Hope, AR - June 5 2024 - Hope Public Schools congratulates 5 of its educators for completing the district’s first cohort of Aspiring Leaders. Carmen Galvan, Laura Gray, Marilyn Marks, Sandra Rhone, and Sheila Hopson took part in the leadership program designed to help certified educators in the district understand and function effectively in roles beyond the classroom. Led by district Federal Programs Coordinator Dr. Portia Jones, the fellowship serves as an internal leadership pipeline that fulfills our schools’ needs for dynamic instructional leaders.
At a Completion Ceremony held on May 29, each participant received a certificate and shared their experiences with guests. Laura Gray shared, “I would not have been prepared for the role I am in now had it not been for this program.” This sentiment was expressed by each of the personnel completing the program. Sandra Rhone explained, “(The program) pushed me out of my comfort zone and I took the research I was doing and used it this year. That was very beneficial to me.”
The two-year program includes a year-long residency portion which requires participants to serve alongside an experienced Hope Public Schools leadership mentor. In addition, Dr. Jones serves as the program’s coordinator, providing guidance and feedback. Marilyn Marks shared, “The feedback is invaluable and Dr. Jones did not hold back. The practical hands-on experience of watching a job you’re interested in is a great tool.”
The program did not only provide logistical support and instruction to the fellows, but also helped shape very personal insights, improvements, and aspirations. Sheila Hopson explained, “I was always very outspoken. I learned through the program that it is not always good to share everything you feel and to process that internally before you speak. I’ve learned to listen and give others credit for what they’re doing. It has also really helped my (job) interviewing.” Carmen Galvan said, “This is my hometown. This gave me the push forward to speak up. I want high school girls to be like ‘Hey, she made it and so can I.’ So I want to be the inspiration for that.”
Though these five women finished the program, Dr. Jones reminded the completers, “just because you have completed the program, we will still provide support.”
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Crossley told the group, “We’re proud of each and every one of you. You are leadership trailblazers in our district. I know that you will “pay it forward” for the next cohort of aspiring leaders. We are better together, and you exemplify the best of Hope Public Schools. ”
About The Aspiring Leaders Fellowship Program at Hope Public Schools
Hope Public Schools is dedicated to the long-term sustainability of effective leadership. Beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, HPS began the Aspiring Leaders Fellowship Program dedicated to "growing our own" leaders in HPS. The fellowship is an internal leadership pipeline that fulfills our schools' need for dynamic instructional leaders. Ultimately, this will prepare us for success in future staffing and academic expectations within our schools.
The Aspiring Leaders Fellowship is at no cost to the fellow. Fellows are required to be current HPS district certified employees, have a minimum of three years’ teaching experience, and are currently enrolled in or have completed an educational leadership program of study.HPS is dedicated to ensuring each participant's high-quality leadership development experience without out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, each fellow completing the program will be granted priority in-person interviews for any leadership position where the fellow is certified. This priority will last for two years after completion of the program. Consistent with HR policy, the fellow must apply for the position to be interviewed.
For specific participation requirements or for more information, contact:
Dr. Portia Jones, Assistant Superintendent for Federal Programs
Hope Public Schools
117 E 2nd Street
Hope, AR 71801
Phone: 870-722-2700
Email: portia.jones@hpsdistrict.org