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2026 Great Ideas in Education Conference has ended
Monday, July 27
 

7:00am CDT

Registration
Monday July 27, 2026 7:00am - 9:00am CDT
Eagle Ballroom
Registration area open.
Monday July 27, 2026 7:00am - 9:00am CDT
Eagle Ballroom

8:00am CDT

Continental Breakfast/Coffee
Monday July 27, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Expo Hall
Light breakfast and coffee available
Monday July 27, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Expo Hall

9:00am CDT

At-Risk and IT support 9 am to 4:30 pm
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm 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.Districts are encouraged (not required) to sign up for different topic...
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Speakers
DF
At Risk Accountability Plan Presentation 2026 KSDE Conference pdf
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom

9:00am CDT

Mental Health Coalition Day 9 am - 4:30 pm
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A 209
School Mental Health Professionals will participate in a curriculum and resource alignment activity, explore their district's SHAPE (School Mental Health Assessment) and alignment with the four fundamentals, and hear from a panel of experts who work in the field of human trafficking.
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress A 209, Mental Health

9:00am CDT

Literacy Summit 9 am - 4:30 pm
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud A & B 210
The morning session is co-presented by Dr. Dale Webster and Maya Valencia-Goodall and the title will be:Supporting Multilingual Learners through Structured LiteracyThe first afternoon session will be presented by Dr. Trina Spencer. The title will be:Unraveling the Myths, Mysteries, and Mechanics of Language: Implications for Literacy Screening and Progress MonitoringThe last half of the afternoon...
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Speakers
avatar for Laurie Curtis

Laurie Curtis

Assistant Director: Literacy, Kansas Department of Education
avatar for Trina Spencer

Trina Spencer

Reading Scientist, Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas
Dr. Spencer is a senior scientist and director of the Juniper Gardens Children’s Project and is a professor in the Department of Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas. Drawing from learning sciences and multiple disciplines (e.g., behavior analysis, speech-language... Read More →
avatar for Dr Dale Webster

Dr Dale Webster

President, CORE Learning

Spencer, KSDE Language & Justice for All pdf
D.WebsterMGoodallCORE July2026 PDF pdf
2026 Kansas Literacy Summit (Final) pdf
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud A & B 210
  Redbud A & B 210

9:00am CDT

Safe and Secure Schools 9 am - 4:30 pm
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C 210
Title: Pretty vs. Prison: A discussion about building aesthetics verses safety.
Title: Rethinking Crisis Drills House Bill 2534
Title: Crisis Intervention and Active Listening in Schools
Title: Purchasing New Safe and Secure School Vehicles in the State of Kansas
Speakers
DK
JC

John Calvert

Head School Safety Specialist, KSDE

SB
Monday July 27, 2026 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C 210
  Redbud C 210

10:30am CDT

AM Break
Monday July 27, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT

Monday July 27, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT

12:15pm CDT

Lunch
Monday July 27, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Expo Hall

Monday July 27, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Expo Hall

2:45pm CDT

Break
Monday July 27, 2026 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT

Monday July 27, 2026 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT
 
Tuesday, July 28
 

7:00am CDT

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

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

8:00am CDT

General Session
Tuesday July 28, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CDT
Eagle Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Mitch Holthaus, Keynote Speaker

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
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom

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...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Mary Lonker

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 →
Writing Standard Alignment pdf
ELA Writing Standard 10 pdf
ELA Writing Standard 11 pdf
Writing Standard 1 K 12 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Birch 203
  Birch 203

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Natalie McClane

Natalie McClane

Preschool Programs Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
Balanced Assessments Presentation pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cedar 204
  Cedar 204

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...
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Speakers
SB

Steve Backman

Consultant, Kansas State Department of Education
BD

Brian Dempsey

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress A 209

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...
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Speakers
MC

Matt Copeland

University of Kansas

avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress B 209
  Cypress B 209

9:30am CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Eagle Ballroom
This session is designed to provide district and school leaders with an overview of the At-Risk Accountability Plans that are due Fall 2026.https://outlook.office.com/book/[email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabledAccess to the authenticated application for at-risk plans will be granted at the KSDE Great Ideas in Education Conference during the at-risk...
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Speakers
DF
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom

