AR HB1319

Changes the definition of "classroom teacher" to "teacher" in the Arkansas Teacher of the Year Act (Arkansas Code § 6-17-2502(1))

Modifies eligibility language from "required to be licensed" to "holds a license" under § 6-17-401 et seq.

Clarifies that eligible teachers must be engaged in "student contact" for more than 70% of contracted time, replacing "directly in instruction with students in a classroom setting"

Maintains exclusions for guidance counselors and librarians from the teacher definition

Changes State Board of Education authority from "shall promulgate rules as necessary" to "may promulgate rules" for administering the Arkansas Teacher of the Year provisions