PUBLIC RELEASE

Benton County Schools today announced its policy for free and reduced-price meals for children served in schools under the National School Lunch Program and/or School Breakfast Program. For School Year 2026-2027, Benton County Schools will continue participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). No further action is required of you. This USDA provision allows your child(ren) to participate in the school meal programs without having to pay a fee or submit a meal application.

CEP is a key provision of the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010, which allows schools and school districts in low-income areas to eliminate school meal applications and serve breakfast and lunch at no charge to all enrolled students. CEP gives food service professionals more time to focus on preparing nutritious meals that their students will enjoy and gives students more time to eat those meals by cutting down on time spent in the lunch line. More importantly, by offering all students a nutritious breakfast and lunch at no cost, CEP helps ensure more students come to class well-nourished and ready to learn.

Children need healthy meals to learn. Benton County Schools offers healthy meals every school day. Breakfast and lunch meals will follow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines for healthy school meals, so please encourage students to participate. “In the operation of child feeding programs, no child will be discriminated against because of race, sex, color, national origin, age or disability.”

Parents or guardians who need further information may contact Michele Wright, School Nutrition Program Director, at 731-584-6111.

USDA NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the state or local agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form,AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
2. Fax: (202) 690-7442; or
3. Email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
2 days ago, Randy Shannon
School Meals Flyer
🏈🦁 **Friday Night Football is back at Wright Field, and we’re kicking off the season with a VERY special guest!** 🎤🇺🇸

The **Camden Lions Football Jamboree** takes over **Tommy Richardson Stadium on historic Wright Field** this **Friday, August 14**, and before the first snap, we’ll have a performance worthy of the occasion.

We are excited to welcome **country music recording artist Andy Griggs**, who will perform our **National Anthem**! 🇺🇸🎶

Country music fans know Andy from hits including **“You Won’t Ever Be Lonely,” “She’s More,”** and the **No. 1 hit “If Heaven.”** Now, that unmistakable voice is coming to Camden to help us open a great night of football under the lights.

📍 **Tommy Richardson Stadium at historic Wright Field**
📅 **Friday, August 14**
🎟️ **Gates Open: 5:15 PM**
🏈 **First Quarter: 7:00 PM**
🎤 **National Anthem performed by Andy Griggs**

Come early, grab your seat, and help us give Andy a **Camden Lions welcome** before we turn our attention to the gridiron!

**Country music. Friday night lights. Camden Lions football.**
That sounds like a pretty good way to spend a Friday night. 🖤💛

**See you at Wright Field! GO LIONS!** 🦁🏈🇺🇸
2 days ago, Randy Shannon
Jamboree Flyer
🎬🍿 **POPCORN? CHECK. BLANKET? CHECK. BUG SPRAY? …YOU MIGHT WANT TO CHECK.** 😂

Camden Jr. High Softball is taking movie night OUTSIDE!

Join us **Saturday, August 15 at the softball field on Armory Ave.** for a night under the stars, because apparently watching a movie from your couch just isn’t adventurous enough. 🌙🎥

Bring your **blankets, lawn chairs, family, friends, and your best strategy for claiming the perfect viewing spot.**

🎟️ Admission is **$5 per person at the gate**
🚪 Gates open at **7:30 PM**
🎬 Movie begins at **8:00 PM**
🍿 Popcorn, drinks, and snacks will be available for purchase

And remember, this is a **fundraiser for the CJH Softball Team**, so every ticket and snack purchase helps support our Lady Lions! 🥎🖤💛

Come hungry. Come comfy. Come ready for a great night.

**Just don’t be the person who brings a lawn chair tall enough to qualify as stadium seating.** 😂

🍿🎬🥎 **SEE YOU AT MOVIE NIGHT!**
2 days ago, Randy Shannon
CJH Movie Night Flyer
Camden Jr. High School Named National Beta School of Merit

Camden Jr. High School has been named a 2025-2026 National Beta School of Merit. The school earned this prestigious honor by offering National Beta Club membership to all eligible grade levels on its campus, demonstrating a deep dedication to academic excellence and student leadership.

In a congratulatory letter to the school, National Beta CEO Bobby Hart stated, “Thank you for your continued support of National Beta and commitment to developing future leaders!”

