Benton, Arkansas – A new private school in Benton has taken a significant step forward after the Benton Planning Commission voted 6-2 in favor of moving the project closer to city approval. The decision comes after the school had previously been granted a conditional use permit and marks the final review by the planning commission before the proposal heads to the Benton City Council.
The proposed school has sparked a mix of excitement and concern within the community. While the planning commissioners largely supported the project, a few community members expressed reservations about the potential impact on local public schools. “Really don’t want to put resources that are supposed to go into our public schools into private schools. It’s my personal opinion,” said one local resident, reflecting a sentiment shared by others who worry about competition for students and resources.
Despite these concerns, supporters of the school argue that it could bring positive growth to Benton. Bryan Black, one of the architects representing the project, emphasized the potential benefits the school could bring to the community. “That would defy the logic that of all the benefits that all of these additional businesses have brought since choices,” Black said, noting that the expansion of restaurants, shops, and other enterprises has played a major role in Benton’s development over the years.
Black, who grew up in Benton, highlighted that the school is not intended to draw students away from public schools but rather to provide additional educational options for families. “I believe that our community would support having that choice here. Our goal is not to take students away from Benton. Our goal is to grow this community in a positive way,” he said, underscoring the intention to contribute to the city’s growth and diversity.
The debate over private school expansion is not unique to Benton. Across the country, communities have grappled with balancing public education funding with the introduction of private institutions. In Benton, the discussion has centered on whether the new school would enhance educational opportunities or divert attention and funding away from existing public schools.
Those in opposition also raised concerns about fairness and competition, suggesting that a private school could create an uneven playing field for families who cannot afford tuition. Some argued that public school resources should remain the primary focus of the city’s educational planning, especially given the ongoing efforts to improve local schools.
Still, proponents contend that choice and diversity in education can benefit the community as a whole, attracting families and supporting local businesses in ways similar to the economic growth seen with new restaurants and retail shops. Black emphasized that the school would complement, rather than compete with, existing educational institutions in Benton.
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With the planning commission’s approval secured, the proposal now moves to the Benton City Council, where final decisions will be made. The city council is scheduled to discuss the project at its meeting in two weeks. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input, as the council’s vote will determine whether the private school receives final approval to open its doors in the coming years.
As Benton continues to grow, the discussion surrounding the new school reflects broader questions about education, community development, and the balance between public and private resources. For now, the school project remains on a path forward, with the city council holding the ultimate authority to shape the future of this educational initiative.
