Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB239

Introduced
2/17/25  
Refer
2/17/25  
Refer
2/19/25  

Caption

To Require A Report Card To Include A Student's Current Reading Grade Level.

Impact

If passed, SB239 would revise Arkansas Code § 6-15-903, which governs the report cards issued by public school districts. By requiring the inclusion of a student's current reading grade level, the bill seeks to enhance accountability in education and ensure that stakeholders have access to critical data reflecting student literacy. This change could lead to a greater focus on reading interventions and instructional improvements aimed at boosting literacy rates among students.

Summary

Senate Bill 239 aims to amend existing laws concerning student report cards in Arkansas by mandating the inclusion of a student's current reading grade level. This legislative change is intended to provide clear, actionable information regarding the reading capabilities of students, which can be beneficial for parents, teachers, and administrators in tracking literacy progress. The bill emphasizes the importance of reading proficiency as a crucial indicator of overall academic performance and future educational success.

Contention

The introduction of SB239 might spark discussions around how reading levels are assessed and reported, as well as the implications this could have for students who may be struggling. Some educational experts and advocates may raise concerns about the potential stigmatization of students who are identified as having lower reading levels. Moreover, there may be debates surrounding the resources required for schools to accurately report and monitor these reading levels, particularly in underfunded districts.

Notable points

As education standards evolve, the push for more transparency regarding student performance aligns with broader educational reforms aimed at improving accountability in schools. Stakeholders in education may closely monitor how this bill complements existing initiatives focused on enhancing literacy and may advocate for accompanying support measures to aid students who need additional assistance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1540

To Allow A Public School To Administer A Grade-level Placement Test To A Student Who Is Reentering The Public School For Purposes Of Determining The Grade Level Appropriate For The Student.

AR HB1533

To Exclude Certain Students From Inclusion In A School's Drop Out Rate For Purposes Of A School Performance Report.

AR HB1791

To Require School District Boards Of Directors To Include In Student Discipline Policies The Requirement That Schools Conduct An Assessment Of A Student's Adverse Childhood Experiences Before Disciplining A Student.

AR SB294

To Create The Learns Act; To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code As They Relate To Early Childhood Through Grade Twelve Education In The State Of Arkansas; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1527

To Clarify The Requirement That Public School Districts Grant Excused Absences To Students Who Participate In 4-h Activities Or Programs.

AR SB172

To Amend The Definition Of A Noninstructional Duty To Include The Supervision Of Students During Recess.

AR HB1204

To Require Private Schools To Administer An Annual Statewide Student Assessment; And To Require Private Schools To Admit Each Student Who Applies For Admission And Intends To Cover Private School Costs With State Funding.

AR HB1722

To Require The Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education To Amend The Current School Rating System; And To Require The Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education To Create A Private School Rating System.

AR SB99

To Amend The Reporting Requirements For Burial Associations.

AR HB1689

To Amend The Public School Funding Act Of 2003; And To Create The Comprehensive Investment In Student Achievement Act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.