Camden Jr. High School’s sponsors and leadership expressed immense pride in the students' dedication to personal and academic growth: Shannon Carroll, CJH Beta Sponsor, stated, “Beta teaches students leadership skills while encouraging service to others. It also celebrates academic achievement and good character. As a sponsor, I love watching members step out of their comfort zones, take on new challenges, and learn skills that will benefit them in all aspects of life.” Brandi Horton, CJH Beta Sponsor, said, "Beta Club members shine a light on the importance of having good character, serving others, leading by example, and showing an exemplary standard of achievement. I look forward to witnessing all the amazing things our Betas will accomplish this year and in the future." Corey Christopher, Principal, explained, "Receiving this national recognition is a testament to the hard work of our students, teachers, and sponsors. At Camden Jr. High, we strive to build an environment where every student can lead, serve, and excel academically. I am incredibly proud of our Beta Club members for setting an exemplary standard for our entire school community."

This national recognition underscores Camden Jr. High’s unwavering commitment to nurturing well-rounded students who excel not only in the classroom but also as compassionate leaders in our community. Camden Jr. High School extends its warmest congratulations to the students, staff, and families for earning this distinguished honor and for continually raising the bar for student achievement.
2 days ago, Randy Shannon
CJH Beta Recognition
A Legacy of Service. A Lasting Impact.

On Monday, August 3, 2026, the Benton County Board of Education recognized the end of an era as Brent Hedge and Justin Thornton attended their final meeting as members of the Board.

For 26 years, Mr. Hedge faithfully served the students, staff, and families of Benton County. Mr. Thornton concludes 8 years of dedicated service. Together, they have helped guide our schools through years of growth, change, and opportunity.

School board service is rarely in the spotlight. It requires countless hours of preparation, thoughtful discussion, difficult decisions, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is best for students. Their leadership and dedication have left a lasting mark on Benton County Schools, and the impact of their service will continue to benefit generations of students.

On behalf of Benton County Schools, we extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Brent Hedge and Mr. Justin Thornton for their leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public education.

As they begin this next chapter, we wish them both every happiness and success.

Thank you, Mr. Hedge and Mr. Thornton, for your years of faithful service. Your legacy will continue to inspire, and your contributions to Benton County Schools will never be forgotten. 🇺🇸📚
8 days ago, Randy Shannon
Board Tribute Flyer
Holladay School Kicks Off the Year with a Back-to-School Bash!

The halls of Holladay School were buzzing with excitement as students returned for their first day of school on Monday, August 3. To celebrate a great start to the new school year, students and staff wrapped up the day with a fun-filled Back-to-School Bash packed with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition.

The celebration featured a variety of exciting games that had everyone cheering. Teachers and kindergarten students competed in energetic Stick Horse Races, while grade levels competed against one another in an Over-Under Beach Ball Relay. Classes also put their teamwork to the test during a hilarious Beach Ball Toss, where teachers attempted to catch students' flying beach balls using oversized "Granny Pants." The festivities concluded with the fast-paced Head, Shoulders, Knees, Pom Pom challenge, where students raced head-to-head to grab the pom pom before their opponent.

After an afternoon of fun, everyone enjoyed popcorn and drinks generously provided by the Holladay PTH, making the celebration even sweeter.

Principal Amy Davis reminded students that the fun won't stop with the first day of school. Throughout the year, students can look forward to random attendance rewards, including surprise treats and special activities designed to celebrate being at school.

"Good things are always happening at Holladay School," Mrs. Amy Davis shared. "You never know when a surprise might be waiting, so be here every day—you won't want to miss out!"

With an exciting first day in the books, Holladay School is already off to a fantastic start and looking forward to a year filled with learning, friendships, and plenty of unforgettable memories.
8 days ago, Randy Shannon
Holladay First Day Bash Flyer
Camden bus #20 will run 1.5 hrs late on August 5, 2026. We apologize for any inconvienience.
9 days ago, Randy Shannon
Camden Central High School has yearbooks on sale! You can now order online using the QR code on the flyer. Yearbooks are $60 if you order by 9/18/2026. The price will then go up to $65. Parents, students, faculty, and staff can also share photos from special school events now. You can find that QR code on the flyer, as well!
9 days ago, Randy Shannon
CHS Yearbook Flyer
🌟 BIG DREAMS START WITH LITTLE STEPS! 🌟

Pre-K is more than learning letters, numbers, and colors. It's where friendships begin, confidence grows, and curious minds discover that every day can be an adventure. From story time and songs to hands-on learning and plenty of smiles, our classrooms are designed to help children build a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond.

