Reminder: There is no school on Monday, February 16, 2026!

This is a professional development day for staff.

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1 day ago, Central Office
No School February 16, 2026
Happy National School Resource Officer Day! Shout-out to Deputy Tiffany DeBoer for protecting our kids, supporting our school, and making a difference every single day!
2 days ago, Central Office
Tiffany DeBoer
Please join us in congratulating Kristi Wright on her appointment as Transportation Director for the 2026–2027 school year, pending board approval!

Currently, Kristi serves as the assistant to Tim Lyons, Transportation Director. During this time, she has gained valuable experience, built strong relationships with our drivers and families, and demonstrated a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our students. She brings a wealth of knowledge of the district and our transportation department, which will ensure a smooth and seamless transition in leadership.

Kristi will step into this role following Tim’s retirement. We are incredibly grateful to Tim for his years of dedicated service and the lasting impact he has made on our district.

We are excited for Kristi’s leadership and the continued strength of our transportation team. Congratulations, Kristi!
5 days ago, Central Office
Kristi Wright named New Director of Transportation
Why Benton?
As a former student of Benton, who was blessed with many opportunities, I chose to continue at Benton, as a teacher. I love that Benton is large enough to provide academic, athletic, and social opportunities, while remaining small enough to provide a real sense of community. Having grown up here, I was able to participate in many activities. I wanted to provide my family with those same opportunities, and educate students in a district that truly cares about each and every child.


6 days ago, Central Office
Miranda Sonka es
We are so excited about all of the students who have already enrolled in 3PK, 4PK & Kindergarten for next year! Missed the registration night? No worries - please reach out to Atkins Elementary, Keystone Elementary or our Central Office to register.
12 days ago, Central Office
Preschool Registration is still open
Employment opportunities may be found at www.benton.k12.ia.us
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13 days ago, Central Office
Help Wanted 2.4.26
My favorite thing about being a Bobcat is being surrounded by dedicated teachers who always put students first, families who are actively involved in their children's education, and the best students who make every day so rewarding!
13 days ago, Central Office
Brylee Bastian
Kindergarten and Preschool Pre-Registration is TODAY Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at both Atkins Elementary & Keystone Elementary.
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13 days ago, Central Office
Preschool Flyer
Happy National School Counseling Week!

This is a great time to recognize our wonderful school counselors who support our students every day. Their patience, empathy, and unwavering support help our students succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Their commitment makes a lasting difference in our school community.

Thanks for all that you do!
14 days ago, Central Office
Happy National School Counselors Week
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19 days ago, Central Office
Welcome 1.21.26

Benton CSD is accepting open enrollment applications for the 26-27 school year! If you are considering open enrollment, please know that filling out the open enrollment application does not mean your child must enroll at Benton, but it does give you the option to attend Benton in the 26-27 school year.
For more information about open enrollment, visit our website at: https://www.benton.k12.ia.us/page/open-enrollment

19 days ago, Anna Selk
Screen Shot 2026-01-28 at 7
Kindergarten and Preschool Pre-Registration will be Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at both Atkins Elementary & Keystone Elementary.
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20 days ago, Central Office
Preschool Flyer
Benton Community and Central Lutheran will be running a 2 hour late start schedule tomorrow, Monday, January 26. Please remember that there are no morning activities on a late start. Also, there is no breakfast served. The AM and PM preschool session times have been adjusted.
22 days ago, Anna Selk
Copy of IMPORTANT (22)
Due to the prediction of extreme cold and the safety of our staff and students, Benton Community & Central Lutheran will have a Student Virtual Learning Day tomorrow, Friday, January 23. Information about student expectations has been sent to students and families through email. Please reach out to your student's building with any specific questions. Thanks for your flexibility as we try this for the first time this school year.
26 days ago, Central Office
January 23
Why Benton?
I chose to work at Benton because my family moved back to the family farm. I grew up as a Bobcat and loved the strong community, traditions, and pride in the district. It has been a pleasure joining a school district with strong leadership, great co-workers, and supportive families.
27 days ago, Central Office
Tammy Franck
Kindergarten and Preschool Pre-Registration will be Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at both Atkins Elementary & Keystone Elementary.
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27 days ago, Central Office
Preschool Flyer

Why Benton?
I chose to work at Benton because my family moved back to the family farm. I grew up as a Bobcat and loved the strong community, traditions, and pride in the district. It has been a pleasure joining a school district with strong leadership, great co-workers, and supportive families.

27 days ago, Central Office
Tammy Franck
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29 days ago, Central Office
Welcome 12.17.25

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Gary Zittergruen, former Superintendent of the Benton Community School District.

Gary served Benton Community with dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to students, staff, and the greater community. During his tenure as superintendent, he provided steady leadership and worked collaboratively with the Board of Education, staff, and community members to strengthen the district and ensure opportunities for all students to succeed. His work helped shape Benton Community into the district it is today, and many of the systems, traditions, and values we continue to uphold reflect his vision and care for public education. Gary served as Superintendent at Benton Community for 20 years with a career in education that spanned over 35 years. Gary and Jenny moved to Waverly after his retirement, but could often be found in Bobcat country supporting his son, Jeff Zittergruen and his family. Please keep them in your prayers.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gary was known for his genuine kindness, thoughtful leadership, and respect for people. He believed in supporting educators, investing in students, and building strong relationships—qualities that left a lasting impact on those who had the opportunity to work with him.


Please join us in extending our deepest sympathies to Gary’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. We are grateful for his service to Benton Community and will remember his contributions with respect and appreciation. We will communicate arrangements when known. Please keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

about 1 month ago, Anna Selk
Gary Zittergruen
Kindergarten and Preschool Pre-Registration will be Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at both Atkins Elementary & Keystone Elementary.
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about 1 month ago, Central Office
Preschool & Kindergarten Registration is HERE!