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Monday, July 28
 

8:00am CDT

Registration Open
Monday July 28, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Meeting Planner Office
Registration
Monday July 28, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Meeting Planner Office
  General Session

9:30am CDT

General Session #1 School Improvement Resources and Results (Coherence of work)
Monday July 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
What to expect from the conference.  We will be sharing collaborative structures to build coherence for your school systems. This will include an overview of building coherence in school systems and why that is critical for school improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Pat Bone

Pat Bone

Sr. Administrative Specialist, Conference Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
Great Ideas In Education Conference Coordinator for KSDE. I work with the Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Dr. Ben Proctor.
BP

Ben Proctor

Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Kansas State Department of Education
SC
BF

Beth Fultz

Director, KSDE
BM
AP
JS
Monday July 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  General Session

10:00am CDT

Vendor Area Open
Monday July 28, 2025 10:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
Vendors will be open all day beginning at 10:00 AM. Feel free to visit them anytime.
Monday July 28, 2025 10:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors

10:30am CDT

Setting the Standard for Your Balanced Assessment System
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Redbud B
What does a balanced assessment system look like in your district? Join the assessment team as we explore, engage, and discuss how to raise the standard of using assessments and data in your district to position students and district for success.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Redbud B
  Balanced Assessment System

10:30am CDT

Federal identification of schools for support
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Maple
TBA
Speakers
JJ
TS
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Maple
  Federal School Identifications

10:30am CDT

Implementing Instructional Materials Effectively
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cypress A
Instructional materials will only have the desired impact on students' experiences and outcomes when paired with ongoing support for thoughtful implementation. In this session, participants will explore KSDE's Instructional Materials Implementation Guidance and reflect on the conditions that enable teachers to implement high-quality materials as intended. Participants will also hear from districts who participated in KSDE's inaugural Materials Implementation Network this spring about their takeaways from the learning experience.
Speakers
CS
avatar for Cory Epler

Cory Epler

Partner, TNTP
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cypress A
  High Quality Instruction

10:30am CDT

“Boosting Brilliance: How Administrators Can Support Quality Instruction in Early Childhood Classrooms.”
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Oak
Learn how administrators can effectively support quality instruction in early childhood and early elementary classrooms. This session will cover: Quality Observation tools, What play-based learning looks like and why it is important, strategies to ensure play based learning is intentionally aligned to standards, Things to look for and encourage in quality classroom environments, and KSDE resources.
Speakers
NM
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Oak
  High Quality Instruction

10:30am CDT

Building Better Schools: A Simulation of KESA Implementation Standards in Action
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Osage
What does quality school improvement implementation look like in practice? In this interactive session, participants will explore the KESA Implementation Standards and learn how to apply them to drive meaningful change. Through a hands-on simulation, attendees will engage in a mock School Improvement Day activity that allows them to apply the Implementation Standards. Whether you're a district administrator, school leader, or educator, this session will provide practical tools and insights to strengthen your improvement planning and drive sustained student success.

Takeaways:
  • Understand the KESA Implementation Standards and their practical application
  • Apply the Implementation Standards in a simulated setting to build insight into how they will be utilized
  • Build knowledge of current resources and supports available to systems

Speakers
JS
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Osage
  KESA Supports

10:30am CDT

Improving School Climate and Mental Health (Mandated Reporting: 2025 Updated DCF Language and impact for schools)
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Walnut
Join us for a session updating schools on a variety of topics.
Mandated Reporting: 2025 Updated DCF Language and impact for schools
Speakers
avatar for Trish Backman

Trish Backman

School Mental Health Coordinator, KSDE
School mental health
KR
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Walnut
  School Mental Health

10:30am CDT

Navigating a VUCA World (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity)
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Birch
How do educators perform at high levels while living in a world that is wildly unpredictable? In today’s rapidly changing world, leaders are faced with unprecedented challenges as they strive to prepare students for an uncertain future. The VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) environment has reshaped how educators think about teaching, learning, and leadership in schools. In this interactive session, participants will engage in a practical tool for addressing complex challenges while rethinking traditional approaches to problem-solving.  
Speakers
CB

