Per Chapter 6 of Rules Governing Grading and Course Credit, Arkansas teachers of Advanced Placement (AP) courses are required to complete an approved training no less than once every five (5) years.    

The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will again provide funds for professional development training for Arkansas Advanced Placement teachers attending the Arkansas Advanced Placement Summer Institutes (APSI). Grant money to pay for teacher training will be available at each of the three Arkansas APSIs until funds are exhausted. 

Registration is now open for all three Arkansas APSIs.   

APSI contact information and course offerings for 2023-2025 are accessible through the following link: 

Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) Course Offerings and Contact Information    

The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Weighted Credit and AP Training Approval Committee has also approved other training options to satisfy initial or renewal training requirements for AP. The list of Approved AP Training Options is on the AP/IB page of the DESE website.   

Full participation is required in all AP training options. Teachers must provide a copy of the certificate documenting their training to their district. It is suggested that teachers also provide a copy of their certificate to their District Gifted and Talented Coordinator and Advanced Placement Coordinator. 

If AP teachers are unable to attend approved training, they must complete an Additional Training Plan (ATP) with the Office of Gifted & Talented and Advanced Placement.  

Additional information about Advanced Placement can be found on the Gifted and Talented webpage by clicking the AP/IB Services button at https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/gifted--talented-and-advanced-placement.