Our District
THIS IS WHERE EXCELLENCE LIVES
A Message from the Superintendent
Welcome to Bentonville Schools. I believe you’ll find Bentonville Schools to be a world-class educational experience set in a city like no other. The benefits of Bentonville Schools are innumerable. We boast more National Merit Finalists than any district in the state, nationally ranked musicians and a powerhouse athletics program. We look forward to seeing you for years to come.
Sincerely,
Dr. Debbie Jones
|
The Bentonville Difference |
Bentonville Schools |
Private & Charter |
|---|---|---|
|
Licensed Teachers in All Academic Classrooms |
YES |
NO |
|
Twelve Years Average Teacher Experience |
YES |
NO |
|
Nationally Recognized Academic Programs |
YES |
NO |
|
Nationally Recognized Visual & Performing Arts Programs |
YES |
NO |
|
Nationally Recognized Athletic Program |
YES |
NO |
|
Highest Performing Computer Science Program in Arkansas |
YES |
NO |
|
More Than 40 Career Pathways for High School Students |
YES |
NO |
|
Hundreds of Extra Curricular Opportunities |
YES |
NO |
|
Before & After School Child Care |
YES |
NO |
History
Bentonville Schools began in 1841 as a subscription school. In 1872 the first public school was built. In 1912, the first four-year high school class graduated, consisting of six students. The District now encompasses 142 square miles of land including most of Bentonville, and portions of Bella Vista, Cave Springs, Centerton, Highfill, Little Flock and Rogers.
Mission/Vision
Mission Statement: Bentonville Schools is committed to excellence in all we do through innovative, inspiring learning experiences.
Vision Statement: Leading learning through innovation, collaboration and dedication.
Graduates
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Students Graduated in 2026: 1,550
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Graduation Rate: 95%
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2025-2026 National Merit Finalists: 21
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AP Course Offerings: 32
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AP Students in 2026: 2,313 (9-12th grade)
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AP Exams Taken: 4,516
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AP Scores of 3 or above: 79%
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$12.9 M in Scholarships
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16 Seniors with Associate's Degrees
District Overview
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2025-2026 Enrollment: 19,979
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Per Pupil Expenditure: $11,509
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Teacher/Student: 1:15
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Operating Budget 2024-2025: $254,846,400
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Millage Rate: 46.8
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Number of Schools: 24
(Thirteen elementary, five middle, four junior highs and two high schools)
Demographics
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Caucasian: 67.23%
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African American: 3.27%
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Asian: 11.11%
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Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.66%
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Hispanic: 12.71%
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Native American: 1.39%
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Two or More Races: 5.13%
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Countries of Birth: 95
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Native Languages: 71
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Percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals: 25.57%
Staff
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Certified Teachers: 1,435
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Advanced Degrees: 933
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National Board Certified: 65
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Average Teacher Salary: $69,276
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Starting Salary: $56,329