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Stratford Elementary School

Dream Big, Achieve Greatness, and Shine Bright

The Badger Update: February 6, 2026

Posted Date: 02/06/26 (03:05 PM)


Bennington Badgers Logo

The Badger Update

District Parent Communication Newsletter

February 6, 2026

Mark Your Calendar

Monday, February 9th
  • Board of Education Meeting, 6pm
  • Parent Teacher Conferences (High School)
Tuesday, February 10th
  • Parent Teacher Conferences (Elementary and Middle School)
Wednesday, February 11th
  • Parent Teacher Conferences (Elementary, Middle School, and High School)
Thursday, February 12th
  • No School - Staff Inservice
Friday, February 13th
  • No School
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 February 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

Westward Expansion Comes to Life in 2nd Grade!

Second graders at Bennington Elementary brought history into the classroom by turning their desks into covered wagons as part of their Westward Expansion unit. Students even made their own butter to experience what daily life was like for pioneers preparing food on the trail! #WeAreBPS
Collage of photos from the westward expansion unit.
 

Happy School Counselor Day!

Yesterday we celebrated our incredible school counselors who support students every day through guidance, encouragement, and care. Thank you for helping our students succeed both in and out of the classroom. We appreciate all you do for Bennington Public Schools! #WeAreBPS
 

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.

Landon Barada, Matt Blomenkamp, Kennedy Bradburn, Emmily Hawk, Karen Hohman, SRO Jayme Iversen, Dale Jenkins, Shannon Lehman, Anna Lukehart, Kimberly Richmond, Caitlyn Suter, and Cassandra Vallis
Shine Your Light Nomination Form

January Shine Your Light Award Winners

Mrs. Eckholt poses for a photo with students.

Mrs. Shannon Lehman, Bennington Elementary

Mrs. Lehman is the school secretary for Bennington Elementary. Her nominations describe her as a bright, welcoming presence who goes above and beyond to support everyone in the building. Staff shared that she is dependable, kind, and always willing to step in wherever help is needed. She brings joy and positive energy to the office each day, and she has a special gift for connecting with students and making them feel seen and cared for. Her support helps Bennington Elementary run smoothly and feel like a warm, happy place for both students and staff.
Mrs. Eckholt poses for a photo with students.

Mrs. Erin Eckholt, Bennington Middle School

Mrs. Eckholt is a sixth grade teacher at Bennington Middle School. Her nominations describe her as a collaborative, thoughtful educator who consistently puts students first. Colleagues shared that she is an outstanding teammate and co-teaching partner who is flexible, open-minded, and committed to meeting the needs of every learner. She is also recognized for building strong relationships with students and families through frequent communication and care. Staff noted that Mrs. Eckholt has grown into a trusted teacher leader at BMS, often taking initiative in professional learning and sharing strategies that support both students and her fellow educators.
 

Activities and Athletics

Watch home games on YouTube!
Girls Basketball
Saturday, February 7th
  • 3:45pm - JV at Gretna HS
  • 5:30pm - Varsity at Gretna HS
Monday, February 9th
  • 7:15pm - JV at Roncalli Catholic HS
Tuesday, February 10th
  • 5:45pm - Varsity at Roncalli Catholic HS
Thursday, February 12th
  • 5:30pm - JV vs. Millard West at BHS
Saturday, February 14th
  • 9am - Reserve vs. Millard South at BHS
Boys Basketball
Saturday, February 7th
  • 5:30pm - JV at Gretna HS
  • 7:15pm - Varsity at Gretna HS
Monday, February 9th
  • 5:45pm - JV at Roncalli Catholic HS
Tuesday, February 10th
  • 6pm - Freshman vs. Gretna at BHS
  • 7:15pm - Varsity at Roncalli Catholic HS
  • 7:30pm - Freshman B vs. Gretna at BHS
  • 7:30pm - Reserve vs. Gretna at BHS
Thursday, February 12th
  • 5:45pm - JV at Gross Catholic HS
  • 7:15pm - Varsity at Gross Catholic HS
Saturday, February 14th
  • 9am - Freshman vs. Millard South at BHS
  • 10:30am - Freshman B vs. Millard South at BHS
  • 10:30am - Reserve vs. Millard South at BHS
  • 4pm - JV at Wayne HS
  • 5:30pm - Varsity at Wayne HS
Wrestling
Saturday, February 7th
  • 9am - Varsity State Dual Tournament at Buffalo County Fairgrounds
Saturday, February 14th
  • 9:30am - Varsity Districts at Fort Calhoun HS
Girls Wrestling
Saturday, February 7th
  • 9am - 9/JV/Varsity District Meet at Lincoln Northeast HS
Speech
Saturday, February 14th
  • Competition at Millard North HS
Monday, February 23rd
  • 6:30pm - Speech Showcase at BHS
Cheerleading
Saturday, February 7th
  • 11am - Competition at BHS
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.
 

BHS Post Prom Committee Fundraiser

Post Prom Fundraiser
Click Here to Order Cookies
 

BPS Foundation Information

All Star Kids Summer 2026 Registration
All Star Kids Summer 2026
The BPS Foundation A Night Out at Sea Gala Information and Ticket Sales
BPS Foundation Blue Apple Awards Nomintations
Purchase Gala Tickets Here
Blue Apple Awards Nominations
 

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

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.

Bennington Baseball Club – Legion Post #266 Annual Cornhole Tournament

Bennington Baseball Club – Legion Post #266

Annual Cornhole Tournament
Saturday, February 28th

Now includes a high school division
Cost: 21 & Over teams - $100/team
     High school teams - $60/team

Go to www.benningtonbaseball.net for more details
Bennington Campus Life

Bennington Campus Life - High School

High School Ski Trip
February 13th-16th at Snowy Range, WY

Cost to go for Ski/Board trip is $560.
  • With your own gear is $500, and if you are not wanting to ski but still go, it’s $400. 

Bennington Public Library Art Contest

Bennington Public Library

The library is excited to partner with the Bennington Woman’s Club to host a Student Art Contest for students in grades K–12 who live in the Bennington area.

All participants will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Hobby Lobby gift card. Selected artwork will be chosen to represent Bennington at the District Art Show in Bellevue on Saturday, March 21.

All artwork will be displayed at the library for the community to enjoy during the month of April.

Rules:
  1. Must be your original work
  2. Maximum size of entry: 24x36
  3. Ready to display - matted/no glass

Register Online by February 28, 2026
Bennington Cub Scouts Flyer

Join Cub Scouts!

Cub Scout Pack 13 is for Boys & Girls in Grades K-5
  • The Pack is made up of 6 Dens (1 for each grade)
  • There is usually 1 Pack activity (on Saturday afternoons) and 2 Den activities per month.

Cost: Pay $150 in dues, plus sell a minimum of $300 in popcorn for 1st-5th graders.

Check out our website: www.pack13cubscouts.com

Email us for info or to join: pack13bennington@gmail.com
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) 

 

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.