2026 Great Ideas in Education Conference: Full Schedule

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7:00am CDT

Registration/Breakfast

Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT

Eagle Ballroom

Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Eagle Ballroom

Registration/Breakfast

8:00am CDT

General Session

Tuesday July 28, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CDT

Ealge Ballroom

Speakers

Mitch Holthaus, Keynote Speaker

MITCH HOLTHUS (HOLE-tus) IS THE VOICE OF THE KANSAS CITY CHIEFS AND IS THE LONGEST TENURED AND MOST DECORATED PLAY-BY-PLAY “VOICE” IN FRANCHISE HISTORY. HE WAS ON THE CALL OF SUPER BOWLS 54, 57 & 58 WHEN THE CHIEFS WON THEIR SECOND THIRD AND FOURTH SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONSHIPS. HE... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CDT
Ealge Ballroom

General Session, Keynote

9:30am CDT

Cohort Collaboration that Supports Each System

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Redbud B 210

Districts are assigned to School Improvement Day Cohorts and this model shows how districts are collaborating above and beyond the KESA requirements. The curriculum leaders from east region districts meet monthly to support each other. This session is designed in the spirit of collaboration to explore models and support for school improvement. This session is relevant to all sizes (from 1A to 6A) of districts and to all roles/responsibilities.

Speakers

Megan Storey-Kupersmith

Asst. Supt./ Director of Curriculum, USD 367

Nicole Stevenson

USD 365

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud B 210

Accreditation

9:30am CDT

PRISM (Partnership to Review and Improve Student Performance via Multiple Measures) Project

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Cypress B 209

PRISM (Partnership to Review and Improve Student Performance via Multiple Measures) is transforming how third‑grade teachers use assessment to drive instruction. This initiative expands the reach and power of the KAP Instructional Mini Tests while delivering hands‑on professional learning that helps educators turn data into actioA brand‑new feature — the Kite Visualizer Tool — brings learning standards, instruction, and assessment together in one intuitive space, giving teachers a clear, connected view of what students need and how to support them. With access to the expanded Kite item bank, teachers can plan and deliver instruction with sharper precision and greater confidence. In this session, you’ll hear directly from districts that participated in the PRISM pilot as they share what worked, what surprised them, and how these tools are already elevating student learning.

Speakers

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress B 209

Assessment

9:30am CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Eagle Ballroom

This flexible, come-and-go session is designed to provide district and school leaders with targeted technical assistance related to At-Risk accountability. Participants may attend at any point during the scheduled time to seek clarification on requirements, guidance and resources, and any additional questions answered.

Speakers

Dr. Frank Harwood

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Eagle Ballroom

At-Risk

9:30am CDT

Introducing the Computer Science Toolkit

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Maple 205

Presenters will guide participants through the newly published toolkit titled "Understanding the Standards" including tips for unpacking the CS standards, working to align topics within the standards within a course as well as with other disciplines, and vertically aligning computer science instruction across multiple grade levels. Specific case examples from Kindergarten through secondary grades will be presented, and participants will have time to ask questions related to their own practices.

Speakers

Stephen King

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Maple 205

Computer Science

9:30am CDT

Discipline, not just IDEA

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Cypress A 209

This presentation will examine school discipline through the lens of IDEA, with a focus on how common practices can unintentionally create compliance and FAPE concerns. Participants will explore what discipline means broadly and how commonly used practices—such as point systems, in-school suspension (ISS), and other removals from instruction—can carry unintended implications for students with disabilities. The session will unpack key nuances of IDEA that impact disciplinary decision-making, including Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs).

Speakers

Steve Backman

Consultant, Kansas State Department of Education

Brian Dempsey

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress A 209

Discipline

9:30am CDT

Balanced, Developmentally Appropriate Assessment in Preschool: What It Looks Like in Practice

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Cedar 204

Early childhood assessments gather and provide educators, parents and families with critical information about a child’s development and growth. Prekindergarten programs must incorporate a variety of developmentally appropriate formal and informal screening and assessment methods and tools to guide curriculum implementation and monitor children’s growth over time. In this session, participants will examine criteria for selecting effective assessment tools and methods and explore how to use this information to strengthen instructional practices and enhance teaching and learning within their preschool programs.