Carol Brooks Simoneau

Co-Director, Thinking Collaborative
Carol Brooks Simoneau, EdD, graduated from the University of Nebraska with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in elementary education. She earned a Master of Science Degree with a Reading Specialist endorsement and an Educational Administration and Leadership endorsement from Kansas State... Read More →
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Birch
  Staff Supports

10:30am CDT

Leveraging the Math and Science Toolkits: Your GPS to Mastering Standards Alignment
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
RedBud A
Join us in this interactive professional learning session where we’ll dive into the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) Math and Science Standards Alignment Toolkits. We will discuss the Standards Alignment process in addition to the toolkit's features, resources, and how it can support your lesson planning and standards alignment. Note: Please bring a device (laptop or tablet) to this session.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Hamlet

Jennifer Hamlet

Assistant Director, KSDE
With 28 years of experience in education, Mrs. Hamlet holds a BS in 7-12 Math Education, a MS in Building Leadership, and a District Leadership endorsement. She has served as a MS/HS math teacher and a Pre-K–8th building principal. Currently, Mrs. Hamlet is the STEM Math Program... Read More →
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
RedBud A
  Standards Alignment

10:30am CDT

Navigating the ELA and HGSS Toolkits: This session will neither excite nor bore you.
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cypress B
Let the Humanities Team be your guide for an engaging journey through the critical components of the ELA and HGSS Toolkits. This dive into the toolkits will also include a valuable discussion covering effective examples of HGSS and ELA integration at the elementary level.
Speakers
NM
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cypress B
  Standards Alignment

10:30am CDT

Literacy Leadership Unlocked: Terms, Tools and Transformational Shifts
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Redbud C
Calling all school leaders! This session is your key to unlocking stronger instructional leadership in literacy. We’ll dive into a walkthrough tool designed for building alignment and clarity, review Structured Literacy through concrete classroom examples, and establish a shared understanding of essential literacy terms and expectations. Learn how to guide your team through instructional shifts with confidence. Whether you’re new to Structured Literacy or looking to deepen your implementation, this session offers the tools and vision to move forward—strategically and collaboratively.
Speakers
DL
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Redbud C
  Structured Literacy

10:30am CDT

"The Sunflower State Shield: Cybersecurity for Education"
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cedar
With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats targeting schools, it’s critical to understand the steps needed to safeguard sensitive information and maintain trust within your educational community. While this falls mainly on the shoulders of the technology team or staff, it is important for teachers and administrators to understand what they can do to help and make sure students are utilizing technology properly and protecting their security and privacy.
Speakers
avatar for Ryan Kurtenbach

Ryan Kurtenbach

IT Director
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Cedar
  Technology

10:30am CDT

Protecting your Data Assets – How to Ensure your Data is Secure, Private, Accurate, Available, and Usable
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
In this session we will discuss best practices in data management from data collection through data reporting. KSDE IT staff will cover policies, processes, and strategies to help keep your data safe while also allowing it to be used for the purpose it was collected for…improving student outcomes. Whether a district is large with established procedures or small with limited staff, data governance ensures well-defined roles and responsibilities (such as data owners and stewards), standardized protocols for data collection and management, a commitment to maintaining data quality, and careful attention to student privacy are all in place. This session will include a guided self-evaluation of your district’s data environment (Systems, Knowledge, Practices, and Leadership) that can be used by a DLT to diagnose areas of strength and areas for improvement.
Speakers
KL

Kyle Lord

IT Assistant Director, KSDE IT
KSDE Information Technology Department
Monday July 28, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Technology

12:00pm CDT

Lunch and Vendors
Monday July 28, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
Lunch
Monday July 28, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors

1:40pm CDT

IPS Supports
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Birch
IPS Scope and Sequence combines real-world experiences with online goal setting, blending reflection with practical skills. Students with clear goals have improved graduation rates and postsecondary success, skill development that aligns with Kansas industry and increased employability skill demonstration.
Speakers
NC

