The bill amends the Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Scholarship Program by expanding the definition of a "student" to include individuals in grade nine (9) in addition to those in grades ten (10), eleven (11), and twelve (12). This change allows students in the ninth grade to be eligible for the scholarship program, which is aimed at supporting high school students enrolled in public, private, or home schools in Arkansas.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that permits the division to distribute up to $250,000 in total scholarship awards specifically for students in grade nine (9). This amendment aims to enhance access to educational funding for younger students, thereby encouraging their participation in the scholarship program and supporting their academic pursuits.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1451 V2 - 2-25-2025 09:26 AM: 6-85-402(4), 6-85-405
Old version HB1451 Original - 2-11-2025 01:09 PM: 6-85-402(4)
HB 1451: 6-85-402(4)
Act 353: 6-85-402(4), 6-85-405