Great Bend Post
Several bomb threats have been made to Kansas high schools in the past week. Tuesday morning, at approximately 11 a.m., one of those threats was made to Great Bend High School via a phone call from an unknown individual, who indicated he was on his way to the school with a bomb.
Following an initial threat assessment, the school implemented a "Secure" status, which involves locking exterior doors and keeping all students and staff safely inside the building. Classrooms were then put in "Hold" while the investigation took place.
Law enforcement and first responders arrived promptly and, with support from school staff, conducted a thorough search of the building for any suspicious items. After completing their investigation, authorities determined there was no credible threat. No explosives or dangerous materials were found, and there was no danger to students, staff, or the school.
"The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority," Superintendent Khris Thexton said in a message to district families. "Great Bend High School and the district take all threats seriously and will continue to work closely with the Great Bend Police Department to ensure a safe learning environment. School will continue on a normal schedule.
"We encourage families to speak with their students about the importance of reporting any safety concerns to a trusted adult at school or directly to law enforcement. If you see something or hear something, please say something."
For more information about USD 428's safety procedures, including the Standard Response Protocol, please visit:https://www.greatbendschools.net/district/srp
Last week, threats were made at Wichita Southeast High School, Central Christian High School in Hutchinson, and at Garden City High School.