The Great Bend High School Auditorium was filled Friday morning with teachers and other USD 428 staff returning for the fall semester. They were welcomed by Superintendent Khris Thexton and Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

Staff were also treated to breakfast served by USD 428’s Food Service Department. After Watson’s talk, everyone adjourned to the Panther Activity Center for the 10th annual Business Showcase, a trade show connecting local businesses with hundreds of educators. For the first time, this event was opened to other educators throughout Barton County.

“I’m glad to have everybody back,” Thexton said to the audience. “It means we’re getting close to having the kids back for another great year.” The first day of school for most students is Thursday, Aug. 14, w

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