Speakers

Natalie McClane

Preschool Programs Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cedar 204

Early Childhood

9:30am CDT

From Standards to Student Writing: A practical approach to aligning instruction to the KSDE ELA Writing Standards

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Birch 203

Strong writing instruction requires more than knowing the standards—it requires understanding how they build across grade levels. In this session, we will explore a practical process for vertically aligning the KSDE ELA Writing Standards while examining the depth of knowledge (DOK) expectations embedded within them. Participants will learn how to identify progression of skills across grades and align instruction and writing tasks to ensure students meet the intended rigor of the standards.

Speakers

Mary Lonker

ELA Program Manager, Kansas State Department of Education

Mary Lonker has spent 30 years in English Language Arts education, teaching both middle and high school students. She taught 8th grade English as well as over 20 years of high school English, including a decade in AP Language and Composition, and is certified to teach AP Seminar... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Birch 203

ELA

9:30am CDT

Establishing & Enhancing Work-Based Learning Experiences: Work-Based Learning K-12 (Awareness, Exploration and Career Preparation)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Walnut 208

Work-based learning is a high-impact, meaningfully relevant, and student-focused, research-based instructional strategy. Our session will equip and empower districts as they look at implementing or enhancing this critical component of Career and Technical Education programs. As district and school leaders come prepared for diving into the key components of WBL programming, course sequencing strategies, programming processes, and much more in this action-packed session!

Speakers

Anthony Meals

Agricultural Education Program Consultant and Kansas FFA Advisor, KSDE

KSDE Agricultural Education Program Consultant and Kansas FFA Advisor

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Walnut 208

IPS

9:30am CDT

Youth Teacher Apprentice Program

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Redbud C 210

This session will spotlight Kansas’s pilot Youth Teacher Apprenticeship Program, implemented during the 2025–26 school year by Topeka Public Schools, Spring Hill Public Schools, and Liberal Public Schools. Designed as a “grow your own” strategy, the program blends paid, work-based learning within the teacher/training CTE pathway with intentional access to dual college credit, creating an early and sustainable pipeline for students interested in becoming educators. Moderated by Joel Gillaspie of the Kansas State Department of Education, who oversees the program statewide, this panel discussion will feature district leaders Laura Nichols (Topeka), Leah Good (Spring Hill), and Tasha Ebeling (Liberal). Each panelist will share their district’s unique approach to designing and implementing the pilot, including partnerships, scheduling, student supports, and lessons learned during the first year of operation. Attendees will gain practical insights into how districts of varying sizes and contexts are leveraging youth apprenticeships to strengthen educator pipelines, support student career exploration, and align CTE, higher education, and workforce goals in meaningful ways.

Speakers

Dr. Joel Gillaspie

Coordinator, Kansas Department of Education

I am the coordinator for the Registered Teacher Apprentice Program at the Kansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud C 210

Licensure

9:30am CDT

Beyond the Math Standard: Using PLDs to Drive Depth, Rigor, and Alignment

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Redbud A 210

Standards alignment goes beyond simply identifying the standard. In this session, participants will review KSDE’s Math Standards Alignment Toolkit to clarify the intent, concepts, and skills within the standards. We will also examine Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) to better understand the depth and rigor expected on assessments. Together, these tools help educators identify clear instructional targets that support students in meeting—and exceeding—grade-level expectations.

Speakers

Amber Boyington

Samantha Wright

Jillian Kildow

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud A 210

Math

9:30am CDT

Tools, Tools, and more Tools to Align Physical Education and Health with the Four Fundamentals

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Osage 207

Join us for an interactive session designed to empower educators with tools and resources to create a cohesive program that aligns standards, assesses students, adjusts instruction based on data, and builds student skills and success. Templates for indicators and curricular connections, as well as rubrics specific to the Kansas Standards and Competencies, will be shared.

Speakers

??

