HB1457
To Require Public Schools To Submit Data And Other Information Related To A Public School Student's Individualized Education Program Using A Uniform Statewide Data Collection System.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1457, proposes to amend Arkansas Code § 6-10-129. The primary purpose of the bill is to mandate that all public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools submit data and information pertaining to a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). This submission must be done through a uniform statewide data collection system. This system is to be implemented by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. The bill aims to standardize how information related to IEPs is gathered and reported across public schools in Arkansas. It requires public schools to provide this specific data. The intent is to ensure consistency in data collection for students requiring individualized education plans. This change will affect how IEP data is managed within the state's public education system. The bill does not specify the exact nature of the data or information to be collected beyond its relation to IEPs.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
["The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education and potentially the Division of Career and Technical Education, as they would be responsible for implementing and managing the uniform statewide data collection system. This standardized system would likely provide these divisions with more comprehensive and consistent data on students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), potentially aiding in resource allocation, program evaluation, and policy development. Students with IEPs and their families could indirectly benefit from improved data-driven decision-making by the state's education departments, leading to more effective and equitable support services. Educators and school administrators within public schools would also benefit from a clear, standardized process for reporting IEP-related data, potentially reducing administrative burden and improving clarity."]
Who Might Suffer?
['The primary groups that could be negatively impacted by this bill are the public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools in Arkansas. These entities will be required to adopt and utilize the new uniform statewide data collection system for all information related to student Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This mandate could impose new administrative burdens, requiring staff training, potential investment in new technology or software, and the reallocation of resources to comply with the reporting requirements. Schools with limited resources or staff might find it particularly challenging to implement and maintain the new system. While the bill aims for uniformity, the implementation process itself could present challenges for schools already managing complex reporting requirements.']