If your child will be 4 years old by August 15, 2026, now is the time to apply. Simply stop by the Benton County Board of Education Office with the required documents listed in the flyer, and our team will be happy to help guide you through the application process.

📞 Have questions? Give us a call at (731) 584-6111.

🍎 Every great journey begins with a single step... and this one just might lead to a lifetime of learning. We can't wait to meet our newest Benton County students! 💙💛
9 days ago, Randy Shannon
PreK Flyer
**📍 Family Adventure Alert!**

Parents, consider this your official permission slip to start daydreaming. 😄

The school calendar isn't just full of dates. It's full of opportunities to unplug, pile into the car, argue over the playlist, stop for snacks you definitely didn't plan to buy, and make memories your family will be laughing about for years.

From long weekends and Fall Break to Winter Break, Spring Break, and the first glorious day of summer, we've turned this year's calendar into your **Family Adventure Planner**. Whether you're headed to the Great Smoky Mountains, Discovery Park of America, Reelfoot Lake, Dollywood, a Tennessee State Park, or just Grandma's house for homemade biscuits, every break is another chance to spend time together.

No passport required. Just a little planning... and maybe an emergency bag of trail mix.

So grab a pen, gather the family, and start filling in those adventure boxes. The best vacations aren't always the farthest away. Sometimes they're just a tank of gas, a scenic back road, and a cooler full of sandwiches.

Here's to discovering new places, trying new things, and making 2026-2027 a school year filled with learning **and** unforgettable family memories.

**Happy planning, safe travels, and remember... the homework can wait until after the ice cream stop. 🍦🚗**
9 days ago, Randy Shannon
Family Planner
**🚨 Community Alert: A Pride gathering has been scheduled. 🚨**

Local experts predict an unusual concentration of black and gold at **Tommy Richardson Stadium** on **Monday, August 10**. 🦁

Expected conditions include:

* 📣 Excessive cheering
* 🏈 Football players trying to look serious
* 😄 Proud parents pretending they *aren't* taking 437 photos
* 🌭 Hot dogs disappearing at an alarming rate
* 🍧 Happy Camper Snowballs helping everyone survive the August heat
* 💛 Future Lions dreaming about the day they'll wear the black and gold

Come meet the **Camden Junior High and Camden Central High School football teams**, **both cheer squads**, and the coaches who are already counting down to kickoff.

Whether you're a lifelong Lion, a future Lion, or just someone who never says no to a hot dog and a snowball, there's a place for you in the Pride.

📅 **Monday, August 10**
🕕 **6:00 PM**
📍 **Tommy Richardson Stadium**

Bring your family, bring your friends, and bring your Lion spirit.

