The bill amends the Public School Funding Act of 2003 to update funding amounts for various educational programs in Arkansas. Key changes include an increase in per-student foundation funding from $7,618 to $8,162 for the 2025-2026 school year, and from $7,771 to $8,371 for the 2026-2027 school year. Additionally, alternative learning environment funding is raised from $4,987 to $5,212 for the 2025-2026 school year and from $5,086 to $5,341 for the 2026-2027 school year. Funding for English learners will also see an increase from $366 to $375 for the 2025-2026 school year and from $366 to $384 for the 2026-2027 school year.

Further amendments include adjustments to Enhanced Student Achievement funding, which will increase for various categories of national school lunch students, and a provision for professional development funding for public school districts. The statewide target average annual salary for teachers is set at $51,822 for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years, with future adjustments to be determined by the House and Senate Committees on Education. Overall, the bill aims to enhance funding for public education in Arkansas, reflecting a commitment to improving educational resources and support for students and teachers.

Statutes affected:
SB 149: 6-20-2305(a), 6-20-2305(b)