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Osage 207

PE/Health

9:30am CDT

Beyond the Label: Supporting Students with Dyslexia Through Strong Systems and Collaboration

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT

Oak 206

What do students with dyslexia really need from schools? More than anything, they need strong systems that ensure early identification, targeted intervention, ongoing progress monitoring, and collaborative decision-making. This session will explore how students with dyslexia are supported along a continuum of services, beginning with high-quality general education systems and moving to more intensive supports when needed. Presenters will share how teams can move beyond silos, align interventions across that continuum, and engage in collaborative problem-solving. Participants will examine common misconceptions, the role of dyslexia screening and progress monitoring, and when a comprehensive evaluation for special education may be needed. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding that it is not the label, but the system of support, that drives student outcomes.

Speakers

Mandy Cundy

Katie Orr

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Oak 206

Structured Literacy

10:30am CDT

Break

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am CDT

Expo Hall

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am CDT
Expo Hall

Break

11:05am CDT

KESA Basics

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Redbud B 210

The second version of the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation (KESA) model began with the 2024-2025 school year. KESA’s aim is to improve student outcomes by focusing on a few high-leverage fundamentals through a highly collaborative process. If you are new to Kansas, new to your position or simply interested in learning more about the school system+L36+J35:L35+H31:L35

Speakers

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Redbud B 210

Accreditation

11:05am CDT

From Data to Insight: Constructing a Balanced Assessment System

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Cypress B 209

A truly effective assessment system does more than collect data — it turns information into insight that teachers can use right away. This session explores how schools can design a balanced assessment system that connects classroom assessments, interim measures, and state tests into one coherent, purposeful structure. You’ll learn how thoughtful assessment design can sharpen instructional decisions, strengthen student ownership of learning, and create a more responsive classroom environment. We’ll break down the essential components of a balanced system, highlight practical strategies for aligning assessments with instruction, and share real examples of how districts are using these approaches to elevate student learning. You’ll walk away with a clearer vision of what a balanced assessment system looks like in action — and how to start building one in your own context.

Speakers

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Cypress B 209

Assessment

11:05am CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Eagle Ballroom

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom

At-Risk

11:05am CDT

Stat Smart Onlline: Social Media, Social Engineering & AI

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Cypress A 209

Today's students live, learn, and connect online, and smart habits make all the difference. Ins this engaging session, learners explore the good of social media and AI alongside the real-world risks: oversharing, cyberbullying, scams, deepfakes, and misleading content. Through relatable examples and interactive scenarios, sthudents practice essential skills: protecting privacy, spotting phishing and social engineering tricks, creating strong passwords with MFA, and applying a simple critical-thinking checklist before sharing or believing sensational posts. Deisgned for grades 3 -12 and aligned with digital citizenship outcomes, this presentation empowers tudents to think before they share, verify suprising content, and keep themselves and their friends safe online.

Speakers

Ryan Kurtenbach

IT Director, Kansas State Department of Education

I am the IT Director for the Kansas Department of Education, with an extensive educational background that includes degrees in Network Technology, Computer Information Systems, Information Resource Studies, and a Master of Business Administration.

I bring over twenty-six years of experience in Information Technology, with more than twenty years focused on Cybersecurity. My expertise spans multiple industries, including education, government, medical, financial, and energy sectors. I’ve had the opportunity to deliver numerous... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Cypress A 209

Computer Science

11:05am CDT

Teaching Cybersecurity in the High School

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Maple 205

Cybersecurity has been a hot topic in the business world for years, and during this time a range of choices has become available for teaching the concepts to high school students interested in careers in information technology as well as students heading into other career paths. This session will present some options available, outline the differences among the three state course codes, and discuss best practices for working through the technical challenges associated with teaching cybersecurity within a secure environment alongside your school's information technology team.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Maple 205

Computer Science

11:05am CDT

The Kansas Preschool and Kindergarten Guides

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Cedar 204

The Kansas Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Guides provide information on high quality instruction in preschool and kindergarten classrooms. These guides include information on child development, learning environments, classroom management, family engagement, Kansas curricular standards, assessment, and program structures for preschool and kindergarten.
Participants will examine these resources to deepen their understanding of what is available and how they can be effectively utilized with early childhood staff to support the implementation of high-quality programming for the youngest learners in their community.

