Ken MClemore

HOPE – All six campuses of the Hope Public Schools have been given full accreditation for 2020-2021 by the Arkansas Department of Education/Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The district was notified of the accreditation June 24.

“Our teachers, administrators and students all work together to meet accreditation standards,” HPS Superintendent Dr. Bobby Hart said.

Hart said the district collaboration was directed through a team headed by Assistant Superintendent for Equity and Federal Programs Portia Jones.

“She and all of our principals have worked hard to see that all of our ‘T’s are crossed and our ‘I’s are dotted,” he said. “We are very proud of the work they all do.”

Accreditation is based upon meeting criteria regarding curriculum and instruction, student support services, district operation/fiscal governance, human capital, stakeholder communication/family and community engagement, and facilities/transportation.

Accreditation reviews are conducted annually by the ADE based upon snapshots of the district from seven separate dates throughout the academic year. Districts are also required to submit annual statements of assurance regarding adherence to Arkansas law.

ADE also considers waivers granted relative to standards required in determining accreditation.