I’m so excited to welcome you to this edition of Connections47. As we look through these pages, we celebrate the incredible journeys of several of our student-artists along with the strong support system that our community provides. This issue is all about teamwork and the collective spirit that helps our students succeed.

In this edition, you’ll find stories of our students who are preparing for the next steps in their academic journeys. Whether they’re moving on to high school, exploring their interests, or expanding their own love of learning. These stories show the dedication and hard work our students put into their futures, supported every step of the way by our dedicated administrative support team, meal prep, and board leadership. But, as always, our families are at the forefront of our kids’ successes, and we honor that.

Our theme of a support team truly reflects the heart of Benton Grade School. It’s about how we all come together to lift each other up and ensure that everyone has the resources and encouragement they need to achieve their goals. The sense of community and service is evident in every story, and it’s a reminder of what makes our school such a special place.

One of the highlights of this issue is seeing our students’ enthusiasm for what lies ahead. Their excitement and determination are clear, and it’s wonderful to see how prepared they are for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Our school has worked hard to equip them with the skills and confidence they need to succeed, and their stories are a testament to that effort.

As you read through this magazine, I hope you feel as proud of our students as I do. Their achievements are a result of their own hard work and the support they receive from our entire school community. Together, we’re building a bright future, one student at a time. Thank you for being a part of our Benton Grade School family. Let’s continue to support and celebrate each other as we move forward together.

Best regards,


Dr. Steve Smith
Superintendent, Benton Grade School