By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The mark of good training is when it pays off in times of crisis. On Sept. 12, two Great Bend High School educators jumped into action after a student lit a fire in a bathroom trash can. Karen Moeder and Rachel Thexton were recognized during Monday's USD 428 Board of Education with Recognizing Outstanding Support of Education, or R.O.S.E., Awards. GBHS Principal Brock Funke presented the educators with plaques.
"We always say, 'What would it be like to have a fire drill during lunch?' Well, we had an actual fire and it went very well. But the big reason why is these two amazing gals we have here tonight. I can't say enough about the way they stepped up."
Funke reiterated the importance of training. For Moeder, it was how to properly use a fire extinguisher using the PASS acronym for pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. Thexton helped navigate the students during the fire, which was extinguished before Great Bend Fire Department personnel arrived.
"I can't say enough about these two ladies, just on a daily basis," Funke added. "I'm not surprised by their actions, for them stepping in, because they're great mentors and leaders. The biggest thing is they love our kids and do whatever our kids need."
As it does with all serious school-related events, USD 428 issued a statement to parents on the day of the incident.