The Governor of Arkansas Sarah Huckabee Sanders made history on Wednesday when she signed the Arkansas LEARNS Act into law, bringing a major overhaul of the state's education system. The 145-page bill seeks to provide quality education to all students in the state, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. The bill is the first omnibus education reform legislation to be passed in the state in decades.
The Arkansas LEARNS Act was approved by the Arkansas State Senate on Tuesday and passed its final hurdle when Sanders signed the bill into law on Wednesday. The bill received major support from both sides of the aisle, with members of the Arkansas House and Senate coming together to pass the bill.
The bill includes sweeping changes to the state's education system, including changes to the state's testing standards, school accountability system, and teacher evaluation process. It also includes provisions for additional funding for schools and for improved access to preschool and after-school programs.
Sanders highlighted the importance of the new law when she signed it into law. “When I put my signature on this bill and make it law, the failed status quo will end,” said Sanders. “This legislation will help ensure that every student in our state, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, is given the tools and resources they need to achieve success.”
The bill also seeks to address issues of inequality in the state's education system, including providing additional funding for schools in lower-income areas and creating a new Office of Equity and Inclusion to help ensure all students receive an equitable education. The bill also calls for improved access to mental health services, bilingual education, and special education services.
The bill was met with enthusiasm by many in the state, who praised Sanders' leadership and commitment to improving the state's education system. “This is a great day for Arkansas and a great day for our students,” said State Senator Linda Chesterfield, who voted in favor of the bill. “This legislation is an important step forward in providing our students with the quality education they need and deserve.”
The bill was also supported by many education advocacy groups, who praised the bill for its focus on improving educational outcomes for all students. “The Arkansas LEARNS Act is a major victory for students and educators across the state,” said one advocacy group. “It is a testament to the leadership of Governor Sanders and her commitment to providing every student in Arkansas with the quality education they deserve.”
With the Arkansas LEARNS Act now signed into law, the state will begin to implement the new reforms, with the first changes expected to take effect in the upcoming school year. The state will also begin to assess the impact of the new law and determine how to continue to improve the state's education system.
