Hempstead ISD kicked off the inaugural Bobcat Champions Community Ambassador Program on September 17, bringing together the program's first cohort of 21 community ambassadors. The Bobcat Champions Community Ambassador Program carries the tagline "Building Community. Championing Student Success."
The Bobcat Champions Community Ambassador Program is a new district initiative designed to connect parents, staff, business leaders, alumni, faith-based leaders, and other community members with the daily work of Hempstead ISD. Ambassadors applied and were selected to take part in the inaugural cohort, which will meet every other month through May 2027 and conclude with a graduation celebration and recognition by the Hempstead ISD Board of Trustees.
"This program is about opening our doors and inviting our community to see the work happening every day in Hempstead ISD," Hempstead ISD Superintendent Herbert O'Neil explained. "This cohort of ambassadors will help us build trust and partnership that leads directly to student success."
During the first session, ambassadors were reminded of why they said yes to being a Bobcat Champion. Members expressed how Hempstead ISD has been a big part of their lives, why they are passionate about the district, and how the district has transformed their child’s educational journey.
The group received a review of district academic growth from Superintendent Herbert O’Neil and had an exclusive opportunity to tour the construction site of the new Hempstead Early Childhood Center (ECC), getting an early look at one of the district's key bond projects currently underway.
Additionally, the meeting marked the launch of the Hempstead ISD Education Foundation, announced to ambassadors during the meeting. The launch was led by Hempstead Education Foundation Board President, Bobcat Champion Member, and Hempstead High School alumna Jackie Craver. Members of the Education Foundation Board were also present for the announcement.
Four additional sessions are planned for the 2026-2027 program year, each offering ambassadors continued opportunities to engage with district leaders and students.
For more information or if you would like to support the Hempstead ISD Bobcat Champions Ambassador Program, please visit hempsteadisd.org/bobcatchampions.