News : Benton Community Seniors awarded more than $100,000 in Scholarships

On Wednesday, Benton Community School held the annual Decision Day 2026 and Senior Awards event celebrating the senior class.

Students had an opportunity to share their plans for life beyond high school. This event honored all postsecondary pathways, including the workforce, apprenticeships, military service, college, and more, recognizing that every student’s journey is meaningful and worth celebrating.

Decision Day took place in the high school gym and featured a variety of special guests to support the students. Guests included district staff, college admissions representatives, mascots, and representatives from the Iowa Department of Education. 

Decision Day reflects the district’s ongoing focus in preparing students to be both career and college ready. By highlighting the diverse paths the seniors are pursuing, this event served as a powerful example for the 7th–11th grade students, helping them see the wide range of opportunities available to them after graduation and encouraging them to begin planning for their own futures.

Later in the afternoon, the district celebrated the Class of 2026 by hosting the Senior Awards Ceremony. During this event, more than $100,000 in scholarships was awarded through the Benton Scholarship Foundation and other generous members of the school community, further supporting students as they take their next steps beyond high school.

These celebrations reflect the commitment to ensuring every student experiences - A Quality Education for a Lifetime of Learning, highlighting what makes Benton Community, "A Place to Belong."

Below are a list of the awards and recipients.