Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Brady Burge has decided to continue his education at William Penn University.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Brady Burge has decided to continue his education at William Penn University.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Announcing another member of the Class of 2026 who is ready for her next steps! Following commencement, Trista Birely will be continuing towards her goals and enjoying life after graduation.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Announcing another member of the Class of 2026 who is ready for her next steps! Following commencement, Trista Birely will be continuing towards her goals and enjoying life after graduation.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Students with paths still in progress and with options of colleges/universities:
Eli Patterson- undecided which college but will be continuing his high jump career
Sloan McVay- Mount Mercy University or Cornell College
Sloan Slouha- Kirkwood or DMACC Vet Tech Programs
Brady Patterson- undecided which college but plans to study business and wrestle.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Students with paths still in progress and with options of colleges/universities:
Eli Patterson- undecided which college but will be continuing his high jump career
Sloan McVay- Mount Mercy University or Cornell College
Sloan Slouha- Kirkwood or DMACC Vet Tech Programs
Brady Patterson- undecided which college but plans to study business and wrestle.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Aubrey Kelly and Caleb Olson have decided to continue their education at Simpson College.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Aubrey Kelly and Caleb Olson have decided to continue their education at Simpson College.
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Students pursuing apprenticeships and the skilled trades—paths that are essential, in-demand, and incredibly valuable.
These students are choosing hands-on learning and real-world experience while building meaningful, high-paying careers.
Kayden Marks
Travis Rairdin
Elias Bieschke
Nathan Schmitz
Ethan Lampkin
Breckon Rozek
Ryne Hlas
Kessa Bigley
Paxton Marek
Kale Gallagher
When you become an apprentice, you’ll start working—and earning—from day one—with little to no college debt, and you’ll jumpstart your career path.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Students pursuing apprenticeships and the skilled trades—paths that are essential, in-demand, and incredibly valuable.
These students are choosing hands-on learning and real-world experience while building meaningful, high-paying careers.
Kayden Marks
Travis Rairdin
Elias Bieschke
Nathan Schmitz
Ethan Lampkin
Breckon Rozek
Ryne Hlas
Kessa Bigley
Paxton Marek
Kale Gallagher
When you become an apprentice, you’ll start working—and earning—from day one—with little to no college debt, and you’ll jumpstart your career path.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Not all success is confined to a classroom or to the fields of competition—today we proudly recognize seniors who are entering the workforce.
These students are stepping directly into careers, contributing to their communities, and building their futures through hard work and determination. Here are the members of the Class of 2026 who will be joining the workforce after graduation.
Jack Mather
Jackson Clemann
Hailey Waters
Ethan Oldenburger
Caleb Kaump
Courtney Hlas
Waukeen Streeter
Hannah Swenson
Caden Beck
Nolan Rinholen
Kaci Voss
Jeremy Holmes
Tristan Cook
Jordan Guldner
Jackson Silhanek
Taylor Beck
Owen Hoyt
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
Not all success is confined to a classroom or to the fields of competition—today we proudly recognize seniors who are entering the workforce.
These students are stepping directly into careers, contributing to their communities, and building their futures through hard work and determination. Here are the members of the Class of 2026 who will be joining the workforce after graduation.
Jack Mather
Jackson Clemann
Hailey Waters
Ethan Oldenburger
Caleb Kaump
Courtney Hlas
Waukeen Streeter
Hannah Swenson
Caden Beck
Nolan Rinholen
Kaci Voss
Jeremy Holmes
Tristan Cook
Jordan Guldner
Jackson Silhanek
Taylor Beck
Owen Hoyt
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Benton Community Decision Day 2026
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
BC students continuing their education at the University of Iowa:
Ava Collum
Derrek Campbell
Andrew Hines
Colin Reiners
Evan Martin
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Decision Day is about honoring our seniors and the incredible journeys they are about to begin. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or joining an apprenticeship, each path represents commitment, courage, and a bright future.
BC students continuing their education at the University of Iowa:
Ava Collum
Derrek Campbell
Andrew Hines
Colin Reiners
Evan Martin
No matter the institution, program, or path, this decision reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to growth. They are investing in themselves and their futures.
No matter where life takes you—college campuses, workplaces, apprenticeships, military service, or adventures yet to be discovered—you will always have a home here at Benton Community High School. You will always be Bobcats. Carry your pride with you, remember where you came from, and know that this community will always be cheering you on. We are excited for each and every one of you as you enter this next chapter in your lives.
Congratulations!
Admission details for this evening's WaMaC track meet at Benton Community.
Employment opportunities may be found at https://www.applitrack.com/benton/onlineapp/
#BeABobcat
#APlaceToBelong
#BeABobcat
#APlaceToBelong
Why Benton?
One aspect I appreciate about being a Benton Bobcat is the steady sense of community within the school. Students and staff are supportive of one another, and there is a consistent level of involvement in school activities and events. That environment contributes to a positive and productive place to teach and learn.
