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HB 1874

AN ACT TO AMEND THE USE OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUNDING THAT EXCEEDS THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT AWARDED TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS UNDER THE PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING ACT OF 2003.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Breanne Davis and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1874 allocates $16.5 million for professional development in Arkansas schools, enhancing teacher skills to improve student achievement through collaborative learning.

Notification that HB1874 is now Act 795
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Bill Summary · HB 1874

Summary of HB 1874: An Act to Amend Professional Development Funding

Overview

Bill Number: HB 1874
Title: An Act to Amend the Use of Professional Development Funding That Exceeds the Maximum Amount Awarded to Public Schools for Public School Teachers Under the Public School Funding Act of 2003
Status: Now Act 795
Introduced: March 20, 2025
Sponsor: Representative B. McKenzie, Senator B. Davis

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1874 is to amend the existing regulations regarding professional development funding for public school teachers in Arkansas. Specifically, the bill seeks to ensure that any professional development funding that exceeds the maximum amount allocated under the Public School Funding Act of 2003 is directed towards implementing the LEARNS Act (Acts 2023, No. 237). This is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of professional learning communities and improving student academic outcomes.

Key Provisions

  • Funding Allocation:

    • The bill stipulates that professional development funding will be calculated at a rate of up to $41.00 multiplied by the school district's previous school year average daily membership.
    • For the 2023-2024 school year and subsequent years, an additional $16.5 million in professional development funding above the maximum amount will be allocated for the development and administration of professional learning communities.

  • Use of Funds:

    • The additional funding must be utilized by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education specifically for activities that:
    • Improve the knowledge and skills of teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals.
    • Lead to enhanced student academic achievement.
    • Provide necessary training for school bus drivers as per established rules.

  • Distribution of Funds:

    • The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education is authorized to distribute these funds through grants to eligible entities and may collaborate with external partners to develop effective professional learning processes.

Affected Parties

  • Public School Teachers and Administrators: The bill directly impacts teachers and administrators by providing them with enhanced professional development opportunities aimed at improving instructional strategies and student outcomes.
  • School Districts: Public school districts will benefit from the additional funding and resources aimed at fostering professional learning communities.
  • Students: Ultimately, the bill aims to improve academic achievement for students in Arkansas public schools through better-trained educators.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 20, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • April 8, 2025: Returned by the Education Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • April 10, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • April 15, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 17, 2025: Notification that HB 1874 is now Act 795.

Conclusion

HB 1874 represents a significant legislative effort to enhance professional development funding for public school teachers in Arkansas, ensuring that additional resources are effectively utilized to support the implementation of the LEARNS Act and improve educational outcomes. The bill's focus on professional learning communities is intended to foster a collaborative environment for educators, ultimately benefiting students across the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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