2024 USA Conf Program

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome Letter 2
Conference Overview 3
Wednesday Sessions 5-6
Vendor Information 8-34
Thursday Sessions 37-83
Friday Sessions........................................ 85-86
USA-Kansas Info 87-88
WiFi Information 89
Venue Maps.............................................. 91-92
IN ACCORDANCE WITH KANSAS FIRE MARSHALL REGULATIONS, PLEASE
IDENTIFY TWO EMERGENCY EXITS. EXITS AND EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT
IN THE BUILDING HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR YOUR SAFETY.

Welcome to Wichita for the 53rd Annual
USA-Kansas Uniting Leaders Conference.
For the second year in a row, we have
over 800 administrators in attendance.
During the 2023-2024 school year, USA-
Kansas broke even more records with
attendance at our 100+ professional
learning events. The Elevate Leadership
program continues to grow and we are
beginning to see the positive results
in our schools with teacher retention,
increased assessment scores, and the
growth of professional connections
through our leadership networks. We
continued to grow our leadership content
with our KELI regional meetings, and we
expanded our support for leaders in the
area of school budgets.
Just like the teacher shortage,
administrators are in short supply and it’s
our responsibility to make sure we are
discovering and developing new leaders.
USA-Kansas, along with great partners
such as KELI, KASB, SWPRCS, Fort Hays
State, and K-State, continues to expand
opportunities for administrators not only
through professional development once
you receive your administrators license,
but also by supporting aspiring leaders.
We just completed our third year of the
Southwest Kansas Leadership Academy,
providing bi-monthly cohort training
and support to teachers considering
moving into a leadership role. And those
individuals are here for their final meeting,
so welcome to these emerging leaders!
for the 2024-2025 school year. USA-
Kansas will be partnering with KASEA
to introduce new training for principals
on how they can support local IEPs.
USA-KS, along with KSSA and KASB, will
also launch a joint organization called
Kansas Executive Development for
Superintendents, a brand-new training for
superintendents.
This brings me back to the excitement of
the conference. During this week, you will
have the opportunity to learn more about
the successful USA programs by sharing
and collaborating with participants
firsthand. You will have the chance to
explore over 90 breakout sessions on
Thursday, finding the information you
need and discovering possible solutions.
You will also uncover the opportunities
USA-Kansas has for you in the coming
years by reading about the successes
on the sign boards displayed around
the hotel and conference area. Plus,
this is an opportunity for you to reflect
and share with your colleagues and
peers while relaxing at one of the many
corporate celebrations scheduled at this
years “Empowered for Impact” themed
program.
G.A. Buie
Executive Director
USA-Kansas
You will hear much more over the next
three days regarding the additional
training opportunities we have scheduled
2
WORLD CLASS LEADERSHIP,
WORLD CLASS STUDENT SUCCESS

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
TUESDAY, MAY 28
KPA Board of Directors Meeting – Walnut 208 (1:00 - 4:00 PM)
New Principals Reception – Riverview Ballroom (4:00 – 5:30 PM) Sponsored by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
WEDNESDAY, MAY 29
Golf Tournament at USA-Kansas Conference - Auburn Hills Golf Course (8:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Registration Opens - Lower Gallery Between the Hyatt and Expo Hall, Century II (9:00 AM)
Suit Tailoring (Al Han) – Chisholm Trail (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Cornhole Tournament at USA-Kansas Conference - Expo Hall (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Western KS Leadership Meeting – Stimson Trail (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
The Curious World of Generative AI: Risk and Possibilities – Adam Garry – Redbud B (12:00 – 2:30 PM)
Opening General Session with Dr. Rick Rigsby - Eagle Ballroom (3:00 - 4:30 PM) Sponsored by Mammoth Sports
Construction
Vendor Showcase - Expo Hall (4:00 - 7:00 PM) Sponsored by C&C Group, OFG Financial
THURSDAY, MAY 30
Registration Opens - Upper Gallery, Century II (7:00 AM)
Hot Breakfast Buffet – Eagle Ballroom (7:30 - 8:30 AM)
Suit Tailoring (Al Han) – Chisholm Trail (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
School Specialty Innovative Space – Promenade Connecting Lobby (8:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
Learning Clusters – (8:30 AM - 3:30 PM)
USA-Kansas Lunch – Expo Hall (11:15 AM - 12:30 PM) Sponsored by Brown & Brown and Piper Sandler
President’s Reception - Riverview Ballroom (3:45 - 5:30 PM) Sponsored by Jostens
Hospitality and Dueling Pianos - Redbud ABC (9:00 – 11:00 PM) Sponsored by Farha Roofing
FRIDAY, MAY 31
Association Meeting Hot Breakfast - Promenade Walkway (7:15 – 8:15 AM)
KSSA Board of Directors Meeting – Birch 203 (7:30 - 9:00 AM)
KILA Association Meeting – Enterprise Boardroom (8:00 – 9:00 AM)
KLCTE Association Meeting – Stimson Trail (8:00 – 9:00 AM)
Suit Tailoring (Al Han) – Chisholm Trail (8:00 – 10:00 AM)
Principal Meeting – Cypress AB (8:15 – 9:20 AM)
Breakfast - Eagle Ballroom (8:00 - 9:30 AM) Sponsored by ESP
Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson - Eagle Ballroom (9:30 - 10:00 AM)
Closing Session with Thomas C. Murray - Eagle Ballroom (10:00 - 11:15 AM)
Dirty Dozen Meeting – Enterprise Boardroom (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
3

4

PRE-CONFERENCE SESSION
THE CURIOUS WORLD OF GENERATIVE AI: RISK AND
POSSIBILITIES
Time: 12:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud B
Presenter(s):
• Adam Garry, President, StrategicEDU Consulting
Generative AI has the potential to support school districts as they reimagine
teaching, learning and operations. The journey starts with understanding the risks
and possibilities and then building the necessary resources. This workshop is a
hands-on approach to learning about AI.
