reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 31 - ARKANSAS TUTORING CORPS ACT (§§ 6-15-3101 — 6-15-3104) › Section 6-15-3102 - Legislative findings

The General Assembly finds that:
(1)
Data suggests that learning loss suffered as a result of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will be substantial, particularly for the state's most vulnerable students, with recent studies showing that these students on average could lose five (5) to nine (9) months of learning by the end of the 2021 school year;
(2)
These impacts, if not addressed, could have severe short-term and long-term social and economic implications for Arkansas families and our state as a whole;
(3)
While there is an extraordinary, immediate, and widespread need to address learning loss as a result of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there are far too many Arkansas students at risk of falling behind under ordinary circumstances;
(4)
Research demonstrates that a strong predictor of higher high school dropout rates is whether or not students have been taught to read at grade level by the end of grade three (3);
(5)
Research further shows that another strong predictor of higher high school dropout rates is whether or not students have been taught sufficiently such that they can pass English and math in grades six through nine (6-9);
(6)
According to research, one (1) of the most effective interventions to address learning loss, especially in elementary school students, is one-to-one or small group tutoring;
(7)
The coordination and implementation of a tutoring program that supports the state's elementary and secondary students aligns with the purpose and mission of the Office of Education Renewal Zones;
(8)
Such a tutoring program should address the immediate emergency as well as lay the groundwork for a long-term, sustainable strategy to improve educational outcomes for all students; and
(9)
Such a tutoring program would serve as a means by which Arkansas may meet requirements of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Grant Program to address learning loss and otherwise serve as a use of funding from the Governor's Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund in a manner that immediately helps students and families in greatest need.
Added by Act 2021, No. 912,§ 1, eff. 4/26/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 31 - ARKANSAS TUTORING CORPS ACT (§§ 6-15-3101 — 6-15-3104) › Section 6-15-3103 - Definitions

As used in this subchapter:
(1)
"Qualified tutor" means a person who meets requirements established by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education; and
(2)
"Qualified tutoring site" means any of the following:
(A)
A public school or open-enrollment public charter school located within this state;
(B)
An education service cooperative;
(C)
An institution of higher education located within this state; or
(D)
A community facility that meets the requirements established by the division.
Added by Act 2021, No. 912,§ 1, eff. 4/26/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 31 - ARKANSAS TUTORING CORPS ACT (§§ 6-15-3101 — 6-15-3104) › Section 6-15-3104 - Development of program

(a)
(1)
The Department of Education may develop a program to:
(A)
Identify qualified tutors;
(B)
Identify a curriculum to support children preparing to enter kindergarten through grade six (K-6) in the content areas of math and reading and ensure that the identified curriculum is aligned with Arkansas academic standards;
(C)
Ensure training modules related to the identified curriculum are provided to qualified tutors before the qualified tutors begin tutoring;
(D)
Ensure ongoing support is provided to qualified tutors; and
(E)
Coordinate with Arkansas public schools and open-enrollment public charter schools to ensure tutoring is offered at qualified tutoring sites or virtually, leveraging existing digital platforms.
(2)
The program developed under subdivision (a)(1) of this section shall be designed to deploy qualified tutors in a manner that:
(A)
Offers statewide coverage; and
(B)
Increases opportunities for students in rural areas.
(b)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education may:
(1)
Develop, in coordination with the Division of Higher Education and Arkansas institutions of higher education, incentive structures such as course credit for participating qualified tutors; and
(2)
Develop guidelines for public schools and open-enrollment public charter schools to use funding from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER Fund) and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Pub. L. No. 117-2, to provide compensation and stipends to qualified tutors serving their students in the near term.
(c)
The department shall promulgate rules to implement this section.
Added by Act 2021, No. 912,§ 1, eff. 4/26/2021.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 32 - SCHOOL TRANSFORMATION CONTRACTS (§§ 6-15-3201 — 6-15-3204) › Section 6-15-3201 - School eligibility

A public school district with a "D" or "F" school rating according to the most recent results of the school rating system under §
6-15-2101
et seq., or a school district classified as in need of Level 5 - Intensive support by the State Board of Education shall be eligible for an exemption from sanctions or action under §§
6-15-2915
,
6-15-2916
, and
6-15-2917
, and qualify for funding provided under §
6-15-3203
if the public school district board of directors contracts with a partner to operate a public school district transformation campus with:
(1)
The governing body of an open-enrollment public charter school; or
(2)
Another entity, as approved by the State Board of Education.
Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 14, eff. 3/8/2023.
This act shall be known and may be cited as the "LEARNS Act".
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 32 - SCHOOL TRANSFORMATION CONTRACTS (§§ 6-15-3201 — 6-15-3204) › Section 6-15-3203 - Incentives

