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

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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

Students smiling in front of trees and enroll now button

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.

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. 

District Overview

  • 2023-2024 Enrollment: 19,142

  • Per Pupil Expenditure: $11,509

  • Teacher/Student: 1:15

  • Operating Budget 2022-2023: $212,313,570

  • Millage Rate: 48.0

  • Number of Schools: 24
    (Thirteen elementary, five middle, four junior highs and two high schools)

Graduates

  • Students Graduated in 2023: 1,344

  • Graduation Rate: 94%

  • 2022-2023 National Merit Finalists: 20

  • AP Course Offerings: 31

  • AP Students in 2024: 2,117 (9-12th grade)

  • AP Exams Taken: 3,831

  • AP Scores of 3 or above: 68%

  • ACT: 22.42 average composite (state average 18.6, national average 19.5)

  • SAT: 1226 (state average 1192)

Demographics

  • Caucasian: 70%

  • African American: 3%

  • Asian: 7%

  • Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1%

  • Hispanic: 12%

  • Native American: 1%

  • Two or More Races: 5%

  • Countries of Birth: 82

  • Native Languages: 62

  • Percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals: 20.8%

Staff

  • Certified Teachers: 1,340

  • Advanced Degrees: 852

  • National Board Certified: 59

  • Average Teacher Salary: $68,556

  • Starting Salary: $54,424