The Education Committee of the Arkansas Senate convened on November 7, 2023, to discuss various aspects of educational programs and funding across the state's cooperative education services. The meeting focused on the effectiveness of individual cooperatives and their initiatives, particularly in relation to literacy training and support for struggling schools.

Senator Dodson initiated the discussion by expressing interest in the performance of individual cooperatives, noting that while the presentation provided a broad overview, specific data on each cooperative's effectiveness was crucial. He inquired about the distribution of staff across the 15 cooperatives, confirming that the total of 1,770 staff members was indeed statewide.

The conversation then shifted to the role of these staff members in schools, particularly regarding initiatives mandated by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) versus those requested by schools themselves. The committee explored how many staff members were engaged in support roles due to ADE mandates, such as the RISE (Reading Initiative for Student Excellence) training program, which includes coaching components for educators.

A representative clarified that the RISE program is funded through grants that flow from the state to the cooperatives, which then hire specialists to assist schools. This structure positions the cooperatives as liaisons rather than contractors, emphasizing their role in facilitating support rather than merely providing services.

Senator Dodson also raised questions about the financial aspects of the cooperatives, specifically regarding fund balances and how they are allocated among the individual cooperatives. The representative assured the committee that detailed financial breakdowns, including fund balances and expenditures for fiscal year 2022 and 2023, could be provided for further clarity.

The meeting underscored the importance of targeted support for schools, particularly those identified as underperforming. The committee's discussions highlighted the need for ongoing evaluation of cooperative effectiveness and the strategic allocation of resources to enhance educational outcomes across Arkansas. The next steps involve obtaining detailed financial reports and continuing to assess the impact of cooperative initiatives on student performance.