Benfield Elementary School
General Information – Benfield Elementary School
Overview
Benfield Elementary School is a public elementary school located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving students from the early childhood intervention program through grade 5. Situated in the heart of Anne Arundel County, this school has distinguished itself through high academic achievement, strong community engagement, and a supportive environment for young learners to develop socially, emotionally and academically. With a student-teacher ratio of approximately 14:1 and an enrollment of around 460 students, the school emphasizes personalized attention and fosters the kind of environment where students can thrive in both core subject areas and enrichment programs.
According to publicly available data, around 92 % of students are proficient in reading and about 72 % in math, which reflects a strong academic performance. The school also offers a Gifted & Talented program, bolstering opportunities for advanced learners, while still maintaining a mission of serving all students inclusively. Through ongoing efforts to build community partnerships, support early learners and prepare students for the next level of schooling, Benfield Elementary cultivates an atmosphere of optimism, respect and collaboration. Families value the active parent-teacher involvement and the sense of belonging that is cultivated across the campus environment.
Contact Information
Address: 365 Lynwood Drive, Severna Park, Maryland 21146, United States aacps.org+2aacounty.org+2
Phone Number: (410) 222-6555 aacps.org+1
Email Address: benfieldes@aacps.org aacps.org
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Not publicly specified |
| Grades Served | Early Childhood Intervention/Preschool through Grade 5 aacps.org+1 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 14 : 1 Niche+1 |
| Enrollment | Approx. 460 students Niche+1 |
| Gifted & Talented Program | Yes, offered GreatSchools.org+1 |
| Community Location | Severna Park, Anne Arundel County, Maryland aacps.org+1 |
Benfield Elementary School Rankings
| Level | Ranking Detail |
|---|---|
| Local (Anne Arundel County) | Rated “A-” overall by Niche; ranked #5 of elementary schools in the county Niche+1 |
| State (Maryland) | Among the higher-performing public elementary schools in Maryland with strong reading proficiency (92 %) and math (72 %) Niche+1 |
| Global | Not applicable (elementary school) |
Benfield Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
As an elementary school, Benfield Elementary offers grade-level instructional teams rather than university-style faculties. Key instructional departments or program areas include:
- Early Childhood / Pre-K intervention and kindergarten readiness
- Primary grades (Grades K-2) core instruction (reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, science)
- Intermediate grades (Grades 3-5) core instruction plus enrichment and gifted/talented support
- Special Education / Learning Support services
- Gifted & Talented program
- Fine Arts / Music / Art / Physical Education / Health
- Library / Media and Technology Integration
- English Language Learners (ELL) support and Literacy Intervention
Courses and Programs / Majors
Although Benfield Elementary does not have majors, it offers a broad array of courses and programs for elementary learners:
- Reading and Writing Workshop approach in literacy instruction
- Mathematics instruction aligned with Maryland state standards, including enrichment for advanced learners
- Science and Social Studies units emphasizing inquiry, investigation, and real-world connections
- Gifted & Talented program that includes differentiated instruction and enrichment opportunities
- Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services for younger learners requiring specialized support
- Technology integration for all students, including use of digital tools, media literacy and collaborative projects
- Fine arts, music, art, PE and wellness programs embedded in the daily schedule
- School-wide emphasis on social-emotional learning, character education and community service
Online Learning
Benfield Elementary leverages digital resources to support student learning both in the classroom and at home. While primary instruction is in-person, the school uses online platforms and resources for homework, reading practice, digital literacy development and intervention support. In response to the evolving educational environment, the school is equipped for blended learning if needed and supports virtual learning days through its district infrastructure. These online tools supplement classroom instruction and enable students to extend their learning beyond the school building.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Metric / Recent Data |
|---|---|
| Reading Proficiency | Approximately 92 % of students are proficient in reading according to state-level assessment data Niche+1 |
| Math Proficiency | Approximately 72 % of students are proficient in mathematics according to publicly-available data Niche+1 |
| Standardized National Tests (e.g., SAT/ACT/GRE) | Not applicable to an elementary school |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary school serving grades PreK/ECI through Grade 5, Benfield Elementary focuses on student progression to middle school rather than typical graduation metrics. Retention in the sense of the school ensuring students advance each grade is strong given the high performance levels and attentive instructional support evident in student outcomes. The school monitors student progress, provides intervention services as needed and supports transitions to the middle school level. Thus while explicit retention/graduation percentages are not published, the overall academic indicators and service structure suggest effective progression and readiness for the next academic level.
Benfield Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Being an elementary school, Benfield Elementary does not utilize GPAs or SAT/ACT scores for admission. Students are enrolled based on district boundaries, grade level placement, and may have evaluations for early childhood intervention or gifted programs as needed. Families seeking enrollment typically complete district registration paperwork and students are assessed to ensure proper grade placement and service needs.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Current | Not applicable (public elementary, enrollment based on district zone) |
Application Requirements
Families interested in enrolling a child at Benfield Elementary School must typically complete the district registration process, provide proof of residency within the school’s attendance zone, submit health and immunization records as required by the state of Maryland, and provide prior educational or early childhood intervention records if applicable. For families seeking placement in gifted/talented programs or early childhood services, additional screening or evaluation may be required. The school and district prioritize timely registration to ensure placement, orientation and readiness for the coming school year. Parents are encouraged to visit the campus, speak with the principal and attend orientation sessions to familiarize themselves with the school’s expectations and programs.
Application Process
- Determine school attendance zone and eligibility for Benfield Elementary via the relevant school district.
- Submit registration forms, proof of residency, immunization/health records and prior school records.
- For early childhood intervention or special programs, undergo screening or assessment as required.
- Attend orientation or open house for new families and students.
