During a recent meeting of the Arkansas Senate Education Committee, significant discussions centered on funding for supervisory aids and substitute teachers, highlighting a pressing need for increased financial support in these areas.

The committee reviewed data indicating that districts with fewer than 350 students reported no expenditures for supervisory aids, raising concerns about the allocation of resources. Notably, the average spending per pupil varied widely across regions, with schools in the Southwest Region spending only $7 per student, while those in the Central Region spent $25. Despite the evident need for supervisory aids, research shows no measurable impact on student achievement linked to their funding, underscoring the complexity of resource allocation in education.

A survey of superintendents revealed that 53% felt their districts were in moderate to extreme need of more funding for supervisory aids. The discussion also touched on substitute teacher funding, which accounted for just 1% of total foundation funding in 2023. Districts received approximately $35.5 million for substitute teachers but spent over $41 million from foundation funds and nearly $20 million from other sources. The average spending on substitutes varied, with the Northwest Region spending the least per pupil.

The committee noted that 70% of superintendents reported a similar need for increased funding for substitute teachers. This highlights a broader issue within the education system regarding adequate staffing and support for both students and teachers.

As the meeting progressed, Senator Chesterfield raised a question about the compensation for teachers performing additional duties, such as morning and lunch supervision. This inquiry reflects ongoing concerns about fair compensation and resource management within school districts.

The committee concluded its discussions on staffing and resource allocation, emphasizing the importance of addressing these funding gaps to enhance educational outcomes in Arkansas. The next steps will involve further analysis and potential recommendations to ensure that schools can meet their staffing needs effectively.