Press Release

For Immediate Release

Hope Public Schools Updated Safety Practices for Athletics and Activities

Hope, Arkansas – September 18, 2025 – Hope Public Schools is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all fans attending Bobcat athletic events. As part of recognized safety practices for the 2025–2026 school year, several security measures and entry policies will be in effect at all home football games this season.

OpenGate Security Screening
Hope Public Schools has implemented OpenGate security systems at the entrances of the stadium. These state-of-the-art systems allow for efficient, non-intrusive screening to help maintain a secure environment for all attendees. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for entry through the OpenGate system. We will have law enforcement and administrators assisting with transitions.

Clear Bag Policy
As part of our safety practices, only clear bags will be permitted inside the stadium. Diaper bags and medically necessary items are allowed but will be subject to inspection. This policy helps ensure the safety of all guests while allowing for a quicker and smoother entry process. This is consistent with safety practices for most large venues nationally and statewide.

Student Attendance Requirement
For the safety and supervision of all students: Administrators and HPS staff will remind your students of appropriate behavior. This means that horseplay, cursing, loitering in restrooms or other areas, and insubordination directed at HPS employees is prohibited. We will direct ALL students who are not accompanied by an adult or guardian to the student section. The student section will be located in the stands closest to the band and cheerleaders.

These expectations are designed to ensure a positive game day experience for all spectators.

Hope Public Schools thanks the community for their continued support and cooperation in following these procedures. Together, we can ensure that Bobcat football games remain safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for all.

Comunicado de prensa

Para publicación inmediata

Escuelas Públicas de Hope: Prácticas de seguridad actualizadas para deportes y actividades 


Hope, Arkansas, 18 de septiembre de 2025. Las escuelas públicas de Hope se comprometen a proporcionar un entorno seguro y agradable a todos los aficionados que asistan a los eventos deportivos de los Bobcats. Como parte de las prácticas de seguridad reconocidas para el año escolar 2025-2026, se aplicarán varias medidas de seguridad y políticas de acceso en todos los partidos de fútbol americano que se disputen en casa esta temporada.

Control de seguridad OpenGate

Las Escuelas Públicas de Hope han implementado sistemas de seguridad OpenGate en las entradas del estadio. Estos sistemas de última generación permiten un control eficiente y no intrusivo para ayudar a mantener un entorno seguro para todos los asistentes. Se recomienda a los aficionados que lleguen temprano para tener tiempo de pasar por el sistema OpenGate. Contamos con la ayuda de las fuerzas del orden y los administradores para facilitar la transición. 

Política sobre bolsas transparentes

Como parte de nuestras prácticas de seguridad, solo se permitirán bolsas transparentes dentro del estadio. Se permiten bolsas para pañales y artículos médicos necesarios, pero estarán sujetos a inspección. Esta política ayuda a garantizar la seguridad de todos los visitantes, al tiempo que permite un proceso de entrada más rápido y fluido. Esto es coherente con las prácticas de seguridad de la mayoría de los grandes recintos a nivel nacional y estatal. 

Requisitos de asistencia de los estudiantes

Por la seguridad y supervisión de todos los estudiantes: Los administradores y el personal de HPS recordarán a sus estudiantes cuál es el comportamiento adecuado. Esto significa que están prohibidos los juegos bruscos, las malas palabras, prolongar su estancia en los baños u otras áreas y la insubordinación dirigida a los empleados de HPS. Indicaremos a todos los estudiantes que no estén acompañados por un adulto o tutor que se sienten en la sección designada para estudiantes. La sección para estudiantes estará ubicada en las gradas más cercanas a la banda y las porristas.

Estas expectativas están diseñadas para garantizar una experiencia positiva el día del partido para todos los espectadores.

Las Escuelas Públicas de Hope agradecen a la comunidad su continuo apoyo y cooperación en el cumplimiento de estos procedimientos. Juntos, podemos garantizar que los partidos de fútbol americano de los Bobcats sigan siendo seguros, acogedores y agradables para todos.

