School Year 2019-2020 is coming to a close.  Now is the time to begin planning for School Year 2020-2021.

Arkansas believes learning can happen anytime, anywhere. The COVID-19 pandemic put this belief to the test, and we are resolute in our commitment to the continuity of learning. Our vision to transform Arkansas to lead the nation in student-focused education is unwavering. In fact, it is more important now than ever before. As described in the Arkansas ESSA Plan, the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) remains committed to the established process of continuous improvement through the six systems of public education. In the wake of COVID-19, Arkansas schools are now challenged to reassess their school and district plans. Arkansas has a strong foundation, and we have identified three key factors necessary for Arkansas to be Ready for Learning: blended learning, guaranteed and viable curriculum, and a student-focused approach.

The Arkansas Ready for Learning Model provides the LEA the opportunity to opt into a student-focused statewide model of blended learning to ensure the health and academic progress of each student.

The Arkansas Ready for Learning Model provides the LEA the flexibility to request waivers for remote learning with the assurance that learning continues and the LEA has the ability to move to face-to-face, blended, or remote learning as needed without AMI approval or make-up days.

DESE will provide a webinar on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. to overview plans and resources for Reentry and Re Engagement to onsite learning.  Arkansas’s plan will be outlined as a Ready for Learning Model.  The webinar will present the components of Ready for Learning, the planning and guidance resources, and proposed waiver process to help districts prepare.  

District and school leadership teams should plan to participate in the webinar by using this link https://zoom.us/j/96128734004?pwd=bUc0ZGltekN1VHB1SHRhNUF5VW1PZz09