The Arkansas Department of Education has suspended the license of Hope Academy, a childcare center in Little Rock, after a state investigation found the facility's actions contributed to the death of an infant and led to the arrest of a manager. The suspension was issued in a letter dated June 10 and deemed effective July 9, officials said.
State cites failings in licensing rules
In its action, the department referenced violations of the state licensing code, specifically 20 CAR 1025-1401 and related sections establishing minimum licensing requirements. The department said its preliminary findings show the licensee’s conduct “did result in the death of a child while under her care.”
"The immediate suspension of your license is necessary to ensure the safety of all students under your care."
ADE’s notice also said the licensee failed to comply with portions of the rule, noted as 20 CAR 1025-1401(1)-(p). The agency said the Office of Early Childhood may pursue additional action against owner Hope Jones’ license after the investigation is complete.
What this means for families and oversight
The suspension removes the center’s authority to operate while investigators continue probing the circumstances that led to the child’s death and the manager’s arrest. For families who rely on the center for daily care, the move raises immediate concerns about continuity of care, placement of children and notification of parents. It also places a spotlight on state oversight of licensed childcare providers.
- Action taken: License suspension effective July 9.
- Reason cited: Preliminary findings that licensee actions contributed to an infant’s death and violations of state licensing rules.
- Next steps: Possible further action against the owner’s license pending the investigation.
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| June 10 | Letter issued to Hope Academy regarding business license |
| July 9 | Order of suspension deemed effective |
Local and state authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of the infant’s death beyond what is stated in the department’s letter. The arrest of a manager at the facility was reported in conjunction with the department’s findings, but officials have not released charging details or court dates.
For Pulaski County and Arkansas, the case underscores the tension between the demand for childcare and the regulatory burden of ensuring safety and compliance across licensed providers. State licensing rules cover staffing, transportation and other operational standards; enforcement actions such as this suspension are designed to protect children while investigations proceed.
Parents and guardians seeking more information about the status of Hope Academy or assistance relocating children should contact the Arkansas Department of Education’s Office of Early Childhood or Pulaski County child-care referral services for guidance.