3 months ago, Tony McClain
CORRECTION: Board Meeting Time

Update: The Board Meeting will start at 5:30 p.m. (previously shared as 5:00 p.m.).

When: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Where: 601 W 6th Street, Hope, AR 71801

All are welcome. Thank you for your flexibility—Go Bobcats!

CORRECCIÓN: Hora de la reunión de la junta

Actualización: La reunión de la junta comenzará a las 5:30 p.m. (antes se compartió 5:00 p.m.).

Cuándo: martes, 16 de septiembre de 2025
Hora: 5:30 p.m.
Dónde: 601 W 6th Street, Hope, AR 71801

¡Todos son bienvenidos! Gracias por su flexibilidad.
3 months ago, Tony McClain
🏆 Bobcat Athletic Hall of Fame Returns! 🏆

Hope Public Schools is proud to announce the relaunch of the Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring the student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who have left their mark on Bobcat athletics. The last induction was held in 1992, and we are excited to bring this tradition back!

Minimum Qualifications for Nomination:

Student-Athletes: Must have been recognized as an All-State competitor during their time at Hope.

Coaches/Contributors: Considered for their impact and contributions to Bobcat athletics and student success.

This Hall of Fame recognizes all sports and activities—including football, basketball, soccer, baseball, band, cheer, and more.

👉 Nominations are now open! Submit your nomination using the Google Form here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfo0cathW-63FAqk7u7YhqTtUn3a9-bpbI2pBSCQG24X0-n0g/viewform?usp=header

Honorees will be recognized during a Hope High School basketball game this season at a special induction ceremony.

Help us celebrate the people who embody the heart and spirit of Bobcat pride! 🐾

#BobcatPride #HopeBobcats #HallOfFame
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Athletic Hall of Fame
Hope Public Schools leadership attended the Hempstead County EDC Annual Meeting at Hempstead Hall last week. We’re proud to support local economic growth and prepare the workforce of tomorrow. The future looks bright in Hempstead County! 🌟 #HopePublicSchools
3 months ago, Tony McClain
HPSD Administrative Staff

🍕✨ Pizza Night = TSA Support! ✨🍕

Hope High TSA students are raising funds to compete at State (March 2025) & Nationals in D.C. (June 2025)!

👉 Get your $15 Bubba’s 33 Pizza Voucher: grouprai.se/bubbas3361638s

✅ Good at ANY Bubba’s 33 location
✅ Half the proceeds go to TSA students

🎯 Goal: $8,000 to cover travel, hotel & registration for 8 students.
🗓️ Campaign ends Saturday, November 1, 2025

Every slice helps our students reach the national stage—thank you for your support! ❤️

#hopehightechnologystudentassociation #groupraise #bubbas33 #pizzafundraiser #fundraising

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🍕 Pizza + Apoyo = ¡Ganar-Ganar! 🍕

Los estudiantes de Hope High TSA están recaudando fondos para mostrar sus habilidades técnicas en State (marzo de 2025) y Nationals en D.C. (Junio de 2025)!

👉 Consigue tu vale de pizza Bubba's 33 de 15 $ aquí: Haz tu pedido en línea

✅ Bueno en CUALQUIER ubicación de Bubba's 33

✅ 7,50 $ de cada cupón van a los estudiantes de la TSA

Por qué importa:

🎓 TSA desarrolla habilidades técnicas del mundo real a través de la competencia

🏆 El año pasado: Reconocimiento en diseño de moda y presentación preparada en Nationals

🚍 Objetivo: 8.000 $ para viajes, hotel e inscripción para 8 estudiantes

Cómo puedes ayudar:

🍕 Compra un vale y disfruta de buena comida

💳 Done directamente (designe "TSA" en la oficina de la escuela/distrito)

🗓️ La campaña termina el sábado 1 de noviembre de 2025

Cada rebanada nos acerca a los Nacionales, ¡gracias por apoyar a nuestros futuros líderes! ❤️

