Important Update for Benton School District Families
The Benton School District Child Nutrition Department has transitioned to a new online meal payment system.
π½οΈ SchoolCafe is no longer accepting lunch account payments. All student meal account balances have been transferred to EZSchoolPay.
Parents and guardians can manage meal accounts and make payments by visiting:
π https://www.ezschoolpay.com
If you need assistance accessing your account or have questions about the transition, please contact:
Alethea Simpson
π 501-776-5705
π§ asimpson@bentonschools.org
Thank you for your patience as we make this transition!
Existing student meal balances have been transferred automatically. No funds have been lost.
#WeAreBenton
The Benton School District Child Nutrition Department has transitioned to a new online meal payment system.
π½οΈ SchoolCafe is no longer accepting lunch account payments. All student meal account balances have been transferred to EZSchoolPay.
Parents and guardians can manage meal accounts and make payments by visiting:
π https://www.ezschoolpay.com
If you need assistance accessing your account or have questions about the transition, please contact:
Alethea Simpson
π 501-776-5705
π§ asimpson@bentonschools.org
Thank you for your patience as we make this transition!
Existing student meal balances have been transferred automatically. No funds have been lost.
#WeAreBenton

Summer EBT Program Available for Eligible Arkansas Families
Arkansas families may qualify for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program, which provides $120 in grocery benefits per eligible school-aged child to help purchase food while school is out for the summer.
Summer EBT works alongside summer meal programs to help ensure children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.
Who is eligible?
Many eligible students will receive Summer EBT benefits automatically, including children ages 5-17 who receive SNAP, TEA, or Medicaid Free or Medicaid Reduced benefits during the current school year. Other families may qualify but will need to complete an application.
Check Your Eligibility
Families can determine their eligibility and apply online by visiting:
π https://ar.gov/SummerEBT
If eligible, select "Apply for New Benefits" and log in with an existing Access Arkansas account or create a new account.
For questions or assistance, call the Summer EBT Information Line at 1-800-482-8988.
Arkansas families may qualify for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program, which provides $120 in grocery benefits per eligible school-aged child to help purchase food while school is out for the summer.
Summer EBT works alongside summer meal programs to help ensure children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.
Who is eligible?
Many eligible students will receive Summer EBT benefits automatically, including children ages 5-17 who receive SNAP, TEA, or Medicaid Free or Medicaid Reduced benefits during the current school year. Other families may qualify but will need to complete an application.
Check Your Eligibility
Families can determine their eligibility and apply online by visiting:
π https://ar.gov/SummerEBT
If eligible, select "Apply for New Benefits" and log in with an existing Access Arkansas account or create a new account.
For questions or assistance, call the Summer EBT Information Line at 1-800-482-8988.

Bus Rider Request Form Now Available for 2026-2027 School Year
Benton School District families whose students will ride the bus during the 2026-2027 school year are asked to complete the Bus Rider Request Form by Friday, July 24, 2026.
The information collected through this form helps the Transportation Department develop bus routes and prepare for the upcoming school year. Families should complete this form if their student plans to ride the bus to school, home from school, or both.
Important Reminders:
A separate Bus Rider Request Form must be completed for each student in your household.
Please submit all requests by July 24 to assist with route planning.
Bus Rider Request Form
π https://forms.gle/Z5rgiGja9DfLvUXy9
If you have questions, please contact the Benton School District Transportation Office at 501-776-5706.
Benton School District families whose students will ride the bus during the 2026-2027 school year are asked to complete the Bus Rider Request Form by Friday, July 24, 2026.
The information collected through this form helps the Transportation Department develop bus routes and prepare for the upcoming school year. Families should complete this form if their student plans to ride the bus to school, home from school, or both.
Important Reminders:
A separate Bus Rider Request Form must be completed for each student in your household.
Please submit all requests by July 24 to assist with route planning.
Bus Rider Request Form
π https://forms.gle/Z5rgiGja9DfLvUXy9
If you have questions, please contact the Benton School District Transportation Office at 501-776-5706.

