By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in southwest Kansas has made statewide headlines this week. Wednesday afternoon, videos began to surface on social media of an ICE presence in Great Bend.
Wednesday morning, USD 428 Great Bend Public Schools sent a privacy and safety reminder to its students and parents. It reads:
Dear USD 428 Families,
In response to recent reports regarding the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Barton County, we understand that some families may be feeling anxious. We want to assure you that USD 428 remains steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environment for all students.
Education and student well-being are always our top priorities. The district will continue to comply with all state and federal laws that protect student privacy and safety. Please know that student information will not be shared, and access to students will not be granted, without parental consent or a lawfully issued warrant, subpoena, or court order.
To help us best support your child, we kindly ask that you ensure the contact information on file with your child’s school is accurate and up to date. If you need to make any updates, please contact your child’s attendance center at your earliest convenience.
Absences should be reported through the SchoolMessengerHome app or by contacting your child's school directly.
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to the District Office or your child’s school. Thank you for your continued partnership as we work together to support every student in our care.
Sincerely,
Khris Thexton
Superintendent
Great Bend Public Schools – USD 428
Several Hispanic-owned restaurants in Great Bend have also announced temporary closures.
U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall have also issued comments about the ICE activity in southwest Kansas.
"I am hearing from Kansans about the increased federal law enforcement presence in southwest Kansas as ICE agents carry out warrants in the area," Moran wrote. "I visited with Secretary (MarkWayne) Mullin, stressing the importance of DHS working with our local law enforcement to safely execute these warrants.
"Secretary Mullin assured me these warrants are only for the purpose of arresting individuals who have been charged with criminal activities. I will remain engaged with federal and local authorities and community leaders."
Marshall wrote on social media, "When ICE operates in Kansas, it needs to coordinate with our local law enforcement. Our sheriffs and police know these communities better than anyone, and working together keeps officers and residents safe.
"I’m closely following what’s happening in SW Kansas and have been in direct contact with Secretary Mullin and local law enforcement as ICE executes warrants in order to keep Kansans safe."