#Hopehightechnologystudentassociation #groupraise #bubbas33 #pizzafundraiser #fundraising

3 months ago, Tony McClain
Colorful fundraising flyer for Hope High School TSA Pizza Fundraiser. At the top, bold text reads ‘Pizza Time’ with a pizza graphic and the word ‘Sale’ repeated in a circle. A yellow burst says: ‘One Topping 12" Bubba’s 33 Pizza for just $15 🎉.’ A blue burst says: ‘Campaign ends on November 1, 2025.’ Bubba’s 33 logo is shown with local store listed as Texarkana, TX. Text explains: pre-order online, customize your pizza at any Bubba’s 33, and enjoy. On the right, a thermometer graphic shows a fundraising goal of $8,000, with the purpose: to provide 8 students the opportunity to compete at the TSA National Conference in Washington, D.C., June 22–28, 2025. A cartoon pizza slice character waves beside the thermometer. At the bottom, there’s a QR code, fundraising link, and hashtags. Text in a blue box highlights that TSA helps students pursue careers in technology and engineering, with opportunities to compete in over 50 competitions. A large group photo of TSA students is along the bottom. Logos for Hope High School and TSA are displayed.”
Clinic Notice: No Provider On-Site
We will not have a provider on site on Friday, September 12, 2025 and Thursday, September 25, 2025.
We are still open to schedule appointments and administer immunizations on those dates.

If you need an appointment on those days, please contact our sister clinic: Hope Family Practice at (870) 777-8420.

Date sanity check: Friday, September 12, 2025; Thursday, September 25, 2025.

Aviso de la Clínica: No habrá Proveedor en el Sitio
No tendremos proveedor en el sitio el viernes, 12 de septiembre de 2025 y el jueves, 25 de septiembre de 2025.
Seguimos abiertos para programar citas y administrar inmunizaciones en esas fechas.

Si necesita una cita esos días, comuníquese con nuestra clínica hermana: Hope Family Practice al (870) 777-8420.

Verificación de fechas: viernes, 12 de septiembre de 2025; jueves, 25 de septiembre de 2025.
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Hope High School travels to Ashdown on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Gates open at 6:00 p.m. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m.
Location: Dick Hays Stadium, 171 S. Locust, Ashdown, AR.
Tickets: 7 dollars.

Please review the attached graphics for game day safety, clear bag policy, parking, and halftime schedule. Clear bags only. One bag per person. No re-entry. Arrive early.

Visitor seating is on the visitor side as shown on the map. Parking and entrances are marked.

Halftime features both bands and recognitions per itinerary.
Go Bobcats.
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Photo of Ashdown press box with labeled windows. Top row left to right: Home coaches, TV class and HUDL and livestream, Visitor radio. Bottom row left to right: Visitor coaches, P.A. and scoreboard, Home radio.”
Ashdown Game Day Safety Protocols. Lists prohibited items, no re-entry, and bag policy. Clear plastic bags up to 12 by 6 by 12 inches allowed, one per person. Medical and family-care items allowed. Non-transparent clutches up to 4.5 by 6.5 inches allowed. No backpacks, camera bags, hard cases, coolers, outside food or drink, vapes, alcohol, weapons, balloons, sports balls. Notes student pickup within 20 minutes after the game. Reminder to see something, say something.
Aerial map of Ashdown High School and Dick Hays Stadium. Visitor seating labeled on the north side, home seating on the south side. Fan entrance marked near the west end of the stadium. Visitor band and cheer entrance and parking marked near the admin building by 751 Rankin Street. Main parking lots and two vehicle entrances marked along Locust Street at the south edge of campus. Concessions and bathrooms labeled on the home side.
Pre-game and halftime itinerary for Ashdown vs Hope on Friday, September 12, 2025, 7:30 p.m. kickoff. Gates open 6:00. Warm-ups 6:20. Teams leave field 7:05. Ring presentation, student speaker, pledge, national anthem by PPMB, Alma Mater by Hope Band and PPMB. Coin toss 7:20. Halftime includes Hope Band and PPMB. Tickets 7 dollars. Venue Dick Hays Stadium, 171 S. Locust.
📢 Hope Academy of Public Service at Garland has a new look! Thanks to the Magnet Grant, our building now features wrapped windows and doors to showcase Bobcat pride. 🐾 Stop by and see the transformation for yourself!
3 months ago, Tony McClain
windows
doors
doors
windows
📢 ¡Noche de padres de ESOL en la escuela primaria Beryl Henry!

Padres y familias, únanse a nosotros el lunes 8 de septiembre, de 5:00 a 19:00 en la sala #10 de BHE para una importante noche de aprendizaje y conexión.

Cubriremos:

✅ Todo lo relacionado con ELPA (Examen de Dominio del Idioma Inglés)

✅ ¿Qué es el sello de la bialeteza?

✅ La importancia de la asistencia escolar

Esta es una gran oportunidad para hacer preguntas y aprender más sobre los recursos disponibles para el éxito de su estudiante.

📞 Para más información, comuníquese con Laura Gray al (870) 777-6222 Ext. 325

📢 ESOL Parent Night at Beryl Henry Elementary!

Parents and families, join us on Monday, September 8, from 5:00–7:00 PM in Room #10 at BHE for an important evening of learning and connection.

We’ll cover:
✅ All things ELPA (English Language Proficiency Exam)
✅ What is the Seal of Bi-Literacy?
✅ The Importance of School Attendance

This is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more about resources available for your student’s success.

📞 For more information, contact Laura Gray at (870) 777-6222 Ext. 325.
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Flyer for ESOL Parent Night at Beryl Henry Elementary School. A smiling family of five is pictured in the center with a blue background. Text reads: ESOL. Monday, September 8, from 5:00–7:00 PM, BHE Room #10. Learn about: All things ELPA (English Language Proficiency Exam), What is the Seal of Bi-Literacy?, The Importance of School Attendance. Contact Laura Gray at (870) 777-6222 Ext. 325. At the bottom right, there is a photo of a woman and young child smiling together. A peacock logo is shown next to the contact information

UPDATE: Band Scholarship Signing Date has been moved to next week. September 15th at 2:40 pm

📣 Scholarship Signing Day at Hope High School!

We are proud to announce that a representative from Henderson State University will be on campus on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 2:40 PM to officially sign several of our band athletes to college scholarships. 🎶🎓

This special moment highlights the talent, dedication, and hard work of our student musicians as they take the next step toward their future. Join us in celebrating their achievements!

#BobcatPride #HopeBand #FutureReady

3 months ago, Tony McClain
Henderson Sate
📣 Scholarship Signing Day at Hope High School!

We are proud to announce that a representative from Henderson State University will be on campus on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 2:40 PM to officially sign several of our band athletes to college scholarships. 🎶🎓

This special moment highlights the talent, dedication, and hard work of our student musicians as they take the next step toward their future. Join us in celebrating their achievements!

#BobcatPride #HopeBand #FutureReady
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Henderson Sate
🌟 Honoring One of Our Own! 🌟

We are proud to celebrate former State Senator Linda Pondexter Chesterfield, a Hope, Arkansas native, who has been announced as part of the 2025 Arkansas Black Hall of Fame induction class.

Senator Chesterfield’s legacy is one of firsts — she was the first African-American graduate of Hendrix College and went on to serve with distinction in both the Arkansas House and Senate. She has been a fierce advocate for policies that will impact our state for generations to come.

She called this honor “a singular moment” in her career, and we couldn’t agree more. Congratulations, Senator Chesterfield — your hometown of Hope is proud! 💙🐾

#HopeAR #ArkansasBlackHallofFame #LindaChesterfield
3 months ago, Tony McClain
Senator Linda Pondexter Chesterfield
📢 FAFSA Night – Plan Your Future!

Parents and students, join us on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 4:30 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. in the Hope High School Cafeteria.

We’ll help you take the next step toward your child’s college journey. Students will also have the opportunity to win prizes! 🎉

✅ Create Student & Parent FSA IDs
✅ Learn about ACCUPLACER testing
✅ Set up a SAM account for Lottery Scholarships
✅ Get UAHT college information

Bring your questions and let us help guide the way!

Versión en Español 🇲🇽

📢 Noche de FAFSA – ¡Planifique su Futuro!

Padres y estudiantes, acompáñenos el martes, 9 de septiembre de 2025, de 4:30 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. en el comedor de Hope High School.

Le ayudaremos a dar el siguiente paso hacia el futuro universitario de su hijo. ¡Los estudiantes también tendrán la oportunidad de ganar premios! 🎉

✅ Crear identificaciones FSA para estudiantes y padres
✅ Información sobre el examen ACCUPLACER
✅ Crear una cuenta SAM para la Lotería de Becas
✅ Información de la UAHT
3 months ago, Tony McClain
A flyer in English with a teal background and the large word “FAFSA” across the top, with illustrations of four diverse students using laptops and books sitting on the letters. Headline: “FAFSA.” Details: Place: HHS Cafeteria Date: September 9, 2025 Time: 4:30 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. Text: “Join us in the cafeteria to help plan for your child’s future. Students will be given a chance to win prizes.” Highlights at the bottom include: Create Student and Parent FSA IDs ACCUPLACER information Create SAM’s account for Lottery Scholarships UAHT information
A flyer in Spanish with a teal background and the large word “FAFSA” across the top, with illustrations of four diverse students using laptops and books sitting on the letters. Headline: “Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes.” Details: Lugar: Comedor del HHS Fecha: 9 de septiembre de 2025 Hora: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM Text: “Únase a nosotros en el comedor de la escuela para ayudar a planificar el futuro de su hijo. Los estudiantes tendrán la oportunidad de ganar premios.” Highlights at the bottom include: Crear identificaciones FSA para estudiantes y padres Información de ACCUPLACER Crear una cuenta SAM para la Lotería de Becas Información de la UAHT
📢 School Closure Reminder Hope Public Schools will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025 in observance of Labor Day. On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, staff will participate in a Professional Development Day. No students will be on campus. Classes will resume on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. We hope everyone enjoys the long weekend, and we’ll see our students back on Wednesday! 🐾 Spanish translation: 📢 Recordatorio de cierre escolar Las Escuelas Públicas de Hope estarán cerradas el lunes 1 de septiembre de 2025 en conmemoración del Día del Trabajo. El martes 2 de septiembre de 2025, el personal participará en un Día de Desarrollo Profesional. No habrá estudiantes en el campus. Las clases se reanudarán el miércoles 3 de septiembre de 2025. ¡Esperamos que todos disfruten el fin de semana largo y nos vemos de nuevo el miércoles! 🐾 #HopePublicSchools #WeInform
4 months ago, Tony McClain
A red background with a beige sticky note pinned at the top. The sticky note reads: “Holiday School CLOSURE. Reopen on: September 3, 2025.” At the top of the graphic is the Hope Public Schools “H” Bobcats logo in white.
🐾The Little League Bobcats and cheerleaders are ready for their first game this Saturday at 10:00 AM. Let’s cheer them on as they take the field at Hope High Schools field! Go Bobcats! 💙❤️
4 months ago, Tony McClain
Photos of the Little League Wildcats football team and cheerleaders getting ready for their first game of the season.
Photos of the Little League Wildcats football team and cheerleaders getting ready for their first game of the season.
Photos of the Little League Wildcats football team and cheerleaders getting ready for their first game of the season.
Photos of the Little League Wildcats football team and cheerleaders getting ready for their first game of the season.
Today's scheduled tennis match has been postponed until further notice. We will share updated details once a new date is confirmed.
4 months ago, Tony McClain

📣 Hello, Bobcat Family! Due to today’s forecast, we’re moving ALL Back-to-School Bash activities indoors at Hempstead Hall.

✅ Provisions have been made so the fun continues.... rain or shine!

We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate together! 🐾

4 months ago, Tony McClain
Back to school bash

🎉 It’s almost time for our 6th Annual Back to School Bash!
📅 Today
🕟 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Hempstead Hall, Hope, AR

Join us for an evening of fun with Hope Public Schools programs, hot dogs, snow cones, inflatables, door prizes (for students), and more! A shuttle bus will be available.

👉 Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

🎉 ¡Ya casi es hora de nuestro 6.º Evento Anual de Regreso a Clases!
📅 hoy
🕟 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Hempstead Hall, Hope, AR

Acompáñanos para una tarde de diversión con programas de las Escuelas Públicas de Hope, hot dogs, raspados de nieve, inflables, premios en la puerta (para estudiantes) ¡y más! Un autobús de traslado estará disponible.

👉 Los niños deben estar acompañados por un padre o tutor.

4 months ago, Tony McClain
Flyer for the 6th Annual Back to School Bash presented by Farmers Bank & Trust, Hope Bobcats, and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Event details: Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Hempstead Hall in Hope, Arkansas. Features Hope Public Schools programs, shuttle bus available, and door prizes for students. Activities include hot dogs, snow cones, inflatables, and more. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Folleto para el 6.º Evento Anual de Regreso a Clases presentado por Farmers Bank & Trust, Hope Bobcats y la Universidad de Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Detalles del evento: jueves, 28 de agosto de 2025, de 4:30 a 6:30 p.m. en Hempstead Hall en Hope, Arkansas. Incluye programas de las Escuelas Públicas de Hope, autobús de traslado disponible y premios en la puerta para estudiantes. Habrá hot dogs, raspados de nieve, inflables y mucho más. Los niños deben estar acompañados por un padre o tutor.
🍎 A Note About Food at School

We want to share an important reminder about bringing food to school.

✅ Families are welcome to bring lunch for their own child.

🚫 Families may not bring food for other students or groups of students, and outside delivery services (DoorDash, UberEats, etc.) are not permitted.
4 months ago, Tony McClain
Food at school graphic with different food items
🎉 It’s almost time for our 6th Annual Back to School Bash!
📅 Thursday, August 28, 2025
🕟 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Hempstead Hall, Hope, AR

Join us for an evening of fun with Hope Public Schools programs, hot dogs, snow cones, inflatables, door prizes (for students), and more! A shuttle bus will be available.

👉 Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

🎉 ¡Ya casi es hora de nuestro 6.º Evento Anual de Regreso a Clases!
📅 Jueves, 28 de agosto de 2025
🕟 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Hempstead Hall, Hope, AR

Acompáñanos para una tarde de diversión con programas de las Escuelas Públicas de Hope, hot dogs, raspados de nieve, inflables, premios en la puerta (para estudiantes) ¡y más! Un autobús de traslado estará disponible.

👉 Los niños deben estar acompañados por un padre o tutor.
4 months ago, Tony McClain
Flyer for the 6th Annual Back to School Bash presented by Farmers Bank & Trust, Hope Bobcats, and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Event details: Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Hempstead Hall in Hope, Arkansas. Features Hope Public Schools programs, shuttle bus available, and door prizes for students. Activities include hot dogs, snow cones, inflatables, and more. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Folleto para el 6.º Evento Anual de Regreso a Clases presentado por Farmers Bank & Trust, Hope Bobcats y la Universidad de Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Detalles del evento: jueves, 28 de agosto de 2025, de 4:30 a 6:30 p.m. en Hempstead Hall en Hope, Arkansas. Incluye programas de las Escuelas Públicas de Hope, autobús de traslado disponible y premios en la puerta para estudiantes. Habrá hot dogs, raspados de nieve, inflables y mucho más. Los niños deben estar acompañados por un padre o tutor.