Bentonville High School

I am a single parent of a Bentonville high school student. I have had nothing but issues with the staff and administration at this school. They have accused and bullied my student from day one. This year he was expelled on the first day of school before he even reached his first class because he was accused of being on drugs. After they had him arrested at school he was able to pass two drug screens and after a full semester they decided to drop the charges. Again this week, a teacher accused him of being on drugs again and after detaining him he passed 3 drug screens. I am a middle class working mother who is not able to donate to the athletic boosters or the PTO. Therefore, my child is look down upon and bullied by the administration. If your student is not wealthy, acedemically superior, or and outstanding athlete they will not do well in this school. They only want students that will make them look outstanding and families that are able to donate to their school.
--Submitted by a parent

BHS can be a good experience - but be prepared! As a parent, you must stay on top of what is going on - and help your child find their "niche". The student population is too large for the counselors to be of any real academic help - there is no student advisory happening at BHS. And don't look to the Principal, either -- she is of no help. My senior is in the top 5% of his class academically, and scored in the top 10% of ACT nationally, has been involved in student government, choir and other extra-curricular. He has never been advised on his academic scheduling, much less on options for college or post-HS options. Too many students for the counselors to deal with. They like to stick to their "formula" - regardless if it benefits the individual student. I have had to fight for my student's scheduling for 4 years. I fear for the kids who have parents that are too busy, ill-equipped or disengaged to advocate for their student. If your student is not superior in at least one component (athletic or academic) - there is little chance for them to thrive at highly competitive BHS.
--Submitted by a parent

This is our first year at BHS; once you get over the student population size, the school (teachers and staff) are very friendly. Teachers communicate frequently through emails. There is no hand-holding from teachers, if your student misses school, they are responsible for getting their work assignments - welcome to adult hood! :) Have not had any dealings with the Principal or VP, which is a good thing; office staff is friendly enough; the counselors are extremely helpful and respond to phone calls or emails in a timely manner. BHS offers a variety of extra-curricular activities and a wide range of academic classes to choose from.
--Submitted by a parent

I attend here and it is a great school. I personally think that the school cares about its students and expects the best from them. The ones that slack off and don't work like to say that the school is not for the students when it's really the student not caring about their education.
--Submitted by a student

I am a student attending here, and I absolutly love it. I have lived all over the world and been to private schools my whole life, but this school rises above them all. There are a lot of different people and amazing activites you can do here. I recomend this to anyone.
--Submitted by a student

BHS is a great school. Its not for the meek. It's a progressive real world school. Don't expect anyone to hold your hand. Excuses are just that. If you decide to excel this is the school for you. If you want to just muddle through your high school years go somewhere else.
--Submitted by a parent

My two children have been privileged to attend BPS from K - 9th grade. We have experienced the most qualified educators for the past 10 years, from the p.e. teachers to our superintendent and everything in between. The high school is no exception. It is the largest 7A school in Arkansas right now but, they do a great job of not letting children fall through the cracks. This is our first year to actually experience the H.S. but our daughter has thrived in all her AP classes and all her extra curricular activities. They have a phenomenal athletic program and facility in whichever sport you play also. The principal, Mrs. Garrett, does an excellent job watching over 3,600 + students and I agree with the previous posting regarding her example in the community. The freshman class has 917 students. I know several children who have or are graduating that have been excepted to all 4 of the military academy's and any of the the top colleges in the nation. They definitely prepare you for your college years. Go Tigers!!
--Submitted by a parent

I rate the Bentonville High School currently as an excellant High School. The principal is a servant leader, she not only is the principal of 2933 students day in and day out, she also participates in teaching Sunday School, the Food Pantry at church, and Youth functions. With a leader of a High School with those serving the community type of values, the children at this school are not only receiving the best of the best education, they are also receiving direction on how to treat others and how to give back to the community. Both are qualities that make all students much better individuals in High School, but, more importantly, when they graduate into the real world. The Band Directors, Mrs. Rebecca Gale, and Mr. Gary Gale, are both of the same kind of individuals, they teach the children how to play in the Band, and also community volunteerism qualities.
--Submitted by a parent

2 of my 4 children have graduated from BHS and both have been well prepared for college. Encourage them to get involved, most clubs are free - the choir programs can 'teach' your child to sing! Some athletics are open to all - swim, tennis, some they have to earn a spot! Or they can cheer in the 'Jungle' but get involved. Having moved six times in three years ourselves prior to settling down in Bentonville, treat moves as an adventure/don't be a victim. Go to CAP conferences, help them get involved. Don't compare BHS to other schools, that does a 'disservice' to your child. Plus it is a great school - top 2% in the nation! Let them 'brag' about that to their friends back home! Encourage your kiddos to make the most of their high school experience. Many kids move around like ours did, they won't be alone.
--Submitted by a parent

There is no doubt this is an excellent school. There is a huge variety in terms of classes you are able to take, and extra-curricular activities. Not to mention countless other things, such as our high test scores, excellent athletic programs, and our Blue Ribbon status.
--Submitted by a student