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Bennington Public Schools

Developing a community of learners!

The Badger Update: March 6, 2026

Posted Date: 03/06/26 (03:05 PM)


Bennington Badgers Logo

The Badger Update

District Parent Communication Newsletter

March 6, 2026

Mark Your Calendar

Monday, March 9th
  • Board of Education Meeting, 6pm
Friday, March 13th
  • No School
Tuesday, March 24th
  • Early Staggered Dismissal
  • Elementary: 11:40, Middle: 11:50, High: 12:00
Monday, March 30th - Friday, April 3rd
  • No School, Spring Break
View the 2025-26 School Calendar
School Times, Elementary: 8:05am - 3:07pm, Middle School: 8:00am - 3:10pm, High School: 8:10am - 3:17pm

Board of Education Update

Next Regular Board of Education Meeting

The next regular Board of Education meeting will be on March 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., at the District Office. All meetings are open to the public. Regular meetings are streamed live through YouTube and viewable on the District website. Special meetings, where there are action items on the agenda, will also be streamed live. Agendas for Board of Education meetings are posted on the district website the Friday before each meeting. Click here to view agendas and minutes.
 

Kindergarten Registration is Open

Do you have a student ready to start Kindergarten in August 2026? Bennington Public Schools is currently accepting registrations for any incoming Kindergarten students. If your child will be eligible for Kindergarten (age 5 by July 31, 2026) please visit our district website www.benningtonschools.org and click on "Enroll a Student" to register for the upcoming school year, and be sure to select the 2026-2027 school year.

Determining the enrollment for the next year is important for future staff planning. Completing registration also ensures that you receive communication regarding kindergarten. 
 

We Are Bennington

BMS Students Excel at National History Day District Contest!

Bennington Middle School had an outstanding showing at the Omaha District National History Day Competition on February 27! Twelve students presented nine projects, and several earning top honors and two awards. Students who placed in the top three in each division qualified to advance to the state competition on April 25 at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln.
🏆 1st Place Winners
  • Karsyn Cook – Junior Individual Performance
  • Payton Combes & Valeriya Bridgeford – Junior Group Performance
  • Layne Winkel – Junior Individual Website + Douglas County Museum Award
  • Evelyn Olson – Junior Individual Exhibit + Joslyn Art Museum Award
🥈 2nd Place Winners
  • Destinee Badjaglana & Alivia Meredith – Junior Group Performance
  • Luke Backhuus – Junior Individual Website
  • Amiyah Digilio White & Madeline Uggen – Junior Group Exhibit
  • Makenzie Jacobs – Junior Individual Exhibit
🎖️ Junior Individual Exhibit
  • Margo Bougger
Congratulations to all of our student historians for their research, creativity, and hard work! We wish our qualifiers the best of luck at the state competition. #WeAreBPS
National History Day District Contest

Bennington Elementary Coin War Supports a Great Cause!

During Kindness Week, the Bennington Elementary Student Council hosted their annual Coin War, where grade levels competed to collect coins and support a cause chosen by students.

Thanks to the generosity of our school community, students raised an incredible $895.26, which was donated to the Nebraska Humane Society!

Way to go, Badgers! Your kindness and teamwork are making a difference in our community. #WeAreBPS

Fifth Grade Music Day at the Middle School!

On March 4, we had the pleasure of welcoming 5th grade students from across the district for a special Music Day performance!

Students enjoyed performances by the BMS/BSMS 8th Grade Band, BMS/BSMS 6th Grade Choir, and the Bennington South Marimba Ensemble. Each group showcased the incredible music opportunities available in middle school and gave our younger students a glimpse of what they can look forward to in the years ahead.

It was a great day celebrating music and inspiring the next generation of performers! #WeAreBPS
Photo Collage of the 5th Grade Music Day Performances
 

Nutrition Services Update

A Royal Week of Breakfast at BPS!

Last week, Bennington Public Schools celebrated National School Breakfast Week with the theme “The Quest for School Breakfast.” Students across the district started their mornings with a healthy meal and a lot of fun along the way.

Throughout the week, students enjoyed special menu items fit for kings and queens, and many of our elementary students proudly wore their gold paper crowns while eating breakfast in the cafeteria. The smiles (and crowns!) made for a great way to start the school day.

Research shows that students who eat breakfast are more focused, attend school more regularly, and perform better in the classroom. Thank you to our Nutrition Services team for making the week special and for helping our students begin each day ready to learn.

Check out the photos from the week to see some of our BPS royalty enjoying breakfast! #WeAreBPS
Photo Collage of students participating in National School Breakfast Week
 

Shine Your Light Award

Recognize a BPS Staff Member!

Bennington Public Schools would like to recognize staff members throughout the year. Do you know a staff member that shines their light? Are they going above and beyond? Have they done something to help someone make their day better? Nominate them using the short form linked below.

Check out the list of staff members that have been recognized!
Congratulations to the staff members below that have been recognized by a colleague, parent, or student since the last newsletter.

