Arkansas educators play an important role in helping students connect with key instructional requirements and observances outlined in state and federal law. These initiatives give students opportunities to explore foundational principles, learn from historical contributions, and understand significant events that have shaped the United States and the world.
Constitution Day (Federal Requirement)
The U.S. Department of Education announced that, pursuant to legislation passed by Congress, educational institutions receiving federal funds are required to hold an educational program on the U.S. Constitution each year to commemorate the signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787. This requirement applies to local educational agencies and institutions of higher education receiving funding from the U.S. Department of Education. Constitution Day resources for the 2025–2026 school year are organized as K–12 general resources and can be found on the Social Studies Resources page of the DESE website.
Celebrate Freedom Week (A.C.A. § 6-16-101)
Arkansas public schools must observe Celebrate Freedom Week during the last full week of September (September 22–26, 2025). This law was created to educate students about the sacrifices made for freedom and the values upon which the United States was founded. During this week, all social studies classes shall include instruction that helps students focus on the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. Suggested topics of study are listed in A.C.A. § 6-16-101, but curriculum decisions are left to local school districts. Celebrate Freedom Week resources for the 2025–2026 school year are organized as K–12 general resources and can be found on the Social Studies Resources page of the DESE website.
Holocaust Instruction (A.C.A. § 6-16-154)
Pursuant to A.C.A. § 6-16-154, Holocaust education shall be taught in all public schools in a grade-appropriate manner for all 5th–12th grade students. The law ensures students learn the causes, events, and effects of the Holocaust, promoting respect for human dignity.
For the Regular Session of the 94th Arkansas General Assembly in 2023, SB68 amended the statute to designate the final week of January as Holocaust Education Week in Arkansas public schools. For the 2025–2026 school year, schools shall observe Holocaust Education Week from January 26–30, 2026. Holocaust education resources for the 2025–2026 school year are organized into grade-level bands and can be found on the Social Studies Resources page of the DESE website.
Historical Contributions of African Americans (A.C.A. § 6-16-121)
A.C.A. § 6-16-121 provides direction to DESE for updating materials and resources used in teaching the historical contributions made by African Americans in the United States and in other countries prior to the establishment of the United States. The 2025 updated materials are organized into grade-level bands and can be found on the Social Studies Resources page of the DESE website. Updates include lessons and resources to support instruction in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History Month.