August 8, 2024
Dear Parents/Guardians:
I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the Benton community and express my gratitude and excitement to become a part of your school district. I live in Hollenback Township with my wife Diane and my two sons, Blaze and Lincoln. This upcoming school year will be my 26th year in public education. During this time, I have served as a coach, elementary and middle school teacher, director of curriculum and instruction, and elementary and high school principal. I believe my experiences will help me contribute to the solid educational programs at the Benton Area School District.
I welcome all parents to contact me with any concerns or questions. I will work to establish positive communication and update parents and guardians on any procedural changes throughout the year. Below, you will find important information for the start of the year
Open House is scheduled for August 14th from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The first day of school is August 20th. Students will be permitted to enter the building at 7:50 a.m. and report to the cafeteria. Breakfast will run from 7:50 a.m.-8:05 a.m. The school day will begin at 8:07 a.m. Students who are not in their homeroom by 8:07 a.m. will be considered tardy. Student dismissal will begin at 3:04 p.m.
Breakfast and lunch are free to all students for the 2024-2025 school year. Students can bring money to purchase snacks or set up an electronic account.
Students are NOT permitted to carry cell phones, iPods/headphones, or wear Smartwatches during the school day, and unauthorized use is prohibited. During school hours, all devices should remain in students' book bags which must be kept in the students’ assigned lockers. Each student is responsible for safeguarding their cell phone and any other device. We do ask that all students bring in their own set of wired headphones to be kept at school. Additional rules and procedures are included in the student handbook.
In closing, I am excited to join the Benton School District and will work with our faculty and staff to prepare your child for their future after high school.
Warm regards,
Robert Croop, Ed.D
HS/MS Principal/Curriculum Director 7-12
rcroop@bentonsd.org
570-925-2651 ext. 3002