HOPE – A dyslexia therapist in the Hope Public Schools was recently named Hope/Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Educator of the Year for 2020.

Hope Public Schools educator Mandy Townsend was recognized in a virtual awards ceremony in conjunction with the annual Chamber honors typically presented during the organization’s banquet, which was cancelled because of the COVID-19 crisis.

“On behalf of the HPS Board of Directors and the entire district, we want to congratulate Mandy on her recognition,” HPS Superintendent Dr. Bobby Hart said. “She is a terrific educator who cares deeply about children and has a proven track record of success.”

Townsend’s mother, Robin Townsend, assistant principal at Clinton Primary School in Hope, was the 2019 recipient of the award. She presented the award to her daughter.

Mandy Townsend is a graduate of Hope High School and an alumnus of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, who has taught grades 1-8 in the Texarkana, and Hope schools.

She is currently working toward receipt of National Board certification and specific certification in Dyslexia education services. Mandy Townsend is a member of Hope Junior Auxiliary and the First United Methodist Church of Hope.

Mandy is the mother of two children, Mackenzie, an HHS graduate and senior at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, and Ella, a student at Hope Academy of Public Service.