Each summer, Great Bend elementary students who would benefit from extra help after the school year ends are invited to attend summer school in June. That will continue this summer as usual, Assistant Superintendent Tricia Reiser said. Then in July, all elementary students currently enrolled in USD 428 in grades K-5 are eligible to attend summer classes in a new program called REACH.
The free program will provide opportunities for Recreation, Enrichment, Academic, Community, and Health.
“In addition to addressing academic progress for students, the REACH program will be designed to use experiences and exploration to build content knowledge, grow relationships, boost confidence, and make summer break fun for students!” Reiser said.
June 2022 Summer School, June 6-30:
Elementary Summer School
Students now attending Pre-K through fifth grade have been invited to attend. All five elementary schools will be open Monday through Friday. Breakfast will be served at 8 a.m., instruction time runs from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and then lunch is served before students are dismissed.
The day includes academic instruction in reading, math, and science.
Incoming kindergartners who attended the Pre-Enrollment Fair earlier this month or who complete the pre-enrollment paperwork this spring will be invited to attend summer school at their future elementary school in June, Reiser said. “It’s a great way to get acclimated to the school, lunchrooms, and daily routines.”
Great Bend Middle School
With opportunities to attend in the morning, students in grades 6-8 will be invited to attend math and/or reading programs as needed. Invitations will be sent beginning May 6 when spring benchmark data from testing is complete.
Great Bend High School
With opportunities to attend in the morning, students in grades 9-11 who are not on track to graduate will be invited to take courses to recover academic credits.
Driver’s education is also offered at GBHS in June.
July 2022 REACH
Program, July 5-29:
This is a new initiative beginning in July to keep students engaged, learning, and active, Reiser said. For staffing and efficiency, classes will only be held in two buildings, at Park and Eisenhower schools, but children from any school may attend.
REACH classes are from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon on Friday. Breakfast and lunch will be served daily.
The program will include hands-on learning and exploring, fitness activities for life, reading, math, and science skills, acts of kindness, and community service. There will be opportunities for local field trips and weekly adventures.
All USD 428 families were invited to complete an online survey earlier this year to gauge interest in the July enrichment program and 186 families expressed interest. Based on the positive feedback, USD 428 has continued to develop the program and will open registration early in May for students in grades K-5 who are currently enrolled in USD 428.