5

EAGLE BALLROOM - 3:00-4:30 P.M. - WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024
We live in an era of astonishing technology, instant information and rampant social networking. Despite
the epidemic advances that ushered in a new millennium, cultural critics argue that society has never been
more shallow in communication and more superficial in appearance. In fact, Dr. Rigsby argues that for
many organizations, appearance - or what he refers to as impression - has become the new corporate
wardrobe.
We invite you to rediscover what is really important and meaningful- not only in your professional career
but in your personal life as well. Join Dr. Rigsby as he shares the wisdom of past generations- wisdom that
will inspire, motivate and empower you to make an impact rather than an impression!
Nearly 300 MILLION PEOPLE globally have viewed Dr. Rigsby’s sensational speech in the viral video titled,
“Lessons from a Third Grade Dropout.”
As President and CEO of Rick Rigsby Communications, the internationally acclaimed speaker presents
to the top companies worldwide. Dr. Rick is also a favorite among professional and collegiate sports
organizations. Rigsby—a former award-winning professor—spent over two decades teaching at various
colleges, most of those years serving at Texas A&M University. In addition to academic duties, Dr. Rigsby
was hired by legendary football icon R. C. Slocum as chaplain and Life Skills coach for the Aggies football
team.
A former award-winning journalist, Dr. Rigsby is a regular contributor on numerous national television and
radio programs.
Inspired by a genuine conviction to help people realize their full potential, Rick Rigsby brings a combined
four decades of experience and expertise to the set of How Ya Livin’? This transformative podcast
encourages, inspires and challenges people at every level to dream bigger, stretch beyond comfort zones
and achieve the impossible!
As Rick says, “Most people I meet are asking themselves the same unrelenting question, ‘I wonder how
great I can actually be?’ What a privilege to help people make such profound discoveries!”
A Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Amazon best-selling author, Dr. Rigsby’s books include, Lessons From
a Third Grade Dropout and Afraid to Hope.
6

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
A.T.G.-Ram
Industries, LLC
25 ATG Sports specializes in turn-key
synthetic turf field construction, all-weather
track construction and sports stadium
construction.
Abre 115 Abre is K-12's #1 modern data solution. Abre
is a true education solution that connects
what matters most to students, families, staff,
and community partners. Don't just collect
student data, act on it. Remove silos and
ensure all stakeholders know how to turn
analysis into action with impactful decisionmaking
to support the Whole Child. Abre
helps schools increase student success and
provides a better connected experience
through full interoperability, tailored
experiences, and data-as-a-service.
ACT 108 ACT is a nonprofit organization providing a
continuum of integrated assessment solutions
that align with our mission of helping people
achieve education and workplace success
AGTAC Services,
LLC
A-Lert Roof
Systems
Alloy
Architecture
83 Facility Services, Grounds Maintenance
Custodial Energy Assessments
26 A-Lert Roof Systems, a division of Centurion
Industries, Inc., operating successfully for
nearly 40 years is an industry leader in metal
roofing. We design, engineer, manufacture
and install standing seam metal roofs and are
GSA certified. We have extensive experience
in both new and retro-fit projects for all
government, military, schools, & churches
60 Alloy Architecture is a multidisciplinary
team of architects, interior designers,
and technical professionals. We are
experienced in the planning and design of
new and/or replacement educational facilities,
recreational spaces, FEMA shelters and
specialty education centers.
www.atgsports.com
www.abre.com
www.act.org
www.alert roofsystems.
com
www.alloyarchitecture.com
9
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
American Digital
Security
American
Fidelity**
American Heart
Association
- Kids Heart
Challenge
Ameritime
LLC**
35, 36 American Digital Security (ADS) specializes
in the design, system installation, and service
of video surveillance, building access control,
visitor management, emergency active
shooter notification, door intercom systems,
and intrusion detection systems, fire alarm
systems, as well as threat assessment in the
Kansas City, Missouri metro and Wichita,
Kansas regions.
100, 105 Section 125 education and administration
along with 403b retirement accounts
126 We provide heart health information to all
students, staff and families while receiving
donations for heart research. Students,
Staff and families will learn hands-only CPR
and the warning signs of a stroke while
participating in this event. We can schedule
this event anytime in the school year and
work with Principals, Nurses, Classroom
Teachers and PE Volunteers. We can come
to the kick off assembly to get it started and
keep it simple for all to enjoy!
136, 137 Founded by former educators, Ameritime,
LLC is dedicated to teaching other Kansas
educators about the intricacies of their
retirement benefit plans, including KPERS,
403b, and 457b. We are the go-to resource to
help maximize the value of your retirement
and pension benefits.
www.
americandigitalsecurity.
com/about/about-us/
www.americanfidelity.com
www.heart.org/schools
www.ameritimeks.com
10
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Amplify* 135 A pioneer in K–12 education since 2000,
Amplify is leading the way in next-generation
curriculum and formative assessment. Our
captivating core and supplemental programs
in ELA, math, and science engage all students
in rigorous learning and inspire them to think
deeply, creatively, and for themselves. Our
formative assessment products turn data
into practical instructional support to help
students at every skill level build a strong
foundation in early reading and math. Our
programs provide teachers with powerful
tools that help them understand and
respond to the needs of all their students.
Today, Amplify serves more than five million
students in all 50 states.
Anderson Knight
Architects
14 Architecture, Interior Design, Master
Planning, Facility Surveys & Audits,
Programming, Furniture, Fixtures, &
Equipment Specification, Code Plans &
Compliance
Apptegy 71 Apptegy builds products that empower
school leaders to run better schools.
We make it easy for administrators and
educators to reach parents, students, staff,
and your community at large. With our tools
you can communicate better and influence
how your public thinks and feels about your
schools.