Speakers

Natalie McClane

Preschool Programs Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Cedar 204

Early Childhood

11:05am CDT

From Standards to Student Writing: A practical approach to aligning instruction to the KSDE ELA Writing Standards

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Birch 203

Speakers

Mary Lonker

ELA Program Manager, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Birch 203

ELA

11:05am CDT

Connecting Literacy Across Disciplines.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Osage 207

Speakers

Joyce Huser

Fine Arts Education Consultant - KSDE, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Osage 207

Fine Arts

11:05am CDT

High-Quality Instruction and Balanced Assesment: How HGSS Strengthens the Four Fundamentals

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Oak 206

The HGSS Teacher Leader team will lead participants through an active and engaging session demonstrating how the HGSS CBA strengthens and advances high-quality instruction, postitions educators as professionals, and promotes student voice and choice while exemplify the role of HGSS in showcasing your districts Fundamental work.

Speakers

Tina Ellsworth

Adam Topliff

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Oak 206

HGSS

11:05am CDT

Science of Reading Licensure Requirements

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Redbud C 210

Licensure "Beginning July 1, 2028, Kansas professional licensed educators serving in specified positions will be required to demonstrate knowledge of the science of reading to renew their professional license.
This session will clarify how this knowledge may be demonstrated, and how the licensure team will track and add seals of literacy to licenses."

Speakers

Shane Carter

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Redbud C 210

Licensure

11:05am CDT

Moving Beyond Procedures: Strategies for Mathematical Thinking

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Redbud A 210

Explore KSDE math resources and instructional guidance that support rigorous, coherent mathematics learning. In this interactive session, teachers will experience Mathematical Language Routines, discourse strategies, and argumentation activities that move students beyond procedures to reasoning and communication.

Speakers

Todd Flory

Cherryl Delacruz

Jill Kildow

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Redbud A 210

Math

11:05am CDT

Science AND the Science of Reading: Integrating Structured Literacy into Meaningful Science Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT

Walnut 208

This session explores how science builds background knowledge, increases vocabulary, and exposes students to literary knowledge, while explicit literacy supports increasing access to scientific sensemaking. Through grade-band discussions, leaders will identify what supports are needed from KSDE to strengthen the integration of structured literacy with science content.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Walnut 208

Science

12:05pm CDT

Lunch

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:05pm - 1:15pm CDT

Expo Hall

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:05pm - 1:15pm CDT
Expo Hall

Lunch

1:20pm CDT

Central Region Collaboration

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT

Redbud C

These meetings will focus on connecting systems by Fundamental to collaborate on implementation of their current KESA Action Plan. “Like-position” groups will be formed for informal discussions. Additionally, your Region or Cohort Executive will share key points for the upcoming school year. Bring your entire team to collaborate with others in your KESA Region/Cohort!

Speakers

Mindy Bruce

Regional Executive, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud C

Accreditation

1:20pm CDT

Collaboration by Cohort regions - Urban, Suburban, Private and Special Purpose Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT

Redbud A

Speakers

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud A

Accreditation

1:20pm CDT

East Region Collaboration

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT

Redbud B 210

Speakers

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud B 210

Accreditation

1:20pm CDT

West Region Collaboration

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT

Cypress A

Speakers

Amber Miller

Regional Executive, KSDE

Amber is a former elementary teacher, special education administrator, and educational consultant with a Specialist in Reading, Master's in Curriculum & Instruction with an Emphasis in English as a Second Language, as well as Gifted Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Cypress A

Accreditation

2:15pm CDT

Break

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:15pm - 2:45pm CDT

Expo Hall

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:15pm - 2:45pm CDT
Expo Hall

Break

2:50pm CDT

Implementation Science around School Improvement

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Osage 207

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Osage 207

2:50pm CDT

Focused Walkthroughs, Collective Impact: Aligning Practice Across Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Cypress B 209