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...
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Speakers
JW
avatar for Stephen King

Stephen King

Education Program Consultant, KSDE

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

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...
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Speakers
MC
KO
7 Norms Dignity Prompts pdf
GEI Collaborative Inquiry Cycle (1) pdf
Dyslexia Resources and FAQ (1) pdf
GEI Problem Solving Script pdf
Tier 3 Recommendations (1) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Oak 206
  Oak 206

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

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...
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Speakers
AB
SW

Samantha Wright

HS math teacher, USD 219 - Minneola High School / KSDE Math FE
JK
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

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)...
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Speakers
MS

Megan Storey-Kupersmith

Asst. Supt./ Director of Curriculum, USD 367
NS
avatar for Jean Rush

Jean Rush

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

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Joel Gillaspie

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
  Redbud C 210

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Anthony Meals

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
  Walnut 208

9:30am CDT

An Opportunity to Speak to State Board of Education Members 9:30 am - Noon
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Boardroom
The state board members would like to hear your thoughts on technology in the classroom. This is an informal place to express your ideas directly to them.  

This is a come and go opportunity.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Boardroom

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

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
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...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Mary Lonker

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 →
Writing Standard 1 K 12 pdf
ELA Writing Standard 10 pdf
ELA Writing Standard 11 pdf
Writing Standard Alignment pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Birch 203
  Birch 203

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Natalie McClane

Natalie McClane

Preschool Programs Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
PK and K Guide pdf
PreK & K Guides Packet docx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Cedar 204
  Cedar 204

11:05am CDT

Start Smart Online: 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. In 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, students practice essential skills: protecting privacy, spotting phishing and...
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Speakers
KL

Kyle Lord

IT Assistant Director, KSDE IT

avatar for Christopher Fletcher

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

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Cypress B 209
  Cypress B 209

11:05am CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
This session is designed to provide district and school leaders with targeted technical assistance related to at-risk accountability.Districts are encouraged (not required) to sign up for different topic discussions.https://outlook.office.com/book/[email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabledAccess to the authenticated application for at-risk plans will be granted at...
See More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom

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...
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Speakers
JY
DH
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Maple 205
  Maple 205

11:05am CDT

High-Quality Instruction and Balanced Assessment: 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
TE
avatar for Adam Topliff

Adam Topliff

Humanities Program Manager - History, Government, and Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy,, Kansas State Department of Education
I currently serve as the Humanities Program Manager for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), supporting History, Government, Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy, and Financial Literacy education across Kansas. Prior to joining KSDE, I spent... Read More →
KSDE Great Ideas Conference HGSS, HQI and Balanced Assessment pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Oak 206
  Oak 206

11:05am CDT

Connecting Literacy Across Disciplines.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Osage 207
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...
See More →
Speakers
JH

Joyce Huser

Fine Arts Education Consultant - KSDE, KSDE
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Osage 207
  Osage 207

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

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
avatar for Amber Miller

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 →
MB

Mindy Bruce

Regional Executive, KSDE
avatar for Jay Scott

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education
avatar for Jean Rush

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE
KESA Basics Annual Conference 2026 pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:05am - 12:05pm CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

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

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
  Walnut 208

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

1:20pm CDT

West Region Collaboration
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Cypress A 209
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
avatar for Amber Miller

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 →
West Region Cohort Meetings Annual Conference 2026 (1) pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress A 209

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 210
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
avatar for Jay Scott

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education
Urban Suburban Private Special Purpose Cohorts Meetings Annual Conference 2026 pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

1:20pm CDT

East Region Collaboration
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud B 210
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
avatar for Jean Rush

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE
Copy of EAST Region Meetings Annual Conference 2026.pptx pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

1:20pm CDT

Central Region Collaboration
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud C 210
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
MB

Mindy Bruce

Regional Executive, KSDE
Central Region Cohort Meetings Annual Conference 2026 pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbud C 210
  Redbud C 210