π£IF YOU HAVEN'T DOWNLOADED OUR NEW APP OR VISITED OUR NEW WEBSITE FOR ATHELTICS, YOU ARE MISSING OUT!
YOU CAN FIND ALL THINGS ATHLETICS HERE! SCHEDULES, ROSTERS, TICKETING, STREAMING, SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS, TEAM SPECIFIC PAGES FOR PARENTS AND FANS, ETC.
πΎIF YOU LOVE PANTHER SPORTS JUST GO TO https://bentonpantherathletics.com/ OR DOWNLOAD OUR APP IN YOUR PLAYSTORE OR APP STORE AT https://go.ballfrog.com/benton-panthers
AND YOU CAN STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL PANTHER ATHLETICS!
YOU CAN FIND ALL THINGS ATHLETICS HERE! SCHEDULES, ROSTERS, TICKETING, STREAMING, SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS, TEAM SPECIFIC PAGES FOR PARENTS AND FANS, ETC.
πΎIF YOU LOVE PANTHER SPORTS JUST GO TO https://bentonpantherathletics.com/ OR DOWNLOAD OUR APP IN YOUR PLAYSTORE OR APP STORE AT https://go.ballfrog.com/benton-panthers
AND YOU CAN STAY UP TO DATE ON ALL PANTHER ATHLETICS!

Benton School District Summer Hours
While students and teachers are enjoying a well-deserved summer break, Benton School District administrators and Central Office staff will continue serving our families on a summer schedule.
Summer Office Hours
π MondayβThursday
β° 7:00 a.m.β5:30 p.m.
Closed Fridays
We look forward to assisting you throughout the summer and wish all of our students, staff, and families a safe and enjoyable break!
While students and teachers are enjoying a well-deserved summer break, Benton School District administrators and Central Office staff will continue serving our families on a summer schedule.
Summer Office Hours
π MondayβThursday
β° 7:00 a.m.β5:30 p.m.
Closed Fridays
We look forward to assisting you throughout the summer and wish all of our students, staff, and families a safe and enjoyable break!

The Benton Panthers Summer Feeding Program returns June 1 through July 31, providing FREE breakfast and lunch for any child 18 and under β not just Benton School District students.
Meals will be served Monday through Friday at Angie Grant Elementary and Ringgold Elementary. Breakfast will be available from 8:00β9:00 AM, and lunch will be served from 11:30 AMβ12:30 PM. Please note that all meals must be eaten on site, and the program will be closed on Friday, July 3.
No registration or paperwork is required β just come by and enjoy a meal with us this summer. Menus will be available soon.
For additional information, please call 778-4861 and ask for Food Service.
Meals will be served Monday through Friday at Angie Grant Elementary and Ringgold Elementary. Breakfast will be available from 8:00β9:00 AM, and lunch will be served from 11:30 AMβ12:30 PM. Please note that all meals must be eaten on site, and the program will be closed on Friday, July 3.
No registration or paperwork is required β just come by and enjoy a meal with us this summer. Menus will be available soon.
For additional information, please call 778-4861 and ask for Food Service.

STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BOUND! π
What a weekend for Panther Athletics! Both Benton Baseball and Lady Panther Softball are headed to the 5A State Championship games after huge semifinal wins on Saturday!
βΎ Panther Baseball
π Saturday, May 23
β° 4:00 PM
π Majestic Park β Hot Springs
π₯ Lady Panther Softball
π Saturday, May 23
β° 7:00 PM
π Majestic Park β Hot Springs
Letβs pack the stands and cheer on our Panthers as they compete for a STATE TITLE!
What a weekend for Panther Athletics! Both Benton Baseball and Lady Panther Softball are headed to the 5A State Championship games after huge semifinal wins on Saturday!
βΎ Panther Baseball
π Saturday, May 23
β° 4:00 PM
π Majestic Park β Hot Springs
π₯ Lady Panther Softball
π Saturday, May 23
β° 7:00 PM
π Majestic Park β Hot Springs
Letβs pack the stands and cheer on our Panthers as they compete for a STATE TITLE!

