This bill amends Arkansas Code 6-13-611(c) to establish a new process for filling vacancies on school district boards of directors. The time frame for appointing a replacement has been extended from thirty or sixty days to ninety (90) days, depending on the circumstances of the vacancy. The bill also introduces a requirement for school districts to publish a notice of the vacancy at least thirty days prior to the appointment meeting, detailing the vacancy, meeting date, and application requirements. This notice must be disseminated through local newspapers, the school district's official website, and existing communication systems used to contact parents and guardians. Additionally, the bill outlines the petition process for candidates wishing to fill a vacancy, requiring them to submit a petition signed by at least twenty qualified electors from the relevant district or zone at least ten days before the meeting. The school district board or county quorum court must acknowledge receipt of the petition and inform candidates of any deficiencies. Candidates with valid petitions will be allowed to present their candidacy in a public meeting, and the board or court may decline to fill the vacancy, in which case the appointment responsibility will shift to the county quorum court. All discussions regarding the vacancy must occur in open public meetings, ensuring transparency in the appointment process.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB484 V2 - 4-1-2025 03:05 PM: 6-13-611(c)
Old version SB484 Original - 3-17-2025 04:11 PM: 6-13-611(c)
SB 484: 6-13-611(c)
Act 726: 6-13-611(c)