Batesville School District Opens Mobile Hub

The event marked the official launch of an innovative outreach initiative designed to bring essential resources, educational opportunities, and support services directly into neighborhoods across the community.

Amanda Roberts, Membership Engagement Specialist with the Chamber, welcomed attendees. “We are always excited to be a part of Batesville School District’s growth and progress,” Roberts said. “Today represents something truly meaningful for area students and families.”

Interim Superintendent David Campbell emphasized the collaborative spirit behind the project and the significance of the moment. “This mobile hub represents a labor of love from our students, staff, community partners, and supporters. We are excited about the opportunities it will create for our families and the impact it will have throughout Batesville.”

Ann Walmsley, representing Batesville Community Schools, highlighted the broader vision of the Mobile Hub. “This isn’t just a bus—it’s an opportunity,” Walmsley said. “It allows us to extend learning and support beyond school walls and into the heart of our community. We are meeting families where they are and strengthening connections across Batesville.”

Walmsley also recognized the many contributors who helped bring the project to life, including the Batesville High School EAST Program and facilitator Lori Campbell, student Bentley Hughes, Spartan Motors, RAWK Imprinting, Save the Children, and numerous local partners and volunteers.

Wiley Osborne of Spartan Motors spoke on behalf of the business community’s involvement. “This project is special because it removes barriers,” Osborne said. “It brings resources like food, clothing, school supplies, and health services directly to families. We’re proud to be part of something that will have a lasting impact on the future of this community.”

A highlight of the event was recognition of the student-led design efforts. Bentley Hughes, a member of the EAST program team, shared how students used advanced tools such as SketchUp and Adobe Illustrator to design the bus interior and layout. The project also earned recognition in the Fay Jones Architecture Competition, showcasing the innovation and talent of Batesville students.

Following the official ribbon cutting, attendees were invited to tour the Mobile Hub and experience its features firsthand. The bus is equipped with books, school supplies, hygiene products, baby essentials, and space for arts, crafts, and educational programming. It will also support food distribution efforts and provide access to community resources.

The Mobile Hub will serve as a vital extension of the Batesville School District’s mission, ensuring students and families have access to the tools and support they need—wherever they are. The Mobile Hub has already begun serving the community, most recently with kindergarten registration, and will continue to add more events. Locations and schedules will be announced by the Batesville School District. If you are interested in participating in Mobile Hub events, contact the Batesville Hub at 870-793-6831 for more information.

To learn more about Chamber membership, call Amanda at 870-793-2378 extension 13. 

Ambassadors in attendance include:  Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Alex McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Brandi Curbo (Batesville Guard), Brandon Lackey (Southern Bank), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Crystal Kimmer (White River Health), Eva Henriksen (Citizens Bank), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Campbell (Batesville Schools), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care), Megan Strother (George’s Inc.), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Silje Antonsen (First Community Bank), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).