The rule in one paragraph
The LEARNS Act (Act 237 of 2023) requires every Arkansas public high school student to complete at least 75 hours of documented community service in grades 9-12 to earn a diploma. It applies to the class of 2027 and later. The service must be confirmed by the organization you served, and your district decides how hours are submitted and approved.
A simple four-year pace
The state sets no minimum per year, but spreading the hours out keeps senior spring free. Many districts suggest something like this:
| Grade | Hours that year | Running total |
|---|---|---|
| 9th grade | 15 | 15 |
| 10th grade | 20 | 35 |
| 11th grade | 20 | 55 |
| 12th grade | 20 | 75 |
That is about 20 minutes a week across four school years, or one 3-hour event a month.
What counts
- Usually accepted: service with nonprofits, government agencies, churches and schools.
- Often accepted: service done for a club, an honor society or a class.
- Only if your district allows it: paid employment or work-based service, as an alternative to a waiver.
Rules differ by district. Ask your counselor for your school's form and approved organizations before you start.
Waivers for extenuating circumstances
District boards may waive the requirement for individual students, for example for:
- a major illness of the student or a family member;
- a disability or medical condition that prevents completing the hours;
- homelessness or housing insecurity;
- being a major contributor to family income.
How to document your hours
- Write it down the same day: date, organization, what you did and the hours.
- Get a supervisor to confirm: name, phone and signature, or a confirmation by email.
- Keep one running total: so you always know how many of the 75 are left.
- Keep your own copy: if you change schools, you still have proof.
Free printable hours log
Download the Arkansas community service hours log (PDF). It has room for 16 entries with supervisor signatures, a page total and student and parent signature lines. Print as many pages as you need.
Or track the 75 hours online, free
In My Award Tracker, pick the Arkansas graduation requirement goal and log as you go. You see the hours left and the weekly pace you need, supervisors confirm your hours by email, and you can print an hours form with every verified entry for your counselor.
Frequently asked questions
How many community service hours do Arkansas students need to graduate?
Public high school students in the graduating class of 2027 and later need at least 75 hours of documented community service completed in grades 9 through 12.
Is there a minimum number of hours per year?
No. The state sets no minimum per grade and no cap per year. A student could finish all 75 hours in one or two years. Many districts suggest spreading them out, for example 15 hours in 9th grade and 20 in each later year.
What counts as community service in Arkansas?
Service with nonprofits, government agencies, churches and schools is generally accepted. Service done for a club, for honors or for a class can also count. Each district sets its own approval process, so check with your school counselor.
Can a paid job count?
Only if your district allows it. Instead of granting a waiver, a district board may count paid employment or work-based service for a student who cannot complete the hours otherwise.
Can a student get a waiver?
Yes. District boards may waive the requirement for extenuating circumstances, such as a major illness of the student or a family member, a disability that prevents completing the hours, homelessness or housing insecurity, or being a major contributor to family income.
What happens if I change schools?
Your hours are yours. Keep your own log with dates, organizations and supervisor confirmations so a new school can review them.