6 CAR Part 300 — Career and Technical Education Rules

Chapter II

Subchapter A

Subpart 1

6 CAR § 300-101 The use of “shall” {#sec-6-car-300-101 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-101}

6 CAR § 300-101. The use of “shall”.

The use of “shall” indicates that the activity is required.

Subpart 2

6 CAR § 300-201 CTE participant {#sec-6-car-300-201 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-201}

6 CAR § 300-201. CTE participant.

(a) An individual at either the secondary or postsecondary level who completes at least one (1) CTE course in an approved CTE program or program of study (AR State Perkins V Plan, Appendix N, p. 154).

(b) CTE participant data is monitored at the state level but is no longer a federal accountability measure.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-202 Special populations {#sec-6-car-300-202 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-202}

6 CAR § 300-202. Special populations.

(a)(1) Definitions and policies related to serving students who are members of “special populations” shall be in compliance with Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, Pub. L. No. 115-224.

(2) “Special populations” are defined within Perkins V as:

(A) Individuals with disabilities;

(B) Individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including low-income youth and adults;

(C) Individuals preparing for nontraditional fields, single parents, including single pregnant women;

(D) Out-of-workforce individuals;

(E) English learners;

(F) Homeless individuals described in section 725 of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. § 11434a;

(G) Youth who are in, or have aged out of, the foster care system; and

(H) Youth with a parent who is a member of the armed forces and is on active duty.

(b) Each student identified as an individual with a disability and/or a handicap under the guidelines of the Special Education Unit of the Department of Education and admitted to a career and technical education program or programs or a program or programs of study shall have an individualized education plan developed prior to participating in career and technical education.

(c) Each student who meets the criteria for identification as a member of a special population shall be provided with vocational assessment, guidance, counseling, and career development in order to support his or her success in their chosen CTE program or program of study.

(d) Transition services as well as supplemental/support services shall be provided as needed to assist students with disabilities in making the transition from school to employment.

(e)(1) Arkansas provides focused support for students from special populations to ensure they have access to the information they need to make informed choices about their college and career pathway.

(2) Perkins V focuses on equity and access to close gaps in academic achievement and the attainment of technical skills for special populations.

(3) Programs such as career coaches and JAG assist with high-risk students and minority students.

(f)(1) A part of focused support for special populations includes:

(A) CTE training for teachers in awareness of universal design for learning;

(B) A scientifically valid framework for guiding educational practice;

(C) Providing flexibility in how information is presented;

(D) How students can respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills; and

(E) How students are engaged.

(2) These practices help to:

(A) Reduce barriers in instruction;

(B) Provide appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges; and

(C) Maintain high achievement expectations for all students, including those with disabilities and those who have limited English proficiency.

History

• Codification Notes: Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq."CTE" means career technical education."JAG" means Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-203 Concentrator {#sec-6-car-300-203 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-203}

6 CAR § 300-203. Concentrator.

(a) A concentrator is a key component of Perkins V federal accountability performance measures.

(b) The federal definition states the term “CTE concentrator” means:

‘‘(A) at the secondary school level, a student served by an eligible recipient who has completed at least 2 courses in a single career and technical education program or program of study; and (B) at the postsecondary level, a student enrolled in an eligible recipient who has: (i) earned at least 12 credits within a career and technical education program or program of study; or (ii) completed such a program if the program encompasses fewer than 12 credits or the equivalent in total.”

(c) A CTE concentrator is a student who has completed two (2) courses within a career cluster.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-204 Completer {#sec-6-car-300-204 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-204}

6 CAR § 300-204. Completer.

(a) A completer is not a federal Perkins accountability measure but is recognized at the state level.

(b) A CTE program of study completer is a student who completes at least three (3) courses in a single career and technical education program of study.

(c) Although industry-recognized certifications are an expectation when completing a program or program of study, students may still be recognized as a completer if they do not attain an industry-recognized certification.

(d) This includes the courses at Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 within an approved single program of study.

(e) A CTE completer is a student who has completed three (3) courses within a career cluster.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-205 Career clusters {#sec-6-car-300-205 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-205}

6 CAR § 300-205. Career clusters.

(a)(1) The National Career Clusters® framework serves as an organizing tool for the Division of Career and Technical Education programs, curriculum design and instruction.

(2) The framework also functions as a guide in developing programs of study bridging secondary and postsecondary systems, and for creating individual student plans of study.

(b) Career focus programs of study make up the career and technical delivery system as outlined in the National Career Clusters® framework:

(1) Agriculture, food, and natural resources;

(2) Architecture and construction;

(3) Arts, a/v technology, and communications;

(4) Business, management, and administration;

(5) Education and training;

(6) Finance;

(7) Government and public administration;

(8) Health science;

(9) Hospitality and tourism;

(10) Human services;

(11) Information technology;

(12) Law, public safety, and security;

(13) Manufacturing;

(14) Marketing, sales, service;

(15) Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and

(16) Transportation, distribution, and logistics.

(c)(1) Each career focus program of study shall consist of middle-level courses in grades seven (7) or eight (8) as defined by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(2) Two (2) courses are required in grades nine through twelve (9-12) to be considered a concentrator following the approved single program of study sequencing.

(3) Three (3) courses are required in grades nine through twelve (9-12) to be considered a completer within an approved single program of study.

6 CAR § 300-206 Career field {#sec-6-car-300-206 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-206}

6 CAR § 300-206. Career field.

(a) A career field means the organizing structure for the sixteen (16) career clusters and thirty-eight (38) pathways under The National Career Clusters® framework.

(b) The fields represent the broadest aggregation of careers.

(c) Students are generally exposed to career field exploration in middle school and early high school.

6 CAR § 300-207 Career pathway {#sec-6-car-300-207 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-207}

6 CAR § 300-207. Career pathway.

(a) A career pathway means the structure of related occupational areas within a specific career cluster.

(b) These pathways have identified knowledge and skills validated by industry from which programs and programs of study are developed.

6 CAR § 300-208 Career planning {#sec-6-car-300-208 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-208}

6 CAR § 300-208. Career planning.

(a) Upon completion of the eighth grade, each student shall have on file a student success plan, either hardcopy or electronic format, which includes secondary courses to be taken.

(b) At least two (2) years of postsecondary education planning is recommended.

(c) The student success plan shall be revisited each year for any necessary adjustments.

(d) Parents/guardians shall be involved in the education and career planning process, with signatures documenting involvement each year.

6 CAR § 300-209 Course {#sec-6-car-300-209 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-209}

6 CAR § 300-209. Course.

A course means the equivalent to one (1) full unit of credit in the specific program of study.

6 CAR § 300-210 Foundation courses {#sec-6-car-300-210 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-210}

6 CAR § 300-210. Foundation courses.

(a) Foundation courses are those classes that encompass the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in any selected Division of Career and Technical Education career and technical education program or programs of study.

(b) These courses are prerequisite in nature and are required for all career and technical program approvals as defined by the division.

(c) Please see the division website for a current list of CTE foundation courses, listed as Level 1 courses within each program of study.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-211 CTE teacher contract length {#sec-6-car-300-211 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-211}

6 CAR § 300-211. CTE teacher contract length.

Local school districts governing authority shall have the option of extending the length of CTE teachers' contracts beyond the minimum number of contract days required by the Rules Governing Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR pt. 61.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-212 Exception {#sec-6-car-300-212 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-212}

6 CAR § 300-212. Exception.

State law requires twelve-month contracts for agricultural education teachers.

6 CAR § 300-213 Curriculum content standards {#sec-6-car-300-213 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-213}

6 CAR § 300-213. Curriculum content standards.

(a) Each teacher shall follow Arkansas curriculum/content standards for each course approved by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(b) See the division website occupational areas for current standards.

