AR HB1747

School district boards of directors must allow teachers and administrators to read or post excerpts from specified historical documents including the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, Mayflower Compact, national motto, national anthem, and Pledge of Allegiance.

Expands the list of allowable documents to include Thomas Paine's "Common Sense," presidential executive orders, the Northwest Ordinance, George Washington's Farewell Address, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Gettysburg Address, plus any other document of historical significance relating to the founding of the United States or State of Arkansas.

Prohibits content-based censorship of American history or heritage based on religious or other references contained in these writings, documents, and records.

Requires the Department of Education to distribute a copy of this law to school district superintendents, who must then provide copies to each teacher and school board member.

Authorizes school districts to require high school students to demonstrate knowledge of the nation's founding documents and constitutional principles as a graduation requirement, with instruction including the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution and amendments, and the Federalist Papers.