ATHCO
Acquisition Corp
Basis Consulting
Engineers
69 ATHCO can help you with stock and custom
gym equipment selection from: sleeved
volleyball systems, overhead volleyball,
divider curtains, basketball backstops, batting
cages, gym equipment control, wall pads,
Scoreboards and more!
131 (Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing) MEP
consulting engineering firm that can offer:
MEP design, MEP facility assessment with
recommendations, Indoor air quality, building
heat gain/loss calcs, arc flash studies, LED
lighting consulting, Solar design consulting,
Building Automation Systems consulting and
more.
www.amplify.com
www.WeAreAKA.com
www.apptegy.com
www.basisengineers.com
11
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

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COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Brainfuse Online
Tutoring
46 Brainfuse Online Tutoring is a US owned
and operated company providing both
on-demand and high-dosage tutoring. USbased
tutors provide academic support to
students through our interactive whiteboard
classroom with standard audio and video
connections. We have tutors to support
every student regardless of academic
performance or language proficiency.
Bright Thinker 130 We offer Customizable K-12 online
curriculum to schools and districts across the
country. We serve these schools with a range
of solutions which include remote learning,
blended learning, credit recovery, CTE, Special
Education and intervention. We do this with
an individualized, self-paced and tightly aligned
curriculum.
Brown and
Brown
Insurance*
Building Controls
and Services
BuyBoard
National
Purchasing
Cooperative
129 Insurance Consulting - Employee Benefits,
Property; Casualty, Workers Compensation
42 BCS is a provider of top-tier building
automation controls, HVAC products, and
specialized services to help your facilities run
more safely, comfortably, and efficiently.
72 The BuyBoard National Purchasing
Cooperative is an audit compliant, free,
governmental based national cooperative.
It is a comprehensive purchasing tool
developed for local governments. The
mission of the BuyBoard is to lessen the
burden of government by driving down
costs and making the procurement process
more efficient. The BuyBoard provides a
wide range of vendors with pricing based
on national volume levels. Contracts and
vendors awarded through BuyBoard have
been competitively procured, to assist
members with compliance with local and
state procurement requirements and a
documented audit trail.
www.brainfuse.com
www.brightthinker.com
www.bbrown.com
www.bldgcontrols.com
www.buyboard.com
12
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
BYU
Independent
Study
54 Our programs offer a diverse and enriched
learning experience with interactive visuals,
personalized learning options, and clearly
mapped objectives. Students can choose from
a variety of high school courses, including
specialty subjects like World Languages and
AP, along with access to certified teachers,
free tutoring sessions, and NCAA-approved
courses. With flexible scheduling options
and concurrent enrollment opportunities,
students can tailor their education to fit their
needs and goals, ensuring they're prepared
for higher education and beyond.
C&C Group* 96, 97 Energy Services, Network Services, Security
& Access Control, Building Automation
Cambridge
Educational
Services
20 The nation’s leading expert for 35 years,
Cambridge has helped 10,000,000 students
achieve dramatic grades 6–12 math, English,
reading, science and EOC growth, and raise
ACT/Workkeys/(P)SAT scores. Receive
samples of data reports, print and online
supplemental curriculum, study skills,
financial literacy, learning styes, career
interest inventory and much more. Help
disadvantaged students obtain scholarships
and prepare for successful careers by picking
up your $500 no-obligation Grant at our
booth.
CENTEGIX 28 CENTEGIX® is the industry leader and
largest wearable safety technology provider
for K-12 education with over 600,000 badges
in use. The cloud-based CENTEGIX Safety
Platform initiates the fastest response
time for emergencies campus-wide. Leaders
in over 11,500 locations nationwide trust
CENTEGIX’s innovative safety solutions to
empower and protect people (every day).
Cognia 79 Cognia is an international organization
specializing in quality continuous
improvement processes and tools leading to
a systemic strategic planning process and a
highly recognized accreditation status.
CommLink IT 47 IT Services. Physical Security. Phone Systems.
Paging Systems.
13
www.tinyurl.com/bdzf7xtz
www.c-cgroup.com
www.CambridgeEd.com
www.centegix.com
www.cognia.org
www.commlinkit.com
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Coryell
Roofing and
Construction**
Credit Union of
America
113, 114 No matter the extent of the roof damage,
Coryell Roofing can guide you to the best
solution – complete roof replacement, a
metal roof retrofit, or alternative repair
methods. Coryell specializes in commercial,
institutional, and industrial roofing. We
maximize our materials and process to
withstand not only the harsh conditions
found only in “Hail Alley” today but also
lower energy costs down the road.
124 Credit Union of America is a full-service
financial institution offering exclusive
educator-only benefits, including loan
discounts and classroom grants. Visit
CUofAmerica.com to learn more.
DCS Services 109 Providing Project Management and
Construction Management At-Risk (CMAR)
services to Kansas Schools. We assist
schools with facility and maintenance projects
of all sizes and complexities – collaborating
with the district’s architect on design,
handling the bidding process, and supervising
the project to successful completion. We
can take the headache out of projects such
as, HVAC, electrical, lighting, and plumbing
upgrades; phone and intercom systems; fire
alarm replacement; science and FACs lab
updates; renovations and remodeling; ADA
access; and athletic facility upgrades. We also
complete new additions and small buildings,
such as Early Childhood Facilities, Ag Shops,
and Transportation Buildings.
DLR Group** 63, 64 DLR Group are world leaders in K-12
Education Design, and partner with school
districts to elevate the teaching and learning
experience through design. DLR Group
focuses on innovation in education and
offers full-services architecture, engineering,
planning, and interiors to school districts
across Kansas.
www.coryellroofing.com
www.cuofamerica.com
www.DCSServices.net
www.dlrgroup.com/sector/
k-12-education/
14
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Energy Solutions
Professionals,
LLC*
117, 118 Energy Solutions Professionals (ESP) is an
energy services company based in the Kansas
City area that helps clients throughout the
Midwest address energy saving opportunities,
indoor air quality, and critical infrastructure
needs in a budget-neutral manner through
the Energy Efficiency Triad – an approach
that encompasses energy supply, facilities/
systems and human behavior. ESP is product,
vendor and commodity independent, enabling
unbiased solution development. We maintain
streamlined operations in order to provide
exceptional value-oriented services through a
process we call energy efficiency|simply.
