The Teacher Fair Dismissal Act of 2025 aims to reform the dismissal process for teachers in Arkansas by establishing new standards and procedures. It raises the threshold for nonrenewal or termination from "not arbitrary, capricious, or discriminatory" to "just and reasonable cause," and allows for substantial compliance with personnel policies. The bill mandates evaluations under the Teacher Excellence and Support System and ensures teachers have access to their personnel files. It also clarifies that certain agreements, such as those for traveling teacher services, are not subject to the act, while requiring detailed written notice of termination recommendations to help teachers prepare a defense.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments regarding the suspension and termination of teachers, allowing superintendents to suspend teachers without prior notice if immediate action is necessary. Written notification of the suspension must be provided within two school days, detailing the reasons for the action. The bill ensures that teachers can request a hearing on termination or nonrenewal decisions, with the school board required to act on recommendations within ten days of the hearing. Importantly, the act's protections against arbitrary dismissal remain in place even during fiscal or facilities distress, reinforcing fairness and transparency in the dismissal process.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1025 V2 - 1-16-2025 03:18 PM: 6-13-808, 6-15-2610, 6-17-201, 6-17-3001, 6-15-2804(a), 01-16-2025, 6-17-204(c), 6-17-812(b), 6-17-2807(g), 6-20-1909(a), 6-21-811(g)
Old version HB1025 Original - 11-20-2024 02:43 PM: 6-13-808, 6-15-2610, 6-17-201, 6-17-3001, 6-15-2804(a), 6-17-204(c), 6-17-812(b), 6-17-2807(g), 6-20-1909(a), 6-21-811(g)
HB 1025: 6-13-808, 6-15-2610, 6-17-201, 6-17-3001, 6-15-2804(a), 6-17-204(c), 6-17-812(b), 6-17-2807(g), 6-20-1909(a), 6-21-811(g)