(c) All standards will be reviewed every two (2) years.

6 CAR § 300-214 Digital learning providers {#sec-6-car-300-214 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-214}

6 CAR § 300-214. Digital learning providers.

(a) Division of Career and Technical Education courses may be delivered by approved digital providers.

(b) See the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education website for a list of providers, description of the process, and guidance on selected digital learning providers http://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/divisions/learning-services/digital-learning-providers.

6 CAR § 300-215 Embedded courses {#sec-6-car-300-215 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-215}

6 CAR § 300-215. Embedded courses.

(a) In order for the standards of all courses to be met in a high-quality and comprehensive manner, embedded courses are not recommended.

(b) Under extenuating circumstances, districts may submit a detailed plan in the Department of Education Course Approval System (CAS) (https://adedata2.arkansas.gov/CAS/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fcas) and shall not be initiated unless approval is received in the CAS.

(c) Teachers of embedded courses shall be licensed in both courses.

Subpart 3

6 CAR § 300-301 Generally {#sec-6-car-300-301 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-301}

6 CAR § 300-301. Generally.

(a)(1) For grades nine through twelve (9-12), the following content areas shall be offered annually for a total of thirty-eight (38) units, except as otherwise allowed by law and this part.

(2) The list of courses, approved by the State Board of Education for each content area, is posted annually on the Division of Career and Technical Education website.

(3) Career and technical education.

(A) Nine (9) units of sequenced career and technical education courses representing three (3) occupational areas.

(B) See 6 CAR § 61-202(a)(4)(B)(ix).

(b)(1) For implementation of standards for accreditation requirements for CTE, districts shall offer annually three (3) approved program of study in three (3) different occupational areas.

(2) The CTE requirements can be found on the standards for accreditation website at https://adedata.arkansas.gov/sfa under the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education Rules Governing the Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR pt. 61.

(c)(1) Each occupational area defines the required entry level (foundation) course for each program of study.

(2) Foundation courses shall be offered annually and Level 2 and Level 3 courses may be offered on a two-year rotating basis.

(d) Schools who do not offer required programs of study on campus may utilize public schools, secondary technical centers, or postsecondary institutions to meet requirements upon a written request from the high school for approval by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(e) The Career and Technical Student Organization may operate on the local high school campus or at the secondary technical center campus.

(f) If occupational programs are offered off-site to fulfill standards for accreditation requirements, the school shall provide student transportation, sufficient time to complete a three-unit program of study, and sufficient effort to provide these opportunities to students.

(g) Secondary schools utilizing off-campus options as a means to meet standards for accreditation shall have on file with the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education a written agreement between both institutions as documentation to this effect before October 1 of each academic year.

(h) Schools shall upload documentation of concurrent enrollment or other agreements annually in the Division of Career and Technical Education electronic reporting system to meet documentation for standards for accreditation requirements.

(i) Note. Waivers from the standards for accreditation require State Board of Education approval.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-302 CTE programs of study {#sec-6-car-300-302 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-302}

6 CAR § 300-302. CTE programs of study.

(a)(1) Arkansas follows federal Perkins V legislation to define a program of study.

(2)(A) The complete definition is a “program of study” means:

“A coordinated, nonduplicative sequence of academic and technical content at the secondary and postsecondary level that: a. Incorporates challenging State academic standards, including those adopted by a State under section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; b. Addresses both academic and technical knowledge and skills, including employability skills; c. Is aligned with the needs of industries in the economy of the State, region, Tribal community, or local area; d. Progresses in specificity (beginning with all aspects of an industry or career cluster and leading to more occupation-specific instruction); e. Has multiple entry and exit points that incorporate credentialing; and f. Culminates in the attainment of a recognized postsecondary credential.”

(B) Pg. 27 of the Perkins V; the Official Guide, ACTE Publication, 2018.

(b)(1) See the Division of Career and Technical Education website occupational areas tab for approved programs of study, including course codes and industry-recognized credentials.

(2) Refer to state standards for accreditation (SFA) for program of study requirements to meet SFA.

(c) Schools that, due to local business and industry requirements or school improvement plans, need consideration for extenuating circumstances to meet the needs of the students, should submit a request through the Department of Education course approval system (CAS) (https://adedata2.arkansas.gov/CAS/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fcas) and shall not be initiated unless approval is received in the CAS.

History

• Codification Notes: Section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 6311(b)(1)."CTE" means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-303 CTE program of study size, scope, and quality {#sec-6-car-300-303 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-303}

6 CAR § 300-303. CTE program of study size, scope, and quality.

(a)(1) All schools shall demonstrate through their comprehensive local needs assessments and local applications that they have satisfied the applicable definitions of size, scope, and quality of their CTE programs of study.

(2) Size, scope, and quality is defined within the Arkansas Perkins V State Plan approved by the State Board of Education and the United States Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education.

(b) Size.

(1) Class periods shall conform to the minimum class hours established by the Division of Secondary and Elementary Education’s Rules Governing Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR pt. 61.

(2) Enrollments may vary and will depend on the availability of equipment, tools, furniture, and instructional materials that support the program.

(3) Program equipment requirements and safety conditions shall be a consideration in establishing class size.

(c) Scope.

(1)(A) Schools shall offer one (1) approved CTE program of study from three (3) different occupational areas annually.

(B) Each occupational area defines the required entry level (foundation) course for each program of study.

(C)(i) Foundation courses shall be offered annually.

(ii) Level 2 and Level 3 courses may be offered on a two-year rotating basis.

(iii) CTE Programs shall meet all Perkins requirements to count toward SFA.

(2)(A) Each CTE occupational area issues equipment lists annually.

(B) The equipment lists are considered the minimum equipment necessary for students to master the program area standards established by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(3) The current version of equipment lists applies to new programs being implemented during the school year in which the equipment lists are issued.

(d) Quality.

(1) Approved programs of study are to follow all policies and procedures as well as program guidelines established and identified in the supplemental program operational guides and by approval of the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education and/or their designee.

(2)(A) Programs of study are expected to culminate in an industry-recognized technical skills assessment and/or certification (or an approved substitute), shall meet or show improvement in documented performance indicators, shall remove all critical elements identified in tiered support visits, and follow all required program guidelines.

(B) See Arkansas Code § 6-5-1004.

(3) Approved programs of study and programs will be reviewed annually to ensure quality.

(4) Comply with Office of Civil Rights methods for administration procedures and regulations, and CTE monitoring and risk assessment review.

(5) Each approved program of study shall participate in a regional stakeholder meeting with diverse representation including industry applicable to the program area as outlined in Perkins V.

(6) Improvements to programs may occur based on information and recommendations made by stakeholders.

(7) Offer CTE programs of study and programs that lead to one (1) or more of the following:

(A)(i) High-skill occupations.

(ii) Occupations that require an industry-credential of:

(a) Value;

(b) Postsecondary training;

(c) Apprenticeship; or

(d) Degree;

(B)(i) High-wage occupations.

(ii) An average hourly rate equal to or greater than the average hourly rate of all similar occupations as reported by the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing; or

(C)(i) In-demand occupations.

(ii) An industry sector that:

(a) Has a substantial current or potential impact (including through jobs that lead to economic self-sufficiency and opportunities for advancement) on the state, regional, or local economy, as appropriate; and

(b) Contributes to the growth or stability of other supporting businesses, or the growth of other industry sectors.

History

• Codification Notes: “SFA” means standards for accreditation."CTE" means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-304 Arkansas definition of a CTE modified program {#sec-6-car-300-304 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-304}

6 CAR § 300-304. Arkansas definition of a CTE modified program.

(a) A CTE modified program is not federally defined so that states may develop their own definition where necessary.

