AR HB1648

Modifies Arkansas Code § 6-15-202(e) to clarify that the Department of Education shall conduct Standards for Accreditation reviews for each public school or district at least once every four years if identified as high-risk or when deemed necessary, with reviews conducted onsite at the school or district.

Amends Arkansas Code § 6-15-206(d) to require the Department to conduct compliance reviews of each school at least every two years or more frequently if the department believes the school district has fallen below accreditation standards, with reviews conducted onsite.

Changes Arkansas Code § 6-15-2006(b) and (c) to require school districts to publish annual performance reports on their websites instead of in local newspapers, while allowing optional publication in newspapers, and to make printed copies available upon request.

Repeals Arkansas Code § 6-15-2107(c)(1)(C) which made needs improvement-focus schools and needs improvement-priority schools ineligible for performance-based funding rewards.

Repeals Arkansas Code § 6-15-2107(c)(3) and (4) requiring schools receiving performance-based funding to submit spending proposals and the department to review and approve spending for academic expenses only.