Marc Austin, Krista Bendell, Matt Blomenkamp, Ann Bouaphakeo, Megan Bousquet, Jamie Christensen, Taylor Dahlgren, Traci Duckworth, Kelly Gowan, Terese Jose, Brittany Kramer, Chelsi Miller, Jillian Petersen, Jessica Spilker-Kinning, Kelly Taylor, and Shannon Thoendel
Shine Your Light Nomination Form

February Shine Your Light Award Winners

Mrs. Chelsy Scholtz

Mrs. Chelsy Scholtz

Mrs. Scholtz is a 2nd grade teacher at Stratford Elementary. Her nominations describe her as a kind, compassionate, and hardworking educator who is deeply committed to every student. Colleagues shared that she consistently goes above and beyond to help students succeed while maintaining a strong and supportive classroom environment. She is recognized for her dedication, her ability to handle challenges with care and professionalism, and her genuine desire to see every child grow and thrive.
Ms. Paige Wright

Ms. Paige Wright

Ms. Wright is a paraprofessional at Heritage Elementary. Her nominations describe her as dedicated, patient, and deeply caring in the way she supports students each day. Colleagues shared that her kindness and genuine approach help create a positive learning environment, and that she plays an important role in supporting both students and staff. Students enjoy working with her and often return to class smiling, which reflects the meaningful connections she builds and the encouragement she provides. Her commitment and hard work make a difference for the entire Heritage community.

Employee Appreciation

Happy Maintenance Worker Day

Happy Maintenance Worker Day

Today we celebrate and thank our incredible maintenance team for everything they do to keep our schools safe, clean, and running smoothly. From fixing problems to caring for our buildings and grounds, your hard work makes a difference for students and staff every day. We appreciate all that you do for Bennington Public Schools! #WeAreBPS
Happy Business Professionals Day

Happy Business Professionals Day

Today we recognize Michael Thies, Coordinator of Business Services, and thank him for the important work he does to support Bennington Public Schools. His dedication behind the scenes helps keep our district running smoothly every day. Thank you for all you do! #WeAreBPS
 

Activities and Athletics

Youth Pep Rally with the Boys Varsity Basketball Team
Watch home games on YouTube!
Girls Basketball
Varsity State Tournament
Pinnacle Bank Arena - Tournament Bracket

Friday, March 6th
  • 7:45pm vs. Lincoln Pius X
Saturday, March 7th
  • 6:15pm Championship Game vs. TBD
Boys Basketball
Varsity State Tournament
Pinnacle Bank Arena - Tournament Bracket

Thursday, March 12th
  • 6pm vs. Norris
Friday, March 13th
  • 7:45pm vs. TBD
Saturday, March 14th
  • 6:15pm Championship Game vs. TBD
Speech
Saturday, March 14th
  • 9am - District Competition at Lincoln East
Friday, March 27th
  • State Tournament at Kearney Sunrise Middle School
Quiz Bowl
Monday, March 9th
  • 4pm - Quiz Bowl EMC Championship at Blair HS

Bennington High School Music Department Presents Mamma Mia!

  • March 20th at 7pm
  • March 21st at 7pm
  • March 22nd at 1pm
  • March 22nd at 5pm

Tickets Now On Sale!

📣 Calling All Future Cheerleaders! 📣

We are looking for motivated athletes to join our JV and Varsity Cheer Teams for the 2026–2027 season!

Parent Meeting: March 16th at 5:30 p.m.
Mandatory Practice Week: March 23rd-27th, 6-7 a.m.
Actual Tryout Date: March 29th

If you’re interested or have questions, please reach out:
We can’t wait to see you on the sidelines!
Full Calendar for All Events
 

The Curious Creators Expo

Students in grades 2–5 are invited to participate in this year’s Bennington Middle School Curious Creators Expo!

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Bennington Middle School

This special event, a collaboration between our science and art departments, gives elementary students the opportunity to showcase their creativity, curiosity, and innovation through both science and art.

The Curious Creators Expo will feature:
• Science Fair Projects – Students may display their scientific discoveries and innovations.
• Art Projects – Students may create and showcase artwork inspired by this year’s theme: “Space”
• Live Demonstrations & Hands-On Activities – Middle school students will present live science demonstrations, lead art projects, and share award-winning work to inspire younger learners through interactive experiences.
 

Community Resources

The Community Resources page on the BPS website shares information about local programs available to help families with food sustainability and other essential needs. From food pantries and meal assistance to community outreach efforts, these resources are here to help families have access to what they need.
Explore available resources
Bennington Community Food Pantry
COPE
 

Community Youth Actvities

Badger Art Camp 2026

Artists From Around the World
Location: Bennington South Middle School Art Room

June 1st-June 5th 
  • Session 1 Kdg-2nd: 8:00am-9:30am 
  • Session 2 3rd-5th: 10:00am-12:00pm
June 8th-June 12th
  • Session 3 Kdg-2nd: 8:00am-9:30Am
  • Session 4 3rd-5th: 10:00am-12:00pm
  • Session 5 6th-8th: 1:00pm-3:30pm

  • Save $20 for early bird sign-up! Sign up by May 15th.
Cost:
  • Kit Camp Kindergarten-2nd grade $120.00
  • Badgers 3rd-5th grade $145
  • Teen Badgers 6th-8th grade $165
Bennington Youth Cheer