(b)(1) The Division of Career and Technical Education defines a modified program as a CTE program:

(A) With a set of courses and related learning experiences that enhance a student’s acquisition of long-term academic and technical knowledge and skills, including employability skills; and

(B) That is aligned with the needs of industries in the economy of the:

(i) State;

(ii) Region; or

(iii) Local area.

(2)(A) Programs shall include essential standards and skills that provide occupational-based instruction within a career cluster through an innovative structure and implementation process that does not fit the program of study definition.

(B) Programs will incorporate challenging state academic standards or essential standards, skills, and competencies, including those adopted by the state under Section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.

(C) Where possible, students may utilize an industry recognized certificate to progress to postsecondary education with multiple entry and exit point opportunities.

(D) An approved CTE modified program shall meet the above and include work-based learning, industry partner collaboration, and entrepreneurial opportunities when feasible.

(E) Concurrent courses approved by higher education would meet this requirement.

(c) Approved CTE programs may not meet the program of study requirements for Rules Governing Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR § 61-202(a)(4)(B)(ix), and cannot be substituted for the required CTE programs of study.

History

• Codification Notes: Section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 6311(b)(1)."CTE" means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-305 CTE modified program requirements {#sec-6-car-300-305 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-305}

6 CAR § 300-305. CTE modified program requirements.

(a)(1) A CTE modified program is a district option that differs from a CTE program of study as defined by federal Perkins requirements.

(2) A program is designed to give additional flexibility to a school district but cannot take the place of the program of study under the Rules Governing the Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR § 61-202(a)(3)(B)(ix).

(b) A CTE modified program shall:

(1) Have defined curriculum or essential standards and skills;

(2) Include a minimum of two (2) credits, at any level, within the same career cluster, offered at the high school, secondary center, or postsecondary institution;

(3) Ensure all teachers in the program have certifications relevant to the program;

(4) Have an appropriate equipment list that meets the learning needs for skill attainment;

(5) Submit a modified program application to the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education for approval;

(6) Submit a list of industry certifications that students can earn through the program;

(7) Allow students to be counted as CTE modified program concentrators if two (2) courses are completed within a career cluster, and CTE modified program completers if three (3) courses are completed within a career cluster for the program;

(8) Shall identify and use course codes within the same career cluster for each program area;

(9) Culminate in the attainment of:

(A) An industry-recognized credential;

(B) A certificate of proficiency;

(C) A technical certificate; or

(D) An associate degree;

(10) Culminate in advancement to:

(A) A career;

(B) An apprenticeship;

(C) A postsecondary education;

(D) The military; or

(E) A technical school;

(11) Be an eligible LEA* (secondary technical centers on postsecondary campuses excluded from this requirement unless Perkins funding is requested);

(12) Coordinate with the CTE coordinator at the district or consortium level;

(13) Annual desk audit of documentation through an electronic reporting platform; and

(14) Inventory of equipment on file and meeting federal general accounting procedures and Perkins requirements.

(c) Perkins funding may be available for CTE modified programs if they meet all Perkins federal requirements including:

(1) Size, scope, quality as approved in the Arkansas Perkins V State Plan;

(2) Stakeholder engagement meetings with documentation of agenda and minutes;

(3) Implementation of an active career and technical student organization (CTSO) with active membership numbers defined by the CTSO bylaws;

(4) Annual desk audit of documentation through an electronic reporting platform;

(5) Inventory of equipment on file and meeting federal general accounting procedures and Perkins requirements; and

(6) Supported by the comprehensive local needs assessment.

(d) Note. Secondary technical center programs on postsecondary campuses are funded through the Office of Skills Development.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education."LEA" means local education agency. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-306 Industry-recognized postsecondary credential {#sec-6-car-300-306 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-306}

6 CAR § 300-306. Industry-recognized postsecondary credential.

(a) A credential consisting of an industry-recognized certificate or certification, a certificate of completion of an apprenticeship, a license recognized by the state involved or federal government, or an associate or baccalaureate degree.

(b) In Arkansas, certificates awarded by two-year and four-year institutions are also recognized as a recognized postsecondary credential.

6 CAR § 300-307 State start-up grants {#sec-6-car-300-307 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-307}

6 CAR § 300-307. State start-up grants.

(a)(1) Annually, state start-up grants are provided on a competitive basis to assist with the start-up expenses of a new program of study.

(2) Occupational area grant awards shall be available for the exclusive purpose of purchasing new equipment and program specific supplies, required training, assessment, and software to support newly approved career focus programs of study.

(b) The factors used for determining both approval and the amount of the grant awards are contingent on:

(1) Funds available;

(2) State priority;

(3) Labor market data; and

(4) Evaluation and review of application and rubric.

(c)(1) To be considered for funding, school districts shall submit a proposal for a new program start-up by November 1 prior to implementation in the following school year.

(2) Applications and rubric will be available beginning September 1 each year as announced through a Division of Elementary and Secondary Education commissioner’s memo.

(3) Applications for districts/schools shall be submitted by CTE coordinators.

(d) Schools applying for more than one (1) program of study shall submit a list that prioritizes the programs of study being requested.

(e)(1) The grant award or awards shall not exceed eighty-five percent (85%) of the minimum start-up costs as established by Division of Career and Technical Education program standards.

(2) The district is responsible for fifteen percent (15%) of the minimum start-up costs.

(f) The equipment, supplies, and software purchased with state funds authorized under the biennial appropriation for grants and aids to school districts (public school fund) shall be utilized only for the activities for which it was originally approved and purchased and shall not be used in any other fashion without prior written approval of the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(g)(1) Reimbursement requests for new program start-up shall be submitted to the state office at any time prior to the November 1 deadline.

(2) The request for reimbursement of state funds shall not exceed the amount of the grant award.

(h)(1) For new program start-up equipment and program specific supplies and software, it shall be the responsibility of the local school districts to maintain and repair the equipment purchased with the state grant during its life cycle.

(2) After the life cycle (five (5) years), it shall become the property of the local school district.

(i)(1) The Division of Career and Technical Education shall retain a vested interest in the equipment and program-specific supplies and software purchased with new program start-up grants for their life cycle.

(2) At the discretion of the accountability and funding program coordinator or the Division of Career and Technical Education audit coordinator, items shall be reinventoried to another CTE program if the program is discontinued or no longer needed before the five-year useful life of the equipment.

(j)(1) The Division of Career and Technical Education will provide up-to-date equipment standards for each program of study.

(2) Prior written approval shall be required for any item or expenditure not on the Division of Career and Technical Education program start-up list.

(3) Disclosure of existing equipment and resources shall be made on the state start-up application.

(k)(1) A request to restart a closed program of study shall be funded only if funds have not been granted within the last five (5) years and if additional funds are available, when feasible.

(2) Under extraordinary circumstances, the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education may grant approval at a reduced funding amount.

(l)(1) The Division of Career and Technical Education state start-up funds are not available for secondary technical centers programs or programs of study.

(2) Secondary technical centers shall contact the Office of Skills Development for availability of funds and for the separate application process and funding guidelines.

(m)(1) JAG new program start-up requests are accepted on a rolling basis through TANF or private support, as funds are made available.

(2) Awards are based on guidelines provided by the national JAG office and the requirements defined by the funding source.

(3) Please see https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov//Page/SpecialProjects for additional details.

