Knight Families,
Kansas always likes to keep things interesting with the weather I'd say! We had summer days that felt like Spring - but those days are over and the hot July and August heat is here. I hope this welcome comes with a feeling of readiness to kick off another school year and get back into the routines!
My summer was one of the "calmest" we have had in a very long time with no schedules, big trips, plans, or to-do's! It was spent with many pool days, time outdoors, and just being home as a family. My daughter Sadie (8) and Jacob (5) had their fair share of popsicles, s'mores, and sweet treats and it is safe to say the earlier bedtimes coming up will be a shock!
As the new year unfolds, I hope this communication with beginning of the year events and important building information gets your family started. You can expect a Family Newsletter to be sent monthly (typically the last Friday of the month) with upcoming dates, events, and information. Then more frequent communication will be sent via Skyward and Skylert as needed.
There are a few important items to highlight. The first is Building Security. Keeping students and staff safe is always the highest priority. Thus, we will continue consistent measures for visitors and all entries into the building.
- Upon arrival to the building, please press the outside button for access. The front office staff will pause you at that time and ask for building purpose, or "How can I help you?"
- Inside the corridor, the next door to the office will be locked during school hours. The front office will unlock the door once you approach and they are able to see you.
- ALL guests should have photo identification available. The front office staff may request this if your information is not loaded in our Raptor System.
- ALL Visitors and guests will be required to wear a sticker when in the building, and exit through the front office.
Thank you for your understanding and support in adhering to these procedures!
Finally, I want to point out the section below with more detailed building procedures for arrival and dismissal. Please take a moment to review it before we begin the year. This is an administrative focus for myself this year to tighten as safety is and always be a priority. If you are new to Benninghoven, please also refer to the videos that are helpful in visually seeing the process.
Have a wonderful week and enjoy the last of summer break. Please reach out to myself or the front office if we can support you in any way. We will see all Knights soon as embark on the 24-25 school year and show we do anything!...."Lights, Camera, Learn!"
Cheers to a great year!
Anna Jensen, Principal
School Year Kick Off, Monday August 12: 5-6:30
It will be a chance to meet your teacher, see your new classroom, drop off school supplies, and say hi to friends! A shift for this school year, please note the event is INSIDE and families will visit classrooms. As we anticipate heavy traffic, please plan to use SMNW for overflow parking. Please do not park along any fire lanes at the school.
A Focus on Attendance
We are committed at Benninghoven to providing the very best opportunities for your child each day. WE NEED YOU to help make that happen! Please help read below about the effects of chronic tardies or absences.
Why Daily Attendance Matters:
Missed Lessons = Falling Behind: Even one day can mean missing critical instructions and activities, making it harder for your child to catch up.
Impact on Future Success: Consistent attendance is a strong predictor of academic achievement and future opportunities.
Building Resilience: Regular attendance teaches your child the value of perseverance and responsibility—essential skills for success in life.
Stronger Friendships: Daily presence helps your child develop and sustain friendships, which are crucial for emotional and social development.
Healthy Routine: Attending school every day establishes a stable routine, promoting better mental and physical health.
Early Dismissals and Transportation Changes:
Families should contact the OFFICE staff via phone (913-991-1900) of any changes in routine. These are only accepted from Guardians listed in Skyward and MUST OCCUR BY 3:00 pm. ***New this year, all transportation changes will receive an individual student pass that shows the homeroom teacher the approved communication. Calls received after 3:00, unless emergent, may not be honored and are up to the discretion of the administration. *** Student Safety is the priority.
School Supplies
Supply lists for the 24-25 school year are posted.These items can also be purchased as a bundle through PTA! See the information in the PTA section for details to order now.
You will also see some optional "Wish Lists" for the Nurse, Specials, and Support Staff. These have been compiled for staff that do not roster a classroom, but meet student needs on a daily basis. If you would like to purchase any of the items on these lists, please label the item with the appropriate allocation (IE: Nurse, Art, Resource) so that we can get them to the right place!
Any student or family that needs financial support with supplies, please reach out to our Office Manager, Nicole Cunningham or Social Worker, Paula Pyle - and we will be happy to provide support!
Lists can also be found on the Benninghoven website at https://benninghoven.smsd.org/
