When employees of Great Bend USD 428 attend their Back to School Celebration next Monday, nearly 100 students should already be there.
Members of the Great Bend High School marching band reported for duty earlier this month, Director Mark DeWald said. Their first public performance will be at 8 a.m. Monday, during the celebration.
During the annual band camp that started Aug. 1, musicians, section leaders and drum majors worked on marching formations, rehearsed music and were issued uniforms.
GBHS has 93 students enrolled in band this semester, DeWald said. “Rehearsals are mandatory for all band students who wish to travel with the band to the Labor Day Parade, KSU Band Day, and the Kansas State Fair,” DeWald said before camp got underway. The band will have a half-time show at the first home football game on Sept. 2. Band members will also come on the field before the game in a “GB” formation to perform “The Star Spangled Banner,” the alma mater and the school fight song.
The Jazz Band also had some early rehearsals and will perform at the GBHS Open House on Aug. 22.

Inspiring message
The Back to School Celebration will include breakfast and a program by guest speaker Judge Tom Webb.
The former Haskell County District Magistrate’s life story “You can make a difference” focuses on making a positive difference in a negative world.

Showcase
For the second year, the celebration will also feature a Great Bend Business Showcase, open to district employees. Sponsored by the school district and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development, it will be in the Panther Activity Center from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
“This event is being facilitated by the Chamber to give businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services to the 700+ employees of the school district, while expressing appreciation for the dedication shown by the teachers and staff,” said Jan Peters, president and chief executive officer of the chamber.