Students at the Hope Academy of Public Service recently brought home competition honors from the Beta Club annual state convention in Hot Springs, and will advance to national competition as a result.
\r\nHAPS was represented by a junior and a senior division team.\r\n
\r\nJunior members placing at state included Anthony Hall, third place social studies and third place creative writing; and, Edith Dominguez and Amber Cisneros, third place technology group project.\r\n
\r\nSenior members placing in the competition included Keller Tomlin, Hunter Mathis, Courtland Jackson, Mika Brown, and Collin Easterling, fourth place robotics; and, Ashlyn Courtney, Alecia Bradley, Kimberlee Morales, and Samantha Ventura, fourth place marketing and communications.\r\n
\r\n“This is a newly-chartered club on our campus so this was obviously everyone’s first year to complete,” Beta sponsor Melissa Ellis said.\r\n
\r\nActivities include academic contests to quiz bowl competition and talent contests, Ellis said.\r\n
\r\n“Conventions give members the opportunity to interact, share project ideas and showcase their academic and leadership abilities,” she said. “Plus, the conventions are held in exciting locations, giving members the chance to see cities and places they might not ordinarily have the opportunity to see.”\r\n
\r\nAll 12 HAPS competitors have qualified for the National Beta Convention competitions in Oklahoma City, June 15-22. Ellis said the club is working toward raising financial support to pay for the trip.\r\n
\r\n“The estimated cost is $10,000, which includes meals, lodging, and transportation,” she said.\r\n
\r\nJunior Beta, grades 4-8, and Senior Beta, grades 9-12, are built upon the concept of developing leadership skills while students are still in school. Founded in 1934 by Woffard College Professor Dr. John W. Harris, the National Beta Club is dedicated to leadership and academic development among its members, which have included former President Bill Clinton.\r\n
