Liberty-Benton Local Schools February Superintendent Update

(From Liberty-Benton Local Schools Superintendent Bruce Otley)

Greetings Parents and Community.  We’ve endured some chilly January weather, including weathering the latest snow storm.   With February nearly upon us, I’ve had some time to reflect on the past semester of school that has amazingly already passed us by.  As Superintendent, I am often asked, what is the “secret sauce” at L-B?  What makes Liberty-Benton such a special place?   Simply put, it is our culture, carefully and intentionally sustained by an amazing staff of incredible people. So, I thought I would share a little bit of the recipe.  The Liberty-Benton Way.  

The Liberty-Benton Way

In a place where farm fields meet classrooms,

 Liberty-Benton tells a quiet story—

 not written in excess,

 but in intention.

Nearly sixty-seven percent of our budget

 goes straight to where it matters most:

 classroom instruction.

 Inspiration. Curiosity.

 Teachers lighting sparks.

We do more with less—

 Our Cost per Pupil to educate-$10,630 per student,

 while Ohio averages $12,723.

 Not because we cut corners,

 but because we believe

 every dollar should earn its keep.

And it does.

Year after year,

 Liberty-Benton stands among the best—

 achievement rising, our Eagles taking flight,

 proof that excellence isn’t bought,

 it’s built.

The Class of 2025 left our halls

 already carrying nearly 30 semester hours

 of college credit—

 a head start worth $41,985

 back in the pockets of families,

 and time returned to pursue dreams.

They earned it, too—

 $4,280,154 in scholarships over the next four years,

 not handed out,

 but earned through grit,

 grace,

 and growth.

So what’s the secret?

It isn’t a program.

 It isn’t a spreadsheet.

 It’s a promise.

A belief in Positive Character,

 in Critical Thinking that questions deeply seeking truth,

 Resiliency that bends but doesn’t break,

 Emotional Intelligence that leads with purpose,

 Leadership that serves before it speaks,

 and Service rooted in community.

Where values are taught and carefully nurtured,

 where excellence is expected—and supported,

 and where students leave not just prepared for next steps,

 but prepared for life.

We honor our past, and prepare for the future. 

This is Liberty-Benton.

Stay warm!  Spring is just around the corner!

Fly Higher!

 

Bruce Otley, 

Superintendent