Youβre Invited to the Benton High School Class of 2026 Graduation!
π Tuesday, May 19, 2026
π°οΈ Ceremony begins at 6:00 PM
πͺ Doors open at 5:00 PM
π Jack Stephens Center
2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR 72204
π₯ Graduation will be livestreamed on:
π bentonschools.org/live
π youtube.com/@bentonschools
π± Right here on the Benton School District Facebook page
Important Reminders:
π« No food, drinks, balloons, or non-clear handbags permitted
π CLEAR HANDBAGS ONLY
ππΏ Concession stands will be open
We canβt wait to celebrate the Class of 2026 and this incredible milestone together! π
π Tuesday, May 19, 2026
π°οΈ Ceremony begins at 6:00 PM
πͺ Doors open at 5:00 PM
π Jack Stephens Center
2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR 72204
π₯ Graduation will be livestreamed on:
π bentonschools.org/live
π youtube.com/@bentonschools
π± Right here on the Benton School District Facebook page
Important Reminders:
π« No food, drinks, balloons, or non-clear handbags permitted
π CLEAR HANDBAGS ONLY
ππΏ Concession stands will be open
We canβt wait to celebrate the Class of 2026 and this incredible milestone together! π

CONFERENCE CHAMPS! πβ½
Congratulations to Benton Boys Soccer on an incredible season and a well-earned conference championship! Your determination and hard work continue to shine. Now letβs go take STATE!
Congratulations to Benton Boys Soccer on an incredible season and a well-earned conference championship! Your determination and hard work continue to shine. Now letβs go take STATE!

Congratulations to our Benton School District Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Erin Green of Benton Junior High! π
Mrs. Green brings 13 years of experience teaching secondary science in public schools and an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Biology, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and a Bachelor of Science with double majors in Chemistry and Biology.
Her passion for science and dedication to her students make a lasting impact every single day. We are proud to have her representing Benton School District!
Mrs. Green brings 13 years of experience teaching secondary science in public schools and an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Biology, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and a Bachelor of Science with double majors in Chemistry and Biology.
Her passion for science and dedication to her students make a lasting impact every single day. We are proud to have her representing Benton School District!

Now Hiring: Panther Camp Staff! βοΈπΎ
Looking for the perfect summer job? Weβve got you covered!
Panther Camp is now hiring energetic, responsible team members to join us for a fun-filled summer!
βοΈ Must be 18 or older
βοΈ Great opportunity for college students
βοΈ Make a difference while having FUN!
Spend your summer creating memories, leading activities, and making an impact with our campers!
π© Interested? Contact us today for more information!
Shannon Marshall - 501-507-0795
smarshall@bentonschools.org
Looking for the perfect summer job? Weβve got you covered!
Panther Camp is now hiring energetic, responsible team members to join us for a fun-filled summer!
βοΈ Must be 18 or older
βοΈ Great opportunity for college students
βοΈ Make a difference while having FUN!
Spend your summer creating memories, leading activities, and making an impact with our campers!
π© Interested? Contact us today for more information!
Shannon Marshall - 501-507-0795
smarshall@bentonschools.org
Join us on Friday, May 1st, as the two best softball teams in Saline County go head-to-head to support a cause! We want our stands absolutely packed with people! Wear purple to show your support for Glenn Roseβs one and only Presley Clardy, who is currently fighting Hodgkinβs Lymphoma.
πPurchase tickets online at https://gofan.co/event/5677875?schoolId=AR4644
or #5 CASH ONLY at the gate.
Game Information:
Friday, May 1st
5:00 pm
Benton Lady Panther Softball Field
πPurchase tickets online at https://gofan.co/event/5677875?schoolId=AR4644
or #5 CASH ONLY at the gate.
Game Information:
Friday, May 1st
5:00 pm
Benton Lady Panther Softball Field

Class of 2026 Graduation ππΎ
Benton High School will celebrate the Class of 2026 with its graduation ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Jack Stephens Event Center in Little Rock.
The ceremony will honor the hard work, achievements, and dedication of this outstanding group of seniors as they take the next step toward their future..
Benton High School will celebrate the Class of 2026 with its graduation ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Jack Stephens Event Center in Little Rock.
The ceremony will honor the hard work, achievements, and dedication of this outstanding group of seniors as they take the next step toward their future..

