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Families invited to explore early learning resources
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Staff from USD 428’s Little Panthers Preschool smile and welcome visitors at the 2022 Pre-Enrollment Fair. From left: Kimberlyn Rivas, teacher; Amanda Moran-Jones, coordinator; Brooklyn Burkhart, teacher.

Great Bend USD 428 invites parents and guardians to attend the second annual Preschool and Kindergarten Pre-Enrollment Information Fair at the Great Bend Events Center on Wednesday, April 5 from 1-7 p.m.

“Learning begins long before a child enters kindergarten,” said Tricia Reiser, assistant superintendent for USD 428. “Our enrollment fair on April 5 is an opportunity for parents and families to learn more about USD 428 Preschool and Kindergarten programs and connect with community resources that serve young learners.”

At the come-and-go event, USD 428 teachers and support staff will be available to talk with parents about academic programs, social-emotional support, attendance requirements, and more. Preschool programs in Great Bend include opportunities for both 3- and 4-year-olds. Kindergarten is available for students who turn 5 years old on or before August 31, 2023.

Parents or guardians should bring:

• Proof of child’s age

• Immunization records

• Health physical documentation

This is an info fair for parents/families, sponsors said. Children are welcome but are not required to attend.

“Beyond being a convenience for families, we hope the ‘one-stop-shop’ style event showcases the unity of our USD 428 elementary schools and preschool programs in our curriculums, academic standards, and student support,” said Reiser. “There is a high level of coordination and collaboration in our district that provides benefits to students, families, and teachers.”

Other exhibitors at the event include community preschools, Great Bend Public Library, Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Parents as Teachers, Great Bend Rec, and other organizations that support the development of young learners and their families.

“Preschool establishes a strong foundation for learning,” said Reiser, “and we want to make it as easy as possible for families to access the resources and information in one location. Parents, students, community, and schools – we’re all partners in helping our young people grow, learn, and succeed.”

To learn more about the Preschool and Kindergarten Pre-Enrollment Information Fair, visit www.GreatBendSchools.net/early-childhood. Direct specific questions to the District Education Center by calling 620-793-1500.

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Mandy Kern with the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is shown with a toddler at the 2022 Pre-Enrollment Fair. Showcasing enrichment opportunities for young learners, the KWEC will provide another engaging display at this year’s event.