The Therapeutic Learning Classroom (TLC) was formed at USD 428 for students that display behavior that disrupts the learning environment in an unsafe manner. Students that have experienced trauma, have tough backgrounds, are acting out, or their social and behavior skills are disrupting a class can be sent to the TLC.

Kylee McDonald, Special Education Coordinator for Great Bend schools, says the main goal is to work with the students to get them back into the normal classroom setting with their peers.

Kylee McDonald Audio

The TLC helps students with academic, life, and transitional skills to help them navigate the world inside and outside the classroom. Prior to entering the TLC program, students earned an average of 2-3 credits per school year. Students in the program earn an average of 7.5 hours per year.

TLC allows the students to master social skills, alter their behavior, and learn to achieve academically.

USD 428 Assistant Superintendent John Popp says TLC is not designed as simply a detention for hard-to-teach students.

John Popp Audio

McDonald makes an effort to talk with school administrators, teachers, and assistants to find ways to connect and integrate the identified students.

McDonald anticipated 8 to 9 students at the secondary level that will be in the TLC program to begin the 2018-2019 school year and five grade school students.