Arkansas Act 400 – In Plain Language
What it is:
Arkansas Act 400 confirms and clarifies students’ and staff’s rights to freely express and practice their religious beliefs in public schools.
Who must see it:
At the start of each school year, every student, staff member, and family will receive a copy—either electronically or in handbooks—so everyone knows their rights at school.
Your Rights Under This Law students and employees are allowed to:
• Pray alone or with friends during any free or open times, and even out loud if speaking is allowed.
• Gather to pray or talk about religion anywhere students are allowed to gather for other purposes .
• Share religious beliefs or texts (like giving a Bible to someone), whenever other non-religious materials can be shared.
• Display religious images, quotes, or symbols, and talk or write about them in class if the topic is student-chosen.
• Start and join religious clubs and activities under the same rules as other student groups.
• Invite faith leaders to speak at school events, just like other guest speakers.
• Stay silent and pray during moments of silence, without interference.
• Study religious and historical religious documents, or show religious mottos like “In God We Trust” in class.
• Take part in academic Bible courses, if those are offered by the school.
Why This Matters
• The act supports First Amendment rights, meaning the government (including schools) can’t stop you from practicing your religion freely.
• It brings Arkansas in line with existing federal and state protections, making sure religious freedoms in public schools are clear and respected.
For Families and Staff
• You’re free to express your faith respectfully using the same rules that apply to everyone.
• This protection is not optional or secret—it applies from the first day of school and must be shared with all families and staff.
Bottom line:
Arkansas Act 400 ensures that students and employees in public schools can pray, share, practice, display, and discuss their religious beliefs openly and respectfully, under the same rules as any other kind of expression.