AR SB389

Requires Arkansas public schools to make available for parental inspection all curricula, materials, tests, surveys, questionnaires, activities, and instruction related to sex education, sexual orientation, and gender identity, regardless of whether offered as part of a dedicated sex education class or another class or program.

Mandates that public schools provide prior written notification to parents and legal guardians of students participating in these materials and establish a means for parents to inspect items and notify the school in writing if they do not want their child to participate.

Prohibits schools from penalizing students for grading purposes if they are excused from participating in any of these materials, provided the student satisfactorily completes alternative health-related lessons.

Exempts schools from requiring parental notification before responding to student questions about sex education, sexual orientation, or gender identity during class instruction, or when referencing the sexual orientation or gender identity of historical persons, groups, or public figures for instructional context.

Exempts parental notification requirements if the material is directly related to requirements under Arkansas academic standards for the particular subject matter.