70 Owner's Representation for Construction
and Development Projects
Eskie &
Associates, LLC
ESS 68 ESS is the leading personnel and management
solution for districts. The company provides
a comprehensive program that streamlines
administrative operations, improves
technology performance, and places highquality
substitute teachers, paraprofessionals,
and support staff to over 900 districts
nationwide. This full-service program gives
these districts more resources and stronger
classroom support, elevating student
achievement and educational equity.
ESSDACK 41 ESSDACK provides a wide range of direct
teaching and learning services, including:
Professional learning for teachers and
administrators, Guidance on curriculum and
instructional resources, Assessment and
evaluation services, Technology support,
School improvement planning, and Student
support services.
www.energyesp.com
www.eskieandassociates.
com
ESS.com
www.essdack.org
Beyond the classroom and schools, ESSDACK
also provides services that support a variety
of school district needs including:
Employee health insurance , Employee
retirement planning, Print and copy services,
District payroll support, and Federal funding
coordination.
15
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Farha Roofing* 38, 45 Roofing www.farharoofing.com/
Filament
Essential Services
First Onsite
Property
Restoration
ForeverLawn
South Central
Kansas*
Frontline
Education
21 Filament Services is a nonprofit dedicated to
enhancing information security in education.
As a virtual Chief Information Security
Officer (vCISO), we specialize in guiding
school districts through NIST frameworks
and offering tailored security coaching. Our
mission is to fortify educational institutions
against cyber threats to foster a safe digital
learning environment for students and staff.
55 Full service property restoration, disaster
recovery and reconstruction services 24/7
365 days a year. Fire, water, mold, asbestos,
biohazard, cleaning, board ups, odor removal,
contents, reconstruction, general contracting,
infection control, moisture mapping, large
& complex loss, temporary power, hygiene
services and more. We also offer Emergency
Preparedness planning. Nationwide co with
unlimited resources, IICRC certified.
16 Synthetic turf supplier and installer for Sports
Fields, Playgrounds, Lanscape Areas, Golf
Greens, and Canine Areas.
29 Frontline Education is a leading provider of
school administration software, connecting
solutions for student and special programs,
business operations and human capital
management with powerful analytics to
empower educators. Frontline partners with
school systems to deliver tools, data and
insights that support greater efficiency and
productivity, enabling school leaders to spend
more time and resources executing strategies
that drive educator effectiveness, student
success and district excellence.
www.filamentservices.org
www.firstonsite.com
www.foreverlawn.com/
sckansas
www.frontlineeducation.
com
16
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Globe Life Family
Heritage
Greenbush Coop
Purchasing
Haddock
Education
Technologies
Heartland
Seating, Inc.
132 We've been helping protect hardworking
Americans with life and supplemental health
insurance coverage since 1989. Our products
help protect Americans' financial futures
during the worst time of their lives. When
we’re not protecting our communities,
we’re giving back to them through hands-on
volunteer and monetary contributions. Our
passion for our life and supplemental health
insurance products is contagious, and our
work is meaningful.
5, 6 For more than 45 years, The Purchasing
Cooperative at Greenbush has helped
schools, municipalities, and other public
organizations save time and money through
cooperative purchasing. Greenbush has
contracted vendors in a variety of spending
categories, all awarded through a competitive
solicitation process. Procurement through
a Greenbush cooperative contract is more
efficient and effective, saving public agencies
the cumbersome and time-consuming work
of managing a bid process.
32 Haddock Education Technologies is the
premier reseller for ActiveFloor, Anywhere
Cart, Audio Enhancement, AXIS, Boxlight-
Mimio, ClassVR, Front Row, Galaxy Next
HoverCam, IPEVO, MakerBot, Newline,
Promethean, Recordex, Salto and WozED
products, professional development, service
and support.
59 Spectator Seating - Indoor and outdoor
seating, grandstands, auditorium seating.
www.
globelifefamilyheritage.com
www.greenbush.org
www.gohaddock.com
www.heartlandseating.com
17
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Heartspring 13 Heartspring: Therapeutic Residential &
Day School
www.heartspring.org
Heartspring transforms the educational
and home life of children with
neurodevelopmental disorders, including
autism.
Students receive individualized therapies
to communicate productively, improve
behaviors, and develop essential life skills.
Our 38-acre campus provides safe outdoor
spaces, adaptive P.E., arts and music, alongside
academics. We provide a comprehensive
evaluation to identify student needs and
facilitate further IEP development.
If your district has a child with high support
needs, we can help. We offer day-only and
residential options, and currently have
openings for 10- to 18-year-olds.
Hellas 56 Hellas Construction is the complete, onestop
solution for sports construction,
offering long-term durability and unparalleled
customer commitment. Since the company’s
inception, Hellas has managed to impact
more than 5 million students across the
nation. With clients ranging from elementary
schools and local parks, to the Home of the
Dallas Cowboys, Hellas Construction delivers
on time, every time, for every client.
Hollis + Miller
Architects
4 Hollis + Miller is an integrated design firm
100% committed to education and designing
the future of learning environments. For 70
years, our integrated studios of architects and
graphic and interior designers have harnessed
the power of co-creation to develop
research-based designs supporting learners
of all ages. Our Kansas City and Castle Rock
studios provide innovative solutions for
Pre-K-12 and higher education clients while
engaging and empowering the communities
we serve.
www.hellasconstruction.
com
https://hollisandmiller.com
18
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Houghton Mifflin
Harcourt
Howard
Technology
Solutions*
125 With education products and services
used by 57 million students throughout
the world, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt is
the world’s largest provider of materials
for pre-K—12 learning. Houghton Mifflin
Harcourt is leading the way with solutions
to the challenges facing educators today by
coupling curricula excellence with technology
innovations and professional services.
