HOPE – As the use of Alternative Method of Instruction materials becomes the norm throughout the Arkansas public schools, the Hope Public Schools has received new guidance from the Arkansas Department of Education to help students and parents understand the importance of AMI.

HPS Superintendent Dr. Bobby Hart discussed the new guidance with campus principals and district staff Thursday.

“Your teams have done an excellent job of compiling the materials and getting them out to students,” Dr. Hart said.

The ADE will recognize a certain amount of flexibility regarding AMI materials in relation to online access and technological capabilities within communities, and the goal of aiding student learning through support which allows multiple opportunities to master material. Flexibility regarding “time on task” is also encouraged with the goal of keeping students focused upon state standards within core math, literacy, science, and social studies subjects.

Hart said all HPS campuses have AMI plans in place for the period through April 17, the original deadline set by the closure of public schools in Arkansas as the result of the COVID-19 illness. Additional materials will be made available to complete the school year, which ends May 22, Hart said.

Announcements concerning AMI schedules will be posted on the website and Facebook page of each campus, he said.