How can district and school leaders move beyond walkthroughs as a compliance activity and use them as a powerful driver of instructional improvement? This session explores how one district has intentionally designed district-wide walkthroughs focused on high-impact instructional strategies to strengthen coherence across KESA, MTSS, PLCs, and school improvement efforts. Participants will learn how targeted observation tools, shared look-fors, and collaborative reflection structures help “connect the dots” between classroom practice, professional learning, and system priorities. Using a comprehensive, district-wide data collection platform, leaders are able to capture consistent walkthrough evidence, analyze trends across schools, and use real-time data to inform coaching, professional learning, and instructional decision-making. Through this process districts can reduce initiative fatigue, clarify expectations, and focus collective efforts on what matters most: sustained instructional improvement and student growth. This session offers practical processes, leadership moves, and communication strategies for turning walkthroughs into a sustainable system for continuous improvement.

Speakers

Angela Dick

School Improvement Specialist, Bishop PD Center

Billie Wallace

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, USD 501 Topeka

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cypress B 209

Accreditation

2:50pm CDT

Using Formative Assessment to Improve Teaching and Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Cedar 204

Discover how formative assessment can become a powerful driver of daily instruction. This session explores practical, low‑prep strategies for gathering real‑time evidence of student learning and using that information to adjust teaching, differentiate support, and provide meaningful feedback. Educators will leave with simple, high‑impact tools that make assessment an integral, seamless part of responsive classroom practice.

Speakers

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cedar 204

Assessment

2:50pm CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Eagle Ballroom

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom

At-Risk, Fiscal

2:50pm CDT

Career and Technical Education: Good for Students, Good for Businesses, Good for Kansas Communities

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Maple 205

Join us to learn how educators can share the new Career Cluster Framework with families and students. Resources will be shared to help communicate what CTE is in Kansas and how CTE can provide all Kansas students academic, technical and employability skills to benefit them in high school and postsecondary.

Speakers

Natalie Clark

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education

Assistant Director, Career, Standards and Assessment Services, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Maple 205

CTE

2:50pm CDT

Making Thinking Visible: Teaching Claim-Evidence-Reasoning Through Explicit Writing Instruction

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Birch 203

This session explores how explicit writing instruction can help students clearly express their thinking through Claim–Evidence–Reasoning (CER). Grounded in strategies from The Writing Revolution 2.0, participants will learn practical approaches for helping students move from simply identifying evidence to explaining how that evidence supports a claim. Educators will leave with strategies they can immediately apply to strengthen students’ ability to support ideas with clear reasoning across content areas.

Speakers

Mary Lonker

ELA Program Manager, Kansas State Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Birch 203

ELA

2:50pm CDT

Standards Alignment and Structured Literacy: How HGSS Strengthens the Four Fundamentals

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Oak 206

The HGSS Teacher Leader team will lead participants through an active and engaging session demonstrating how HGSS classroom instruction that is Standards Aligned advances and promotes Structured Literacy preparing all students for success.

Speakers

Tina Ellsworth

Adam Topliff

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Oak 206

HGSS

2:50pm CDT

Registered Apprenticeships

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Redbud C 210

This session will highlight Kansas’s Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program and the role it is playing in strengthening the state’s educator pipeline. With more than 350 teacher apprentices currently participating across nearly 80 school districts, the program provides a structured pathway for paraprofessionals and other school staff to earn their teaching credentials while continuing to work in their local schools. By combining paid on-the-job training with college coursework and mentorship, the program supports districts in developing and retaining highly qualified educators from within their own communities.
Moderated by Joel Gillaspie of the Kansas State Department of Education, who oversees the program statewide, this panel discussion will feature leaders from Turner School District, ANW Special Education Cooperative, and Dodge City Public Schools. Each panelist will share how their district or cooperative has designed and implemented the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, including recruitment strategies, partnerships with higher education institutions, program supports for apprentices, and lessons learned from launching and sustaining the program.
Attendees will gain practical insights into how districts and cooperatives are leveraging registered apprenticeships to address teacher shortages, expand access to the profession, and create sustainable “grow your own” pathways for future educators across Kansas.

