Arkansas students.
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940ReportingSB494ClarkReport to Parents on K-12 Students Achievement Level in ReadingRequires public school districts to make annual reports to parents of students in grades K-12 on the student's achievement level in reading.Commissioner's Memo #LS-18-007 Update on Reading Legislation
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943TaxationSB442HendrenTaxation Exemption for All Public School BuildingsSpecifies that all public school buildings including those used by both public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools are exempt from taxation.
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988School ChoiceHB1855DavisSchool Choice For Foster ChildrenAllows the foster parents of children in foster care to request the transfer of the child in foster care to another public school district; establishes criteria for DHS to examine in determining if the transfer is in the child's best interest.07-12-2018 SBE Approved for Public Comment: Proposed ADE Rules Governing The Public School Choice Act of 201509-14-2018 SBE Gave Final Approval for ADE Rules Governing Educator Licensure
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989Language of InstructionHB1611Tucker Basic Language for InstructionRepeals the $25 per day fine for violation of the rule requiring English to be the basic language of instruction in public schools.
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990Charter SchoolsHB1672TuckerAdmission Policies of Public Charter SchoolsRequires the process for a charter school's exclusion of a student who has been expelled from another public school district to be the same as the process for public schools.