(4) Additional details about state start-up grants can be found on the division website at the following link: https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov/Page/FundingAndAccountability.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education."TANF" means Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

Subpart 4

6 CAR § 300-401 Adaptive equipment for CTE students with disabilities {#sec-6-car-300-401 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-401}

6 CAR § 300-401. Adaptive equipment for CTE students with disabilities.

Adaptive equipment for individuals with disabilities enrolled in funded vocational education programs can be obtained through Appropriation 681, through the following process:

(1) The requesting school shall get a referral for the student from an assigned special education consultant to assist with ordering the adaptive equipment; and

(2) The superintendent or school principal in which the student is enrolled may then request services through contacting the office of special populations at 501-682-1800.

6 CAR § 300-402 Equipment inventory {#sec-6-car-300-402 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-402}

6 CAR § 300-402. Equipment inventory.

(a)(1) A small portable item is an item that is priced under the one-thousand-dollar equipment criteria, or even under five hundred dollars ($500), and has a life expectancy of one (1) year.

(2) This item also is not likely to be missed immediately upon its disappearance.

(3) Examples include, but are not limited to, tablets, laptops, cameras, shop tools, etc.

(4) A recipient’s internal controls shall be sufficient to account for all such purchases made with federal and/or state funds.

(5) This is why the Division of Career and Technical Education requires items costing more than five hundred dollars ($500) and “walkables” be maintained in inventory.

(b)(1) The division retains a vested interest in the equipment purchased with the Perkins funds for its useful life cycle (currently five (5) years).

(2) If the program/project for which it was purchased is discontinued or if the equipment is no longer needed in the program, a request shall be made through the accountability and Perkins program coordinator to reassign the equipment as outlined in 2 C.F.R. § 200.313.

(3) Equipment shall be used in the program or project for which it was acquired as long as needed.

(4) When no longer needed for the original program or project, the equipment shall be used in other activities in the following priorities:

(A) Other activities supported by Perkins; and

(B) Other activities supported by federal education funds.

(c)(1) When no longer needed by the recipient in any program, a request shall be made to sell or use the equipment for a trade-in with the proceeds offsetting the replacement cost.

(2) Any additional funds shall be returned to support the CTE program of study.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-403 Equipment uses {#sec-6-car-300-403 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-403}

6 CAR § 300-403. Equipment uses.

(a) Equipment uses shall always be for educational purposes.

(b) No equipment purchased through Perkins grant funding or state start-up funding shall be used for any purpose other than educational use to train students enrolled in the program area for which the equipment was purchased.

6 CAR § 300-404 Minimum equipment lists {#sec-6-car-300-404 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-404}

6 CAR § 300-404. Minimum equipment lists.

(a) Each career and technical education occupational area issues minimum equipment lists annually.

(b) The equipment lists are considered the minimum equipment necessary for students to master the program area standards established by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(c) The current version of equipment lists applies to new programs of study being implemented during the school year in which the equipment lists are issued.

(d) Equipment lists may be located at as on the Division of Career and Technical Education’s occupational areas web page.

(e) Secondary centers located on a postsecondary campus have flexibility on the equipment utilized according to equipment approved by the Office of Skills Development through the Career Education Workforce Development Board.

6 CAR § 300-405 Facilities {#sec-6-car-300-405 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-405}

6 CAR § 300-405. Facilities.

(a) Facility requirements shall meet Department of Education guidelines https://dpsaft.ade.arkansas.gov/facilities/arkansas-school-facilities-manual.

(b) Equipment requirements may be obtained from the appropriate occupational area office and shall be met within the specified time for program approval.

6 CAR § 300-406 Safety {#sec-6-car-300-406 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-406}

6 CAR § 300-406. Safety.

(a)(1) Space and special equipment for CTE labs are varied and unique.

(2) Safety should be of the utmost consideration at all times in planning a facility and locating equipment.

(3) Sufficient electrical power should be included to support major pieces of equipment in the lab, including a sufficient number of electrical outlets.

(4) Occupational Health and Safety Administration standards shall be followed where applicable.

(b)(1) A student wash-up area and proper exhaust and filtration of harmful fumes/dust shall be provided according to the facilities requirements document: http://arkansasfacilities.arkansas.gov/public/userfiles/documents/Facilities_Manual_20162017/FM_Career_Education.pdf.

(2) The laboratory shall be zoned and color-coded identifying specific work areas and pedestrian walkways.

(3) Large open areas for instructional activities shall be provided.

(4) Caution shall be exercised and enrollment shall be limited so that an overcrowded situation does not occur.

(5) For the specifications for the lab areas, please see the Arkansas facilities website linked in subdivision (b)(1) of this section.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

Subpart 5

6 CAR § 300-501 Generally {#sec-6-car-300-501 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-501}

6 CAR § 300-501. Generally.

(a) Secondary technical career centers (STCs) provide additional CTE opportunities to students.

(b) STCs are offered on high school and postsecondary campuses.

(c) Secondary technical centers are managed through the Office of Skills Development through an annual memorandum of understanding with the Department of Education in collaboration with Division of Career and Technical Education for CTE programs and programs of study offered and secondary career centers.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-502 High school students attending postsecondary institution secondary technical centers {#sec-6-car-300-502 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-502}

6 CAR § 300-502. High school students attending postsecondary institution secondary technical centers.

(a) CTE occupational-specific programs at secondary technical centers, technical institutes, community colleges, or two-year colleges in which high school students are admitted may count toward meeting Rules Governing Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR § 61-202(a)(4)(B)(ix), with a request from the high school for written approval from the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(b)(1) A copy of the written contract (agreement) with the postsecondary institution offering concurrent credit CTE course or CTE courses shall be submitted to the Director of the Division of Career and Technical Education, by October 1 of each academic year.

(2) The director shall provide copies to each occupational area with secondary center programs or programs of study offering concurrent credit for verification of standards and credits on an annual basis.

(c) CTE occupational-specific approved CTE modified programs offered at secondary technical centers, technical institutes, community colleges, or two-year colleges in which high school students are admitted shall follow:

(1) Division program definition and guidelines;

(2) Division-approved course codes;

(3) Division-approved CTE programs of study or approved CTE modified programs;

(4) Division minimum equipment lists or postsecondary institution appropriate/equivalent equipment identified for their institution;

(5) Teacher qualifications and rules governing awarding credit (secondary technical centers shall follow special rules for secondary technical centers: https://arcareereducation.org/docs/default-source/skills-and- development/secondary-technical-centers/policies-and-procedures/secondary- center-policies-procedures_effective-8-25-18.pdf?sfvrsn=6b4a4116_2);

(6) Established process for enrollment verification; and

(7) Other related applicable policies and procedures shall follow division policies and procedures/rules.

(d) CTE-approved programs seeking Perkins federal funding shall also follow:

(1) All federal Perkins V requirements with the exception of the sequence of courses; and

(2) Follow program evaluation including annual documentation for tiered support, and other processes according to federal Perkins and other federal and state law requirements.

(e) Secondary center tiered funding shall follow Arkansas Code § 6-20-2305:

“Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, secondary vocational area center funding shall be established by a tiered funding structure for distributing vocational center aid for each full-time equivalent student, as defined by the Division of Career and Technical Education. The funding to support secondary vocational centers shall be determined by the Division of Career and Technical Education, in consultation with the Office of Skills Development, and approved by the State Board of Education.”

(f) The State Board of Education shall review recommendations from the Career Education and Workforce Development Board to establish new vocational centers to serve high school students from several school districts in locations where services are needed to:

(1) Support economic, industrial, and employment development efforts;

(2) Provide equity and substantially equal access to quality vocational programs; and

(3) Improve school programs to assist schools in meeting accreditation standards.

(g) The Office of Skills Development shall provide annually a report to the State Board of Education on the financial viability of:

(1) Vocational centers;

(2) Enrollment;

(3) Programs; and

(4) The success of students.

