The bill amends Arkansas law regarding the school rating system by introducing a multiple-measures approach that evaluates schools based on various indicators of academic performance and growth. Key components of the rating system include academic achievement on statewide assessments, student growth, graduation rates, and progress of English learners. Additionally, the bill outlines several indicators that schools must consider, such as closing the achievement gap, academic growth of subgroups, resource equity, and access to advanced coursework and flexible learning options.

A significant addition to the law is the provision that allows certain students to have their initial academic assessments excluded from the school rating system. Specifically, this applies to students who enroll in a school after attending an out-of-state institution or a non-accredited educational setting. This change aims to provide these students with the opportunity to establish a baseline for their skills and develop a tailored plan for academic success without being penalized by their previous educational experiences. The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education is tasked with creating rules to implement these changes effectively.