(a)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall seek to encourage transformation charter operators to enter into contracts with eligible public school districts.
(b)
(1)
For purposes of accountability during the first two (2) school years of operation, a public school transformation campus shall be:
(A)
(i)
Awarded with an alternate letter grade, which shall be established and defined by the State Board of Education.
(ii)
While a public school transformation campus is receiving an alternate letter grade under subdivision (b)(1)(A)(i) of this section, the State of Arkansas shall not impose a sanction or take action against the public school transformation campus for failure to satisfy academic performance standards; and
(B)
Publicly signaled as a public school transformation campus.
(2)
Following the first two (2) years of transformation, the state shall continue to evaluate and assign all performance ratings received by all public schools within a public school district to the public school district transformation campus that has entered into a contract under §
6-15-3202
.
(c)
The division may provide, through state and federal funds where allowable, financial incentives to support transformations under this subchapter.
Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 14, eff. 3/8/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 15 - EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND QUALITY GENERALLY (§§ 6-15-101 — 6-15-3204) › Subchapter 32 - SCHOOL TRANSFORMATION CONTRACTS (§§ 6-15-3201 — 6-15-3204) › Section 6-15-3204 - Rules

The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules as necessary to implement and administer this subchapter.
Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 14, eff. 3/8/2023.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-101 - Celebrate Freedom Week

(a)
To educate students about the sacrifices made for freedom in the founding of this country and the values on which this country was founded, the last full week of classes in September in Arkansas public schools shall be recognized as "Celebrate Freedom Week".
(b)
(1)
During Celebrate Freedom Week, all social studies classes shall include instruction as determined by each school in each social studies class.
(2)
It is recommended that the instruction include discussion about the meaning and importance of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, with an emphasis on the Preamble and the Bill of Rights, in the document's historical context.
(3)
It is suggested that a study of the Declaration of Independence include exercises related to the relationship of the ideas expressed in that document to subsequent American history, including the relationship among ideas contained in the document and the rich diversity of our people as a nation of immigrants, the American Revolution, the formulation of the United States Constitution, the abolitionist movement and how it led to the adoption of the Emancipation Proclamation, and the women's suffrage movement.
Acts 2003, No. 682, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-103 - Course of study generally

(a)
There shall be taught in all of the public or elementary schools of this state subjects that may be designated by the State Board of Education or as required by law.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the inclusion of additional subjects in the state course of study or in any course formulated for a school district and approved by the state board.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 128,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Acts 1931, No. 169, § 167; Pope's Dig., § 11609; A.S.A. 1947, § 80-1601; Acts 2003, No. 1759, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-104 - Basic language of instruction - Definitions

(a)
(1)
The basic language of instruction in the public school branches in all the public schools of the state shall be the English language only.
(2)
It shall not be a violation of this section for:
(A)
An educator to communicate with a student in the student's native language in order to facilitate the student's ability to become proficient and learn in the English language; or
(B)
A public school district or an open-enrollment public charter school to adopt a bilingual program or a dual-immersion program approved by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.
(b)
It shall be the duty of the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education, and superintendents to see that the provisions of this section are carried out.
(c)
As used in this section:
(1)
(A)
"Bilingual program" means a program that uses two (2) languages, a student's primary language and the English language, as a means of instruction.
(B)
A bilingual program includes building upon a student's primary language skills and develops and expands the English language skills of each student to enable him or her to achieve proficiency in both languages, while providing access to content areas; and
(2)
"Dual-immersion program" means a program that develops dual language proficiency in two (2) languages by offering a student instruction in English and instruction in another language in a classroom that is usually comprised of one-half (1/2) native English speakers and one-half (1/2) native speakers of the other language.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 663,§ 2, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 663,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 692,§ 4, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1312, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 989,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1931, No. 169, § 168; Pope's Dig., §§ 3590, 11610; A.S.A. 1947, § 80-1605; Acts 1999, No. 1323, § 18; 2005, No. 1994, § 61.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-105 - United States flag

