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Building What's Next

In spring 2025, Benson Schools conducted a series of surveys for students, families, and staff. Our goal was to listen, to better understand what’s working, where we need to improve, and how we can move forward together.

The response was clear:
Our community is proud of our people and our small-school culture. But you also told us we need to improve communication, clarify expectations, provide stronger student support, and do more to prepare learners for life beyond graduation.

“Building What’s Next” is our response.

It’s a district-wide campaign that reflects what we heard and what we’re doing about it.

Survey Results:

View our survey snapshot to see what our community had to say about Benson Public Schools. 

What We Heard

Across all groups, five key themes stood out:

  1. A Strong Foundation
    Families and staff praised the district’s caring teachers, supportive elementary experience, and community feel.

  2. Inconsistent Expectations
    Concerns about bullying, unclear behavior policies, and uneven enforcement of discipline were common.

  3. Communication Gaps
    Stakeholders want more clarity, consistency, and follow-through when it comes to updates, decisions, and support systems.

  4. Uncertainty About the Future
    Students and families want more guidance on post-graduation paths (college, trades, careers) and better visibility into available programs.

  5. Fragile Trust in Leadership
    The community values our educators but expressed a desire for more transparency and shared vision from district leadership.

How We’re Responding

The feedback from our community shaped a clear direction for the district—and we’re already taking action. Here’s what’s underway:

  1. New Communication Tools
    We’ve launched monthly email newsletters from each building and the the district to keep families informed with facts and progress.
  2. Improved Support Visibility
    We’re developing student-friendly guides that show where to get help and making mental health and academic support more visible across our schools.
  3. Behavior Expectations for All
    A district-wide behavior matrix is now in place, with clear, consistent expectations posted in every classroom and hallway.
  4. Future-Ready Focus
    We’re expanding course visibility, adding real-world learning opportunities, and connecting students with pathways that match their interests and goals.
  5. Ongoing Listening & Action
    This year, we’ll continue gathering input and sharing updates through a “You Said / We Did” series, because change isn’t a one-time event. It’s a process we build together.