Upon further review of the information contained in Director's Memo FIN-04-008, "Frequently Asked Questions on Act 1738 of 2003", created on September 5, 2003, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) General Counsel determined that the answer to "Question Number One" is incorrect.
The following information should be substituted for "Question Number One":
"Q1. Do one-year extensions to an existing two or three-year employment contract require prior State Board of Education approval?
A1. No, provided that the contract was in existence on or before July 16, 2003 and the contract extension is for no more than one (1) additional school year. If the above requirements are met, then the local school board may grant the extension without prior State Board of Education approval."Ark. Code Ann. § 6-17-301 (c).
For additional information contact Tripp Walter, Staff Attorney, at 501-683-0087.