(a)
The directors of any school district shall:
(1)
Expend a reasonable sum from the funds of the school district for a United States flag and for the erection of a suitable flagstaff on the schoolhouse or school grounds;
(2)
See to it that the pupils are instructed in the etiquette of the flag; and
(3)
Cause the flag to be displayed on the flagstaff during school hours when the weather permits.
(b)
It shall be the duty of the school authorities of every public or private school in this state to procure a suitable United States flag, flagstaff, and the necessary appliances therefor and to require such flag to be displayed, with all proper courtesy, upon, near, or in the school buildings during the hours of school session and at such other times as the school authorities may direct.
Acts 1923, No. 614, § 1; 1931, No. 169, § 173; Pope's Dig., §§ 3599, 11615, 11729; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 80-1603, 80-1604.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-106 - Arkansas flag

(a)
The official Arkansas flag shall be displayed on the schoolhouse or school grounds of every public school in this state.
(b)
The Arkansas flag shall be displayed on the same staff or pole as the United States flag and shall be positioned immediately below the United States flag.
(c)
It shall be the duty of the board of directors of every public school district in this state to procure a suitable Arkansas flag for each school and to require the flag to be displayed in the manner required in subsections (a) and (b) of this section.
Acts 1963, No. 237, §§ 1, 2; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 80-1632, 80-1633.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-107 - Patriotic observances generally

(a)
February 22, as the birthday of George Washington, and such other days as may be designated by the State Board of Education for patriotic observance shall be observed with appropriate exercises.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall be construed as authorizing the closing of any school on such days without consent of the board of directors of the school district.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 561,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1931, No. 169, § 175; Pope's Dig., § 11617; A.S.A. 1947, § 80-1608.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-111 - Morals, manners, patriotism, and business and professional integrity

Curricula in morals, manners, patriotism, and business and professional integrity shall be included in the course of study for the state public schools.
Acts 1923, No. 397, §§ 1, 2; 1993, No. 294, § 10.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-118 - High school equivalency testing for adults - Fees - Definition

(a)
As used in this section, "high school equivalency test" means the General Education Development (GED) test of the GED Testing Service or another test used to assess high school core subject competencies.
(b)
A high school equivalency test for adults shall be administered by the educational agencies and institutions approved by the Adult Education Section.
(c)
The Career Education and Workforce Development Board may approve fees for:
(1)
Administering a high school equivalency test;
(2)
Administering other assessments; and
(3)
Photocopying or duplicating a transcript or diploma.
(d)
The board shall promulgate rules to implement this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 138, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2015, No. 1115,§ 3, eff. 7/22/2015.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 1063,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Acts 1981, No. 732, § 4; A.S.A. 1947, § 80-1671; Acts 1993, No. 294, § 10; 1993, No. 1079, § 1; 1999, No. 1078, § 56.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-120 - Academic credit for community service

(a)
Beginning with the 1996-1997 school year and ending with the graduating class of 2025-2026, a student who has completed a minimum of seventy-five (75) clock hours of documented community service in grades nine through twelve (9-12), as certified by the service agency or organization to the school, shall be eligible to receive one (1) academic credit that may be applied toward graduation.
(b)
The community service shall be in programs or activities approved by the local school district board of directors and shall include preparation, action, and reflection components that:
(1)
May occur in or out of school campuses and during or after school hours;
(2)
Are federally or state-approved;
(3)
Have tax-exempt status under
26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3)
, as it existed on January 1, 2023; and
(4)
Are vetted and approved by a public school student's parent, legal guardian, or person standing in loco parentis.
(c)
A local school district board of directors may grant a waiver of this requirement for an individual student with notice to the State Board of Education.
(d)
The state board may promulgate rules necessary for the implementation of this section.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 720,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2023.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 15, eff. 3/8/2023.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 216, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 1993, No. 648, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-121 - African-American history - Teaching materials

(a)
(1)
The Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education shall update the materials and resources for the teaching of historical contributions made by African-Americans in the United States and in other countries before the establishment of the United States for inclusion in the appropriate curricula of all kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) of all public schools in the State of Arkansas.
(2)
Emphasis shall be placed on the historic work of American and Arkansas civil rights leaders and events during the civil rights era, including without limitation Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his pursuit of justice in civil society and John W. Walker.
(3)
(A)
The requirement under this subsection shall be taught in conjunction with corresponding state and federal holidays.
(B)
Nothing in subdivision (a)(3)(A) of this section shall be construed to limit the teaching of this history only to the corresponding state and federal holidays.
(b)
The commissioner shall ensure that these materials or units are reproduced and sent to all school districts in the state.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 259,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 1018,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 561,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1993, No. 963, § 1; 1995, No. 1296, § 19.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-124 - Arkansas history - Required social studies course

