Hope Public Schools Awarded $500,000 21st Century Grant to Support At-Risk Students

Hope, Arkansas – Hope Public Schools is proud to announce the receipt of a substantial $500,000 21st Century Grant, specifically designated to bolster support for approximately 100 at-risk students in grades 7 through 12 at Yerger Middle School and Hope High School. There were 29 awardees in this round, bringing the state total to 87 programs statewide. This grant will revolutionize education for these students, providing them with enhanced opportunities for academic success, career preparation, social-emotional development, and community engagement. Various partners have joined together to help fulfill the goals of the grant including, but not limited to, Hempstead County Cooperative Extension Services, University of Arkansas-Hope/Texarkana, and the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council.

The grant will be structured around four key pillars:

1. **Academic Pillar:** Focused on academic excellence, this pillar will provide tailored instruction in core subjects, including ACT preparation, English Language Arts, and mathematics. Students identified as below grade level will receive specialized academic support to help them reach their full potential.

2. **Career Prep and Technology Pillar:** Equipping students with essential skills for the modern workforce, this pillar will offer career preparation programs and technology integration initiatives. Students will have the opportunity to explore various career pathways and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.

3. **Community and Partnership Pillar:** Strengthening connections between the school and the community, this pillar will foster partnerships with local organizations and businesses to provide students with valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and real-world learning experiences.

4. **Social-Emotional Pillar:** Prioritizing the holistic development of students, this pillar will focus on promoting positive character development, enhancing communication skills, and providing social-emotional learning support. Students will engage in activities designed to build resilience, empathy, and self-confidence.

To facilitate the implementation of these pillars, students will be organized into seven teams, each offering a unique blend of educational and enrichment activities. Three days a week, students will rotate through a variety of stations, including ACT prep, career exploration, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), English Language Arts, social-emotional learning, health and wellness, and music and drama. Additionally, all teams will participate in physical activities two Saturdays a month, promoting physical health and teamwork. The learning and activities will take place on the Yerger Middle School campus.

The grant funds will also support wrap-around services, including transportation and snacks, to ensure that students have access to the resources they need to fully participate in the program. Furthermore, the grant will enhance the existing after-school programs at Yerger Middle School and Hope High School, providing additional support and opportunities for at-risk students. Staff training sessions will be conducted over the summer in Little Rock, Arkansas, to prepare educators to effectively implement the program and support student success.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the 21st Century Grant, which will enable us to provide our at-risk students with the comprehensive support and opportunities they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally,” said Dr. Jonathan Crossley, Superintendent of Hope Public Schools. “Through the implementation of these four pillars, we are confident that we can empower our students to become future leaders and achieve their dreams.”

For more information about Hope Public Schools and its programs, please visit www.hpsdistrict.org.