By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The Great Bend Reading Initiative, or GB Reads for short, was introduced by USD 428 in 2015 to promote literacy through school and family engagement. The 2024 initiative officially kicked off on Jan. 8, as students in grades K-6 received a copy of Peter Brown's "The Wild Robot." USD 428 Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said this year's initiative also includes a scavenger hunt.
"I think we're off to a strong start," she said. "Even with snow this week, we have more than 100 families participating and well over 200 submissions already. We'll keep going through Feb. 16, so there is still time to catch up if you're new to the process or if you want to join the scavenger hunt on Goosechase."
The Goosechase app can be downloaded to any smartphone. Families can sign in to get "missions" to find several hand-crafted robots created by students in Great Bend High School's manufacturing and woods classes. Three robots were hidden in the first week and a total of 12 robots will eventually be placed around the community. Points are awarded for each completed mission, and winners with the most points accumulated will be announced in February.
READ MORE: GBHS students create 3-D robots for GB Reads Initiative
"With the support of our sponsors, we've purchased five family fun packages," Bauer said. "Those include pizza gift cards, family games, and movie night supplies. It's meant to really encourage family engagement and quality family time together."
"The Wild Robot" is a story about Roz, an industrial robot who finds herself stranded alone on a deserted island. The book is described as a heartwarming and action-packed story about what happens when nature and technology collide. Families needing assistance with the Goosechase app can contact any USD 428 elementary school.
