(a) There is hereby created the Arkansas Early Grades Foreign Language Pilot Program. The purpose of this program is to encourage the development of new foreign language programs for students in kindergarten through grade six (K-6), with an emphasis on Spanish.
(b) The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Division of Higher Education and representatives of the state's foreign language educators, shall develop a request-for-proposals process whereby public schools serving students in kindergarten through grade six (K-6) may apply for funding, not to exceed three (3) years, to establish a foreign language training program, with an emphasis on Spanish.
(c)
(1) The awards granted under the provisions of this section and § 6-16-127 may be funded by donations, grants, or legislative appropriation.
(2) The Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education may solicit and receive donations and grants for the purpose of making awards.
(3) All donations, grants, and appropriations received shall be accounted for by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.
(4) The provisions of this section and § 6-16-127 shall be contingent on the appropriation and funding necessary to allow the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to carry out the duties assigned to it in this section and § 6-16-127.