91, 92 We are a top-to-bottom technology
solutions provider - from hardware and
software to professional installation and IT
support.
HTK Architects 11 Full service architecture and interior
architecture firm specializing in education and
bond planning.
Hutton 147 We’re not too cool for school. K-12
educational facilities make up a large part
of our portfolio. We build them like we do
everything, with care. And we’re always aware
that schools must make the most of every
bond dollar, that safety is important, and the
doors have to be open by the time the bell
rings. Need help passing a bond? We can help
give you the tools reach your community.
IMA Financial
hmhco.com
howard.com
www.htkarchitects.com
www.huttonbuilds.com
30, 37 Benefits Consultants imacorp.com
Group*
Imagine
Learning**
INA Alert, Inc.** 121, 122 We are a safety company. We specialize in
integration of cameras, access control, and
intercom systems.
58, 65 Comprehensive K-12 Core, Courseware, and
Supplemental Solutions.
Infinitec 90 Online and in-person Professional Learning
and Coaching
Integrated
Consulting
Engineers, Inc.
18 Our Engineering Services Mechanical Systems
Engineering, Electrical Systems Engineering,
Plumbing Systems Engineering, Arc Flash
Evaluation and Studies, Building Due
Diligence Evaluation, and Inspection Surveys
Building Controls
www.imaginelearning.com
www.inaalert.com
www.myinfinitec.org
www.iconengineers.net
19
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
IXL Learning 39 Used in 95 of the top 100 districts, IXL
is an all-inclusive personalized learning
platform. With thousands of curriculum and
instructional resources, actionable analytics,
and state-of the-art assessments, IXL helps
maximize learning for every student.
Jet Stream
Systems*
Bus 1
Security Camera Solutions, Mobile
Surveillance Trailers, Thermal Cameras,
Access Controls, Purpose Built Security
Servers, Integration, Classroom monitoring,
Bathroom Vape Detection Sensors.
Jostens** 146 Commemorative Products Celebrating
Moments that Matter in the lives of Families
and Schools.
Just Right
Reader**
112, 119 Just Right Reader's Science of Reading
decodables engage students in authentic
phonics practice in the classroom and at
home with Classroom Libraries and Take-
Home Decodable Packs in English and
Spanish. Over 700+ titles align to all phonics
curriculums. They are filled with colorful
illustrations and diverse characters in
relatable stories. Each decodable comes with
tools to support classroom implementation
and small group instruction. This includes fun
video lessons to extend phonics instruction
into the home. From pre-emergent through
developing readers in upper elementary, Just
Right Reader decodables accelerate every
student’s journey to confident reading.
K12itc 12 K12itc, Inc. is a technology service company
exclusively for K-12 school districts. Founded
in Kansas City, MO in 2011 by former
school technology director Brad Sandt,
K12itc specializes in providing technology
hardware solutions and managed technology
services to K-12 school districts across the
United States. K12itc’s cornerstone product,
Albert, is a new model for delivering school
technology and can bundle every aspect of
a school’s IT infrastructure, connectivity and
maintenance into one efficient package.
KASEA 102 Professional Organization for Special
Education Leaders
20
www.ixl.com
Jetstreamsys.com
www.jostens.com
www.justrightreader.com
www.k12itc.com
www.kasea.org
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Kansas City
Audio Visual**
Kansas Principals
Association
Kansas Window
Tinting
66, 74 For over 70 years, KCAV has offered
innovative, proven audio-visual solutions
in the corporate office, the classroom, the
conference room, auditoriums, stadiums, and
beyond.
101 Membership drive and benefits for all
Principals in Kansas.
150 3M solar, decorative & security films. NOGO
security glass & security screens for forced
entry & severe weather protection on
windows & doors.
www.kcav.com
www.KSPrincipals.org
www.kansaswindowtinting.
com
KARSP 104 KARSP is an education retiree group. www.KARSP.org
KASCD (KILA) 103 KASCD has been dedicated to empowering
leaders at every level to become impactful
instructional leaders. As part of our
commitment to growth, we are rebranding
to Kansas Instructional Leaders Association
(KILA).
Join us at the USA annual conference, as we
unveil our plans for the 2024-2025 school
year. Our goal is to ensure all school leaders
discover the benefits the Kansas Instructional
Leaders Association can offer.
With a dedicated leadership team, we
focus on supporting instructional leaders
in all roles such as superintendent, special
education director, principal, instructional
coach, or any instructional leadership role
within the field of education. Next year, we
will be hosting times for collaboration and
connection throughout the year focused on
particular instructional topics. Additionally,
we are organizing “Just in Time” learning
sessions that are timely and convenient for
attendance. We invite you to join us to learn
more about what we can offer. Together we
will make a difference in Kansas instruction!
21
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
KBS 10 KBS is a multi-line insurance, benefits, and
consulting firm and proudly owned by Kansas
Association of School Boards. KBS offers a
full suite of insurance and benefits programs
for public entities, with programs specifically
built for K-12 institutions. From protecting
the infrastructure that makes your operations
possible, to the people who make the magic
happen, we have insurance programs that are
built specifically for you.
KEY Apparel 1, 2 Custom Embroidered and Screen-printed
apparel such as jackets, hoodies, sweatshirts,
T-shirts, and pullovers.
Lakeshore
Learning
Materials
123 Your one-stop teacher supply store! Shop
high-quality learning products & teaching
resources—plus premium classroom
furniture like tables, seating & more!
Lifetouch NSS 148 School Portraits- Fall, Spring, Sports, Seniors;
Yearbooks- Elementary and Secondary
Mammoth** 120, 128 Modern Master Builder that provides
complete design-build services for everything
and anything sports construction.