Natalie Clark

Director, KSDE
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Birch
  CTE/IPS Supports

1:40pm CDT

Anchoring in a Vision for Quality Instruction
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cypress A
Quality Instruction refers to the implementation of evidence-based lesson design that reflects high expectations, meaningful student engagement, and learning activities aligned to Kansas standards. In this session, participants will explore KSDE's Vision for Quality Instruction and practice using an aligned observation tool to identify instructional strengths and growth areas.
Speakers
avatar for Cory Epler

Cory Epler

Partner, TNTP
CS
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cypress A
  High Quality Instruction

1:40pm CDT

Family Partnerships: Supporting Quality Instruction in Early Childhood
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Oak
Dig in to how districts can use family partnerships to support quality instruction in their early childhood programming.  Participants will explore the following: • Use the Ages & Stages Questionnaires (the ASQ) as an impactful way to support school readiness and build relationships. Learn strategies to improve participation rates with families and meaningfully use this data. Learn strategies to improve participation rates with families and meaningfully use this data. Support families in preparing for the beginning of the school year. Use tools to assess and improve their strategies for partnering with families (for example, the Kansas Family Engagement and Partnership Standards for Early Childhood, the PTA National Standards for Family-School Partnerships, the Family Engagement Survey, and the Family Friendly School Culture Review.
Speakers
SC

Stacy Clarke

Education Coordinator, Kansas State Dept. of Education
NM
AP
TR
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Oak
  High Quality Instruction

1:40pm CDT

Multiplying Success:  Strategies for Quality Math Instruction 
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
RedBud A
Discover strategies to elevate math instruction and enhance student understanding. This session will focus on best practices for delivering high-quality math lessons that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and conceptual understanding. Walk away with practical tools and insights to make math instruction more engaging, meaningful, and impactful.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Hamlet

Jennifer Hamlet

Assistant Director, KSDE
With 28 years of experience in education, Mrs. Hamlet holds a BS in 7-12 Math Education, a MS in Building Leadership, and a District Leadership endorsement. She has served as a MS/HS math teacher and a Pre-K–8th building principal. Currently, Mrs. Hamlet is the STEM Math Program... Read More →
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
RedBud A
  High Quality Instruction

1:40pm CDT

Science in Focus: Using the KSDE Vision for Quality Instruction in Science to Guide Instructional Leadership
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cedar
What does high-quality science instruction look like in Kansas classrooms? This session invites school and district leaders to explore the Kansas State Department of Education’s Vision for Quality Science Instruction and its key components: sensemaking, phenomena-based learning, three-dimensional instruction, discourse and collaboration, and local and cultural relevance. Participants will explore how these elements align with the Kansas Science Standards and gain practical insight to support access for all students to high-quality science instruction.
Speakers
SO

Stephanie 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 →
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cedar
  High Quality Instruction

1:40pm CDT

Addressing Bullying Prevention
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cypress B
Bullying prevention: Evidence Based practices that meet compliance
Speakers
avatar for Trish Backman

Trish Backman

School Mental Health Coordinator, KSDE
School mental health
KR
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Cypress B
  School Mental Health

1:40pm CDT

Social Studies Quality Classroom Instruction
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Redbud B
What does "Quality Instruction" look like in the Social Studies Classroom? Join the HGSS Teacher Leader team as we explore, engage, and discuss instructional strategies designed to position your students and district for success.
Speakers
NM
RS
AT
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Redbud B
  Standards Alignment

1:40pm CDT

Strengthen and Support the Four KSDE Fundamentals through Visual Learning
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Maple
This session will introduce ways for addressing the four KSDE fundamental through a visual lens. Become familiar with the practice of visual learning by engaging in art practices that address the fundamentals of structured literacy, standards alignment, balanced assessment, and high-quality learning. Engage in self-directed inquiry through the generation and evaluation of ideas. Investigate the pedagogical benefits of effective arts inclusion across content areas while addressing deeper learning opportunities, fostering curiosity, and exploring ways for increasing student engagement.
Speakers
JH
Monday July 28, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm CDT
Maple
  Standards Alignment

