Issue #5 - October 29, 2026 | | Si su lengua materna es el español, por favor visite el sitio web www.bensonlevy4learning2026.com para obtener información sobre el próximo referéndum para la aprobación de una tasa operativa. | | Four Benson Musicians Participate in Honor Band | | |
Congratulations to our four musicians who took part in the Eighth Grade Honor Band at New London-Spicer! On Saturday, October 24, NLS hosted the event, welcoming about 70 eighth grade band students from 12 schools in our region, each nominated by their directors.
The students spent the day rehearsing with guest conductor Dr. Nathaniel Dickey, then performed the music they’d worked on in a public concert that evening.
Dr. Dickey is chair of the music department and professor of music at Concordia College, where he teaches trombone and directs the Cobber Athletic Band. A nationally respected conductor, clinician, and performer, he is principal trombonist of the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony and has performed with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Minnesota Opera, and Boston Ballet.
What an honor for our Benson students to have worked with Dr. Dickey. Well done, musicians!
| | Benson Public Schools' 2026 Referendum Guide | | |
The School Board is asking voters to consider an Operating Levy for Learning: $700 more per student each year for 10 years. Inside the guide, you’ll find:
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The Need: why costs have outpaced state funding, and the $1M+ in cuts made over the past three years
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The Plan: how the levy would support everything from reading and math help to shop, trades, FFA and BPA
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The Cost: about $15/month for a median $175,000 home, plus a tax calculator and tax relief options
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If It Doesn’t Pass: the reductions under consideration
- Your Ballot: a sample ballot so you know what to expect
Read the brochure online.
| | Voices of Benson - Traci Pahl | | |
My husband, Shaun, and I are proud graduates of Benson High School. Our two sons and eleven nieces and nephews also received an outstanding education at Benson Schools. I have lived in this community all of my life and taught students in Benson for 31 years. I can’t imagine that there would be another occupation as rewarding.
One of my favorite parts of being a teacher is when former students stop by and share what they’ve been doing and what their plans are for the future. We reminisce about things they remember when they were my student.
A strong school matters to me. It is not just a building, it is the heartbeat of our community. Each day I see first hand the passion and dedication of our staff. Benson Schools care about every student that comes through our doors. Protecting our school is an investment in the future.
| | Detailed Info: Finance & Programs | | | |
For generations, Benson families have chosen Benson Public Schools, and they keep choosing us.
Today, our school district is facing a budget challenge, and we want you to have the full picture before Election Day.
The flyer linked above explains what’s been cut so far, why state funding hasn’t kept up with rising costs, and what the levy would help us protect: reasonable class sizes, strong programs, and excellent teachers and staff.
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As our community looks ahead, we want to share a closer look at what strong schools make possible in Benson.
The attached flyer highlights our Career and Technical Education programs, where students learn by doing and where our youngest learners explore careers early.
Strong schools help families choose Benson. Our community shows up for our students. We hope you’ll take a look, share it with your neighbors.
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Did You Know? Why 10 Years? | | |
FAQ: Why is the operating levy for 10 years?
Minnesota law allows an operating levy to last up to 10 years, and 10 years is a common length for most school districts. If approved, it would provide money for the 2027-28 through 2036-37 school years.
A 2023 state law lets a school board renew a levy once without a vote, but only for the same amount. This levy asks for more money. The district is requesting additional support because state funding hasn't kept up with rising costs, and it is spending more than it takes in due to unfunded mandates, rising costs, and inflation. Because the amount is going up, voters must decide in a referendum.
The last operating levy was approved by Benson Public Schools residents in 2013. A bond referendum for building was approved in 2019.
| | Benson FFA Evolves, Engages, and Empowers at Nationals | | |
Benson FFA members spent last week in Indianapolis for the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo, joining 69,751 FFA members from across the country. The trip started with a tour of Beck’s Hybrids headquarters, where students learned about corn development, seed technology, and fertilizer application methods.
Over the next few days, members attended general sessions, explored the Expo, joined leadership workshops, and took on the pin collecting challenge. Four of our officers also sat down for a radio interview with the Ingstad Minnesota Radio Network. Listen to it here.
Highlights included the Three Hills FFA Rodeo and the American Degree Session, where fewer than 1% of FFA members earn the organization’s highest honor. Our students came home with new skills, new connections, and a reminder to know what they stand for. Thank you to everyone who made this trip possible!
| | Still Have Questions? Contact Dr. Julie | | |
Still have questions? Didn't make it to a community meeting?
You can still get your questions answered. Contact Dr. Julie by phone or email.
📞 Call: 320-842-2040 or
📧 Email: suptoffice@benson.k12.mn.us
| Extended Voting Hours This Weekend | | |
Make a plan to vote! Early Voting is open this Saturday, Oct 31 and Sunday, Nov 1 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at three area locations:
- Swift County Courthouse - 304 14th St. North, Benson,
- Pope County Courthouse - 130 East Minnesota Ave, Glenwood,
- Chippewa County Courthouse - 629 N. 11th Street, Montevideo
More additional hours available:
Saturday, October 31 at 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday, November 1 at 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Monday, November 2 at 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Voting information can be found at www.bensonlevy4learning2026.com.
| | Don't Forget to Flip Your Ballot! | | |
Our students are told to check the back of their tests, and now we’re telling you to check the back of your ballots! Be sure to flip your ballot over before you finish voting on or before November 3.
Benson Public Schools residents live in three different counties, and ballots look different from county to county. Here’s what to expect:
- Constitutional Amendment 1 for the Permanent School Fund should appear on the front of every ballot.
- Some ballots have the School District Levy Question on the back.
However your ballot is laid out, make your plan now to turn it over and vote on both sides.
| | | Benson Public Schools ISD #777 | 1400 Montana Avenue | Benson, MN 56215 US |
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