Upcoming classes canceled at Benton Middle School; donations accepted

BENTON, La. (KSLA) - The Bossier Parish School Board has announced that classes are canceled for all Benton Middle School students on Monday, Jan. 13.

According to a news release, the day will be used as a faculty/staff work day and will welcome students back on Tuesday, Jan. 14.

This affects Benton Middle School students only.

“We at Bossier Schools are immensely grateful this weather incident did not occur during school hours when more than 1,100 students and employees were there. For that reason, we are so blessed,” said Bossier Schools Public Liasion Sonja Bailes.

A possible tornado came through Bossier Parish and damaged a local middle school.

Benton Middle School received major damage to its sixth-grade wing where most of the roof is gone. Firefighters arrived Saturday, Jan. 11 to survey the school and found significant water damage throughout classrooms.

Crews began working at the middle school cleaning up debris and airing out water.

A power line completely snapped near the school causing electricity to go out in the area. School officials are working with SWEPCO to restore power as quickly as possible.

Bossier Schools added that any kind of donations are being accepted to help teachers buy new school supplies.

“For those wanting to contribute, checks can be made payable to Benton Middle School and mailed to 6140 Hwy. 3, Benton, LA 71006. Checks can also be made to Benton Middle School and dropped off at First National Bank of Benton,” Bailes said in the news release. “Thanks to everyone for their support. Bossier Schools and Benton Middle School are beyond grateful.”

We will continue to follow this story on our KSLA News 12 app and social media.

Copyright 2020 KSLA. All rights reserved.