Senate committee approves SB 564 to establish Arkansas tutoring corps for learning recovery

The Education Committee of the Arkansas Senate convened on April 12, 2021, to discuss several key legislative measures aimed at addressing educational challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting focused primarily on Senate Bill 564, which proposes the establishment of an Arkansas tutoring corps to combat learning loss among students.

Senator Elliott introduced the bill, highlighting its purpose to provide flexible tutoring solutions tailored to the diverse needs of communities across the state. The bill aims to utilize approximately 25% of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds designated for addressing learning loss. Elliott emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Department of Education to ensure effective implementation through rule-making rather than rigid legislative mandates.

The committee adopted an amendment to the bill, which included additional sponsors, following a motion and unanimous approval. Senator English expressed strong support for the bill, praising it as a strategic plan for utilizing available funds effectively. A motion for the bill to pass as amended was made and seconded, with no opposition voiced during the discussion.

Senator Starch raised a concern regarding the potential impact of the new tutoring corps on existing programs, specifically referencing the positive youth development grant established a decade prior. He inquired whether the ESSER funds allocated for the tutoring initiative could also support previously established programs. In response, Senator Elliott assured that the new tutoring services could complement existing initiatives, and the funding would not be a mandate for permanent implementation beyond the three-year funding period.

The committee ultimately voted in favor of the bill, passing it as amended. Following this discussion, Senator Hill was recognized to present additional bills pending fiscal impact statements, including SB 662.

The meeting concluded with a clear commitment from the committee to address educational setbacks resulting from the pandemic, with the tutoring corps positioned as a vital resource for Arkansas students.