The last day of school for the 2025 - 2026 school year is Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

Attention Panther Families! π¨
The Cajun & Crawfish Celebration is coming up fast! π¦π Join us on April 16 at the Farmers Market for an evening of great food, live music, and community funβall in support of Bright Futures Benton.
Bright Futures plays an important role in supporting Benton students, and every ticket purchased helps make a difference. Bring your friends and come enjoy a great night while giving back to our students and community.
ποΈ Tickets are going quicklyβbe sure to grab yours soon!
Link to ticketsπ
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cajun-and-crawfish-celebration-benefitting-bright-futures-benton-tickets-1984324509023?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile&fbclid=IwY2xjawRDRBBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFESTJOckhBcjdyNDF2OVhTc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtfS2a62VmvY-0FNovBJBusajBsTE7M_9ogJQch0HJal9RbsQrV9Fg--HaPa_aem_FS7Qzk4v19gULEuF-5Q4SA
The Cajun & Crawfish Celebration is coming up fast! π¦π Join us on April 16 at the Farmers Market for an evening of great food, live music, and community funβall in support of Bright Futures Benton.
Bright Futures plays an important role in supporting Benton students, and every ticket purchased helps make a difference. Bring your friends and come enjoy a great night while giving back to our students and community.
ποΈ Tickets are going quicklyβbe sure to grab yours soon!
Link to ticketsπ
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cajun-and-crawfish-celebration-benefitting-bright-futures-benton-tickets-1984324509023?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile&fbclid=IwY2xjawRDRBBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFESTJOckhBcjdyNDF2OVhTc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtfS2a62VmvY-0FNovBJBusajBsTE7M_9ogJQch0HJal9RbsQrV9Fg--HaPa_aem_FS7Qzk4v19gULEuF-5Q4SA

βοΈπΎ Panther Camp 2026 Registration is HERE! πΎβοΈ
Get ready for a summer full of FUN, friends, and unforgettable adventures! π
Panther Camp is open to students CURRENTLY in Kindergarten through 4th grade and is packed with exciting activities all summer long!
π June 1 β July 31, 2026 (Closed July 3)
β° 6:15 AM β 6:00 PM
β¨ What to Expect:
πββοΈ Swimming every Monday & Wednesday
π Field Trips every Thursday (LR Zoo π― & Alligator Farm π and more!)
π 4th of July Bash on Campus β July 2
π End of Year Celebration β July 30
π¨ Arts & Crafts, Sports, Games & MORE adventures still to come!
π Breakfast, Lunch, & Snacks Provided Daily
π² Cost:
$150 per week + $40 registration fee
π¨βπ©βπ§ Additional siblings: $20 registration fee
π Registration Open: March 30 β April 30, 2026
π Sign up here: https://forms.gle/wTkrZxU35Fmf1fah6
β οΈ Important: Panther Camp is not a drop-in program. Weekly payment is required to hold your childβs spot.
β οΈ Spots will fill quicklyβdonβt wait!
#PantherCamp #SummerFun #WeAreBenton #KidsCamp #Summer2026 #PantherPride πΎ
Get ready for a summer full of FUN, friends, and unforgettable adventures! π
Panther Camp is open to students CURRENTLY in Kindergarten through 4th grade and is packed with exciting activities all summer long!
π June 1 β July 31, 2026 (Closed July 3)
β° 6:15 AM β 6:00 PM
β¨ What to Expect:
πββοΈ Swimming every Monday & Wednesday
π Field Trips every Thursday (LR Zoo π― & Alligator Farm π and more!)
π 4th of July Bash on Campus β July 2
π End of Year Celebration β July 30
π¨ Arts & Crafts, Sports, Games & MORE adventures still to come!
π Breakfast, Lunch, & Snacks Provided Daily
π² Cost:
$150 per week + $40 registration fee
π¨βπ©βπ§ Additional siblings: $20 registration fee
π Registration Open: March 30 β April 30, 2026
π Sign up here: https://forms.gle/wTkrZxU35Fmf1fah6
β οΈ Important: Panther Camp is not a drop-in program. Weekly payment is required to hold your childβs spot.
β οΈ Spots will fill quicklyβdonβt wait!
#PantherCamp #SummerFun #WeAreBenton #KidsCamp #Summer2026 #PantherPride πΎ