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

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Lonker

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 →
Making Thinking Visible Teaching Claim Evidence Reasoning pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Birch 203
  Birch 203

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Pelfrey

Chelsea Pelfrey

Assessment Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education

avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Great Ideas 2026 Formative Assessment pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cedar 204
  Cedar 204

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

2:50pm CDT

Focused Walkthroughs, Collective Impact: Aligning Practice Across Schools
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cypress A 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...
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Speakers
avatar for Angela Dick

Angela Dick

School Improvement Specialist, Bishop PD Center

BW

Billie Wallace

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, USD 501 Topeka

avatar for Jay Scott

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education
PDF TPS Focused Walkthroughs, Collective Impact Aligning Practice Across Schools pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress B 209

2:50pm CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
This session is designed to provide district and school leaders with targeted technical assistance related to at-risk accountability.Districts are encouraged (not required) to sign up for different topic discussions.https://outlook.office.com/book/[email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabledAccess to the authenticated application for at-risk plans will be granted at...
See More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom

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
avatar for Natalie Clark

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
  Maple 205

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
TE
avatar for Adam Topliff

Adam Topliff

Humanities Program Manager - History, Government, and Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy,, Kansas State Department of Education
I currently serve as the Humanities Program Manager for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), supporting History, Government, Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy, and Financial Literacy education across Kansas. Prior to joining KSDE, I spent... Read More →
KSDE Great Ideas Conference HGSS, Structured Literacy and Standards Alignment pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Oak 206
  Oak 206

2:50pm CDT

Action Plan Alignment and Review Process - Connecting the Pieces
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Osage 207
Join members of the KSDE Action Plan Review Team to discuss the key components of the School Improvement Action Plans and learn how these components are evaluated. We will open the black box of the plan review process and lead systems through an exploration in alignment.  
Speakers
HS
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Osage 207
  Osage 207

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
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...
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Speakers
SW

Samantha Wright

HS math teacher, USD 219 - Minneola High School / KSDE Math FE
AB
JK
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

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...
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Speakers
HH
avatar for Laurie Curtis

Laurie Curtis

Assistant Director: Literacy, Kansas Department of Education
Handout Amazing Race KSDE Conference pdf
The Structures in Structured Literacy Final pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Joel Gillaspie

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
  Redbud C 210

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...
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Speakers
SA

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 →
From Vision to Reality pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Walnut 208
  Walnut 208

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
avatar for Jeri Powers

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 →
July 28 2026 KSDE Conference Assessments pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Birch 203
  Birch 203

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Emily Scott

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 →
2026 Great Ideas From Compliance to Capacity (7.28.2026) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Cedar 204
  Cedar 204

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

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...
See More →
Speakers
JC

Julie Cook

Information Technology, Kansas State Department of Education
avatar for Christopher Fletcher

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 →
JS

Jennifer Shaffer

Assistant Director, KSDE
Updates and Expectations for 2026 27 School Year (2) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Cypress B 209
  Cypress B 209

3:55pm CDT

At-Risk Accountability and Q & A
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
This session is designed to provide district and school leaders with targeted technical assistance related to at-risk accountability.Districts are encouraged (not required) to sign up for different topic discussions.https://outlook.office.com/book/[email protected]/?ismsaljsauthenabledAccess to the authenticated application for at-risk plans will be granted at...
See More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom

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...
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Speakers
JW
AH
JC
avatar for Stephen King

Stephen King

Education Program Consultant, KSDE

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

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

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...
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Speakers
JH

Joyce Huser

Fine Arts Education Consultant - KSDE, KSDE
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Osage 207
  Osage 207

3:55pm CDT

Moving Beyond Procedures: Strategies for Mathematical Thinking
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm 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
TF
CD
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

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...
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Speakers
CC
AG
PN
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

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.
Speakers
JJ

Joe Jewett

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
TS

Twyla Sprouse

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
RZ

Roxanne Zillinger

Coordinator, KSDE
Stronger Systems, Improved Results District School Collaboration in Title I pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Redbud C 210
  Redbud C 210