Just one friendly warning... if you leave yelling "GO LIONS!" all the way home, that's completely normal. 🦁💛🖤
9 days ago, Randy Shannon
Meet the Lions Flyer
🚸 Public Service Announcement from Benton County Schools 🚸 Just when the alarm clock thought it had won… 📚 School starts TOMORROW! We’ll hit the books Monday through Wednesday, then take a quick timeout: 🗳️ Thursday, August 6: No school for Election Day. 🎡 Friday, August 7: No school for Fair Day. It’s almost like the calendar is easing everyone back into the school routine… kind of like dipping your toes into the pool before cannonball season. 😄 As buses roll, backpacks bounce, and lunchboxes make their triumphant return, please watch for school buses, slow down in school zones, and give yourself a few extra minutes during the morning and afternoon commute. A little patience goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe. Here’s to an outstanding 2026-2027 school year filled with learning, laughter, new friendships, and great memories. We can’t wait to welcome our students back! Have a safe week, enjoy the long weekend, and let’s make this the best school year yet! 🦁📚🍎
11 days ago, Randy Shannon
start of school flyer
Holladay School teachers participated in incident command drills and school bus evacuation training as part of our School Safety Professional Development. Homeland Security Agent Jason Lowery presented various safety scenarios for teacher groups to discuss and problem-solve. Bus driver Sherry Sigler brought her bus so teachers could practice the available exits in case of an emergency and brainstorm different safety scenarios that might occur during bus transportation. Teachers are working to prepare for back-to-school next week.
15 days ago, Randy Shannon
Holladay Bus Safety Training
🚨 Public Service Announcement 🚨 Has your vehicle forgotten what color it is? 🤔 Is there enough pollen on your hood to plant a garden? 🌼 Can your neighbors write “Wash Me!” in the dust? ✍️ If you answered “yes” to any of these questions…we have good news! 🫧 The CHS Cheerleaders are ready to rescue your ride! 🦁 Swing by the Pest Stop on Saturday, August 1, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and let our cheerleaders turn your dusty, dirty, bug-covered vehicle back into something you’re proud to park in the driveway. 💛 Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated, and every dollar helps support our CHS Cheerleaders throughout the year. So grab your car, truck, SUV, or that vehicle you’ve been pretending isn’t dirty…we promise not to judge. (Well…maybe just a little. 😉) 📍 Pest Stop 📅 Saturday, August 1 🕙 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM Come dirty. Leave sparkling. Support our Lions! 🖤💛🦁
15 days ago, Randy Shannon
car wash flyer
🍎 A Moment of Pride for Benton County Schools! 🍎 

The Benton County Board of Education is proud to congratulate Sarah Comuzie of Camden Central High School on being named a 2026-2027 Tennessee Teacher of the Year Finalist! This prestigious recognition is awarded to educators who exemplify excellence in the classroom, demonstrate outstanding leadership, and make a lasting impact on the lives of their students and school communities. Being selected as one of Tennessee’s finalists is an extraordinary accomplishment and a reflection of Sarah’s dedication to her students, her colleagues, and the teaching profession. Sarah’s passion for education and commitment to helping every student succeed represent the very best of Benton County Schools. Her recognition shines a spotlight not only on her outstanding work, but also on the culture of excellence found throughout our district. Please join us in congratulating Sarah on this well-deserved honor. We are incredibly proud to have her representing Camden Central High School, Benton County Schools, and our community on the state level. Congratulations, Sarah! Your Benton County family is cheering you on every step of the way.
19 days ago, Randy Shannon
Sarah Comuzie Teacher of the Year Finalist
💧 BIG NEWS, CJHS: Water is officially invited to class. 😄 Camden Jr. High students may bring a water bottle to help stay hydrated throughout the school day, but before your bottle starts planning its first day of school, there are a few rules: 💧 Water only. Your Mountain Dew does not become water just because you put it in a water bottle. Nice try. 👀 Clear bottles only. If we can’t see through it, it doesn’t make the cut. 🔒 Bring a lid. We’re hydrating students, not Chromebooks. 🚫 No flipping, tossing, spraying, or bottle gymnastics. Your water bottle has not been accepted into the circus. 🧼 Keep it clean and keep it with you. Bring your bottle. Drink your water. Follow the rules. And remember: Hydrated brains make better decisions. 💧🧠 Please review the flyer for the full Camden Jr. High School Water Bottle Policy before sending your student and their new hydration sidekick off to school! 🦁🖤💛
26 days ago, Randy Shannon
water bottle flyer
**Stay Connected with Benton County Schools: Just Two Apps to Keep You Informed**

At Benton County Schools, we want communicating with your child's school to be as simple and convenient as possible. To help eliminate confusion about which app to use, families only need **two apps** to stay connected with everything happening in our schools.

📚 **ParentVUE (NEW)**
ParentVUE is your source for student information. Through ParentVUE, you can:
• View your child's class schedule
• Check grades and report cards
• Monitor attendance
• Access important student information

📱 **The Benton County Schools (BCOS) App**
Many of you already use the BCOS App to receive district and school announcements, weather-related closures, and other important updates. Now, the app has been enhanced with **Rooms**, making communication even easier.

With **Rooms**, you can securely communicate with your child's teachers and coaches directly within the BCOS App. Instead of wondering which messaging app a classroom, team, or club is using, you'll have one convenient place for school communication.