(a)
(1)
A unit of Arkansas history shall be taught as a social studies subject at each elementary grade level in every public elementary school in this state, with greater emphasis at the fourth and fifth grade levels.
(2)
At least one (1) full semester of Arkansas history shall be taught to all students at the seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade level in every public secondary school in this state.
(b)
(1)
Course guidelines shall ensure that the courses represent the most accurate and historically sound account of the prehistory, history, and culture of Arkansas, including the significant contributions and achievements of all segments of the population.
(2)
Any revisions in the Arkansas history course content guidelines shall be reported to the public schools and the House Committee on Education and the Senate Committee on Education no later than July 1 of the year the course guidelines are to be implemented.
(3)
(A)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall, in advance of the 2018-2019 school year, develop materials or units relating to Arkansas and the American Civil War.
(B)
The emphasis of the curriculum under this subdivision (b)(3) shall be placed upon civilian and military leadership during the period and how the lessons of that era can inform contemporary society.
(C)
The course content under this subdivision (b)(3) is not exempt from the reporting requirements under subdivision (b)(2) of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1314, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 561,§ 3, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 1997, No. 787, §§ 1, 2, 5; 2007, No. 1573, § 52.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-126 - Food handling safety - Instructional materials clearinghouse

(a)
The General Assembly finds and acknowledges that food-borne illness is a growing concern throughout the United States. The General Assembly also finds that school-age children may be particularly affected by food-borne illness due to their employment in fast food restaurants and due to preparation of food at home by students who have both parents working outside of the home. The General Assembly further finds that education in food-borne illness must be strengthened in public schools to ensure the health and safety of all children.
(b)
(1)
(A)
The Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education shall provide a clearinghouse for instructional materials on food handling safety.
(B)
These materials shall be developmentally appropriate for students at each of the three (3) grade clusters used in the Arkansas Health Framework: kindergarten through grade four (K-4); grades five through eight (5-8); and grades nine through twelve (9-12).
(2)
The commissioner shall encourage collaborative efforts between the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education and other agencies and organizations in accessing developmentally appropriate instructional materials on food handling safety.
(3)
The commissioner shall ensure that any instructional materials on food handling safety accessible to public schools through this clearinghouse shall be in alignment with the Arkansas Health Framework in dealing with health promotion and disease prevention; health information, products, and services; health behaviors and health risks; health-enhancing skills; and personal, family, and community health.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1316, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1315, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1997, No. 1274, §§ 1, 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-127 - Arkansas Foreign Language Teacher Training Program

(a)
This section and §
6-16-128
shall be known as "The Arkansas Foreign Language Act of 1999".
(b)
There is hereby created the Arkansas Foreign Language Teacher Training Program. The purpose of this program is to:
(1)
Encourage undergraduate students who intend to teach in the state's public schools to pursue a foreign language degree;
(2)
Encourage currently licensed foreign language teachers to pursue additional training or an advanced degree in a foreign language;
(3)
Encourage licensed personnel to add foreign language to their areas of licensure; and
(4)
Encourage individuals to seek licensure as a foreign language teacher in grades kindergarten through eight (K-8).
(c)
The Division of Higher Education, in consultation with the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education and representatives of the state's foreign language educators, shall develop a request-for-proposals process whereby Arkansas institutions of higher education with teacher training programs may apply for funding, not to exceed three (3) years, to enhance their foreign language teacher training program.
(d)
(1)
The awards granted under the provisions of this section and §
6-16-128
may be funded by donations, grants, or legislative appropriation.
(2)
All donations, grants, and appropriations received shall be accounted for by the Division of Higher Education.
(3)
The Commissioner of the Division of Higher Education may solicit and receive donations and grants for the purpose of making awards.
(4)
The provisions of this section and §
6-16-128
shall be contingent on the appropriation and funding necessary to allow the Division of Higher Education to carry out the duties assigned it in this section and §
6-16-128
.
Amended by Act 2023, No. 786,§ 6, eff. 4/12/2023.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1318, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1317, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 1138,§ 23, eff. 8/16/2013.
Acts 1999, No. 1573, §§ 1, 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-128 - Arkansas Early Grades Foreign Language Pilot Program