Maxim
HealthCare
Staffing Services
40 Temporary staffing including: Administrative
Staff - Behavioral Interventionists, Bilingual
Interpreters, Board Certified Behavior;
Analysts - Case Managers, Counselors,
Hearing and Vision Specialists, Janitorial,
Nurse Educators, Nurses (RN, LPN, LVN,
CSN, CNA), Nutrition StaffOccupational
and Physical; Therapists - Orientation and
Mobility; Specialists – Paraprofessionals,
School Psychologists, Sign Language
Interpreters, Social Workers, Special
Education Teachers, Speech Language;
Pathologists - Teacher’s Aides
Bus 2 Sale and lease of Thomas Built Bus school,
activity, and commercial buses.
Midwest Bus
Sales, Inc
Midwest Transit Bus 3
Equipment, Inc.
Monkeythis 62 Communication and marketing with a
specialization in social media.
New and used school bus sales, service, parts,
leasing, and financing.
22
www.thekbsway.com
www.keyapparelstore.com
www.lakeshorelearning.
com
www.Lifetouch.com
www.mammothbuilt.com
www.maximhealthcare.
com
www.midwestbussales.com
www.midwesttransit.com
www.monkeythis.com
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Multistudio 134 Education Architecture, District Master
Planning, Facilities Assessments, Bond
Support, FF&E Services, Professional
Development, Research & Post Occupancy
Evaluations
Musco Sports
Lighting
National Bus
Sales
57 Musco’s TLC for LED technology delivers
unmatched light quality and control for
sports venues around the world and is
backed by a long-term warranty covering
parts and labor.
Bus 4 New, used and reconditioned school and
shuttle buses along with motorcoaches and
Ultra Coachliners. We have a large parts
department for all kinds of buses and a
complete mechanical and paint/body shop.
Navitas** 75, 76 Navitas is a turnkey construction company
focused on infrastructure renovation and
helping schools find unique ways to fund
these projects.
Needle King 138 Custom Suits
Tailors
Network for
Educator
Effectiveness
Newkirk Novak
Construction
Partners
23
www.multi.studio
www.musco.com
www.nationalbus.com
www.navitas.us.com
33 The Network for Educator Effectiveness
is a comprehensive educator evaluation
system with a purpose: to grow teachers
and improve schools. NEE brings together
classroom observation with multiple
measures of effectiveness in a secure online
portal designed to record feedback, start
meaningful conversations, and provide highquality
resources for educator growth and
development.
neeadvantage.com
7 Construction Management services www.newkirknovak.com
Nex-Tech 44 cybersecurity protection, managed I.T.
services, and software solutions
OFG Financial
Services Inc*
Opaa! Food
Management
84, 85 Financial Services 403b, 457 and Section 125
Insurance products
http://nex-tech.com/
116 School Food Service www.opaafood.com
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Piper Sandler &
Co.*
Pitsco Education
Playscape
Recreation LLC
Public Consulting
Group*
Quantum
Resource
Professionals
145 Bond Underwriting, Direct Bank Placements,
and Municipal Advisory Services
73 Pitsco Education provides hands-on solutions
and curriculum rooted in STEM. We help
educators create environments that address
all learning styles and help all students master
the transferable collaboration, criticalthinking,
and problem-solving skills that will
last a lifetime and translate to any college or
career path.
3 We sell playground equipment, outdoor
musical equipment, Pickle Ball, Gaga Pits,
basket ball goals, benches, trash receptacles,
and installation of all equipment.
17 Public Consulting Group LLC (PCG)
is a leading public sector solutions
implementation and operations improvement
firm that partners with health, education,
and human services agencies to improve
lives. Founded in 1986, PCG employs
approximately 2,000 professionals throughout
the U.S.—all committed to delivering
solutions that change lives for the better.
PCG offers education consulting services
and technology solutions that help schools,
school districts, and state education agencies/
ministries of education to promote student
success, improve programs and processes,
and optimize financial resources.
15 Quantum Resource Professionals is a national
staffing company focused on helping others
in education and healthcare. We staff allied
health, nursing, and education professionals
in home health, SNF, inpatient, outpatient, and
school settings. Our clinician- and educatorled
leadership team uses their professional
experience to better support the
hardworking professionals who join our team.
Quantum staff enjoy great pay, full benefits,
unmatched support, work-life balance, CEU
funding, and more!
www.pitsco.com
www.Playscaperecreation.
com
www.
publicconsultinggroup.com/
education
www.quantum-pros.com
24
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Raymond James
& Associates,
Inc.**
140, 141 Raymond James is proud of our focus on
K-12 school bond issues and our consistent
ranking among the top three firms nationally.
Raymond James is a full-service securities
firm founded in 1962. We have grown to be
one of the largest investment banking firms in
the country with 26,000 employees located
in over 3,000 offices throughout the United
States, Canada and overseas. Raymond
James has a significant presence in Kansas
with 42 offices and 135 employees located
throughout the state including Wichita,
Leawood, Salina, Hutchinson, Garden City,
Dodge City, Pittsburg, Manhattan, Lawrence
and Overland Park, among many others.
Renaissance** 8, 9 Renaissance is a global leader in assessment,
reading, math, early literacy, and datadriven
solutions for pre-K–12 schools and
districts. We are committed to providing
teacher-facilitated instructional delivery with
resources to help students build a strong
foundation for success.
Riggs Recreation
Equipment, Inc
Riverside
Technologies Inc.
(RTI)
Safe Haven
Defense
133 Your local Provider and Installer of
Commercial Playground Equipment, Safety
Surfacing, Shade Structures, Site Amenities,
Outdoor Athletic Equipment, Running
Track Surfacing, Tennis and Basketball Court
Surfacing.
149 Riverside Technologies, Inc. (RTI) is an IT
service provider specializing in managed
services, IT hardware, warehouse services,
and technology deployment. We understand
your challenges, develop creative solutions,
and provide unmatched responsiveness.
