As students prepared to resume their education Monday at Great Bend schools via the Continuous Learning Plan, Governor Laura Kelly issued a stay-at-home order that was also set to take effect on Monday and will last until April 19. USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton anticipated questions, and explained how the school district will be affected.

Does this order change Great Bend’s Continuous Learning Plan?

Education is an essential function and will be allowed to continue as planned. This is a scenario the USD 428 administration and staff were preparing for when we drafted the framework for our plan. Operations will continue as scheduled for families utilizing the paper and pencil packets and for those picking up belongings from the school buildings. These operations were designed to minimize interaction and encourage social distancing.

How will this affect the free meal program?

The free meal program will continue in the current format. Feeding our students is an essential service we provide and will be exempt under the Governor’s order. The curb-side operation allows parents and families to pick up meals even under the stay-home order.

Thexton's message to families concludes, “We are in a unique and ever-changing environment. I want to thank you all for your grace and flexibility as we work to protect and support our community. Our staff has enjoyed connecting with students and families in the last week and we are excited to launch the Continuous Learning Plan on Monday. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.”