Hope Schools Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Crossley Speaks To Kiwanis
By Mark Keith, 08/16/22 6:11 PMThe Hope Kiwanis Club welcomed Hope Schools Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Crossley on Tuesday. He noted school started Monday and it was a smooth transition. Dr. Crossley noted the district is fully staffed with the exception of ROTC and the Athletic Trainer.
Dr. Crossley said the district is working to raise $5 million dollars towards a building a foundation which will provide scholarships for district graduates. Dr. Crossley said they are starting with $125,000 from Farmers Bank & Trust. He noted the class of 1955 just donated $1,000 towards this effort.
Dr. Crossley talked about the STAR Academy at Yerger which is offering STEM training to all the 8th grade.
The district COVID policy was discussed. Dr. Crossley noted students who test positive will need to isolate 5 days and return with a mask a few days.
Dr. Crossley answered questions about possibly moving the administration out of the old post office downtown. He noted they are looking at possible situations and may be looking at reconfiguring an unused historc building.
Dr. Crossley talked about an effort to secure a $15 million dollar magnet school grant. He said the district has been told their application is compelling.
Dr. Crossley noted the turf at the football stadium has several more years of life. It was also noted the Bank OZK sign may also be taken down and replaced with Farmers Bank & Trust as they are the district’s biggest partner.
Dr. Crossley invited the Kiwaians to the Farmers Bank and Hope Schools Back to School Bash August 25th 5pm.to 8pm downtown.
Tech Director Jeff Madlock gave an update on tech issues.
Dr. Crossley noted the solar array is online and providing power. It was also noted there are 440 total band students this year in grades 6 through 12 with about 99 in the matching band.
Joining Dr. Jonathan Crossley at Kiwanis Tuesday was Tech Director Jeff Madlock, District Treasurer Misti Flowers, and Communication Director David Henderson.
