Welcome to Benzie County Central Schools

Press Release - For Immediate Release

 Congratulations to our very own, Althea Gaylord!

 Althea is a Senior at Benzie County Central Schools.

 Her masterpiece, Pigeon with a Hat, won an Award of Excellence at the fabulous Regional Exhibit at the Crooked Tree Art Center! 

Althea spent roughly 6 months working on this exceptional Oil Painting in Mr. Bechler's Art Class.

Ever wonder how an idea like these pops into an artist's imagination? 

Here is what the artist had to say when asked that exact question...“In part, I was inspired to do my painting Pigeon with a Hat after coming across some of the pieces by the artist Bill Braun. 

His work focuses on creating hyper realistic paintings that at first glance look like a child’s art project. 

The specific piece that inspired me was Taylor Creek Kokane, which depicts a bear and its cub walking alongside a river full of salmon. 

When I first saw the piece, I immediately wanted to try my hand at creating something that might be even a fraction as detailed as his own work. Which is how I came about creating my painting including a pigeon, something that I took liberty in adding—as I adore them. 

The painting itself is done entirely with oil paint and consists of multiple layers built up to create the feathers.

” Congratulations, Althea!!

Shout out to high school teacher, Tanika Greisiger.

Tanika teaches English 9, English 11, and Honors English 11 here at Benzie Central High School. 

 Tanika holds a BA Endorsement in English 6-12, as well as an Administration Endorsement; both Elementary and Secondary; PK-12.

Tanika is part of the Teach Plus Michigan Policy Fellowship cohort that traveled to Lansing on Thursday, March 12. 

Their visit represented the culmination of work they have been engaging in since June.

She serves on the Post-Secondary Education Policy team, where their focus has been reviewing current education legislation and proposing recommendations for improvement. 

Their group is composed of secondary teachers from across Michigan. Because they represent a wide range of schools, geographic regions, student demographics, and communities, their discussions have allowed us to thoughtfully consider how policy changes might impact diverse groups of students throughout the state.

As a group of secondary educators, they share a strong commitment to supporting students as they prepare for life after high school, particularly through increased college and career readiness. 

Their work has focused on expanding access to post-secondary opportunities such as dual enrollment, International Baccalaureate, Career and Technical Education programs, and Advanced Placement courses. 

Specifically, their proposal centers on improving funding structures to ensure that students across Michigan have equitable access to these opportunities.

During their visit to Lansing on March 12, they met with several policymakers to discuss their recommendations, including  Rep. Jimmie Wilson, Sen. Dayna Polehanki, Sen. Darrin Camilleri, Sen. Sue Shink, Rep. Joseph Fox, Rep. Carol Glanville, Rep. Stephen Wooden, and Rep. Nancy DeBoer.

Let's hear it for the  Teach Plus Michigan Policy Fellowship, and Mrs. Tanika Greisiger.  

Benzie Central is fortunate to have her here with us. 

Crooked Tree Arts Center of Traverse City 

Annual Youth Art Exhibit 2026

Featuring the works of students in the Greater Grand Traverse Area K-12.

March 10 - April 11

Closed March 30 - April 3

Featuring the art work of various talented Benzie Central students.

Benzie Central's Elsa Carter breaks former all state thrower Liath Ramirez’s squat school record.

295 pounds for this girl!

Due to the impending weekend weather forecast (Snow, Snow, Snow), the 1st Athletic Leadership Council Pancake Breakfast will be CANCELLED.

We are working toward offering this event in the near future.