(a)
There is hereby created the Arkansas Early Grades Foreign Language Pilot Program. The purpose of the program is to encourage the development of new foreign language programs for students in kindergarten through grade six (K-6), with an emphasis on Spanish.
(b)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Division of Higher Education and representatives of the state's foreign language educators, shall develop a request-for-proposals process whereby public schools serving students in kindergarten through grade six (K-6) may apply for funding, not to exceed three (3) years, to establish a foreign language training program, with an emphasis on Spanish.
(c)
(1)
The awards granted under the provisions of this section and §
6-16-127
may be funded by donations, grants, or legislative appropriation.
(2)
The Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education may solicit and receive donations and grants for the purpose of making awards.
(3)
All donations, grants, and appropriations received shall be accounted for by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.
(4)
The provisions of this section and §
6-16-127
shall be contingent on the appropriation and funding necessary to allow the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to carry out the duties assigned to it in this section and §
6-16-127
.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1319, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1999, No. 1573. § 3.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-129 - Gun violence prevention

(a)
The board of directors of every public school in the state may declare one (1) week in October of each academic year to be Gun Violence Prevention Week for grades kindergarten through six (K-6).
(b)
Any school in the state may develop and present an awareness program or participate in other activities for the purpose of diminishing gun violence.
Acts 2001, No. 624, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-130 - Visual art or music

(a)
(1)
A public elementary school in the state shall provide instruction for at least forty (40) minutes, as determined by the superintendent of the school district, in visual art and at least forty (40) minutes, as determined by the superintendent of the school district, in music based on the state visual art and music frameworks each calendar week of the school year or an equivalent amount of time in each school year.
(2)
(A)
Every student in grades one through six (1-6) enrolled in a public school or an open-enrollment public charter school that is configured as an elementary school shall participate in the visual art and music class required in this subsection.
(B)
Children with disabilities or other special needs shall be included in the visual art and music programs.
(C)
A student in grades five (5) or six (6) enrolled in a public school or an open-enrollment public charter school that is not configured as an elementary school shall participate in visual arts or performing arts instruction as provided under subsection (b) of this section.
(3)
The instruction required by subdivision (a)(1) of this section shall be provided by a teacher licensed to teach art or music, as applicable.
(4)
(A)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall provide a stipend of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) per class to each school for the purchase of necessary supplies or equipment for the classes required by this subsection.
(B)
Subdivision (a)(4)(A) of this section shall be contingent on the appropriation and availability of funding for that purpose.
(b)
A student enrolled in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8), or a student in grade six (6) enrolled in a public school or an open-enrollment public charter school that is not configured as an elementary school, shall participate in:
(1)
Visual arts instruction, appreciation, and application; or
(2)
Performing arts instruction, appreciation, and application.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 644,§ 2, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2021, No. 644,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1320, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2015, No. 1079,§ 1, eff. 7/22/2015.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 1138,§ 25, eff. 8/16/2013.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 1138,§ 24, eff. 8/16/2013.
Amended by Act 2013, No. 599,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Acts 2001, No. 1506, § 1; 2005, No. 245, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-131 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Act 2017, No. 929,§ 2, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 2001, No. 1506, § 2.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-133 - World War II veterans

(a)
In recognition of and tribute to veterans who left high school before graduation to serve in World War II, a board of directors of any school district in Arkansas may grant a diploma of graduation to any veteran meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of this section.
(b)
School districts are encouraged to present the diploma in conjunction with appropriate Veterans Day programs.
(c)
To be eligible for a high school diploma under this section, a veteran shall:
(1)
Have been honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces;
(2)
Be a resident of the State of Arkansas; and
(3)
Have served between September 16, 1940, and December 31, 1946, and:
(A)
Have served a minimum of eighteen (18) consecutive months' active duty; or
(B)
Have been discharged with a service-connected disability.
(d)
(1)
The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to implement the provisions of this section.
(2)
The state board shall consult with the Department of Veterans Affairs in developing rules to implement the provisions of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 217, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 2003, No. 216, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-134 - Veterans' diplomas

