The Arkansas education system is undergoing a significant transformation following the passage of nearly 1,000 new laws from the 95th General Assembly, with approximately 100 directly impacting schools. These wide-ranging reforms span early education, K–12, and postsecondary institutions. Education Secretary Jacob Oliva emphasized the scope and quality of the new legislation, highlighting the administration’s commitment to implementing meaningful, system-wide improvements.
A cornerstone of the overhaul is the Arkansas Access Act, a flagship initiative for Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. The act is designed to ensure that every student graduates prepared for one of three pathways: employment, enrollment in higher education, or military enlistment. “Every student, when they leave high school, should be ready to be employed, enrolled, or enlisted,” Oliva reiterated.
Given the law’s expansive reach, the Arkansas Department of Education has launched six specialized workgroups made up of experienced educators to help craft the rules and processes needed for successful rollout. These expert-driven efforts aim to ensure that the implementation is practical, effective, and tailored to the realities of classrooms across the state.
Arkansas education system College Access, Workforce Training, and Digital Discipline
In tandem with K–12 changes, the state is working to streamline higher education access and enhance career readiness. The Department of Education is collaborating with college leaders to improve application processes, increase scholarship availability, and strengthen workforce development programs. Transportation options, hybrid course formats, and credentialing for current classroom staff are all being explored to remove barriers for students pursuing higher education or technical training.
One of the most debated laws moving into full implementation is the Bell to Bell, No Cellphone Act, which bans cellphone use by students during the school day. Having already been piloted in several districts, the policy will now be applied statewide. Districts will have discretion in how to enforce it, with some opting to install lockers for phones that students can retrieve after school hours.
Despite its goal of minimizing distractions and improving safety during emergencies, the policy has received pushback from parents concerned about being unable to reach their children. Secretary Oliva responded by stressing the importance of clear communication protocols during crises and reassured families that contact pathways would be maintained. “If we’re implementing crisis management, the last thing we want is students distracted by their phones,” he said.\
Looking Ahead: Free Breakfast and Continued Community Involvement
As Arkansas education system prepares for the upcoming school year, state officials are also introducing a free breakfast program for all students—a move that reflects the administration’s broader efforts to ensure equity and access in education. Oliva expressed enthusiasm about the program, calling it a vital step in supporting student well-being and academic success.
With numerous laws now set to reshape classroom practices, parental engagement, and post-graduation planning, the Arkansas Department of Education is focused on collaboration. By working closely with educators, school leaders, and communities, officials aim to ensure that this sweeping legislative package delivers long-term benefits for students across the state.
