Ken McLemore

HOPE – The return of students to classes in the Hope Public Schools after the recent Christmas break brought a reminder from HPS Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Crossley that COVID-19 protocols established by the HPS Board of Education remain in place.

“There were over 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 reported Dec. 28 by the Arkansas Department of Health,” Dr. Crossley said. “We must be vigilant in our safety precautions during this time.”

Consequently, Crossley said HPS students or staff who have not been vaccinated but have been exposed to COVID-19 should notify HPS Bobcat Clinic Director Gretchen Carlton at [email protected] online or at 870-722-2733, option 3, by telephone.

“Please notify Ms. Carlton so return dates can be discussed and attendance adjusted,” he said. “This allows us to stay in good communication and be proactive for the start of the semester. With this in mind, please remain at home if you have any symptoms.”

Crossley said while the Centers for Disease Control have updated guidelines for COVID-19 protocols, the HPS is awaiting recommendations from ADH and the Arkansas Department of Education.

“Thank you in advance for your attention to detail with this matter,” he said. “Our ultimate goal of serving students well will never waiver. All of you are essential in that effort.”