(a) A person shall not be licensed as a social studies teacher or as an elementary school teacher unless the person has successfully completed:
(1) For a person seeking a traditional first-time license, at least three (3) college-credit hours in Arkansas history at an accredited institution of higher education; or
(2) For a person seeking licensure through a nontraditional program, by reciprocity, or by adding an endorsement, documentation of the successful completion of:
(A) Three (3) college credit hours in Arkansas history at an accredited institution of higher education; or
(B) An approved learning pathway in Arkansas history offered through ArkansasIDEAS for professional development hours or professional learning credits as determined by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.
(b) However, social studies teachers and elementary school teachers entering Arkansas from another state shall receive a one-year nonrenewable provisional license to teach in Arkansas schools as authorized by § 6-17-403, during which time the person shall complete the Arkansas history requirement under this section.
(c) The provisions of this section are not applicable to the renewal of a license for a teacher who was licensed before March 24, 1997.