(h)(1) Secondary technical centers shall follow the program approval process for new programs according to the office.

(2) Funding, assurance of quality and safety, technical assistance, and all other needs are provided by the office and/or the postsecondary institution.

(3) If the secondary technical center has an approved program of study through the division, all guidelines shall be met following federal Perkins V requirements and accountability.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education.This section as promulgated prior to codification into the Code of Arkansas Rules contained the following at the end of the section: "Resource: Act 179 of 2019:https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Acts/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2019R%2FPublic%2F&file=1 79.pdf&ddBienniumSession=2019%2F2019RResource: Special Secondary Technical Center Rules of 2018:https://arcareereducation.org/docs/default-source/skills-and-development/secondary-technical- centers/policies-and-procedures/secondary-center-policies-procedures_effective-8-25- 18.pdf?sfvrsn=6b4a4116_2." Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

Subpart 6

6 CAR § 300-601 Generally {#sec-6-car-300-601 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-601}

6 CAR § 300-601. Generally.

(a)(1) CTE teachers’ licensure shall be submitted through the Office of Educator Licensure.

(2) See the Educator Effectiveness and Licensure Division, Office of Educator Licensure webpage on educator licensure https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/educator-effectiveness/educator-licensure for a complete description.

(b) A public school, agency, or organization may apply for an exception from the requirement under Arkansas Code § 6-15-1004 for a licensed educator if it imposes an undue hardship for a school to timely fill a vacant position with a qualified individual licensed in the required licensure content area and level of licensure.

(c)(1) Exceptions require approval by the State Board of Education.

(2) The exceptions are:

(A) Additional licensure plans and administer licensure completion plans;

(B) Long-term substitute teacher; or

(C) Emergency teaching permit.

(3) An emergency teaching permit authorizes the permit holder to be hired to fill a vacant teaching position without a license.

(d)(1) Career and technical education (CTE) teachers will be provided district supported mentoring which will include teacher excellence and support system professional learning.

(2) Additionally, job-embedded professional learning communities are being organized to offer an opportunity for those who may be singletons to increase their professional learning.

(3) Career and technical education degreed teacher licensure.

(e) Arkansas career and technical teacher licensure by occupational area:

*Please refer to the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, Office of Educator Licensure, for a complete list of teacher licensures and endorsements: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/20201102144720_Licensure_Areas_Chart_2018.pdf.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-602 Career and technical education endorsements {#sec-6-car-300-602 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-602}

6 CAR § 300-602. Career and technical education endorsements.

(a)(1) To add an endorsement, the applicant shall have a current, valid 7-12 standard teaching license.

(2) Endorsements cannot be added to a technical permit.

(b) Driver education endorsement. Driver’s education endorsement requirements are completed through the Office of Educator Licensure beginning on July 1, 2021.

(c) Teacher qualifications for career development endorsements (418).

(1) Education. Career development teachers who are not certified counselors shall have a valid secondary or middle school teaching license or be enrolled in the nontraditional licensure program.

(2) Endorsement. In addition to the licensing requirements, completion of the following coursework or the mentorship training program is required and shall be completed prior to teaching career development a second year:

(A) Three (3) semester hours of "Methods of Teaching Career Development"; or

(B)(i) Mentorship training program.

(ii) Career and technical education (CTE) teachers will be provided district supported mentoring which will include teacher excellence and support system professional learning.

(iii) Additionally, job-embedded professional learning communities are being organized to offer an opportunity for those who may be singletons to increase their professional learning.

(iv) Complete an equivalent mentorship training program designed and approved by Division of Career and Technical Education under an approved model trainer during the first semester of teaching the course;

(v)(a) High recommendation to attend a career guidance new teacher professional development provided by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(b) Highly recommend, because of Perkins can’t require.

(c) Counselors who attend the career guidance new teacher professional development provided by the Division of Career and Technical Education shall meet state licensing standards to add the endorsement.

(d) Teacher qualifications for the career preparation endorsement (412) grades nine through twelve (9-12).

(1) The 412 endorsement is required for the following courses:

(A) Career readiness (nine through ten (9-10));

(B) College and career readiness (eleven through twelve (11-12)); and

(C) Work-based learning (ten through twelve (10-12)).

(2) Endorsement. The instructor shall:

(A) Complete a mentorship training program designed and approved by the Division of Career and Technical Education under an approved model trainer during the first semester of teaching the course; and

(B) High recommendation to attend the career guidance new teacher professional development provided by the Division of Career and Technical Education in collaboration with the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.

(e)(1) Teacher Qualifications for JAG (413):

(A) Complete new career teacher in-service; and

(B) The JAG specialist is to be secondary licensed in a CTE or core academic area and endorsed through the completion of program management training developed and approved by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

(2)(A) It is strongly recommended that during the first year of operation the JAG specialist be employed on a contract of a minimum of two hundred and fifteen (215) days.

(B) It is also strongly recommended that during each subsequent year the specialist be employed on a contract of a minimum of two hundred and twenty-five (225) days.

(C) The contract is a local decision, and the recommendation is made to provide the greatest level of support for the JAG specialist.

(f) Teacher qualification for freshman seminar/keystone (410).

(1) Education. The freshman academy/keystone instructor shall maintain a valid seven through twelve (7-12) standard teaching license or be enrolled in the nontraditional licensure program.

(2) Endorsement. The freshman seminar/keystone instructor shall:

(A) Complete or be enrolled in a mentorship training program approved by the Division of Career and Technical Education under an approved model trainer during the first semester of teaching the course; and

(B) High recommendation to attend the career guidance new teacher professional development provided by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

6 CAR § 300-603 Required training {#sec-6-car-300-603 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-603}

6 CAR § 300-603. Required training.

(a) CTE teachers shall complete new career in-service program area training in order to teach CTE courses.

(b) Individual occupational areas may have additional training requirements.

(c) Information on training can be obtained through the relevant occupational area office.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-604 Professional development {#sec-6-car-300-604 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-604}

6 CAR § 300-604. Professional development.

(a)(1) Under Perkins V, career and technical education professional development is an integral part of providing education, knowledge, and skills necessary to empower students to succeed in CTE while meeting state academic standards.

(2) The professional development shall be sustained (not standalone, more than one-day or short-term workshops), intensive, collaborative, data-driven, and classroom-focused for administrators, teachers, and faculty to foster high-quality POS design, implementation, certification, and maintenance.

(3) Professional development may be offered:

(A) In-person;

(B) Online; or

(C) In a hybrid format.

(b) The term “professional development” means activities that are:

(1) An integral part of eligible agency, eligible recipient, institution, or school strategies for providing educators (including teachers, principals, other school leaders, administrators, specialized instructional support personnel, career guidance and academic counselors, and paraprofessionals) with the knowledge and skills necessary to enable students to:

(A) Succeed in career and technical education;

(B) Meet challenging state academic standards under Section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; or

(C) Achieve academic skills at the postsecondary levels; and

(2) Sustained (not stand-alone, one-day, or short-term workshops), intensive, collaborative, job-embedded, data-driven, and classroom-focused, to the extent practicable evidence-based, and may include activities that:

(A) Improve and increase educators’:

(i) Knowledge of the academic and technical subjects;

(ii) Understanding of how students learn; and

(iii) Ability to analyze student work and achievement from multiple sources, including how to adjust instructional strategies, assessments, and materials based on such analysis;

(B) Are an integral part of eligible recipients’ improvement plans;

(C) Allow personalized plans for each educator to address the educator’s specific needs identified in observation or other feedback;

(D) Support the recruitment, hiring, and training of effective educators, including educators who became certified through state and local alternative routes to certification;

(E) Advance educator understanding of:

