Benny Benson Secondary School began in the 1970s as the SAVE II and SEARCH programs, which were located at the King Career Center.  In 1991, they moved to the newly constructed Benny Benson Secondary School.  The building is named for Benny Benson, who, as a teenager, created the simple but elegant design that was selected for the state flag.  Benson was of Native Alaskan heritage and orphan who was raised at Jesse Lee Home in Seward.  We are proud to have our school carry his name as he faced challenges similar to those of our students today.

The Benny Benson school mascot is the raven.  Alaska Native and Indian folklore tell rich and magical stories about the power of Raven.  As such, this dignified and mystical bird was a natural for our school mascot.  Wannelle Wells Soto, a graduate of the SAVE II class of 1991, designed the school symbol.  She combined the raven mascot and the stars from the Alaska flag.  Our symbol shows a raven in flight with an inner raven highlighted to represent the power in each of us to succeed.  The student body from both programs of 1991 chose black and teal as the school colors.

Benny Benson Secondary staff and students are fortunate to have a beautiful location for their school.  In addition, public buildings in Alaska benefit from a law devoting one percent of a building’s construction budget to art.  One of the pieces selected for our school’s building is the bronze raven sculpture mounted over the entryway, which acts as a guardian for all who enter here.  The artist’s drawing of the design is framed and hanging in the main office.  Mr. McPeck also designed the totem pole standing at the front of the building.  Its bronze bells catch the wind and carved leaves reflect the nearby woods on this beautiful sculpture.  It also marks the passing of the seasons by the shadows it casts.

More one percent art in our building is the carved piece entitled “A Day in Puviglealuq’s Life 100 Years Ago” by Ronald W. Senungetuk.  This stained wood carving displayed on the back office wall depicts the daily life of a native village many years ago.  Across from it is the beautiful stained glass designed and created by artist Vivian McConnell.  It is entitled “Liberty Road” because it is the road students walk on their way to an education.

RAVENS Reach for the stars Always believe Value yourself Expect the best Never give up Succeed!