One aspect I appreciate about being a Benton Bobcat is the steady sense of community within the school. Students and staff are supportive of one another, and there is a consistent level of involvement in school activities and events. That environment contributes to a positive and productive place to teach and learn.
Happy School Nurse Day!🩺 Thank you for the care, compassion, and calm you bring to our students every day. We appreciate you! 🩹💙
WaMaC Conference Meet – West Division
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
Monday, May 4, 2026, at Grinnell College
Team scores
Grinnell 314
Williamsburg 339
Clear Creek Amana 356
Vinton-Shellsburg 360
South Tama 362
Benton 373
Medalist – Cameron Gosselink, Grinnell, 75
Benton scores
6 Braiden Moore 82
26 Braeden Junge 95
29 Kaleb Hayden 96
32 Brayden Miller 100
33 Kaiser Townsley 100
34 Benjamin Langerman 109
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
Monday, May 4, 2026, at Grinnell College
Team scores
Grinnell 314
Williamsburg 339
Clear Creek Amana 356
Vinton-Shellsburg 360
South Tama 362
Benton 373
Medalist – Cameron Gosselink, Grinnell, 75
Benton scores
6 Braiden Moore 82
26 Braeden Junge 95
29 Kaleb Hayden 96
32 Brayden Miller 100
33 Kaiser Townsley 100
34 Benjamin Langerman 109
Benton girls travel to Williamsburg for WaMaC West Division meet
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
May 4th at Stone Creek, Williamsburg
Standings
Williamsburg 341
Benton 342
Clear Creek Amana 397
South Tama 454
Vinton-Shellsburg 488
Benton scores
Halle Sobaski 76
Madelyn Kenny 85
Avery Kramer 87
Bristol Kahle 94
Hailey Suiter 101
Katelyn Covington 103
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
May 4th at Stone Creek, Williamsburg
Standings
Williamsburg 341
Benton 342
Clear Creek Amana 397
South Tama 454
Vinton-Shellsburg 488
Benton scores
Halle Sobaski 76
Madelyn Kenny 85
Avery Kramer 87
Bristol Kahle 94
Hailey Suiter 101
Katelyn Covington 103
Benton track teams at Marion Invitational on May 4
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
Marion Invitational
Monday, May 4, 2026
Boys team scores
Benton 155
Marion 105
Iowa City Liberty 97
CPU 70
Anamosa 51
Springville 47
Norht Linn 37
Mount Vernon 25
Girls team scores
Solon 140
CR Kennedy 103
CPU 92
Marion 88
Benton 73
Springville 57
North Linn 27
Williamsburg 3
Benton boys results
100 – 1 Owen Von Ahsen 10.87
110 hurdles – 1 Eli Patterson 15.37, 4 Evan Patterson 16.27
200 – 5 Gabe Pugh 23.78, 8 Graedy Perkins 24.11
400 hurdles – 4 Camden Meyer 1:01.97, 6 Braden Mell 1:02.50
1600 – 4 Korbin Hunt 5:07.25, 5 Brian Arazia 5:14.53
Discus – 1 Grady Fese 124-6, 3 Landon Kaump 114-7
High jump – Eli Patterson 6-4, 3 Noahh Leach 5-10
Long jump – Graedy Perkins 19-7.25, 5 Sawyer Rudie 18-5
Shot put – 1 Grady Perkins 14-3, 8 Gracin Becker 38-8.50
Shuttle hurdle – 3 Patterson, Palmer, Hacker, Drahos 1:06.88
Sprint medley – 1 Timmerman, Martin, Nolan, Schanbacher 1:37.18
Distance medley – 1 Martin, Pugh, Bieschke, Mell 3:56.20
4×800 – 1 Lange, Olson, Furler, Beck 8:41.73
4×200 – 1 Nolan, Timmerman, Schanbacher, Von Ahsen 1:31.27
4×400 – 1 Schanbacher, Lange, Patterson, Von Ahsen 3:25.11
4×100 – 2 Martin, Rudie, Timmerman, Nolan 44.08
Benton girls results
100 hurdles – 2 Sophia Seeck 16.12, 4 Mya McCarville 16.67
200 – 5 Lila Bieschke, 7 Belle Werner 29.70
400 – 8 Avery Franzenburg 1:12.34
800 – 6 Kenna Lennie 2:50.62, 8 Leigha Birch 2:59.89
1500 – 7 Rya Miller, 6:03.56
High jump – 2 Talulah Schroeder 4-10, 4 Chloe DeGroot 4-10
Long jump – 3 Brynnlee Seeck 15-1.50, 5 Reagan Brooks 15-0
Shuttle hurdle – 3 Embretson, Werner, McGarvill, Seeck 1:10.31
Sprint medley – 6 Lohrer, McDonald, Bieschke, Palmer 2:05.64
Distance medley – 2 Seeck, Brooks, Frese, Kroneman 4:49.48
4×400 – 2 Fisher, DeMoss, McCarville, Embretson 4:16.85
