The bill amends the Professional Development Funding provisions under the Public School Funding Act of 2003, specifically focusing on the allocation of funds for professional development in Arkansas public schools. It establishes that any professional development funding exceeding the maximum amount awarded to public schools must be utilized for the implementation of the LEARNS Act, aimed at improving student academic outcomes. The bill also allows the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to distribute these additional funds through grants to eligible entities, enhancing the support for professional learning communities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the language regarding the administration of the additional funding, shifting from a mandatory to a discretionary approach for the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education in promulgating rules related to this funding. The previous requirement for the development and administration of professional learning communities has been removed, emphasizing the focus on the LEARNS Act's implementation instead. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the use of professional development funds to directly support educational improvements as outlined in the LEARNS Act.

Statutes affected:
HB 1874: 6-20-2305(b)