Nationwide, we service corporate clients,
educational institutions, and state and local
governments. RTI is your complete IT source.
139 Manufacturer and install window security
laminates/films on existing glass that offer
superior protection against active shooter,
burglaries/break ins, bombs and wind damage.
www.rjpublicfinance.com
www.renaissance.com
www.riggsrec.com
www.1RTI.com
www.safehavendefense.
com
25
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
SafeDefend** 82, 89 SafeDefend provides the four components of
a truly safe school; prevention, preparation,
internal response and external response.
SafeDefend supports schools through the
safety process and creates life long clients.
Sandifer
Engineering &
Controls
Savvas
Learning
Company*
Schaefer
Architecture
Schneider
Electric*
School
Specialty LLC
78 Security Cameras,Access Control, Fire &
HVAC controls.
24 At Savvas, we believe learning should inspire.
Our next-generation K-12 learning solutions
engage students and empower teachers,
helping all learners discover their greatness.
52 At Schaefer Architecture our team of
designers are experts in k-12 school design,
facility assessment, community engagement,
master planning and bond issue services. For
over 60 years, we have been design spaces
that have lasting impacts on our clients and
the community
142, 143 Schneider Electric is dedicated to partnering
with school districts to create sustainable
and efficient learning environments. Our
comprehensive range of renewable energy
offerings empower school districts to
optimize energy use, reduce costs, and
enhance environmental sustainability.
Thurs
Only
School Specialty provides over 100,000
educational products from the most trusted
brands nationwide. We provide innovative
products and programs to the Educational
Marketplace, servicing the needs of teachers
and schools to ensure students of all ages
received the scholastic support they need
to advance their learning and reach their full
potential.
www.safedefend.com
www.sandifercontrols.com
www.savvas.com
www.schaefer-arch.com
www.se.com
www.schoolspecialty.com
26
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
SchooLinks 99 SchooLinks is the modern approach to
college and career readiness. We ensure
staff maximize their time, and students leave
high school with goals and a plan. With over
80+ interactive experiences from interest
discovery, academic and post-secondary
planning, and social emotional learning,
SchooLinks offers internship matching, career
mentorship, industry partner management
and more.
Securly 50 Maximize instructional time and regain
control of your hallways with Securly Pass
-The complete digital hall pass solution.
Transform the safety and security of your
school with Pass (formerly e-hallpass) – the
cloud-based hall pass system that limits
vaping, prevents vandalism, and controls
inappropriate student contact.
Simpson
Construction
Services
Smith System
67 Bond Campaign Support, Preconstruction
Services, Construction Management Services.
Serving Kansas Schools for over 65 years.
31 Smith System offers affordable, innovative,
student-centered furniture solutions for
learning spaces
SOPA, Inc.
81 Bleacher, Auditorium & Stadium Seating,
Athletic Equipment, Lockers Classroom,
Library and Office Furniture.
Southwest
Solutions Group
Special Olympics
Kansas
51 At Southwest Solutions Group we believe
that children are the future, which is why we
have put a lot of time and effort into creating
a collection of school storage systems. When
schools are organized, they can operate
better and focus on serving their students
rather than looking for missing materials or
equipment.
77 Special Olympics Kansas offers financial
support, professional development, and
free resources to help make schools more
inclusive through the strategies of Unified
Sports, Inclusive Youth Leadership and Whole
School Engagement.
www.schoolinks.com
www.simpsonconst.com
www.smithsystem.com
www.SOPAInc.com
www.southwestsolutions.
com
27
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

#USAKS24
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
SSC Services for
Education
Stifel, Nicolaus
& Company,
Incorporated**
Strawbridge
Studios, Inc.
127 SSC Services for Education has 53 years of
facilities services experience, with the past
27 devoted exclusively to K12 and HigherEd.
We bring expertise and critical, innovative,
proactive problem-solving to our partner
districts. Pairing dedicated K12 longevity
with our vast resources, we provide each
partnership with an unmatched level of
knowledge and skillset to meet district needs.
Like any top organization, districts seek us
out due to our reputation for leading the
industry - our unprecedented 98 percent
retention rate is an excellent testament to
that!
www.sscserv.com
106, 107 Bond and Bond Election Services www.stifel.com/
publicfinance
98 Strawbridge Studios, Inc. is a 4th generation,
family owned, American school portrait
and yearbook company located in Durham,
N.C. Providing school picture and yearbook
services since 1923.
Synlawn 53 Artificial grass and playground surfacing.
Durable and maintenance free turf to
enhance any area.
TIPS - The
Interlocal
Purchasing
System
27 TIPS is a national purchasing cooperative
offering competitively solicited contracts to
education, government and nonprofit
agencies, saving them both time and money.
TIPS provides a proven, streamlined process
that eliminates the purchasing stress for
Members. “Purchasing Made Personal”
Trane** 110, 111 Trane is a global provider of indoor comfort
systems and a leader in creating highperformance
building environments with
energy efficient heating and cooling, lighting,
building automation, and plant monitoring. In
collaboration with KBOR and KSDE Trane
developed CTE programming for secondary
and post-secondary students with Industry
Recognized Certifications from the NC3-
National Coalition of Certification Centers.
28
www.strawbridge.net
www.Synlawn.com
www.tips-usa.com
www.trane.com/
commercial/north-america/
us/en/about-us/markets/k-
12-education.html
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
COMPANY BOOTH ABOUT US WEBSITE
Twotrees
Technologies
U.S. ARMY
Recruiting
Battalion
Universal
Construction
34 Twotrees Technologies is a technology
solutions provider dedicated to servicing
K-12 and higher-ed customers. From
Chromebooks and teacher devices,
interactive boards, and VR solutions all the
way up to networking equipment, firewall
management, and network configuration
services, Twotrees is your one-stop shop for
"anything with a blinky light" that you would
find in a school!