2:45pm CDT

Break/Visit Vendors
Monday July 28, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT
Expo Hall
Monday July 28, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors

3:10pm CDT

Setting the Standard for Your Balanced Assessment System (Repeat)
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud B
What does a balanced assessment system look like in your district? Join the assessment team as we explore, engage, and discuss how to raise the standard of using assessments and data in your district to position students and district for success.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Ewing

Julie Ewing

Assistant Director, Kansas State Department of Education
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud B
  Balanced Assessment System

3:10pm CDT

Modernized CTE Framework: Enhancing Student Career Readiness Through Real-World Application of Reading, Math and Science - Natalie Clark and CTE Team
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Birch
Real-world application of reading, math and science strengthens academic skills through practical use. CTE engages students by connecting learning to career interests through project-based learning, technology integration and collaborative problem-solving. Real-world application increases relevance and retention, preparing students for career readiness and postsecondary success
Speakers
NC

Natalie Clark

Director, KSDE
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Birch
  CTE/IPS Supports

3:10pm CDT

Federal identification of schools for support - Twyla and Joe (Repeat)
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Maple
TBA
Speakers
JJ
TS
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Maple
  Federal School Identifications

3:10pm CDT

Implementing Instructional Materials Effectively
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A
Instructional materials will only have the desired impact on students' experiences and outcomes when paired with ongoing support for thoughtful implementation. In this session, participants will explore KSDE's Instructional Materials Implementation Guidance and reflect on the conditions that enable teachers to implement high-quality materials as intended. Participants will also hear from districts who participated in KSDE's inaugural Materials Implementation Network this spring about their takeaways from the learning experience.
Speakers
CS
avatar for Cory Epler

Cory Epler

Partner, TNTP
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A
  High Quality Instruction

3:10pm CDT

“Boosting Brilliance: How Administrators Can Support Quality Instruction in Early Childhood Classrooms.”
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Oak
Learn how administrators can effectively support quality instruction in early childhood and early elementary classrooms. This session will cover: Quality Observation tools, What play-based learning looks like and why it is important, strategies to ensure play based learning is intentionally aligned to standards, Things to look for and encourage in quality classroom environments, and KSDE resources.
Speakers
NM
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Oak
  High Quality Instruction

3:10pm CDT

Building Better Schools: A Simulation of KESA Implementation Standards in Action (Repeat)
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Osage
What does quality school improvement implementation look like in practice? In this interactive session, participants will explore the KESA Implementation Standards and learn how to apply them to drive meaningful change. Through a hands-on simulation, attendees will engage in a mock School Improvement Day activity that allows them to apply the Implementation Standards. Whether you're a district administrator, school leader, or educator, this session will provide practical tools and insights to strengthen your improvement planning and drive sustained student success.

Takeaways:
  • Understand the KESA Implementation Standards and their practical application
  • Apply the Implementation Standards in a simulated setting to build insight into how they will be utilized
  • Build knowledge of current resources and supports available to systems

Speakers
JS
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Osage
  KESA Supports

3:10pm CDT

Improving School Climate and Mental Health Suicide Prevention:
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Walnut
Suicide Prevention: Evidence-Based practices that meet compliance
Speakers
avatar for Trish Backman

Trish Backman

School Mental Health Coordinator, KSDE
School mental health
KR
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Walnut
  School Mental Health

3:10pm CDT

Leveraging the Math and Science Toolkits: Your GPS to Mastering Standards Alignment ( REPEAT)
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
RedBud A
Join us in this interactive professional learning session where we’ll dive into the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) Math and Science Standards Alignment Toolkits. We will discuss the Standards Alignment process in addition to the toolkit's features, resources, and how it can support your lesson planning and standards alignment. Note: Please bring a device (laptop or tablet) to this session.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Hamlet

Jennifer Hamlet

Assistant Director, KSDE
With 28 years of experience in education, Mrs. Hamlet holds a BS in 7-12 Math Education, a MS in Building Leadership, and a District Leadership endorsement. She has served as a MS/HS math teacher and a Pre-K–8th building principal. Currently, Mrs. Hamlet is the STEM Math Program... Read More →
SO