Speakers

Dr. Joel Gillaspie

Coordinator, Kansas Department of Education

I am the coordinator for the Registered Teacher Apprentice Program at the Kansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Redbud C 210

Licensure

2:50pm CDT

Beyond the Math Standard: Using PLDs to Drive Depth, Rigor, and Alignment

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Redbud A 210

Speakers

Samantha Wright

Amber Boyington

Jill Kildow

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Redbud A 210

Math

2:50pm CDT

From Vision to Reality: Selecting and Supporting High-Quality Science Instructional Materials

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Walnut 208

This session examines what components of instructional design are critical to supporting quality science instruction. We will identify what makes science material selection different from other content areas and review recommended HQIM selection processes. Leaders will also explore additional supports from KSDE around quality instruction in science, including statewide implementation cohorts, our Zero Barrier (UDL) initiative, and professional learning/collaboration opportunities.

Speakers

Stephanie Alderman-Oler

Science Program Manager, KSDE

Stephanie Alderman-Oler is the Science Program Manager at the Kansas Department of Education, supporting science education across the state. With 12 years of experience as a middle and high school science teacher, she brings classroom expertise and a deep commitment to improving science... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Walnut 208

Science

2:50pm CDT

“Connecting the 4 Fundamentals: School Counselors Sharing Their Genius to Support Districts”

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Cypress A 209

Join KSDE School Counselor Leader Coordinators and School Counselor Field Educators as they explore how school counseling programs support the 4 Fundamentals of the Kansas School Improvement Model. This breakout session will highlight how school counselors use their leadership, data, and collaboration to strengthen district systems. Through real examples from Kansas districts, presenters will share how they use their unique “genius” to help improve programs, influence policy and practice, and support student success across academic, career, and social-emotional development. Participants will leave with practical ideas for connecting school counseling programs to district growth and continuous improvement.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cypress A 209

SECD/School Counseling

2:50pm CDT

The Structures in Structured Literacy

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Redbud B 210

This presentation takes participants on a journey of what structured lIteracy looks like within each of the structures in the Kansas School Improvement Model. We will also explore how the fundamental of structured literacy intersects with the other fundamentals as you look towards a comprehensive model for school improvement. What does it look like to "do" structured literacy well? Come identfiy markers that can measure how your system is doing and explore opportunities to strenghten the good things you already have in place!

Speakers

Laurie Curtis

Assistant Director: Literacy, Kansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Redbud B 210

Structured Literacy

3:55pm CDT

Connecting Literacy Across Disciplines.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Osage 207

Through this interactive session you’ll learn about and engage in techniques for strengthening literacy through the integration of the arts. While structured literacy emphasizes explicit, systematic, cumulative instruction in reading comprehension and word recognition, the integration of art and music can reinforce this learning by applying literacy knowledge and skills in other contexts. Often art and music teachers are asked to address expectations coming from district/state levels. How can they meet these requirements without jeopardizing high quality art or music education? Furthermore, how can non-arts teachers reinforce literacy skills and understandings when integrating with disciplines such as art and music? We’ll address these areas and more through this engaging yet informative session.

Speakers

Joyce Huser

Fine Arts Education Consultant - KSDE, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Osage 207

3:55pm CDT

Building Students’ Intra- and Interpersonal Skills through High-Quality Instruction with Free Evidence-Based Curriculum and Professional Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Redbud B 210

In collaboration with KSDE, the Kansans Can Competency Framework has expanded access to free professional learning and curricular resources for K–12. In this session, leadership teams will explore options to prepare educators to embed intra- and interpersonal strategies that enhance content instruction. Participants will access a newly developed self-study professional learning process with on-demand coaching. Discussion and planning time will be provided, and numerous implementation examples, including student academic outcomes at various school levels, will be shared.

Speakers

Chris Cooper

Amy Gaumer-Erickson

Patricia Noonan

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Redbud B 210

Accreditation

3:55pm CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Eagle Ballroom

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom

At-Risk

3:55pm CDT

Computational Thinking in Grades K-5: The Skillset for the 21st Century

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Maple 205

Twenty years ago Carnegie Mellon professor Jeannette Wing argued that computational thinking is a fundamental skill for all students in all disciplines. Grades K-5 are ideal for incorporating the four pillars of computational thinking (decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms) into courses to teach critical thinking, creativity, and logical reasoning, and to foster creativity and build resilience. This session will define the four pillars and give practical examples of integration into some typical lesson plans.

