Located in the heart of Kansas, Great Bend residents enjoy the comforts of small-town America as well as amenities of being a regional retail and entertainment center. Our schools benefit from a dedicated and exceptional teaching staff with an average tenure of nearly 15 years, which we believe illustrates the positive culture and environment fostered within our buildings. USD 428 is comprised of five neighborhood elementary schools where students enjoy the benefits of walkability and community engagement. Students merge at Great Bend Middle School for seventh and eighth-grade before advancing to Great Bend High School for grades 9-12. Our curriculum is designed to meet each student's educational needs. K-12 we emphasize the core academic areas of reading, math, science, and social studies, while incorporating all State of Kansas standards for education and reflecting national curriculum reform efforts. Our schools offer a safe learning environment with exceptional teachers and staff focused on the success of their students. To support the unique needs of each learner, the academic progress of students is monitored for early intervention. With a comprehensive tiered system of supports in place at every level, individual students receive small group instruction targeted to their specific needs to support the growth of a diverse population of students. At the secondary level, core instruction is enhanced by giving students the opportunity to explore career and technical education programs as well as career mentoring from business leaders across the community. At all levels, we work diligently to support our students and provide educational opportunities that fulfill our mission to educate and prepare all students to become responsible citizens and lifelong learners. Great Bend USD 428: 2019-2020 Enrollment: 2,816 Students 700 Employees Attendance Centers: 5 Elementary Schools (K-6) 1 Middle School (7 & 8) 1 High School (9-12) 1 Specialty Facility