(i) Effective instructional strategies that are evidence-based; and

(ii) Strategies for improving student academic and technical achievement or substantially increasing the knowledge and teaching skills of educators;

(F) Are developed with extensive participation of educators, parents, students, and representatives of Indian tribes (as applicable), of schools and institutions served under Perkins V;

(G) Are designed to give educators of students who are English learners in career and technical education programs or programs of study the knowledge and skills to provide instruction and appropriate language and academic support services to those students, including the appropriate use of curricula and assessments;

(H) As a whole, are regularly evaluated for their impact on increased educator effectiveness and improved student academic and technical achievement, with the findings of the evaluation used to improve the quality of professional development;

(I) Are designed to give educators of individuals with disabilities in career and technical education programs or programs of study the knowledge and skills to provide instruction and academic support services to those individuals, including:

(i) Positive behavioral interventions and supports;

(ii) Multi-tier system of supports; and

(iii) Use of accommodations;

(J) Include instruction in the use of data and assessments to inform and instruct classroom practice;

(K) Include instruction in ways that educators may work more effectively with parents and families;

(L) Provide follow-up training to educators who have participated in activities described in this subsection that are designed to ensure that the knowledge and skills learned by the educators are implemented in the classroom;

(M) Promote the integration of academic knowledge and skills and relevant technical knowledge and skills, including programming jointly delivered to academic and career and technical education teachers; or

(N) Increase the ability of educators providing career and technical education instruction to stay current with industry standards.

History

• Codification Notes: Section 1111(b)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 6311(b)(1)."CTE" means career technical education."POS" means point of sale. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-605 Teacher qualifications for freshman seminar/keystone (410) {#sec-6-car-300-605 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-605}

6 CAR § 300-605. Teacher qualifications for freshman seminar/keystone (410).

(a) Education. The Freshman Academy/keystone instructor shall maintain a valid seven through twelve (7-12) standard teaching license or be enrolled in the nontraditional licensure program.

(b) Endorsement. The freshmen seminar/keystone instructor shall:

(1) Complete or be enrolled in a mentorship training program approved by the Division of Career and Technical Education under an approved model trainer during the first semester of teaching the course; and

(2) High recommendation to attend the career guidance new teacher professional development provided by the Division of Career and Technical Education.

6 CAR § 300-606 Teacher qualifications for Division of Career and Technical Education technical permit areas {#sec-6-car-300-606 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-606}

6 CAR § 300-606. Teacher qualifications for Division of Career and Technical Education technical permit areas.

(a)(1) Minimum requirements for CTE technical permits.

(2) Experienced professionals may be issued a Division of Career and Technical Education provisional technical permit.

(3) The requirements include a minimum of an associate degree with two (2) years of relevant work experience in the specialty area to be taught or four (4) years of relevant work experience in the specialty area to be taught.

(4) Minimum education requirements/work experience shall be met prior to employment in the teaching specialty, verification of high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma.

(5) All candidates shall pass the required background checks.

(6) The Division of Career and Technical Education reserves the right, when considering the issuance of a technical permit, to afford consideration of an applicant’s related:

(A) Industry experience;

(B) Education;

(C) Skillsets; and

(D) Credentials.

(b) Process for obtaining Division of Career and Technical Education technical permits.

(1) Candidates shall submit the following documents to the Office of Educator Licensure:

(A) The Arkansas educator licensure application, located on the Department of Education website;

(B) Official college transcript, copy of high school diploma, or copy of general equivalency diploma (GED) (submit the highest attained);

(C) Resume reflecting relevant work experience in specialty permit areas; and

(D) Additional requirements as outlined under specialty permit areas.

(2)(A) Provisional permits (employment required) will be valid for one (1) year from the date of the approved applicants hire date.

(B) In extenuating circumstances, a second one-year provisional permit may be issued to allow additional time for completion of the specialty area requirements to obtain a standard five-year permit.

(C) A new application shall be submitted for permit renewal.

(c) Specialty permit areas requirements.

(1)(A) JROTC (612).

(B) Instructor approval letter from branch of service.

(2)(A) Unmanned aerial systems.

(B) FAA Part 107.

(3)(A) Cosmetology (573).

(B) *Phasing out at the kindergarten through twelve (K-12) level.

(4)(A) Standard five-year permit requirements.

(B)(i) FACS – 580 culinary arts/food production.

(ii) Complete the Arkansas FCCLA adviser academy or Division of Career and Technical Education-designed teacher training.

(d) Trade and industry (formerly skilled and technical) permit areas.

(1) All trade and industry sciences program instructors shall complete Division of Career and Technical Education designed teacher training.

(2) Additional requirements for trade and industry specialty areas:

(A) Construction technology (570) and welding (597):

(i) National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certification; and

(ii) NOCTI assessment;

(B) Medical professions (611). Hold a current professional medical license registration, and/or certification that reflects college credit in a clinical specialty area;

(C) Sports medicine (625):

(i) Licensed in Arkansas to practice as:

(a) An athletic trainer;

(b) A physical therapist; or

(c) A physical therapy assistant; or

(ii) Minimum of a bachelor's degree in kinesiology or exercise physiology/science; and

(D) Automotive collision repair (567), automotive service technology (568), and diesel mechanics (574). ASE certification in the specific areas taught.

(e) The following programs of study shall maintain accreditation by the ASE Education Foundation (formerly NATEF):

(1) Automotive service technology; and

(2) Collision repair technology.

(f) The following programs of study shall maintain accreditation by the NCCER:

(1) Construction technology; and

(2) Welding.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education."JROTC" means Junior Reserves Officers’ Training Corps."FAA" means the Federal Aviation Administration."FACS" means family and consumer science."FCCLA" means the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America."NOCTI" means the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-607 Concurrent credit teacher approval {#sec-6-car-300-607 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-607}

6 CAR § 300-607. Concurrent credit teacher approval.

(a)(1) Concurrent credit courses offered at secondary career and/or post-secondary centers shall align to Division of Career and Technical Education standards.

(2) Concurrent course code/Department of Education alignment is indicated on the secondary center tabs in the following:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NDqR2eMaq7s7vv9B36E5naZYI_r-Drei/view

(b)(1) Concurrent credit courses used by high schools shall align to division standards.

(2) Concurrent course code/department alignment is indicated on the district tabs in the following:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NDqR2eMaq7s7vv9B36E5naZYI_r-Drei/view

(c)(1) Technical instructors teaching at a STC operated by a two-year community/technical college shall have a minimum of an associate degree within the area of instruction, have completed all necessary background checks, and met all college accrediting standards for instructors.

(2) Secondary technical centers shall follow Rules for Secondary Technical Centers, 6 CAR pt. 501.

(3) Centers will annually submit a list of instructors providing concurrent credit and in meeting the above requirements, will be given an annual waiver from teacher licensure requirements.

(4) Those instructors not meeting these requirements or instructors teaching nonconcurrent credit classes shall hold an Arkansas teacher’s license/technical permit as required by division.

History

• Codification Notes: “STC” means secondary technical centers. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

Subpart 7

6 CAR § 300-701 Generally {#sec-6-car-300-701 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-701}

6 CAR § 300-701. Generally.

(a)(1) Work-based learning (WBL) is the umbrella term that all WBL opportunities fall under.

(2) These can include noncredit options such as job shadowing, skill-based projects, career fairs, industry tours, guest speakers from industry, etc.

(3) WBL is the nationally recognized term for all experiences that involve stakeholders.

(4) WBL includes industry-focused experiences that provide an opportunity for students to explore and engage in the learning and skills necessary to prepare them for the future workforce.

