By Mitchell Kent
Principal, Northside Elementary
As summer comes to a close, the Northside Elementary staff and I hope your family has enjoyed a wonderful summer filled with sunshine, fun, and time to recharge. We are excited to welcome our students back for the 2026–2027 school year and begin another year of learning, growth, and connection.
We are looking forward to seeing students back in the building! Grades 1–5 will begin on Monday, Aug. 31, and Kindergarten students will start on Wednesday, Sept. 2. At Northside, our mission remains the same: creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every student feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed.
Important School
Information
The school day at Northside runs from 8:10 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. Students should not arrive before 7:45 a.m.
Once students arrive, they may grab breakfast and then head outside to the playground to prepare for the day.
Kindergarten–3rd grade students will use iPads, while 4th and 5th grade students will use Chromebooks during the school day.
Please check the school supplies list for your child’s grade level. The school will provide some supplies, and families will be asked to provide any additional items needed.
Open House will be held Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 4–7:30 p.m. Families are invited to meet teachers, visit classrooms, and get ready for the year ahead.
School pictures will be available during the open house and order forms will be provided at the event.
We are looking forward to a fantastic school year filled with new opportunities, strong relationships, and continued success for our students. I am grateful to be part of the Northside team and the Benson community, and I am excited for all we will accomplish together.
As we begin the year, please know that our doors are always open. If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me at mckent@benson.k12.mn.us or call the Northside office at (320) 842-2717.
Enjoy the remainder of your summer and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Northside!

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