AR HB1855

Adds Arkansas Code § 6-18-232 establishing school choice provisions allowing foster parents or foster children over 18 years old to request Department of Human Services approval to transfer to another public school or school district.

Requires Department of Human Services to approve transfers if in the best interest of the foster child, considering whether other children in the foster home attend the requested school or district.

Allows public schools or districts to deny approved transfers only if they have reached maximum student-to-teacher ratios or if the transfer conflicts with an enforceable desegregation court order or court-approved desegregation plan.

Establishes procedures for transfer requests including Department of Education-approved forms, May 1 deadline, July 1 notification deadline, and appeals process to the State Board of Education within 10 days of rejection.

Amends Arkansas Code § 6-18-1906(b)(1)(C) to exempt foster child transfers under § 6-18-232 from counting against the 3% school choice transfer cap for school districts.