From the moment students walk through the doors on that first day of school, teachers focus on creating a school environment where every child feels like they belong, feels like their thoughts and ideas are valued, and are ready to learn. At Benton, our mission statement is “Quality Education for a Lifetime of Learning.” It reminds us that education is more than just what comes from a textbook or a test. Benton Community wants students to thrive both in school and in life. Parents and community members may notice the Bobcat Wheel displayed in our buildings that highlights what this means in action.
In the first week, we’ve seen Caring and Belonging demonstrated as teachers greet students by name at the door. In classrooms, children are engaging in team-building activities. Staff is showing Teamwork by working together across grade levels to make transitions back to learning smooth. Students are seen in every hallway helping each other. Many teachers are intentionally setting personal goals and planning times with instructional coaches to support their Continuous Growth. Students, in their first lessons, are experiencing Educational Excellence as teachers are having them dive into discussions and problem-solving.
As an instructional coach, I aspire for both teachers and students to exhibit the qualities of the Bobcat Wheel. The Benton Community School District is more than a place where children learn facts; it’s a place where they learn how to belong, grow, and contribute to their community.