Bennington Youth Cheer

Who: K-8th Grade
What: Sideline Cheer
When: July - October
Cost: Full package with registration - $425
Registration only - $150

Registration: Open March 1st-March 31st

Parent Meeting: February 26th
6:30-7:30pm at the Bennington Library

Mandatory Fittings
March 1st - 1-3pm
March 12th - 5:30-7:30pm
March 24th - 5:30-7:30pm

Questions
Bennington Community Theatre with McGuigan Arts Academy presents Acting Up Theatre Makers

Bennington Community Theatre

Bennington Community Theatre with McGuigan Arts Academy presents Acting Up Theatre Makers

Unlock your potential in a week-long, hands-on performance experience designed just for middle school students!

Students will explore acting, singing, movement, and improvisation while building confidence and stage presence. Each day is packed with:
  • Ensemble-building games
  • Monologue & group scene work
  • Music rehearsals & movement exercises
  • Improv activities
  • Audition techniques, character creation, and résumé/headshot basics

The week ends with a showcase performance!
Students will present two pieces of their choice—monologue, song, group scene, original character, choreography, or more—showcasing everything they’ve learned. Friends and family are invited!

Schedule: Monday, March 30 - Friday, April 3
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Location: Bennington Legion hall
Showcase: April 3rd at 3 PM
Cost: $95 per student
Who: Middle School Students
Baseball & Softball Registration is Open

Bennington Athletic League: Youth Baseball & Softball

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE 2026 SEASON!!!

Sign up at the link below for Rec Baseball & Softball, Coach Pitch, and TBall.

Campus Life - Dodge Ball Tournament

Bennington Campus Life

Middle and High School Dodgeball Tournament

March 29th 6pm-9pm
at Bennington Middle School

  • $5 per person at the door
  • 6 to 7 people on a team
  • Concessions will be available 

For questions contact: Vaughn@citylightbennington.church
Bennington Basketball Association

Bennington Basketball Association

Bennington Basketball Association's select basketball consists of two programs, the Elite program and the All-Stars program.
  • Elite Tryouts will take place Sunday, March 15th and Monday, March 16th.
  • All-Stars Tryouts will take place Sunday, March 22nd and Monday, March 23rd.

Players will register for the grade he/she will be in for the 2026-2027 school year. Full details can be found on our website at 
2026 Youth Summer Kickball League

2026 Youth Summer Kickball League

Saturday Afternoons
June 6th thru Aug. 15th
Seymour Smith Park

5 Boys and 5 Girls per team
Ages 9 thru 17 (3 Divisions) 

The American Legion 2026 Junior Law Cadet Program

The American Legion Department of Nebraska Junior Law Cadet Program is held annually during the summer before the senior year of high school, typically during the middle of June, at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island.

Applications are due before March 1, submitted to the student’s nearest American Legion Post Commander for signature; 2026 forms and information will be available at https://nebraskalegion.net/junior-law-cadet/ Students interested in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Law, Court Administration, or related careers would benefit from attending. It can qualify for leadership points on other scholarship applications.

  • The 2026 Boys Session will be held June 22-23, 2026 at the Nebraska State Patrol Facility in Grand Island.
  • The 2026 Girls Session will be held June 24-25, 2026 at the Nebraska State Patrol Facility in Grand Island.

In Nebraska’s Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties (The Legion District 8), applicants will be notified to attend a personal competitive interview with both organizational sponsors. It will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, starting 1:00 p.m., and hosted by Benson Post 112 at 8904 Military Road, Omaha, for selection of up to 5 delegates and 5 alternates to attend.

Areas of education at the Junior Law Cadet Program include the latest in Law Enforcement technology, K-9 handling, accident and criminal
investigation. Participants will participate in paramilitary experiences such as calisthenics and self-defense tactics.
 

Contact Us

 
Notice of Non-Discrimination
The Bennington Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, or other protected status in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Students: Mr. Dan Bombeck, Director of Student Services, 11620 North 156th Street, P.O. Box 309, Bennington, NE 68007 (402) 238-3044 (dbombeck@bennps.org). Employees and Others: Dr. Matt Blomenkamp, Assistant Superintendent 11620 North 156th Street, P.O. Box 309, Bennington, NE 68007 (402) 238-3044 (mblomenkamp@bennps.org). Complaints or concerns involving discrimination or needs for accommodation or access should be addressed to the appropriate Coordinator. For further information about anti-discrimination laws and regulations, or to file a complaint of discrimination with the Office for Civil Rights in the U.S. Department of Education (OCR), please contact the OCR at 601 East 12th Street, Room 353, Kansas City, MO 64106, (800) 368-1019 (voice), Fax (816) 426-3686, (800) 537-7697 (telecommunications device for the deaf), or ocr.kansascity@ed.gov.

Title IX

The Bennington Public School District is committed to offering employment and educational opportunity to its employees and students in a climate free of discrimination. Accordingly, unlawful discrimination, harassment and retaliation of any kind by District employees, including, co-workers, non-employees (such as volunteers), third parties and others is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.