Stephanie 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 →
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
RedBud A
  Standards Alignment

3:10pm CDT

Navigating the ELA and HGSS Toolkits: This session will neither excite nor bore you.
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress B
Let the Humanities Team be your guide for an engaging journey through the critical components of the ELA and HGSS Toolkits. This dive into the toolkits will also include a valuable discussion covering effective examples of HGSS and ELA integration at the elementary level.
Speakers
NM
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress B
  Standards Alignment

3:10pm CDT

Hidden Struggles-Dyslexia and DLD: Distinctions, Overlaps, and Implications for School System
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C
This presentation will provide participants with specific information about supporting students who may struggle with word recognition, language comprehension, or both! Come and take an in-depth dive related to identification and effective supports for students who struggle with dyslexia and/ or developmental language disorder. Information will be provided related to valuable resources, assessments and KSDE supports that teachers and administrators can use to help meet the needs of all students.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Brunner
DL
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C
  Structured Literacy

3:10pm CDT

"From Tech to Trust: Safeguarding AI in Education"
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cedar
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education, offering innovative tools to enhance teaching and learning. However, its adoption comes with challenges, including privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and the need for responsible implementation. This presentation is designed for K-12 teachers and administrators to explore how AI can be securely and effectively integrated into the classroom while establishing policies that support this initiative.
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cedar
  Technology

3:10pm CDT

Protecting your Data Assets – How to Ensure your Data is Secure, Private, Accurate, Available, and Usable (repeat)
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
In this session we will discuss best practices in data management from data collection through data reporting. KSDE IT staff will cover policies, processes, and strategies to help keep your data safe while also allowing it to be used for the purpose it was collected for…improving student outcomes. Whether a district is large with established procedures or small with limited staff, data governance ensures well-defined roles and responsibilities (such as data owners and stewards), standardized protocols for data collection and management, a commitment to maintaining data quality, and careful attention to student privacy are all in place. This session will include a guided self-evaluation of your district’s data environment (Systems, Knowledge, Practices, and Leadership) that can be used by a DLT to diagnose areas of strength and areas for improvement.
Speakers
KL

Kyle Lord

IT Assistant Director, KSDE IT
KSDE Information Technology Department
Monday July 28, 2025 3:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Technology

4:30pm CDT

Vendor Fair/DLT meetings
Monday July 28, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
Come visit the vendors and have a bite to eat with your district team
Monday July 28, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors
 
Tuesday, July 29
 

7:00am CDT

Registration/Breakfast/Announcements
Tuesday July 29, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom and Lobby
Speakers
BP

Ben Proctor

Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Kansas State Department of Education
avatar for Pat Bone

Pat Bone

Sr. Administrative Specialist, Conference Coordinator, Kansas State Department of Education
Great Ideas In Education Conference Coordinator for KSDE. I work with the Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Dr. Ben Proctor.
RN
Tuesday July 29, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom and Lobby
  General Session

8:30am CDT

Vendors Open
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors

8:45am CDT

Collaboration Room
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 9:00am CDT
Birch
Need to collaborate with a team mate or colleague from another district.  This space is available to you.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 9:00am CDT
Birch
  Collaboration

8:45am CDT

DLT - Balanced Assessment - USD 216 Deerfield ?
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Cedar
DLT discussions
Speakers
U2
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Cedar
  Balanced Assessment System

8:45am CDT

"Building Pathways to Success: A Guide to Special Education and Title Services Compliance
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Maple
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Maple
  Compliance

8:45am CDT

At-Risk Spending for Positive Outcomes
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Redbud B
Review of best practices concerning At-Risk transfers, funding, expenditures, and the evidence-based practices list.
Speakers
DB
FH
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Redbud B
  Finance

8:45am CDT

DLT - Structured Literacy/Resource Allocation and Professional Learning.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
DLT discussions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Finance

8:45am CDT

DLT - Balanced Assessment - USD 265 Goddard
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Oak
DLT discussions
Speakers
U2
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Oak
  High Quality Instruction