(a)
In recognition of and tribute to veterans who left high school before graduation to serve in the Korean War or the Vietnam War, a board of directors of any school district in Arkansas may grant a diploma of graduation to any veteran meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of this section.
(b)
School districts are encouraged to present the diploma in conjunction with appropriate Veterans Day programs.
(c)
To be eligible for a high school diploma under this section, a veteran shall:
(1)
Have been honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces;
(2)
Be a resident of the State of Arkansas; and
(3)
Have served a minimum of eighteen (18) consecutive months' active duty or have been discharged with a service-connected disability, if:
(A)
A veteran of the Korean War who served between June 1, 1950, and January 1, 1954; or
(B)
A veteran of the Vietnam War who served between July 3, 1965, and May 15, 1975.
(d)
(1)
The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to implement the provisions of this section.
(2)
The state board shall consult with the Department of Veterans Affairs in developing rules to implement the provisions of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 218, eff. 7/24/2019.
Acts 2003, No. 453, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-135 - Personal and family finance standards

(a)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Division of Career and Technical Education and subject to the approval of the State Board of Education, shall develop personal and family finance standards.
(b)
The standards shall include the following material concerning personal and family finance:
(1)
Income, including without limitation taxes;
(2)
Money management, including without limitation:
(A)
Household budget creation;
(B)
Banking practices, including savings account and checking account maintenance;
(C)
Insurance;
(D)
Charitable giving; and
(E)
Long-term financial planning;
(3)
Spending and credit, including without limitation:
(A)
Basic consumer finance;
(B)
Identity fraud and theft;
(C)
Home ownership;
(D)
Debt management;
(E)
Credit management;
(F)
Bankruptcy; and
(G)
Consumer protection;
(4)
Saving and investing, including without limitation:
(A)
Methods of saving;
(B)
Methods of investing;
(C)
Retirement planning;
(D)
Risk and return; and
(E)
Regulation of savings and investment; and
(5)
Preparing for employment, including without limitation:
(A)
Decision making and employment choices;
(B)
Job seeking skills, including resume building and interview skills;
(C)
Understanding paychecks, including without limitation:
(i)
I-9 forms;
(ii)
W-4 forms; and
(iii)
Income tax deductions;
(D)
Employment benefits;
(E)
Soft job skills, including without limitation:
(i)
Communication;
(ii)
Time management; and
(iii)
Meeting basic employer expectations and requirements;
(F)
The differences between salaried and hourly employment; and
(G)
Overtime.
(c)
Beginning with the entering ninth grade class of the 2017-2018 school year, each public high school student shall be required before graduation to earn a credit in a course taken in grade nine (9), grade ten (10), grade eleven (11), or grade twelve (12) that includes the personal and family finance standards under subsection (b) of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 466,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1321, eff. 7/1/2019.
Amended by Act 2017, No. 480,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.
Acts 2003 (2nd Ex. Sess.), No. 42, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-136 - Statewide coordination of distance learning

(a)
The General Assembly finds that:
(1)
Arkansas public schools face a serious shortage of teachers;
(2)
Educational technology can help lift the burden of teacher shortages by making distance learning available across the state; and
(3)
Distance learning should be available to every Arkansas student who wishes to participate.
(b)
(1)
(A)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall promulgate the rules necessary for efficient scheduling of courses offered by public schools through distance learning technologies.
(B)
The rules shall apply beginning for the 2004-2005 school year.
(2)
A public school that offers courses through distance learning technologies shall comply with the rules promulgated pursuant to this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1322, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 2003 (2nd Ex. Sess.), No. 53, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-139 - Technology curriculum

(a)
In order to prepare public school students in the State of Arkansas for successful participation in a growing knowledge-based economy and technology-rich world and to improve student achievement, the public school curriculum must integrate technology into the educational process.
(b)
(1)
(A)
In order to further the intent of this section, the Division of Science and Technology of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, with the advice of the Board of Directors of the Division of Science and Technology of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, shall develop a knowledge-based technology curriculum for use in grades seven through twelve (7-12).
(B)
The curriculum shall be organized into a scope and sequence that constitutes a plan for achieving the educational objectives necessary for an adequate education as described in §
6-20-2302
and shall include the following components for each course in the curriculum:
(i)
A collection of the substantive material used to teach a particular subject matter;
(ii)
Lesson plans; and
(iii)
Recommendations for activities and other learning processes.
(2)
The curriculum shall be developed in sufficient time to allow for implementation in the 2007-2008 school year.
Amended by Act 2015EX1, No. 8,§ 68, eff. 7/1/2015.
Amended by Act 2015EX1, No. 7,§ 68, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 2005, No. 2266, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-140 - Vocational or technical course awards

