Arkansas Senate Bill SB359

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/3/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Engrossed: 4/7/25
• Enrolled: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 4/14/25
• Passed: 4/14/25

Caption

An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education Out-of-school Time Program Grants Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.

Impact

Should SB359 be enacted, it will expand state-supported educational programs, particularly for at-risk youth and those lacking access to structured out-of-school activities. The fund distribution will be contingent on meeting specific eligibility criteria, such as integration of multiple activity areas and rigorous safety standards. The bill encourages organizations to operate extensive programs, mandating a minimum of 12 hours per week distributed over at least four days. This structure aims to ensure not just availability, but the quality of programs aimed at bolstering academic outcomes for children.

Summary

Senate Bill 359 is designed to facilitate the establishment of comprehensive out-of-school time programs for school-aged children in Arkansas through a significant appropriation of $1.7 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The bill allocates funds specifically to the Department of Education's Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, aiming to enhance educational opportunities outside normal school hours through evidence-based academic programs that align with state curriculum standards. The focus areas include STEM education, academic support, leadership training, and community service, ensuring diverse and comprehensive support for students.

Contention

While SB359 presents numerous benefits by aligning educational support with state standards, there have been questions regarding its sustainability and long-term impact. There is concern about the reliance on 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, which are required to demonstrate a history of operation and fiscal accountability. Critics might argue that the bill could create dependencies on external funds and limit the Department of Education's control over educational quality if not managed appropriately. Moreover, the limited one-year appropriation might not provide a stable foundation for ongoing programs, leading to future funding challenges.