8:45am CDT

Breaking Through Resistance:For School/District Leaders:
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Walnut
This session provides school leaders with a clear, actionable framework for understanding and responding to staff resistance. You’ll learn how to diagnose what’s underneath the pushback—not just what it looks like on the surface—and use targeted strategies that align with each form of resistance. Whether you’re facing skepticism, burnout, or passive disengagement, you’ll leave with specific, practical tools to respond in ways that build trust, momentum, and meaningful buy-in. You’ll also explore how to support teachers at every level of willingness to change, using a differentiated leadership approach that strengthens professional growth and improves outcomes for both educators and students.
Speakers
avatar for Becca Silver

Becca Silver

CEO and Founder, The Whole Educator
Becca Silver is an energetic and passionate coach of instructional leaders and coaches. As the founder and CEO of The Whole Educator and host of the Coaching the Whole Educator podcast, she leverages her experience as a teacher, instructional coach, life coach and leadership coach... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Walnut
  Staff Supports

8:45am CDT

DLT -Standards Alignment and Collaboration. - USD 114 Riverside
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Cypress B
DLT discussions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 10:00am CDT
Cypress B
  Standards Alignment

8:45am CDT

KESA Facilitator Training
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C
TBA
Speakers
JS
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
Redbud C
  KESA Supports

8:45am CDT

Safe and Secure Schools Summitt
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
RedBud A
Threat Assessments, Pathways to Vchool violence, School Safety technology and procedure updates, Relationship Building and Narcan Certification.
Speakers
JC
BT
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
RedBud A
  Safe and Secure Schools

8:45am CDT

Literacy Summit: Champions for Change: Strong Literacy Leadership in Kansas
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A
This day-long session is designed to provide strong professional learning for our KSDE Literacy Leadership Cadre, moving beyond LETRS by incorporating additional literacy research on both teaching and assessment. In addition, participants will be engaging in an afternoon session with Becca Silver, CEO and founder of the Whole Educator, as she provides instructional coaches a practical approach to breaking through teacher resistance.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:45am - 4:30pm CDT
Cypress A
  Structured Literacy

10:00am CDT

Break/Visit Vendors
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
Expo Hall
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am CDT
Expo Hall
  Break

10:20am CDT

DLT - Balanced Assessment - USD 475 Geary County
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Oak
DLT discussions
Speakers
U4
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Oak
  Balanced Assessment System

10:20am CDT

"Building Pathways to Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Licensure, IPS/CTE, Graduation Requirements, and Post-Secondary Outcomes"
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Birch
Real-world application of reading, math and science strengthens academic skills through practical use. CTE engages students by connecting learning to career interests through project-based learning, technology integration and collaborative problem-solving. Real-world application increases relevance and retention, preparing students for career readiness and postsecondary success
Speakers
SC
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Birch
  CTE/IPS Supports

10:20am CDT

At-Risk Accountability Plan
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Redbud B
Review the At-risk Accountability Pilot program’s current status and what to expect for statewide implementation in 2026-2027 school year.
Speakers
DB
FH
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Redbud B
  Finance

10:20am CDT

DLT - Quality Instruction/Professional Learning - USD 430 South Brown County
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Cypress B
DLT discussions
Speakers
U4
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Cypress B
  High Quality Instruction

10:20am CDT

Breaking Through Resistance:For School/District Leaders:
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Walnut
This session provides school leaders with a clear, actionable framework for understanding and responding to staff resistance. You’ll learn how to diagnose what’s underneath the pushback—not just what it looks like on the surface—and use targeted strategies that align with each form of resistance. Whether you’re facing skepticism, burnout, or passive disengagement, you’ll leave with specific, practical tools to respond in ways that build trust, momentum, and meaningful buy-in. You’ll also explore how to support teachers at every level of willingness to change, using a differentiated leadership approach that strengthens professional growth and improves outcomes for both educators and students.
Speakers
avatar for Becca Silver

