The Parents as Teachers (PAT) program at Great Bend USD 428 is moving from the Parent Teacher Resource Center to the new Little Panthers Preschool, Director of Teaching and Learning Tricia Reiser told the school board. She invited PAT representative Amanda Gotts to talk about the program at Monday's board meeting.

PAT is based on the premise that parents are the first and most important teachers in their child’s life. Gotts and coworker Rosa Velazco visit Great Bend homes with children from birth to 5 years old, helping parents make the most of those years by increasing their knowledge of early childhood development. PAT also offers playgroups, developmental screenings and resource networking.

Last year they were unable to make home visits due to the pandemic, but they were able to serve 59 children. Now that they can again visit homes, they hope the program can grow.

“Our program is free to everyone,” Gotts said. To enroll in the program call 620-793-1518 or send email to rosa.velazco@usd428.net or amanda.gotts@usd428.net.