ARKANSAS
STATE RESOURCES

An Arkansas Qualified Teacher must have (1) a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and (2) demonstrated content knowledge in the Core Academic subject area being taught (See AQT Rules), and, when applicable (3) a Special Education license for a Special Education class, or a teaching license when teaching in an Alternative Learning Environment (ALE); except where licensure is officially waived. 

You can view more information here: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/special-education/state-program-development/highly-qualified-personnel 

The Arkansas Department of Education's Educator Licensure area provides comprehensive information on the licensing process for educators in Arkansas. It outlines the requirements for obtaining and renewing teaching licenses, details different licensure areas, and offers resources for professional development. The site aims to support teachers in meeting state standards and ensuring quality education for students. Key sections typically include application procedures, testing requirements, and information on alternative licensure pathways. 

To qualify for state licensure as a special educator in Arkansas, prospective teachers must pass specific assessments. The Arkansas Department of Education administers these assessments, which include the Praxis series. For special education licensure, candidates typically need to take the Praxis Special Education Core Knowledge and Applications test, along with any additional required tests based on their specific licensure area. The website provides detailed information on the required tests, including passing scores and any additional assessments needed for different special education endorsements. 

More information can be found here: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/educator-effectiveness/licensure/licensure-assessments 

To become licensed as a special educator in Arkansas, candidates must follow these steps outlined by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE): 

1. Complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program: Candidates must graduate from a state-approved program in special education. 

2. Pass Required Assessments: Candidates are required to pass the Praxis assessments relevant to special education. This includes the Praxis Special Education Core Knowledge and Applications test, along with any other specific tests for endorsements. 

3. Submit an Application for Licensure: After completing the educational program and passing the required assessments, candidates must submit a licensure application through the ADE’s online portal. 

4. Background Check: A criminal background check is mandatory for all applicants. 

The ADE is responsible for overseeing the licensing process and ensuring that all educators meet the necessary qualifications. For more detailed information about the licensure process and requirements, visit the Arkansas Department of Education’s licensing website: Arkansas Educator Licensure. 

In Arkansas, the Alternate Assessment Plan (AAP) provides alternative pathways for individuals seeking professional licensure in education: 

• Alternative Routes Available: The AAP is designed for candidates who do not follow the traditional educator preparation programs. This includes individuals making career changes or those with degrees in fields other than education. 

• Requirements: 

  • Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in content knowledge and pedagogical skills. 

  • They are typically required to pass relevant Praxis assessments. 

  • Candidates must also engage in professional development activities and mentoring. 

• Eligibility: This alternate route is available to various groups, including: 

  • Individuals without a higher education degree in education. 

  • Career changers looking to enter the teaching profession. 

  • Those with degrees in non-education fields who meet the content knowledge requirements. 

For more information on the Alternate Assessment Plan and its specific requirements, you can visit the Arkansas Department of Education's website: Alternate Assessment Plan. 

Arkansas' Division of Elementary and Secondary Educator provides a list of approved Arkansas educator preparation programs: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/educator-effectiveness/educator-preparation-programs-in-arkansas/approved-educator-preparation-programs-in-arkansas 

• Arkansas' Council for Exceptional Children: https://arkansas.exceptionalchildren.org/ 

• TEACH Arkansas - The T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) Early Childhood ® Scholarship Program is a licensed program of the Arkansas Early Childhood Association. T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood ® pays for part of your tuition and books, provides travel stipends each semester, reimburses the center for hours of release time given, provides bonuses for teachers who complete their contract, and provides counseling and administrative support for the program.

• Arkansas Teacher Corps - The Arkansas Teacher Corps partners with school districts to recruit, train, license, and support committed Arkansans as empowered teachers facilitating excellent, equitable education every day. Applicants receive benefits including a full-time paid position with an ATC partner district, a standard five-year teaching license, and more. 

• TEACH Arkansas - The T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) Early Childhood ® Scholarship Program is a licensed program of the Arkansas Early Childhood Association. T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood ® pays for part of your tuition and books, provides travel stipends each semester, reimburses the center for hours of release time given, provides bonuses for teachers who complete their contract, and provides counseling and administrative support for the program.

• Arkansas Teacher Academy Scholarship - Act 237 of 2023 (the LEARNS Act) established the Arkansas Teacher Academy Scholarship Fund that provides up to $6,000 per semester for students enrolled at a post-secondary institution in a degree program that leads to teacher licensure. These scholarship funds can only be applied to tuition and mandatory fees.