Bill > SB634

This bill establishes a new Division of Interscholastic Activities within the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, with a comprehensive mandate to oversee and regulate school-based extracurricular activities for students in grades six through twelve. The division will be led by an Assistant Commissioner who must have a master's degree, at least ten years of administrative experience, and be of good moral character, and cannot be closely related to key state education officials. The division's responsibilities include monitoring schools' compliance with state and federal regulations, promoting educational values in extracurricular activities, ensuring these activities remain an integral part of education, fostering good sportsmanship, supporting student opportunities for teamwork and personal development, and preventing youth exploitation. The division will have oversight of all public and charter schools, with private schools having the option to participate, and is explicitly prohibited from discriminating against individuals. Each year, the division must provide an annual report to legislative education committees, and the state board will develop specific rules to implement these provisions. The goal is to provide fair, consistent, and supportive oversight of interscholastic activities that enhances students' educational experiences.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb634&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R