(b)(1)(A) The Perkins V federal definition of work-based learning is “sustained interactions with industry or community professionals in real workplace settings, to the extent practicable, or simulated environments at an educational institution that foster in-depth, first-hand engagement with the tasks required in a given career field, that are aligned to curriculum and instruction.”

(B) Page 31, Perkins V: The Official Guide to Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act.

(2) The sustained interactions to meet federal requirements are through WBL courses outlined below:

(A) Internship;

(B) Career practicum; and

(C) Preapprentice.

(c)(1) Students can engage in WBL opportunities and courses including both classroom instruction and worksite experience.

(2) A training plan shall be developed between the student, teacher, and workplace supervisor.

(3) The WBL coordinator and the workplace mentor will evaluate the student.

(d) Additional details about these WBL courses include:

(1) Internship.

(A) The Internship course may be paid or unpaid.

(B) The course will serve as an introductory work experience course for ten to twelve (10-12) grade students.

(C) This course is eligible for an employer tax credit according to Arkansas Code § 26-51-509.

(D) This course does not count toward completer status.

(E) Please refer to the Internship Instructor Manual for specific details: https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov/Page/WorkBasedLearning.

(2) Career practicum.

(A) The career practicum course is a paid or unpaid work experience that aligns to a student’s program of study offered to students in grades eleven to twelve (11-12) to help students transition successfully from high school to career.

(B) To be eligible, students shall:

(i) Be at least sixteen (16) years of age;

(ii) Be in good academic standing as deemed by the school;

(iii) Have completed at least two (2) courses in an approved program of study; and

(iv) Have a student success plan that includes courses in an approved program of study.

(C) This course is eligible for an employer tax credit according to Acts 2017, No. 1042.

(D) It is considered an eligible course for completer status following the completion of concentration in a single program of study.

(E) Please refer to the Career Practicum Instructor Manual for specific details: https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov/Page/WorkBasedLearning.

(3) Preapprenticeship.

(A) The preapprenticeship program is a program that provides instruction or training to increase math, literacy, and other vocational and prevocational skills needed to enter a registered apprenticeship program.

(B) Preapprenticeship programs are not registered with the United States Department of Labor during the term of the preapprenticeship training or federally vetted.

(C) A high-quality preapprenticeship program should have a minimum of one (1) registered apprenticeship partner or a strong relationship with at least one (1) apprenticeship program, feature training and curriculum that aligns with the program, and include a wide range of support services designed specifically to help participants succeed.

(D) Please refer to the Pre-Apprenticeship Instructor Manual for specific details: https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov/Page/WorkBasedLearning.

History

• Codification Notes: Acts 2017, No. 1042, is codified at Arkansas Code § 26-51-509. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-702 Documentation required for work-based learning {#sec-6-car-300-702 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-702}

6 CAR § 300-702. Documentation required for work-based learning.

The WBL coordinator will be responsible for submitting all required documentation to the state office for all work-based learning course options.

History

• Codification Notes: “WBL” means work-based learning. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-703 Internship teacher supervision period required for all work-based learning {#sec-6-car-300-703 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-703}

6 CAR § 300-703. Internship teacher supervision period required for all work-based learning.

(a) The following supervision period is required for all work-based learning:

(1) One (1) supervision period for one to twenty-five (1-25) students;

(2) Two (2) supervision periods for twenty-six to fifty (26-50) students; and

(3) Three (2) supervision periods for fifty-one (51) or more students.

(b) The conference/planning period may count as one (1) of the three (3) supervision periods.

6 CAR § 300-704 Course credits for internship and career practicum {#sec-6-car-300-704 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-704}

6 CAR § 300-704. Course credits for internship and career practicum.

(a) Students can earn up to four (4) credits, in a two-year period.

(b) To earn two (2) credits per year, a student will need thirty-six (36) hours of classroom instruction (at least one (1) hour per week) and two hundred forty (240) work hours (approximately seven (7) hours per week).

(c) One (1) credit may be granted for an entire year for students that work one hundred twenty (120) hours throughout the year and are in class at least thirty-six hours (36) hours.

(d) Course credits for internship chart.

6 CAR § 300-705 Course credits for preapprenticeship {#sec-6-car-300-705 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-705}

6 CAR § 300-705. Course credits for preapprenticeship.

(a) Students can earn up to four (4) credits, in a two-year period.

(b) The rate at which the credits are earned is determined by the Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship partner.

Subpart 8

6 CAR § 300-801 Generally {#sec-6-car-300-801 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-801}

6 CAR § 300-801. Generally.

(a) The program approval process is outlined below to clearly articulate the necessary documentation and steps districts should follow to ensure that all federal Carl D. Perkins accountability requirements for their allocation of Perkins funds are met.

(b) The program approval process includes the following sections of this subpart.

6 CAR § 300-802 Perkins V accountability metrics {#sec-6-car-300-802 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-802}

6 CAR § 300-802. Perkins V accountability metrics.

(a) The following items will be reviewed annually to maintain program continuation under federal Perkins V requirements:

(1) Percentage of concentrators graduating in four-year cohort;

(2) Percentage of concentrators graduating in five-year cohort;

(3) Academic skill attainment (ELA, math, and science);

(4) Number of students concentrating in a program of study;

(5) Number of students completing a single program of study;

(6) Percentage of students completing an industry-recognized certification;

(7) Placement of students in postsecondary education;

(8) Placements of students in the workforce;

(9) Nontraditional enrollment;

(10) Local occupational specific advisory committee;

(11) Career and technical student organization;

(12) Critical elements from tiered support activities (formerly called technical assistance or on-site compliance visit); and

(13) Any conditional item from the previous academic year.

(b)(1) As required by Section 134 (d) of Perkins V, CTE coordinators shall facilitate a stakeholder meeting every two (2) years.

(2) This meeting shall cover all information relevant to develop the comprehensive local needs assessment and local application, and is the primary source for how funds will be directed at the local level.

(c) Required participants include, at a minimum:

(1) Representatives of career and technical education programs in a local educational agency or education service agency, including:

(A) Teachers;

(B) Career guidance and academic counselors;

(C) Principals and other school leaders;

(D) Administrators; and

(E) Specialized instructional support personnel and paraprofessionals;

(2) Representatives of career and technical education programs at postsecondary educational institutions, including faculty and administrators;

(3) Representatives of the state board or local workforce development boards and a range of local or regional businesses or industries;

(4) Parents and students;

(5) Representatives of special populations;

(6) Representatives of regional or local agencies serving out-of-school youth, homeless children and youth, and at-risk youth as defined in Section 4132 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965;

(7) Representatives of Indian tribes and tribal organizations in the state, where applicable; and

(8) Any other stakeholders that the eligible agency may require the eligible recipient to consult.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education."ELA" means English language arts.The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq.The Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 is codified at 20 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-803 Federal reporting {#sec-6-car-300-803 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-803}

6 CAR § 300-803. Federal reporting.

(a) The consolidated annual report is submitted annually to the United States Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education with Perkins data and narrative sections as required.

(b) Data includes the state-determined performance levels and the state’s program quality indicators along with finance reports and postsecondary Perkins data and narrative.

6 CAR § 300-804 Annual tiered support (formerly TA visit or on-site compliance review) {#sec-6-car-300-804 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-804}

6 CAR § 300-804. Annual tiered support (formerly TA visit or on-site compliance review).

(a) Beginning in 2021-22, the Division of Career and Technical Education will begin full implementation of a tiered support system to include annual desk audits of documentation submitted by the school district and a follow-up on-site visit if necessary.

(b) Each district will be evaluated on a yearly basis by the division using the CTE risk assessment tool.

(c) The purpose of this tool is to provide a yearly review to determine the level of tiered support necessary.

