Current News

APSRC has received several inquiries as to whether or not Act 914 of 2021 expands the tax-free exemption historically provided to public schools on purchases of instructional materials to now include the purchase of equipment required to make use of technology-based educational materials and software. It is my opinion that Act 914 does allow for the tax-free purchase of a Chromebook®, iPad® or other electronic devices required to make use of technology-based educational materials and electronic software. Act 914 went into effect on July 1, 2021.   Arkansas Code Annotated Section 26-52-437(a)(1)(D) in defining “Instructional materials” contained a specific exclusion for the equipment required to use the technology-based educational materials and electronic software, meaning sales tax was applied to the purchase of that equipment. Act 914 removed the… Read More

The U.S. Department of Education’s recently updated the EESER Frequently Asked Questions document.  The May 2021 updated FAQ document can be accessed by clicking here. Read More

Approval and Publication of Budget Reminder – For districts that hold annual school board elections at the Preferential Primary on March 3, 2020 Read More

Reminder As of July 1 ATRS rates have changed. Please make sure that you have entered the new rates in your payroll software. The 2019 – 2020 Contribution Rates are as follows: Type of Contributions (Rate) Employee Active – Contributory (6.25%) Employer Active – Contributory & Noncontributory (14.25%) T-Drop (14.25%) Working Retiree (14.25%) Surcharge (2.00%) Read More

APSRC offers a total Purchasing Card (P-Card) Program, which includes training; assistance with policies and procedures; and instructions for integrating with eFinance Plus. Sign up and earn an ANNUAL REBATE! A P-Card is a financial tool which districts can utilize to save time and money. It is similar to a traditional credit card, but offers more control and security for the district. Benefits to the P-Card Program Control how funds are used. Districts determine what merchant categories are approved. Control where funds are used. Districts choose the vendors with whom the cards may be used. Control when funds are available. P-Cards do not carry a revolving line of credit. They cannot be used until the district makes funds available. Districts set the available amounts and… Read More