LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education is pleased to announce that $6,871,250 will be awarded to 159 public schools through the Arkansas School Recognition Program.
The Arkansas School Recognition Program (authorized by Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2107: https://bit.ly/3CR6YP1) recognizes the top 10 percent of schools that achieve high student performance on the state-required assessments in grades 3 through 10. Awards also are given to the top 10 percent of public schools that achieve high student academic growth, including high school graduation rates where applicable. Awards announced today are based on assessment results from the 2020-2021 school year and graduation rates from the 2019-2020 school year.
“In spite of the pandemic, many Arkansas schools still rose to the occasion and demonstrated growth and achievement,” ADE Secretary Johnny Key said. “I am excited to recognize these 159 schools, and I commend them and their students for showing that learning can continue despite challenging circumstances.”
Funds can be used for faculty and staff bonuses, educational equipment, and materials or personnel to improve or maintain student performance. Schools receiving recognition funds are required to establish a committee comprised of a principal, teacher, and parent to determine how the funds will be used.
The totals for each category are listed below. To see the complete list of schools and award amounts, go to https://bit.ly/3mNPnCf.
| Reward Category | Number of Qualified Schools | Eligible Funding |
| Top 5% Performance | 49 | $100 per student |
| Top 6-10% Performance | 52 | $50 per student |
| Top 5% Growth | 49 | $100 per student |
| Top 6-10% Growth | 50 | $50 per student |
Baker and Chenal elementaries were recognized for scoring in the top 5% in performance. The growth award amount to Baker is $37,700 and to Chenal is $44,400.
Both schools also received growth awards. Baker Elementary placed in the top 5% for high student academic growth, receiving $37,700. Chenal Elementary placed in the top 6-10%, receiving $22,200.