January is School Board Appreciation Month, a great opportunity to say thank you to the USD 428 Board of Education who are committed to the success of every student on our community.

Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education members include, Jacquie Disque, president; Aaron Emerson, vice-president; Chad Burroughs, Deanna Essmiller, Lori Reneau, Chris Umphres, and Susan Young. 

Elected at-large to serve a four-year term, these seven community leaders volunteer hundreds of hours attending meetings, reading reports, and discussing plans and programs to support educational achievement in Great Bend Public Schools.

“Our board members develop policies and make complex decisions that not only keep our district running, but also shape the future,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “I appreciate their ability to guide our district with caring and compassionate leadership.” 

A board member’s responsibility goes far beyond the monthly meetings. In Great Bend, BOE members oversee operations for nearly 2,900 students, 700 employees, and 12 buildings. 

“We are fortunate to have this dedicated group of individuals who are engaged in our schools, connected with the community, and advocate for student success locally and with legislators and policy makers across the State,” said Thexton.

USD 428 encourages the community to join-in by thanking school board members for their work this month and throughout the year. Notes of gratitude and encouragement can be posted on the USD 428 social media pages or sent to the District Education Center, c/o Cathie McManaman, 201 S Patton Rd, 

Great Bend, KS. 

The USD 428 Board of Education meets regularly at 5 p.m. on the second Monday of the month at the USD 428 District Education Center. More information about the USD 428 Board of Education, as well as archived board reports, can be found at GreatBendSchools.net.