Students and some people who already hold a teacher's license will need to consult the Arkansas Department of Education for information relating to several teacher licensure topics. The department can be reached at (501) 682-4342 or arkansased.org.
Initial Licensure Areas
The Arkansas Department of Education currently offers 94 areas and grade levels of initial licensure. Download the state's application for a teaching license.
Additional Licensure Plan
If you currently hold a teacher's license in a standard area and will be teaching out of your licensure area, consult the additional licensure plan rules and procedures set by the Arkansas Department of Education. Your school district will need to file an Additional Licensure Plan form with the Arkansas Department of Education, and the forms may be downloaded from the bottom section of this part of the state's Web site.
Criminal Background Check
No person shall be eligible for employment by a local school district or education service cooperative in a non-certified staff position if that person has pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to, or been found guilty of, any of the following offenses by any court in the state of Arkansas or of any similar offense by a court in another state or of any similar offense in a federal court. Click here for a list of offenses.
Tuition Reimbursement for Special Education
The Arkansas Department of Education provides some financial assistance to licensed teachers seeking additional licensure endorsement in special education. This page lists the details, requirements and how to apply.
Non-Traditional Licensure
Enrollment in the state's nontraditional licensure program allows a candidate with a bachelor's degree or higher to be employed as a classroom teacher while completing the necessary requirements for an initial Arkansas teaching license. This page lists details, an online application and contact information. Contact Patti Froom at patti.froom@arkansas.gov or Ann Crosser at ann.crosser@arkansas.gov.