Frequently Asked Questions

1. What topics does the program discuss?

Instructors visit schools throughout the state to share information with students regarding specific laws dealing with youth violence, gangs, weapons, and controlled substances. Video segments dealing with these topics, as well as an overview of the criminal justice system, victimization, and prison are used to help achieve the program's goals.

2. What is the target age group for the program?

Younger students, grades 4-6, receive concentrated information through a series of six one-hour lesson plans. Hour long assemblies are conducted for students in junior and senior high school. There are also one-hour presentations available to educators and parent groups to introduce them to the program, as well as giving an overview of related Arkansas laws.

3. How can my school receive the program?

To receive a "Smart Choices, Better Chances" program, you would need to contact the law education staff at the Attorney General's Office at 1-800-448-3014. The staff will work to link you with a trained volunteer instructor from your area. If no one is trained or available, the staff will place your school on the waiting list until a volunteer instructor is located and trained within your county.

4. How can I become involved with "Smart Choices" as a volunteer instructor?

If you are interested in being a "Smart Choices" instructor, you will need to contact the law education staff to send you a volunteer application packet. The completed applications that are received are kept on file and those individuals which meet the required criteria are notified of all upcoming trainings.

5. How long do the instructor trainings last and what is the cost?

The volunteer instructor trainings are conducted over a two-day period. There is no charge for the training course, but each workshop participant is responsible for his or her own transportation, food, and lodging. The staff schedules trainings at various locations across the state depending on the interest level from people within the community.