Last Friday, October 20, three of our neighboring high school students,
Emily Perdue, 16, Molly Reed, 15, and Katy Watkins, 16, were tragically killed in a car accident on their way to a football game in Natchitoches. Many of our students, faculty and staff were greatly impacted by these girls, and deeply sadden by their death. Benton High’s 687 students show their generosity this week by generously giving $8,500.
This week, a memorial fund was created in honor of these three outstanding individuals. Upon hearing the establishment of these funds, the Benton High School students quickly began to collect donations. In just five short days, the Benton High School students, clubs, faculty and staff donated $8,500.00. Overall, the BHS clubs and organizations donated $5362.78, and the students/faculty donated $3137.22. Keep in mind that the money was not raised, but rather donated from the student’s pockets, which shows the generosity of our community. All of the money will be presented to the families along with a list of all students that donated to commemorate the lives of Emily, Molly, and Katy.
Airline High School played a major role in providing financial assistance to Benton High when many of our students lost family members and homes in the 1999 Easter tornado. Airline was the first to raise and donate several thousands dollars to help our familys make it though rough financial times. It was only natural that BHS return this sacrificial gift.
The Benton High community understands that our monetary donations will not bring back these amazing young ladies, but we hope that the generosity and sacrifice of our students somehow carries on the legacy of these three wonderful young girls. May God bless these families and all those impacted by their lives.
