The proposed bill mandates that private schools in Arkansas administer an annual statewide student assessment and requires them to admit any student who applies and intends to use state funding for their education. The bill amends existing laws to include private schools in the statewide assessment system, ensuring that they report student assessment results to parents or guardians. It also specifies that private schools must cover all costs associated with administering the assessments. Additionally, the bill outlines that private schools must admit students who apply for admission and intend to use state funds, with provisions for reporting their capacity to the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Key amendments include the insertion of language that explicitly includes private schools in the statewide assessment system, requiring them to participate in assessments and report results. The bill also introduces a new section defining the admittance requirements for private schools, emphasizing their obligation to accept students using state funds unless they have reached the maximum capacity as defined by federal or state regulations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and accessibility in private education by aligning private schools with public school standards regarding assessments and admissions.

Statutes affected:
HB 1542: 6-15-2006(a), 6-15-2907(a), 6-15-2907(d), 6-15-2907(h), 6-15-2907(i), 6-15-2907(l), 6-15-2907, 6-15-2909(a)