Speakers

Stephen King

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Maple 205

Computer Science

3:55pm CDT

From Compliance to Capacity: What Districts and Schools Must Know About Serving Multilingual Learners

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Cedar 204

Serving English learners effectively requires both strong instructional systems and a clear understanding of legal and regulatory responsibilities. This session provides an overview of the federal and state compliance requirements that guide English learner programming under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), including Title III and federal civil rights obligations. Participants will review key expectations related to identification and placement, service provision, monitoring and reclassification, and meaningful communication with families in languages they understand. The session will also highlight common compliance challenges and provide practical strategies for aligning district procedures, documentation, and program implementation to ensure equitable access to instruction and sustained program quality.

Speakers

Emily Scott

ESOL/Title III Coordinator, Kansas Department of Education

Supports Title III and ESOL programs, helping schools and districts provide strong, effective services for multilingual learners. Partners with educators to offer practical technical assistance and meaningful professional learning that can be directly applied in classrooms and pr... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Cedar 204

3:55pm CDT

High-Quality Instruction and Balanced Assesment: How HGSS Strengthens the Four Fundamentals

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Oak 206

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Oak 206

HGSS

3:55pm CDT

Moving Beyond Procedures: Strategies for Mathematical Thinking

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Redbud A 210

Speakers

Todd Flory

Cherryl Delacruz

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Redbud A 210

Math

3:55pm CDT

"Making Sense of Kansas Science: Standards Alignment and Assessment "

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Walnut 208

The Kansas Science Standards are unique in their three-dimensional design, requiring alignment between standards, instruction, and assessment. In this session, district leadership teams will explore the vertical progression of the standards, use KSDE’s Science Standards Alignment Toolkit to support implementation, and examine the role of formative, interim, summative, and performance-based assessments within a balanced science assessment system. Participants will also review key KITE assessment resources and common challenges related to standards alignment and assessment use.

Speakers

Stephanie Alderman-Oler

Science Program Manager, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Walnut 208

Science

3:55pm CDT

“Connecting the 4 Fundamentals: School Counselors Sharing Their Genius to Support Districts”

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Cypress A 209

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Cypress A 209

SECD/School Counseling

3:55pm CDT

Structured Literacy Data Dives

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Birch 203

This presentation will share valuable information for creating a clear, consistent protocol for collecting and analyzing diagnostic and formative literacy assessment. Participants will learn effective models for collaborative conversations and effective "data days" to assure that educators are reviewing and USING the data they collect in meaningful ways.

Speakers

Jeri Powers

Teacher Leader Consultant Dyslexia/Early Literacy Team, KSDE

Jeri Powers is a Teacher Leader Consultant with the Kansas Department of Education's Dyslexia/Early Literacy Team. For over 30 years, she has been dedicated to supporting students facing literacy challenges, working as a classroom teacher, Reading Specialist, and District Literacy... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Birch 203

Structured Literacy

3:55pm CDT

KEDS – Updates and Expectations for 2026-2027 School Year

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Cypress B 209

KEDS is coming and KIDS is set to be retired during the 2026-2027 school year. This transition will bring about a change in business processes for both districts and the state. In this session we will discuss the current status of the KEDS system and expectations for districts in the coming school year. We will cover key topics, including: Timelines, Trainings, Resources, Dashboards and allow time for Q&A.

Speakers

Julie Cook

Information Technology, Kansas State Department of Education

Christopher Fletcher

Information Systems Manager, Kansas State Department of Education

Christopher Fletcher serves as an Information Systems Manager for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). Prior to joining KSDE, he held the role of Technology Director in both Kansas and Nebraska schools. With over 20 years of experience, Christopher has dedicated his career... Read More →

Jennifer Shaffer

Assistant Director, KSDE

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Cypress B 209

Technology

3:55pm CDT

Stronger Systems, Improved Results: District–School Collaboration in Title I

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT

Redbud C 210

Effective school improvement requires strong collaboration between district and school leadership. The session will focus on creating coherence across plans and the supports to improve student outcomes in Title I schools.

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