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...
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Speakers
SA

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 3:55pm - 4:55pm CDT
Walnut 208
  Walnut 208
 
Wednesday, July 29
 

7:00am CDT

Breakfast
Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Promenade Hallway

Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Promenade Hallway 400 W Waterman

8:00am CDT

Wondering about the through Year Assessment or the Innovative Assessment Demonstration Authority?
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Eagle Ballroom
Hear directly from KSDE leaders as they explain the what, why, and how behind this work, and what it means for educators and districts across Kansas.
Speakers
ZC

Zach Conrad

Deputy Commissioner, Accountability and Technology, Kansas State Department of Education

Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Eagle Ballroom

8:00am CDT

Stop Lowering the Text: Helping All Students Read Grade-Level Material
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Birch 203
When students struggle with reading, the common response is to give them easier texts. But what if the better solution is stronger support? This session explores how educators can maintain grade-level text complexity while providing the scaffolds and instructional structures students need to succeed. Participants will examine research-informed practices and practical strategies to ensure all...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Lonker

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 →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Birch 203
  Birch 203

8:00am CDT

Selecting High Quality Instructional Materials for Early Childhood
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cedar 204
The Kansas Department of Education (KSDE) believes that both the materials and the process used to select instructional materials matter. This session will help guide participants through selecting quality instructional materials for preschool programs based on current research.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McClane

Natalie McClane

Preschool Programs Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
Selecting HQIM pdf
KSDE IM Selection Guidance pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cedar 204
  Cedar 204

8:00am CDT

KEDS – Updates and Expectations for 2026-2027 School Year
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cypress A 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...
See More →
Speakers
JC

Julie Cook

Information Technology, Kansas State Department of Education
avatar for Christopher Fletcher

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 →
JS

Jennifer Shaffer

Assistant Director, KSDE
Updates and Expectations for 2026 27 School Year (2) pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress A 209

8:00am CDT

What Does “Proficient” Really Mean? Understanding Performance Levels
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cypress B 209
Teachers make countless instructional decisions every day — but those decisions are only as strong as the information behind them. This session brings clarity to what “proficient” truly means and shows how performance levels can become powerful tools for understanding student learning. We’ll explore how Depth of Knowledge (DOK) helps teachers design and evaluate learning experiences that...
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Speakers
LB
avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
PLD Session Handouts pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Cypress B 209
  Cypress B 209

8:00am CDT

Introducing the Computer Science Toolkit
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am 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...
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Speakers
JW
avatar for Stephen King

Stephen King

Education Program Consultant, KSDE

Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Maple 205
  Maple 205

8:00am CDT

Standards Alignment and Structured Literacy: How HGSS Strengthens the Four Fundamentals
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am 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
TE
avatar for Adam Topliff

Adam Topliff

Humanities Program Manager - History, Government, and Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy,, Kansas State Department of Education
I currently serve as the Humanities Program Manager for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), supporting History, Government, Social Studies, World Languages, Library and Information Literacy, and Financial Literacy education across Kansas. Prior to joining KSDE, I spent... Read More →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Oak 206
  Oak 206

8:00am CDT

Every Teacher Is a Language Teacher: Practical Strategies for Supporting Multilingual Learners in Any Classroom
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Osage 207
English learners (ELs) participate in classrooms across all grade levels and content areas, making every educator a key contributor to their success. This session introduces content-area teachers to foundational concepts in second language development and practical instructional strategies that support multilingual learners while maintaining grade-level rigor. Participants will explore ways to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Emily Scott

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 →
2026 Great Ideas Every Teacher Is a Language Teacher (7.29.2026) pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Osage 207
  Osage 207

8:00am CDT

Technical Math
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud A 210

Speakers
SW

Samantha Wright

HS math teacher, USD 219 - Minneola High School / KSDE Math FE
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

8:00am CDT

Individual Plan of Study (IPS) Electronic Portfolios for Measuring & Reflecting on Student Learning: Based on Research along with New Developed Resources
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud B 210
Connecting Individual Plan of Study (IPS) to student career development and the district process of implementation of an IPS for each student that includes utilizing a portable electronic portfolio.This session will focus on the Individual Plan of Study (IPS) Elements and how they are connected to the career development model in preparing students to make informed career decisions, set career...
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Speakers
avatar for Kevin Bronson

