Longtime Benton principal memorialized with scholarship
In honor of the passing of longtime Benton High School Principal John Butler, a memorial scholarship is being created.
“His whole life was directed toward academics,” said Butler’s wife, Peggy. “I thought that this would be the best way for him to be remembered.”
Born and raised in Benton, Butler graduated from BHS and continued his education at what is now known as the University of Central Arkansas. After teaching in California, he and his family returned to his beloved BHS to teach math and science. After teaching, Butler moved into the role of assistant principal in 1967 and principal in 1968.
The John H. Butler Academic Scholarship will be awarded to one BHS senior each year who plans on pursuing higher education in a math or science field and has a minimum 2.5 GPA. The scholarship will be in the amount of $1,000.
“Students need and deserve scholarships,” Peggy said, adding that she and her husband believed that education is vital in life. “So many students think that they don’t have the chance to go to college (because of finances).”
The first scholarship will be award in spring 2021 and annually from that time.
“I am hoping that people will help fund it,” Peggy said.
Those who would like to help fund the scholarship may make a one-time or annual donation through the Arkansas Community Foundation. The direct link for donations is www. arcf.org/butler.
Checks may be mailed to the Arkansas Community Foundation at 5 Allied Dr., Suite 51110,
Little Rock, AR 72202.
The memo line should say “John H. Butler.”
BHS seniors who are interested in applying for the scholarship should contact the guidance counselor’s office at the high school.