Becca Silver

CEO and Founder, The Whole Educator
Becca Silver is an energetic and passionate coach of instructional leaders and coaches. As the founder and CEO of The Whole Educator and host of the Coaching the Whole Educator podcast, she leverages her experience as a teacher, instructional coach, life coach and leadership coach... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Walnut
  Staff Supports

10:20am CDT

DLT - Standards Alignment/Professional Collaboration.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
DLT discussions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Standards Alignment

10:20am CDT

DLT - Structured Literacy -
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Cedar
DLT Discussions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Cedar
  Structured Literacy

10:20am CDT

Hidden Struggles-Dyslexia and DLD: Distinctions, Overlaps, and Implications for School System
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Osage
This presentation will provide participants with specific information about supporting students who may struggle with word recognition, language comprehension, or both! Come and take an in-depth dive related to identification and effective supports for students who struggle with dyslexia and/ or developmental language disorder. Information will be provided related to valuable resources, assessments and KSDE supports that teachers and administrators can use to help meet the needs of all students.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Brunner
DL
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:20am - 11:50am CDT
Osage
  Structured Literacy

12:00pm CDT

Lunch/Vendors
Tuesday July 29, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
Tuesday July 29, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Expo Hall
  Vendors

1:30pm CDT

DLT - Balanced Assessment and leading from the middle
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Cedar
DLT discussions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Cedar
  Balanced Assessment System

1:30pm CDT

Collaboration Room
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Walnut
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Walnut
  Collaboration

1:30pm CDT

Collaboration Room
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Osage
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Osage
  Collaboration

1:30pm CDT

"Building Pathways to Success: A Guide to Special Education and Title Services Compliance
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Maple
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Maple
  Compliance

1:30pm CDT

Individual Plan of Study (IPS): Middle and High School Career and Academic Plans Lead to Increased Academic Achievement and Improved Career Readiness
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Birch
IPS Scope and Sequence combines real-world experiences with online goal setting, blending reflection with practical skills. Students with clear goals have improved graduation rates and postsecondary success, skill development that aligns with Kansas industry and increased employability skill demonstration.
Speakers
NC

Natalie Clark

Director, KSDE
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Birch
  CTE/IPS Supports

1:30pm CDT

Special Education Funding
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Redbud B
Review Special Education formula, budgeting, categorical aid calculation and other items concerning Special Education.
Speakers
DB
FH
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Redbud B
  Finance

1:30pm CDT

DLT - System Wide Quality Instruction - USD 259 Wichita
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Eagle
DLT discussions
Speakers
U2
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Eagle
  High Quality Instruction

1:30pm CDT

DLT - Effective PLCs - USD 373 Newton
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Oak
DLT discussions
Speakers
U3
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Oak
  PLC's

1:30pm CDT

DLT -  Standards Alignment and Collaboration.- USD 251 North Lyon County
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Cypress B
DLT discussions
Speakers
U2
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Cypress B
  Standards Alignment

3:00pm CDT

Break
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Promenade
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Promenade
  Break

3:15pm CDT

Special Education Q & A
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Maple
Come and ask your questions
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Maple

3:15pm CDT

Collaboration Room
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Walnut
Need to collaborate with a team mate or colleague from another district.  This space is available to you.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Walnut
  Collaboration

3:15pm CDT

Collaboration Room
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Osage
Need to collaborate with a team mate or colleague from another district.  This space is available to you.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Osage
  Collaboration

3:15pm CDT

"Building Pathways to Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Licensure, IPS/CTE, Graduation Requirements, and Post-Secondary Outcomes" (Repeat)
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Birch
Real-world application of reading, math and science strengthens academic skills through practical use. CTE engages students by connecting learning to career interests through project-based learning, technology integration and collaborative problem-solving. Real-world application increases relevance and retention, preparing students for career readiness and postsecondary success
Speakers
SC
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Birch
  CTE/IPS Supports

3:15pm CDT

School Finance Q & A
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Redbud B
School Finance will be available for questions concerning legislative matters, budgeting, At-risk, and other school finance matters. We can do this for as many sessions as we need to or if you need to combine with another team as well.
Speakers
DB
FH
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Redbud B
  Finance

