TO REQUIRE PRIVATE SCHOOLS TO ADMINISTER AN ANNUAL STATEWIDE STUDENT ASSESSMENT; AND TO REQUIRE PRIVATE SCHOOLS TO ADMIT EACH STUDENT WHO APPLIES FOR ADMISSION AND INTENDS TO COVER PRIVATE SCHOOL COSTS WITH STATE FUNDING.

HB 1542 would require private schools in Arkansas that receive any state funding to administer the same annual statewide student assessments as public schools. These private schools would be responsible for the costs associated with these assessments and must ensure all enrolled students participate. Additionally, the bill mandates that these private schools admit students who intend to cover their tuition and attendance costs using state funding. The bill extends existing assessment security and reporting requirements to these private schools.