Benton High School Theater Department Presents Cinderella
The Benton High School Theater Department will present Rodgers + Hammersteinβs Cinderella this April.
Students have been working hard to bring this classic musical to life, showcasing their talents in acting, music, and stage production. The performance promises an engaging and memorable experience for audiences of all ages.
Showtimes:
Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 PM
Friday, April 10 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, April 11 at 1:00 PM
Saturday, April 11 at 7:00 PM
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through GoFan or at the door.
We invite the community to attend and support our students as they present this timeless story.
The Benton High School Theater Department will present Rodgers + Hammersteinβs Cinderella this April.
Students have been working hard to bring this classic musical to life, showcasing their talents in acting, music, and stage production. The performance promises an engaging and memorable experience for audiences of all ages.
Showtimes:
Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 PM
Friday, April 10 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, April 11 at 1:00 PM
Saturday, April 11 at 7:00 PM
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through GoFan or at the door.
We invite the community to attend and support our students as they present this timeless story.

π
Spring Break Reminder
Just a reminder that Benton Schools will be closed for Spring Break March 23β27.
Students will return to class on Monday, March 30.
Please plan ahead, and we hope everyone enjoys a great break next week! πΎ
#WeAreBenton
Just a reminder that Benton Schools will be closed for Spring Break March 23β27.
Students will return to class on Monday, March 30.
Please plan ahead, and we hope everyone enjoys a great break next week! πΎ
#WeAreBenton

π
Reminder: CAPS Conferences β Monday, March 16
CAPS Conferences for middle school through 11th grade students will be held Monday, March 16 from 12:00β7:00 PM.
Students have been assigned a scheduled time to meet with their CAPS advisor.
π« Elementary schools will be closed on this day.
If you need to adjust your conference time, please contact your childβs school office for assistance. We encourage families to make every effort to attend their studentβs conference at the scheduled time.
CAPS Conferences for middle school through 11th grade students will be held Monday, March 16 from 12:00β7:00 PM.
Students have been assigned a scheduled time to meet with their CAPS advisor.
π« Elementary schools will be closed on this day.
If you need to adjust your conference time, please contact your childβs school office for assistance. We encourage families to make every effort to attend their studentβs conference at the scheduled time.

National Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day β March 6
On March 6, Benton Schools proudly recognizes National Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day by celebrating the dedicated members of our maintenance team. Their hard work keeps our campuses safe, clean, and running smoothly each day so students and staff can focus on learning and teaching.
From facility repairs and preventative maintenance to preparing campuses for events and activities, this team works tirelessly behind the scenes to support every school in our district.
We are grateful for their commitment, professionalism, and the pride they take in caring for Benton Schools. Their work makes a difference every single day.
On March 6, Benton Schools proudly recognizes National Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day by celebrating the dedicated members of our maintenance team. Their hard work keeps our campuses safe, clean, and running smoothly each day so students and staff can focus on learning and teaching.
From facility repairs and preventative maintenance to preparing campuses for events and activities, this team works tirelessly behind the scenes to support every school in our district.
We are grateful for their commitment, professionalism, and the pride they take in caring for Benton Schools. Their work makes a difference every single day.