Kevin Bronson

Education Program Consultant and Individual Plan of Study Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
Former Kensington Kansas Goldbug and Fort Hays State University Graduate with a Bachelors Degree in Technology Studies and a Master Degree in Education Administration. An educator for 25 years in construction & design and SkillsUSA advisor. Currently serving as an education program... Read More →
avatar for Denise Lauber

Denise Lauber

Perkins Coordinator, KSDE
Denise Lauber is the Perkins Coordinator for the Kansas Department of Education supporting the administration of Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical (CTE) grants to Kansas School Districts.
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

8:00am CDT

Science of Reading -How to report your Seal of Literacy earners to the state
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud C 210
Districts are required to submit a Science of Reading training report within the Educator Data Collection System (EDCS) beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. Learn how to navigate this NEW feature in the Educator Data Collection System.
Speakers
LB
SE
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Redbud C 210
  Redbud C 210

9:10am CDT

Panel Discussion - Standards Alignment
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Cypress A 209
This panel discussion will feature a small group of school systems and their approach to implementing one of the Fundamentals. Each school system will share why they chose the Fundamental and Structure as well as how they are implementing followed by facilitated Q & A.

Districts on this panel:
USD 114 Riverside
USD 262 Valley Center
USD 450 Shawnee Heights
USD 473 Chapman
Speakers
MB

Mindy Bruce

Regional Executive, KSDE
Standards Alignment Panel Discussion Annual Conference 2026 pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Cypress A 209
  Cypress A 209

9:10am CDT

Panel Discussion - Balanced Assessment
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud A 210
This panel discussion will feature a small group of school systems and their approach to implementing one of the Fundamentals. Each school system will share why they chose the Fundamental and Structure as well as how they are implementing followed by facilitated Q & A.

Districts on this panel:
USD 258 Humboldt
USD 460 Hesston
USD 475 Geary County
Speakers
avatar for Jean Rush

Jean Rush

Regional Executive, KSDE
Copy of Balanced Assessment System Panel Discussion Annual Conference 2026.pptx pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud A 210
  Redbud A 210

9:10am CDT

Panel Discussion - Structured Literacy
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud B 210
This panel discussion will feature a small group of school systems and their approach to implementing one of the Fundamentals. Each school system will share why they chose the Fundamental and Structure as well as how they are implementing followed by facilitated Q & A.

Districts on this panel:
USD 266 Maize
USD 440 Halstead
USD 483 Kismet-Plains
Speakers
avatar for Amber Miller

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 →
Structured Literacy Panel Discussion Annual Conference 2026 (1) pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud B 210
  Redbud B 210

9:10am CDT

Panel Discussion - Quality Instruction
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud C 210
This panel discussion will feature a small group of school systems and their approach to implementing one of the Fundamentals. Each school system will share why they chose the Fundamental and Structure as well as how they are implementing followed by facilitated Q & A.

Districts on this panel:
USD 259 Wichita
USD 381 Spearville
USAD 393 Solomon
USD 430 South Brown County
Speakers
avatar for Jay Scott

Jay Scott

Director of Accreditation & Design, Kansas State Department of Education
Quality Instruction Panel Discussion Annual Conference 2026 pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:10am - 10:10am CDT
Redbud C 210
  Redbud C 210

10:15am CDT

Break
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am CDT
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am CDT

10:30am CDT

General Session
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
Message from the new KSDE Commissioner
Speakers
avatar for Renee Nugent

Renee Nugent

Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Kansas State Department of Education

avatar for Dr. Jake Steel

Dr. Jake Steel

Commissioner, Kansas State Department of Education

DF
ZC

Zach Conrad

Deputy Commissioner, Accountability and Technology, Kansas State Department of Education

2026 Keynote Presentation pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Eagle Ballroom
  Eagle Ballroom
 

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