Our goal is simple: **less confusion, better communication, and stronger connections between home and school.**

If you already have the BCOS App installed, watch for your invitation to activate **Rooms**. If you're new to either app, we encourage you to download both ParentVUE and the Benton County Schools App so you'll have everything you need to stay informed and engaged throughout the school year.

Thank you for partnering with Benton County Schools. We appreciate the opportunity to work together in supporting the success of every student.
27 days ago, Randy Shannon
Two Apps graphic
🦁 WARNING: You may experience unexpected side effects after attending the Camden Central High School All-Class Reunion!

Possible symptoms include:
📚 Saying, "Remember when..."
😂 Laughing until your sides hurt.
🏈 Reliving Friday night football victories.
📸 Digging through old yearbooks looking for embarrassing hairstyles.
🎓 Discovering your "high school rival" is now one of your favorite people.
🤔 Wondering how everyone else still looks 25.
☕ Needing coffee the morning after because you stayed too late catching up.

Whether you graduated in the '50s, '80s, or just a few years ago, this is your chance to come home, reconnect with classmates, and celebrate what it means to be a Camden Lion.

🗓 Friday, September 25
🏈 Homecoming Weekend
🦁 Camden Central High School All-Class Reunion

Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don't wait too long. We can't promise your old locker combination will still work, but we can promise plenty of stories, smiles, and memories.

Once a Lion. Always a Lion. 💛🖤

#CamdenCentral #CamdenLions #AllClassReunion #OnceALionAlwaysALion #Homecoming2026
28 days ago, Randy Shannon
All-Class Reunion Flyer
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Amy Davis, Principal

Holladay School

Holladay School Elementary Beta Club/Beta Members Compete at National Beta Convention

Nashville, TN, June 21-22, 2026 – National Beta members from Holladay School recently participated in the 2026 National Beta Convention held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Students joined thousands of Beta members from across the United States to celebrate academic achievement, leadership, character, and service while competing in a variety of national competitions. During the convention, members from Holladay School earned recognition in the following events: 2-Dimensional Design-6th place in the nation; 3-Dimensional Desing-3rd place in the nation!

National Convention provides opportunities for students in grades 4-12 to showcase their talents through individual and team competitions, leadership experiences, service initiatives, networking opportunities, and educational programming. The annual event brings together top-performing students who have advanced through state conventions and earned the opportunity to compete on the national stage.

The 2026 National Beta Convention, themed "Wired for Success," welcomed thousands of attendees for a week of competition, celebration, and student achievement.

Holladay School Principal Amy Davis joined BETA members Anslee Davis, Helen Galvis-Giminez, and Isabella Costenbader along with their families for a fun two days at National BETA! Elementary BETA members from Holladay also enjoyed a night at the Grand Ole Opry (at a discounted rate) hosted specifically for Elementary BETA students.

With more than 500,000 active members and 14,000 clubs nationally and internationally, National Beta has become the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. National Beta promotes the ideals of academic achievement, character, service, and leadership among elementary and secondary school students. National Elementary Beta includes grades 4-5, National Junior Beta includes grades 6-8, and National Senior Beta includes grades 9-12. Visit betaclub.org for more information.
28 days ago, Randy Shannon
Holladay Beta Club post
🦁 **LIONS, ASSEMBLE!** 🦁 Who needs sleep when you can have SNOWBALLS and SHOULDER PADS at midnight?! 🏈✨ That's right, Lion Pride — we're kicking off football season the ONLY way we know how: LOUD, PROUD, and WAY past our bedtime. 🌙 📅 **July 26–27** ⏰ **10:30 PM** (yes, PM — the moon will be our stadium lights) 📍 **On the Football Field** Come watch our boys hit the field for their FIRST padded practice at 12:00 AM sharp — because apparently our Lions do their best roaring when the rest of the county is snoring. 😴➡️😱 🍧 Happy Camper snowballs on deck ✨ Glow sticks, light-up footballs & tattoos from our cheerleaders 🖤💛 Wear your Black & Gold and bring those chants! We've got ONE TEAM, ONE PRIDE, and approximately ZERO chill. **The Lions are ready... are YOU?** (Coffee is optional. Team spirit is NOT.) ☕🦁 #MidnightMadness #LionPride #OneTeamOneRoar #WhoNeedsSleep ***
29 days ago, Randy Shannon
Midnight Madness Flyer