AR HB1544

Adds "sealed" convictions to the definition of expunged or pardoned convictions that will not disqualify licensed or nonlicensed school personnel if the conviction is at least 10 years old and does not involve physical or sexual injury, mistreatment, or abuse.

Expands the list of criminal offenses that disqualify individuals from obtaining or renewing a teaching license or working in school positions, including trafficking of a person, patronizing human trafficking victims, aggravated assault on family members, and computer crimes against minors.

Establishes that teachers can be disciplined "for cause" if they have a sealed, expunged, or pardoned conviction for sexual or physical abuse offenses, or violate state law provisions carrying suspension or revocation penalties.

Adds involuntary commitment for physical or mental illness that endangers student health, safety, or welfare as grounds for license discipline or employment ineligibility, until the person provides treatment documentation and fitness certification from a licensed health professional.

Authorizes school boards to offer provisional employment to applicants pending receipt of background check eligibility information from the Department of Education in electronic format.