January 23, 2023

Virgil Sheppard – President and CEO, Hope Partnership for Education

Ready, Set, Go! That’s how Hope Partnership School came out of the gates in September. The summer months were busy with detailed planning and hiring enthusiastic staff members making for a quick, successful transition back to “hitting the books.”

Since September, several new processes have been put in place. A monthly community meeting was established by the Head of School, Mr. Taylor Harris. The meeting is an opportunity for students and faculty to gather in the “Hope Room” to recognize students for perfect attendance, progress in the classroom, and personal strides. Over the past few months, students have been motivated by the recognition leading to improvements in both Reading and Math scores.

Along with implementing monthly community meeting, students have been participating in private music lessons, staying engaged with several new after-school enrichment activities, and taking incredible field trips – including one to a horse farm! In November, classmates elected student council representatives who have been active in welcoming guests and telling the story of Hope Partnership for Education.

In the spring, Hope students will partner with the “World Affairs Council,” which will provide the expertise they need to understand how global issues impact the local community. Community service will resume as faculty and staff head to the local park for an extensive clean-up, and 8th graders will prepare for graduation as they select high schools that fit their academic and career goals.