(a)
A student who successfully completes an approved vocational or technical career pathway or program of study at a public high school shall be awarded a certificate of attainment that shall be:
(1)
Aligned in the appropriate career pathway or program of study; and
(2)
Used for consideration of acceptance and advanced placement into an apprenticeship training program.
(b)
The Division of Career and Technical Education in cooperation with the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall determine and issue the appropriate award to a student upon successful completion of the vocational or technical career pathway or program of study.
(c)
The Division of Career and Technical Education is authorized to promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 1327, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 2009, No. 1376, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-141 - Credit for participating in Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps

A student who completes two (2) semesters of a Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program shall receive credit for both of the following requirements for graduation from high school under the rules of the State Board of Education:
(1)
One-half (1/2) unit of physical education; and
(2)
One-half (1/2) unit of health and safety education.
Acts 2011, No. 1231, § 1.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-142 - American Sign Language as modern language or foreign language - Definition

(a)
As used in this section, "American Sign Language" means the visual natural language recognized globally that is linguistically complete with unique rules for language structure and use, including without limitation phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and discourse.
(b)
(1)
American Sign Language may be taught in the public schools of the state as a modern language or foreign language.
(2)
An American Sign Language course shall:
(A)
Adhere to standards of rigor and proficiency consistent with content standards and curriculum frameworks for foreign language courses developed by the State Board of Education; and
(B)
Receive academic credit equal to other foreign language courses.
(c)
The state board shall promulgate rules for the licensure and curriculum requirements necessary to implement this section.
Added by Act 2013, No. 328,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-143 - Cardiopulmonary resuscitation instruction

(a)
Beginning with the 2014-2015 school year, a public school student in grades nine through twelve (9-12) shall be trained in quality psychomotor skill bases in cardiopulmonary resuscitation before the student graduates from high school.
(b)
The course shall not be a certification process but shall follow the standards established by the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or another nationally recognized organization that uses current, evidence-based emergency cardiac care guidelines and incorporates psychomotor skill development in the instruction and the use of automated external defibrillators.
Added by Act 2013, No. 1016,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) › Title 6 - EDUCATION (§§ 6-1-101 — 6-87-104) › Subtitle 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION GENERALLY (§§ 6-10-101 — 6-28-206) › Chapter 16 - CURRICULUM (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-1902) › Subchapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 6-16-101 — 6-16-162) › Section 6-16-145 - Academic study of the Bible course

(a)
(1)
The State Board of Education shall allow for an elective academic study of the Bible course or courses that consist of a nonsectarian, nonreligious academic study of the Bible and its influence on literature, art, music, culture, and politics to be offered to students in public schools or school districts if the academic study of the Bible course meets the standards listed in this section.
(2)
The curriculum standards submitted by a public school or school district for approval of an academic study of the Bible course shall meet the:
(A)
Academic rigor and curriculum standards of other elective courses approved by the state board; and
(B)
Requirements of the Arkansas Constitution and the United States Constitution.
(b)
(1)
A public school or school district that elects to offer an academic study of the Bible course shall implement the course in accordance with the Arkansas Constitution and the United States Constitution, including the manner in which the course is taught in the classroom and the assignment of public school or school district personnel teaching the course.
(2)
Personnel assigned to teach the course shall be licensed to teach in the State of Arkansas.
(3)
Personnel shall not be assigned to teach the course based on any:
(A)
Religious test;
(B)
Profession of faith or lack of faith;
(C)
Prior or present religious affiliation or lack of affiliation; or
(D)
Criteria involving particular beliefs or lack of beliefs about the Bible.
(c)
An academic study of the Bible course offered by a public school or school district shall:
(1)
Be taught in an objective and nondevotional manner with no attempt made to indoctrinate students as to either the truth or falsity of the biblical materials or texts from other religious or cultural traditions;
(2)
Not include teaching of religious doctrine or sectarian interpretation of the Bible or of texts from other religious or cultural traditions; and
(3)
Not disparage or encourage a commitment to a set of religious beliefs.
(d)
A public school or school district that elects to offer an academic study of the Bible course shall use only the standards in this section to:
(1)
Evaluate textbooks for an academic study of the Bible course; and
(2)
Teach an academic study of the Bible course.
(e)
The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall, by the 2019-2020 school year, identify, develop, and approve a Bible course for high school credit that meets the requirements in subsections (a)-(c) of this section.
Amended by Act 2019, No. 1016,§ 1, eff. 7/24/2019.
Added by Act 2013, No. 1440,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.