Bill > SB604

This bill amends provisions of the Arkansas Course Choice Program, a program that allows students in grades 6-12 to take courses from alternative providers beyond their home school district. The bill expands the definition of "course providers" to include additional educational entities like the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, while excluding public school districts and charter schools with "D" or "F" ratings from offering courses. The bill modifies funding mechanisms, specifying that course providers will receive up to 8% of the per-pupil foundation funding amount per course, with payments split between initial enrollment (50%) and course completion (50%). Credits earned through course providers will now fully count toward graduation requirements, and the aggregate test scores of participating students will be included in their home school's annual performance report. The State Board of Education will be responsible for authorizing course providers through a rigorous review process, with initial authorizations lasting three years and potential reauthorization for three to five years based on student achievement. The bill also requires the creation of a comprehensive course catalog and establishes clear guidelines for course provider participation, assessment, and funding.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb604&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R