- Confirm enrollment, class placement and schedule readiness ahead of the first day of school.
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Grade Level | Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-K/ECI / Kindergarten | Varies by year (typically early spring registration) | Early registration recommended to secure placement |
| Grades 1-5 (new students) | Rolling as availability permits | Families moving into zone should register promptly |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable — this is a public elementary school and does not require an application essay for general enrollment.
Scholarships
Benfield Elementary School does not have a scholarship program in the traditional sense, as it is a public elementary school and tuition-free for students residing in its attendance zone. Rather, it offers programs and support services designed to ensure equitable access, such as early childhood intervention services, gifted and talented program participation and digital learning resources at no extra cost to families.
Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Grade Level | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Grades ECI/K-5 | $0 (public school funded by Anne Arundel County Public Schools) |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
At Benfield Elementary School, the student body is approximately evenly divided by gender (51 % female, 49 % male) as reported by recent data. The school serves children typically aged from early childhood (pre-K or ECI) through approximately grade 5 (ages around 4–11). In terms of racial/ethnic composition, data indicates approximately 86.6 % of students identify as White, 5.8 % Hispanic, 3.9 % Multiracial, 1.5 % African American, 1.5 % Asian, 0.4 % Pacific Islander and 0.2 % Native American. These figures reflect the demographic profile of the community the school serves. Niche+1
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Benfield Elementary serves a relatively small percentage of students from low-income households—about 7% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch according to publicly available data, which places the school below many district or state averages in this category. Niche The school also provides services for students with disabilities and learning support needs, as part of the district’s inclusion and intervention frameworks. It ensures that individualized educational plans (IEPs), early intervention services and other supports are in place so that all students can access the curriculum and thrive.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number / Approximate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~462 students Niche+1 |
| International Students | Not separately published |
| Free/Reduced Lunch | ~7% of students Niche |
University Diversity
Although Benfield Elementary is an elementary school rather than a university, the institution is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and welcoming climate for all students. The school community emphasizes character education, social-emotional learning and mutual respect across differences. Faculty and staff work to support students from diverse backgrounds, including those with various learning needs, ethnicities, and family contexts. While the student body is predominately white, the school actively engages in efforts to broaden perspectives, such as professional development around diversity and equity, inclusive instructional practices, and partnership with families. A key component of the school’s ethos is ensuring each student feels valued and has a sense of belonging, which is foundational to academic success and long-term growth. Through classroom dialogue, collaborative projects and community service, students learn to appreciate different viewpoints and build environments where everyone’s strengths are recognized.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Benfield Elementary does not publish alumni earnings data in the manner that post-secondary institutions do. However, the strength of the school’s academic performance (notably high reading proficiency and above-average ratings) suggests that the school successfully prepares students for the transition to middle school and beyond, laying a foundation for lifelong learning and future success. Families in the community report that the school’s strong instructional programmes, supportive teachers, and engaged parent-community partnerships help students build habits of academic perseverance, confidence and collaboration. These early educational advantages contribute, indirectly, to students being better positioned in subsequent schooling, which in turn can support stronger long-term educational and career outcomes.
Benfield Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Benfield Elementary is staffed with experienced teachers and support personnel committed to student growth and well‐being. Data indicates the student-teacher ratio is approximately 14 : 1, which allows teachers to provide more individualized attention and differentiated instruction. Teachers regularly engage in professional development and collaboration across grade-level teams to align instruction and share best practices. Support staff—including learning specialists, interventionists, instructional coaches, and media/technology specialists—strengthen the instructional model and help ensure that all students, including those needing additional support, can succeed. The community orientation of the school also fosters strong family-school partnerships, with staff actively engaging families in student progress and learning.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Benfield Elementary are skilled in multiple instructional approaches, including differentiated instruction, early literacy foundations, gifted/talented enrichment, and technology-enhanced teaching. Many teachers have certifications for gifted education and support programs for students with learning needs. The school also leverages instructional coaching, peer collaboration and data-informed decision-making to continuously refine teaching practices. As a result, student outcomes such as reading and math proficiency are strong, which reflects the instructional expertise and commitment of the faculty. The school’s recognition in local rankings and strong parent reviews further underscore the quality of its educational staff. Families often comment on how teachers engage students meaningfully, foster curiosity and build strong relationships that support both academic and personal growth.
Benfield Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Benfield Elementary is a non-residential public elementary school; students attend on a day-school basis and there is no on-campus housing. The campus is located at 365 Lynwood Drive in Severna Park, Maryland, and is designed to support a full day of academic, enrichment, and co-curricular activities. Student life includes a wide variety of opportunities beyond core academics, such as music, art, physical education, library/media time, and participation in community or service events. Student clubs, reading groups, theater or musical performances, and seasonal events build a vibrant school culture. Although families provide transportation or utilize district services, the school day is structured to include time for exploration, peer collaboration, and engagement with the broader school community. The campus atmosphere is enriched by parent-teacher involvement, strong community ties and a welcoming environment for young learners to develop confidence and lifelong habits of learning.
Transportation
Transportation to Benfield Elementary is guided by the policies of the Anne Arundel County Public Schools district. Students residing within the school’s attendance boundary typically ride school buses or are driven by parents to the campus. The school’s location in Severna Park is accessible by local roads and residential neighborhood routes, making daily commutes feasible for families in the area. On-campus mobility is designed for young children: hallways and classroom spaces are arranged to support movement between grade-level wings, specialist classrooms (e.g., art, music, technology), the library/media center, cafeteria and outdoor play or field-day spaces. While public transportation is less commonly utilized for elementary students, the community infrastructure and road network allow safe and efficient arrival and departure routines. The school also maintains drop-off and pick-up procedures to support student safety and flow of traffic during arrival and dismissal times.