HB 1537 Summary

• Replaces "parents or guardians" language throughout Arkansas education code with "parent, legal guardian, person having lawful control of the child, or person standing in loco parentis" to broaden who can make school enrollment decisions.

• Adds definition of "in loco parentis" to mean responsibility for care and control of another person in absence of parental supervision and formal legal approval.

• Allows parents to waive kindergarten attendance if child will not be six (6) years old by the enrollment date through submission of signed waiver form to school district.

• Permits students previously enrolled in state-accredited kindergarten programs in other states or countries to enroll in Arkansas kindergarten if they become residents due to active military orders or court-ordered custody change and will become five (5) years old during the enrollment year.

• Expands adult education program eligibility and participation requirements to include persons standing in loco parentis alongside traditional parent and guardian definitions.