AR SB291

Establishes the "Community Schools Act" creating a new legal framework in Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 15, Subchapter 30 for implementing community school approaches in public schools and charter schools.

Defines a community school as a public school implementing a service and inclusion strategy with four key pillars: integrated student supports, expanded learning time and opportunities, active family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership that promotes high-quality conditions and addresses out-of-school barriers to learning.

Requires each community school to have a designated community school coordinator responsible for leading needs assessments, facilitating community school plan development, building partnerships with community resources, and connecting students and families to available services.

Authorizes the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide professional development, require data for oversight and school improvement (with data privacy protections), and position community schools as hubs for aligned state agency programs.

Allows the State Board of Education to require Level 5 school districts to implement a structured system of whole child supports through a community school plan, and permits public charter schools to designate themselves as community schools with board approval.