The Teacher Fair Dismissal Act of 2025 aims to reform the standards and procedures for teacher dismissal in Arkansas by introducing a new subchapter to the Arkansas Code. Key changes include raising the standard for nonrenewal or termination from "not arbitrary, capricious, or discriminatory" to "just and reasonable cause," and allowing 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 related to traveling teacher services, are not governed by this act, and it requires written notice for termination or nonrenewal, allowing teachers to prepare a defense.

The bill further amends existing laws regarding teacher suspension and termination procedures. It requires that notices of suspension be delivered in person or via registered mail, and allows superintendents to suspend teachers without prior notice if immediate action is deemed necessary. Following a suspension, written notification detailing the reasons must be provided within two school days. The bill also protects the confidentiality of suspension details, ceases salary upon board decision to sustain a suspension, and ensures reinstatement with compensation for teachers found not guilty. Additionally, it establishes an appeal process for nonprobationary teachers and updates existing laws to exempt the Teacher Fair Dismissal Act from certain fiscal and facilities distress waivers.

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)