Summer projects at Great Bend USD 428 include a new door intercom system at Riley Elementary School. Assistant Administrator Khris Thexton said Dayton Security in Hoisington recommended the $1,600 door buzzer system. Visitors will need to press an intercom button and be seen on camera before someone pushes a buzzer so they can enter the school.
If the system works as well as anticipated, it may be added to all of the elementary schools in the next six to 12 months. Thexton said Riley was chosen as the first location because, “Riley has the biggest blind spot when you come in.”
The school already has security cameras, but the system will be safer and more effective at stopping unauthorized entries. There are no ongoing fees after installation.
Superintendent Brad Reed said the cost – $8,000 for all elementary schools – is relatively expensive, and at first it will be a little inconvenient to those entering the schools.
“Most realize it’s increased safety for our kids,” he said.
The systems are not being added to Great Bend Middle School or Great Bend High School because those buildings have different security needs and layouts.

Online enrollment
Another project at USD 428 is the introduction of online enrollment for returning students, as well as the ability to pay for fees and meals online with a credit card or debit card. This service will be available as of Monday, July 20. Family Access can be found on the district website, www.usd428.net. Anyone needing assistance may call the District Office, 620-793-1500.


In other business, the board:
• Renewed its Supplemental Insurance police for K-12 students in their classrooms, activities and athletics, with Gill Agency Inc., for $45,037. This is the same price as last year. Administrators noted that not all districts offer the insurance. Board member Larry Kutina commented, “This is a really good deal for our district.”
• Set the price of copies approved and prepared by the Freedom of Information Officer at 30 cents per page.
• Increased the meal rate for out of state travel from $10 to $15 per meal. Reed said the in-state rate is still $10. “This is mainly for national conferences,” he said.