By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Three years ago, the USD 428 Great Bend Board of Education launched its Career Milestones Program to recognize district employees as they cross five-year milestones. This year, 65 employees in the district celebrated another milestone, combining for 750 years of service. Public Information Director Andrea Bauer handed out awards during Monday's March BOE meeting.
"It's a small token of appreciation that we extend to everyone who is achieving a five-year milestone," she said. "These are calculated based on Jan. 1 for years of service."
Staff that reached 25 and 30-year milestones were present at Monday's meeting where they received a gift bag and were able to select from one of several branded items like cups or shirts. Superintendent John Popp credited Bauer with helping come up with the milestone program, as well as those employees who have remained with the district.
"I would say it's just a recognition for our staff who's served with us for five years on up," he said. "It's been a good, simple little thing to keep people aware of the fact that we appreciate their time with us."
Employees with 30 years of service in 2023 are Kimberly Baird and Donna Becker, both paras at Great Bend High School, and Norbert Muth, a Great Bend Middle School English teacher. Employees with 25 years are IT Director Ryan Axman, GBHS Special Education Teacher Trish Berger, Lincoln Elementary PE Teacher Dale Kuhlman, and Riley Elementary Principal Beth Rein.
“Each year of service represents hundreds of students who have benefited from the dedication and expertise of our talented staff,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “Teachers in front of a classroom, support staff who keep our schools running, paraprofessionals, teacher assistants, food service staff, and more – it takes the dedicated work of our whole team to provide high-quality educational opportunities.”