From USD 428
The Great Bend High School Panther Pride Marching Band is packing its instruments and taking its talents on the road! Following formal approval from the USD 428 Board of Education this week, the band is officially set to embark on a six-day performance and educational trip to Chicago, Illinois, from March 11–16, 2027.
The trip's centerpiece will see Great Bend students represent their school and community on a national stage as they march in the world-famous Chicago St. Patrick's Parade on Saturday, March 13, 2027.
A World-Class Educational Experience
Beyond the parade route, the trip promises a rich, cross-curricular itinerary designed to connect music, science, history, and culture:
· Masterwork Performances: Band members will attend a live concert by the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra featuring works by Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel, Felix Mendelssohn, and Ludwig van Beethoven.
· STEM & Science Exploration: Interactive tours will take students through top-tier institutions, including the Museum of Science & Industry, The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Lincoln Park Zoo.
· Cultural Landmarks: Students will explore Chicago highlights such as Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), Navy Pier, 360 CHICAGO, and historic local eateries.
Travel logistics and safety are fully supported through Music Travel Consultants (MTC), providing dedicated tour directorship, chaperone oversight, digital attendance tracking via the MTC Travel App, and prepaid meal debit cards for transit days. In addition to an estimated 50-60 band members, band instructors, district admin, and parents will attend as trip sponsors.
Fundraising Efforts: Removing Barriers to Participation
To ensure every eligible band member can take part regardless of financial background, Director Omar Trujillo, Band Parents, and staff are committed to actively fundraising to remove financial barriers. Administrative tools such as individual installment accounts and direct online crowdfunding links (MTC Gift Link) will soon be available for families.
The band department’s first major fundraising push is just around the corner:
· Homecoming Chili Supper: Friday, Oct. 9, prior to the homecoming football game. A limited number of walk-up tickets will be available, inviting community members to enjoy chili and a cinnamon roll for $10 beginning at 5 p.m. in the GBHS Commons.
Additional fundraising events and community efforts will continue throughout the 2026–2027 school year.
Community members, local businesses, and extended family who wish to support the Panther Pride Marching Band's journey to Chicago are encouraged to reach out. For more information regarding trip sponsorships, individual student donations, or upcoming fundraisers, please contact GBHS Band Director Omar Trujillo, omar.trujillo@usd428.net or the school at (620) 793-1521