SB 596 Summary

• Replaces references to "school improvement" terminology with "Level 5 - Intensive support" and "targeted or comprehensive" designations throughout Arkansas education code to align with updated state support classification system for underperforming schools and districts.

• Repeals several sections of the Arkansas Comprehensive Testing, Assessment, and Accountability Program Act (§ 6-15-1503, § 6-15-1602, § 6-15-2002, § 6-15-2009, § 6-15-2201) and replaces them with references to the new Arkansas Educational Support and Accountability Act (§ 6-15-2901 et seq.).

• Updates school performance reporting requirements by removing references to "norm-referenced tests" and "augmented criterion-referenced assessment results," replacing them with "statewide student assessment results" and simplifying school rating system components.

• Changes references to "school improvement plans" to "school-level improvement plans" and "school district support plans" in various education code sections related to planning, funding, and professional development.

• Repeals requirement that the State Board of Education seek recommendations from General Assembly members before appointing interim or permanent school district boards and community advisory boards.

• Updates federal education law references from No Child Left Behind Act to the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA).