HOPE – The partnership between Farmers Bank and Trust and the Hope Public Schools was recognized April 6 in ribbon cutting ceremonies for an expansive outdoor covering for the Hope Academy of Public Service campus.
\r\nPlacing the $10,000 tent at HAPS is part of what Farmers Hope Market President Jacob Jones said is the banking company’s way of showing its appreciation for public education in Hope and Hempstead County.\r\n
\r\n“Farmers Bank and Trust is proud to partner with Hope Public Schools on the tent for Hope Academy of Public Service,” Jones said. “Farmers Bank and Trust continues to support the schools and looks forward to future partnerships. We will continue to give back to the communities in which we operate and are proud to be the community bank in Hope and Hempstead County.”\r\n
\r\nHPS Superintendent Dr. Bobby Hart, who will leave July 1 to become superintendent in Searcy, Arkansas, thanked the bank for its continuing support.\r\n
\r\n“You have been a fabulous partner during your time here and my time here in Hope,” Dr. Hart said.\r\n
\r\nHAPS Principal Dr. Carol Ann Duke echoed Hart’s appreciation, noting the tent will allow for outdoor band activities, provide hot weather shade for students, and will offer a space for outdoor classes.\r\n
\r\n“It is with thanks to Farmers Bank and Trust that we are able to do this,” Dr. Duke said.\r\n
\r\nJacob performed the honors for the Hope/Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony after which Hope Mayor Don Still said the project represents what business and public education can do together.\r\n
\r\n“This is one of the shining lights of the Hope Public Schools,” Still said.\r\n
\r\nHAPS band students performed for the ceremony from beneath the tent for students and guests on the south campus grounds where the white tent, emblazoned with the FBT logo and the HAPS shield, stands immediately behind the band hall.\r\n