4×800 – 3 King, Pugh, Franzenburg, Miller 11:14.18
4×200 – 4 DeMoss, Schroeder, Embretson 1:51.80
4×100 – 3 Seeck, Brooks, Seeck, Schroeder 53.05
-Courtesy of Jim Magdefrau
Marion Invitational
Monday, May 4, 2026
Boys team scores
Benton 155
Marion 105
Iowa City Liberty 97
CPU 70
Anamosa 51
Springville 47
Norht Linn 37
Mount Vernon 25
Girls team scores
Solon 140
CR Kennedy 103
CPU 92
Marion 88
Benton 73
Springville 57
North Linn 27
Williamsburg 3
Benton boys results
100 – 1 Owen Von Ahsen 10.87
110 hurdles – 1 Eli Patterson 15.37, 4 Evan Patterson 16.27
200 – 5 Gabe Pugh 23.78, 8 Graedy Perkins 24.11
400 hurdles – 4 Camden Meyer 1:01.97, 6 Braden Mell 1:02.50
1600 – 4 Korbin Hunt 5:07.25, 5 Brian Arazia 5:14.53
Discus – 1 Grady Fese 124-6, 3 Landon Kaump 114-7
High jump – Eli Patterson 6-4, 3 Noahh Leach 5-10
Long jump – Graedy Perkins 19-7.25, 5 Sawyer Rudie 18-5
Shot put – 1 Grady Perkins 14-3, 8 Gracin Becker 38-8.50
Shuttle hurdle – 3 Patterson, Palmer, Hacker, Drahos 1:06.88
Sprint medley – 1 Timmerman, Martin, Nolan, Schanbacher 1:37.18
Distance medley – 1 Martin, Pugh, Bieschke, Mell 3:56.20
4×800 – 1 Lange, Olson, Furler, Beck 8:41.73
4×200 – 1 Nolan, Timmerman, Schanbacher, Von Ahsen 1:31.27
4×400 – 1 Schanbacher, Lange, Patterson, Von Ahsen 3:25.11
4×100 – 2 Martin, Rudie, Timmerman, Nolan 44.08
Benton girls results
100 hurdles – 2 Sophia Seeck 16.12, 4 Mya McCarville 16.67
200 – 5 Lila Bieschke, 7 Belle Werner 29.70
400 – 8 Avery Franzenburg 1:12.34
800 – 6 Kenna Lennie 2:50.62, 8 Leigha Birch 2:59.89
1500 – 7 Rya Miller, 6:03.56
High jump – 2 Talulah Schroeder 4-10, 4 Chloe DeGroot 4-10
Long jump – 3 Brynnlee Seeck 15-1.50, 5 Reagan Brooks 15-0
Shuttle hurdle – 3 Embretson, Werner, McGarvill, Seeck 1:10.31
Sprint medley – 6 Lohrer, McDonald, Bieschke, Palmer 2:05.64
Distance medley – 2 Seeck, Brooks, Frese, Kroneman 4:49.48
4×400 – 2 Fisher, DeMoss, McCarville, Embretson 4:16.85
4×800 – 3 King, Pugh, Franzenburg, Miller 11:14.18
4×200 – 4 DeMoss, Schroeder, Embretson 1:51.80
4×100 – 3 Seeck, Brooks, Seeck, Schroeder 53.05
Congrats to Brady Patterson (Sr.) Jaxon Mehlert (So.) and Kaden Mitchell (Fr.) who punched tickets to compete at the Juinor and U16 Nationals where they will wrestle at Fargo, North Dakota from July 10th-15th. Best of luck!!
Teachers don’t just teach—they inspire. They build the future, one student at a time. Thank you for your dedication to building a better tomorrow! 🌟🍎Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
Happy School Lunch Hero Day! Our cafeteria heroes show up every day with smiles, teamwork, and a passion for serving students. 💙 We appreciate all they do to keep our students fueled and ready to learn. 👏
Happy School Principals' Day! 🍎 Today we celebrate the incredible leadership, guidance, and heart our principals bring to Benton Community every day!
May is School Board Recognition Month.
District #1 - Jason Schanbacher
District #2 - Board President, Theresa Thompson
District #3 - Matt Nolte
District #4 - Scott Shaw
District #5 - Aric Becker
District #6 - Nate Klein
District #7 - Board Vice President, Emily Kaiser
Because of you, students' futures thrive, begin, lead, grow, and opportunities become stronger.
District #1 - Jason Schanbacher
District #2 - Board President, Theresa Thompson
District #3 - Matt Nolte
District #4 - Scott Shaw
District #5 - Aric Becker
District #6 - Nate Klein
District #7 - Board Vice President, Emily Kaiser
Because of you, students' futures thrive, begin, lead, grow, and opportunities become stronger.
Benton Community 10th grade English classes participated in a practical career- readiness component. Through a partnership with Kirkwood’s Workplace Learning Connection, area business volunteers conducted mock interviews offering students valuable feedback on interview techniques and professional presentation.