(d)(1) There is no minimum required number of visits, rather a threshold that will be set based on the risk assessment to recommend assistance to a district.

(2) However, a district can request support at any time.

(e) Districts will be evaluated using the following criteria:

(1) LEA has a new CTE coordinator;

(2) LEA had conditional/unapproved programs of study in the previous academic prior year;

(3) LEA/Programs did not provide adequate information in their CLNA;

(4) CTSOs inactive and/or not available LEA programs of study;

(5) LEA does not have minimum of three (3) programs of study in three (3) occupational areas (final determination of occupational area TBD);

(6) LEA does not demonstrate program implementation of a start-up after receiving state start up grant award;

(7) LEA does not fully spend Perkins allocation or misspends;

(8) LEA lacks industry certifications earned by students; and

(9) LEA not offering required courses (middle level grades, etc.).

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education."LEA" means local education agency."CLNA" means Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment."CTSO" means career and technical student organization. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-805 Annual tiered support — Electronic reporting {#sec-6-car-300-805 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-805}

6 CAR § 300-805. Annual tiered support — Electronic reporting.

(a) For submission of documentation for annual desk audits, the Division of Career and Technical Education will make available an online reporting tool for electronic reporting.

(b) Federal monitoring oversight staff recommend tiered monitoring vs. cycle monitoring.

(c) To best support districts and ensure federal requirements are being met, levels of tiered support include:

(1) Tier 1. Annual desk audit completed with upload of documentation into the division electronic reporting system demonstrating federal Perkins requirements are being met;

(2) Tier 2.

(A) Incomplete desk audit with absent or incomplete documentation to demonstrate federal requirements are being met.

(B) This tier level requires responses to additional questions; and

(3) Tier 3.

(A) High-risk audit with high-risk findings on the risk assessment.

(B) This tier level includes investigation with a deeper look at federal requirements that are not being met along with a letter to the superintendent.

(C) This tier level will be documented as a high-risk with the Department of Education Public School Accountability Office as an identified high-risk from another Department of Education division and may include an on-site visit.

6 CAR § 300-806 On-site visits {#sec-6-car-300-806 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-806}

6 CAR § 300-806. On-site visits.

(a) In addition to Tier 3 high-risk audit on-site visits, the Division of Career and Technical Education conducts on-site visits and will provide on-site visits to districts in support of the following goals:

(1) To highlight high-quality CTE programs of study and programs;

(2) To support requirements to meet Rules Governing Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, 6 CAR pt. 61;

(3) To support new teachers;

(4) To collaborate with CTE coordinators to review risk assessments and identify schools/districts in need of attention;

(5) To conduct methods of administration reviews;

(6) To conduct state-state start-up visits when applicable;

(7) To conduct program approval visits when applicable; and

(8) To showcase program and/or teacher best practices.

(b)(1) On-site visits will be provided to districts annually and shall be geographically distributed across the state.

(2) Districts may also request an on-site team visit which will be scheduled as feasibility allows.

(c)(1) Programs of study are reviewed annually.

(2) Programs of study granted approval status shall:

(A) Meet the federal Perkins V definition of a program of study;

(B) Follow all policies and procedures;

(C) Remove all critical elements identified in tiered support review or reviews; and

(D) Follow all required CTE guidelines.

(d)(1) Only CTE program of study or CTE modified programs approved by the division are eligible for Perkins funding and graduation credit.

(2) If program approvals are unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, Perkins funding and student graduation credit will not be negatively impacted.

(e)(1) Note. In addition to program approval to meet federal requirements, standards for accreditation shall be met according to information located at https://adedata.arkansas.gov/sfa.

(2) When standards for accreditation have been met, additional CTE courses may be offered.

(3) These additional CTE courses are considered to be offered independent of an approved CTE program of study (offered as an elective, stand-alone course only) and therefore are not eligible for state start-up or Perkins funding.

(f) Approval Status Chart.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-807 Federal funds {#sec-6-car-300-807 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-807}

6 CAR § 300-807. Federal funds.

(a) The federal funds received through the Division of Career and Technical Education shall be used to improve division programs and services for students enrolled in the program of study, which may also include other uses as outlined in Perkins V, including support and career preparation courses.

(b) Federal rules and regulations along with the state’s approved Perkins V state plan and local application for the funds shall be followed.

(c) Pertinent information regarding the federal CTE funds may be obtained through the Arkansas Perkins V State Plan (posted on the division’s website) and through the United States Department of Education Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at https://cte.ed.gov/.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career technical education. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-808 Methods of administration — Perkins V {#sec-6-car-300-808 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-808}

6 CAR § 300-808. Methods of administration — Perkins V.

(a)(1) The Division of Career and Technical Education is responsible for oversight of the methods of administration (MOA) program in career and technical education.

(2) The Office of Perkins and Accountability is responsible for conducting

targeted compliance reviews of selected secondary and postsecondary schools that provide career and technical education in the State of Arkansas.

(b)(1) The purpose of the methods of administration program is to ensure that all students, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability, have equal access to high-quality career and technical education programs.

(2) Through its methods of administration authority, the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) oversees the civil rights compliance programs of state agencies that administer career and technical education.

(3)(A) The state agencies’ responsibilities under the MOA program are set out in the Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex, and Handicap in Vocational Education Programs.

(B) 45 C.F.R. pt. 80 Appendix B.

(4) These responsibilities include:

(A) Conducting targeted compliance reviews of selected secondary and postsecondary schools that provide career and technical education;

(B) Securing corrective action when civil rights violations are found; and

(C) Periodically reporting civil rights activities and findings to OCR.

(5) Partnership and collaboration between OCR and the state agencies has been an important underpinning of the MOA program.

(c)(1) The division will continue to inform school administration of current policies regarding gender equity, discrimination, and nontraditional training with the intention that these policies will be infused into the local curriculum and instruction.

(2) On-site monitoring of selected programs is required by federal law.

(3) The Methods of Administration Office will visit secondary and postsecondary education institutions offering CTE courses as outlined in the state plan to monitor compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq., Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq., Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d et seq., rules and regulations, as defined by the federal government.

History

• Codification Notes: “CTE” means career and technical education.Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is codified at 29 U.S.C. § 794. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107

6 CAR § 300-809 Career and technical student organizations {#sec-6-car-300-809 omnilex-key=us-ar-regs-official--title-6-part-300--6 CAR § 300-809}

6 CAR § 300-809. Career and technical student organizations.

(a)(1) An organization for individuals enrolled in a career and technical education program that engages in career and technical education activities as an integral part of the instructional program.

(2) These include:

(A) DECA;

(B) FBLA;

(C) FBLA middle level;

(D) FCCLA;

(E) FFA;

(F) HOSA;

(G) SkillsUSA;

(H) TSA; and

(I) Educators rising.

(b)(1) Career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) are a requirement of the federal Perkins program.

(2) The career and technical student organization or organizations shall be:

(A) Recognized by the National Coordinating Council of Career and Technical Student Organizations Career and Technical Student Organizations listed at this link: https://www.acteonline.org/career-and-technical-student-organizations-make-cte-work/;

(B) An integral part of the division program or programs offered in each school and shall follow the applicable guidelines, goals, objectives, and participate in activities of the appropriate state and/or national student organization for each program membership requirements and active CTSO participation is defined on the correlating occupational program area page on the division website;

(C) The holder of the CTSO charters held by the division; and

(D) Supervised by career and technical personnel in the applicable occupational area.

History

• Codification Notes: “FBLA” means Future Business Leaders of America."FCCLA" means Family, Career and Community Leaders of America."TSA" means Technology Student Association. Authority: Arkansas Code § 25-30-107