3:15pm CDT

English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Oak
TBA
Speakers
avatar for Emily Scott

Emily Scott

ESOL/Title III Program Consultant, Kansas Department of Education
Provides leadership and management for the Title III and Kansas ESOL ProgramsProvides technical assistance and/or professional development to Kansas school and district personnel
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Oak
  High Quality Instruction

3:15pm CDT

General Session - Panel Discussion on Measures of Progress
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
An explaination of how KSDE evaluates Measures of Progress and a Panel discussion with KSDE staff.
Speakers
MM

Myron Melton

Kansas State Department of Education
JJ

JEAN J RUSH

Regional Executive, KSDE
MB

Mindy Bruce

Regional Executive, KSDE
BP

Ben Proctor

Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services, Kansas State Department of Education
JS
HS
AM

Amber Miller

Regional Executive, KSDE
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Measures of Progress

3:15pm CDT

"From Tech to Trust: Safeguarding AI in Education"
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Cypress B
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education, offering innovative tools to enhance teaching and learning. However, its adoption comes with challenges, including privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and the need for responsible implementation. This presentation is designed for K-12 teachers and administrators to explore how AI can be securely and effectively integrated into the classroom while establishing policies that support this initiative.
Speakers
avatar for Ryan Kurtenbach

Ryan Kurtenbach

IT Director
Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Cypress B
  Technology

4:30pm CDT

KSSA Meeting
Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Meeting
 
Wednesday, July 30
 

7:00am CDT

Breakfast
Wednesday July 30, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
Wednesday July 30, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  Breakfast

8:00am CDT

General Session
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
Speakers
avatar for Jane Groff

Jane Groff

Ex. Director of Kansas Parent Information Resource Center, KSDE/TASN
Dr. Jane Groff has served as the Director of the Kansas Parent Information Resource Center (KPIRC) for seventeen years. While supervising all KPIRC priorities, Dr. Groff provides professional development and technical assistance on family engagement in education to Kansas districts... Read More →
RW

Randy Watson

Commissioner, Kansas State Department of Education
Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  General Session

9:30am CDT

1A - 2A District DLT Discussion
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
RedBud A
Discussions on Back to School/Community Conversations
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
RedBud A
  DLT Discussions

9:30am CDT

3A-4A District DLT Discussion
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud C
Discussions on Back to School/Community Conversations
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud C
  DLT Discussions

9:30am CDT

3A-4A District DLT Discussion
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud B
Discussions on Back to School/Community Conversations
Speakers
avatar for Trish Backman

Trish Backman

School Mental Health Coordinator, KSDE
School mental health
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Redbud B
  DLT Discussions

9:30am CDT

5A-6A District DLT Discussion
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress A
Discussions on Back to School/Community Conversations
Speakers
AM

Amber Miller

Regional Executive, KSDE
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress A
  DLT Discussions

9:30am CDT

Family and Community Engagement Conversations
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress B
Discussions on Back to School/Community Conversations
Speakers
avatar for Jane Groff

Jane Groff

Ex. Director of Kansas Parent Information Resource Center, KSDE/TASN
Dr. Jane Groff has served as the Director of the Kansas Parent Information Resource Center (KPIRC) for seventeen years. While supervising all KPIRC priorities, Dr. Groff provides professional development and technical assistance on family engagement in education to Kansas districts... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Cypress B
  DLT Discussions

10:30am CDT

Break
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom Foyer
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom Foyer
  Break

10:45am CDT

General Session
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
Hear from Jane Groff on Community Engagement, Jay Scott on KESA 2025-26, and Don Epps on The power of prioritizing JOY in your school.
Speakers
JS
avatar for Don Epps

Don Epps

Superintendent, USD 344 Pleasanton Schools
An educator for the last 23 years, Don Epps, has served as a classroom teacher, coach, high / middle school principal and currently a superintendent. The #ChasingGreatness Superintendent has been featured in national publications and podcasts for stories of school culture transformation... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Grand Eagle Ballroom
  General Session
 
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