Parents/Guardians,

Yes, the beauty of fall is here along with the “chill” in the air! Believe it or not, the school year is morethan two-fourth complete. The students and staff have been working very hard this year, and a much-deserved Christmas break is near.

Please encourage your child to study hard for his or her semester exams and to be at school. By ending the semester before the holiday break (December 20), we are attempting to use instructional time more academically. It is important that students work hard until the very end to ensure good grades. Students will take semester exams on December 16, 19 and 20. This schedule will provide a more efficient transition between semesters. Second semester will begin January 4. 

The BHS drama class will be performing “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” in the BHS auditorium on Friday, December 2nd at 7:00 PM and Saturday, December 3rd shows at 2:00 PM and7:00 PM. Our jazz band, choir, and symphonic band will perform in the high school auditorium on December 19. Make a note to attend this performance for a delightful evening of holiday music. The performance will begin at 7:00 pm.

Parties go along with the upcoming holidays. Clearly, student parties are a concern to us when alcohol and other intoxicants are involved. I think it is safe to say that if student parties are not chaperoned by a responsible adult, there is a high likelihood that alcohol and other intoxicants may be involved. Please take your parental responsibility seriously for the welfare and safety of your child. It is important that you know where your son or daughter is, and that you know what he or she is doing. Please understand that, if you or your son or daughter has a party at your home, whether you are present or not, you are legally responsible to ensure that no illegal activities are taking place. If your child tells you he or she is spending the night at someone else’s house,the prudent thing to do is to follow-up with a phone call to that parent or guardian to verify that you are both on the same page. Teenagers often need help in making wise decisions. There is nothing wrong with having a curfew for your son or daughter. I know of no safe and appropriate activities planned for teens after midnight. Your consideration to these small but very important suggestions may go a long way to ensure that kids are safe during this holiday season.Your consideration to these small but very important suggestions may go a long way to ensure that kids are safe during this holiday season.Your consideration to these small but very important suggestions may go a long way to ensure that kids are safe during this holiday season.

On behalf of our outstanding faculty, please continue making the extra effort to have your son or daughter in school on time each day. Our teachers appreciate and value the instructional time they have with students, down to the very last minute. All classes are to begin on time at 7:55 am. Beginning class on time stresses the academic focus that supports our mission. Addressing even the smallest details and keeping expectations high will enhance the culture of excellence we strive to attain. In closing, I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the staff and administration at Benson High School. Have a great December!“ 

"Go Bobcats”

Jeff Thompson 

Be the Best – Where Effort is Required!