48
19 Construction Management & On-Call
Construction Services
Company, Inc.
Virco* 144 America’s leading manufacturer and supplier
of classroom furniture and equipment.
Since 1950, Virco has proudly manufactured
industry-leading furniture and equipment for
K–12 schools in the US. Collections include
seating for healthy movement, technologyready
tables, and a range of collaborative
tables and desks for flexible classrooms.
For large-scale FF&E purchases, Virco’s
complimentary, hassle-free PlanSCAPE
service delivers on-time, on-budget solutions.
Wiens and
Company
Construction
61 General Commercial Contractor specializing
in school facility projects.
Wray Roofing 80 Repair/replacement of low-sloped or flat
roofs. Roof analysis, leak repairs, writing
specs., free estimates.
www.twotrees.com
www.universalconstruction.
net
www.virco.com
www.wiensco.com
www.wrayroofing.com
29
* CONFERENCE SPONSOR CORPORATE PARTNER**

We Rise Above
the Rest
Farha has you covered!
• Roof Inspections & Reports
• Roof Maintenance
• Roof Replacements
• 24/7 Service
Contact us to get your free quote:
farharoofing.com 316.831.7510
TIPS Provider
Helping taxpayers and public
entities get the most for their money.
32

2024 EXHIBITOR LIST
BY BOOTH NUMBER
KEY Apparel 1, 2
Playscape Recreation LLC 3
Hollis + Miller Architects 4
GREENBUSH COOPERATIVE 5, 6
PURCHASING
Newkirk Novak Construction 7
Partners
Renaissance 8, 9
KBS 10
HTK Architects 11
K12itc 12
Heartspring 13
Anderson Knight Architects 14
Quantum Resource Professionals 15
ForeverLawn South Central Kansas 16
Public Consulting Group 17
Integrated Consulting Engineers, Inc. 18
Universal Construction Company, Inc. 19
Cambridge Educational Services 20
Filament Essential Services 21
Savvas Learning Company 24
A.T.G.-Ram Industries, LLC 25
A-Lert Roof Systems 26
TIPS - The Interlocal Purchasing 27
System
CENTEGIX 28
Frontline Education 29
IMA Financial Group 30, 37
Smith System 31
Haddock Education Technologies 32
Network for Educator Effectiveness 33
Twotrees Technologies 34
American Digital Security 35, 36
Farha Roofing 38, 45
IXL Learning 39
Maxim HealthCare Staffing Services 40
ESSDACK 41
Building Controls and Services 42
Nex-Tech 44
Brainfuse Online Tutoring 46
CommLink IT 47
U.S. ARMY Recruiting Battalion 48
Securly 50
Southwest Solutions Group 51
Schaefer Architecture 52
Synlawn 53
BYU Independent Study 54
First Onsite Property Restoration 55
Hellas 56
Musco Sports Lighting 57
Imagine Learning 58, 65
Heartland Seating, Inc. 59
Alloy Architecture 60
Wiens and Company Construction 61
Monkeythis 62
DLR Group 63, 64
Kansas City Audio Visual 66, 74
Simpson Construction Services 67
ESS 68
ATHCO ACQUISITION CORP 69
Eskie & Associates, LLC 70
Apptegy 71
BuyBoard National Purchasing 72
Cooperative
Pitsco Education 73
Navitas 75, 76
31

Special Olympics Kansas 77
Sandifer Engineering & Controls 78
Cognia 79
Wray Roofing 80
SOPA, Inc. 81
SafeDefend 82, 89
AGTAC SERVICES, LLC 83
OFG Financial Services Inc 84, 85
Infinitec 90
Howard Technology Solutions 91, 92
C&C Group 96, 97
Strawbridge Studios, Inc. 98
SchooLinks 99
American Fidelity 100, 105
Kansas Principals Association 101
KASEA 102
KASCD (KILA) 103
KARSP 104
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, 106, 107
Incorporated
ACT 108
DCS Services 109
Trane 110, 111
Just Right Reader 112, 119
Coryell Roofing and Construction 113, 114
Abre 115
Opaa! Food Management 116
Energy Solutions Professionals, LLC 117, 118
Mammoth 120, 128
INA Alert, Inc. 121, 122
Lakeshore Learning Materials 123
Credit Union of America 124
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 125
American Heart Association - Kids 126
Heart Challenge
SSC Services for Education 127
Brown and Brown Insurance 129
Bright Thinker 130
Basis Consulting Engineers 131
Globe Life Family Heritage 132
Riggs Recreation Equipment, Inc 133
Multistudio 134
Amplify 135
Ameritime LLC 136, 137
Needle King Tailors 138
Safe Haven Defense 139
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. 140, 141
Schneider Electric 142, 143
Virco 144
Piper Sandler & Co. 145
Jostens 146
Hutton 147
Lifetouch NSS 148
Riverside Technologies Inc. (RTI) 149
Kansas Window Tinting 150
Jet Stream Systems Bus 1
Midwest Bus Sales, Inc Bus 2
Midwest Transit Equipment, Inc. Bus 3
National Bus Sales Bus 4
School Specialty LLC
Thurs
Only
32

2024 EXHIBITOR
BOOTH MAP
Douglas Street
VESTIBULE
WEST LOADING DOCK
Parking Lot
Douglas & Waco
WEST LOADING DOCK
WOMEN
CONCESSION
MEN
STORAGE
Bar
9
8
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37
52 53 54 55 56 57 58
Drape Line
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Food
38 39 40 41 42 43 44
45 46 47 48 49 50 51
66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73
Bus #4
USA Kansas Convention
Century II Expo Hall
May 29, 2024
WOMEN
Hyatt Gallery
MEN
8' Drape
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
59 60 61 62 63 64 65
82 83 84 85
89 90 91 92
106 107 108 109 110 111 112
113 114 115 116 117 118 119
REGISTRATION
74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81
96 97 98 99 100
101 102 103 104 105
120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127
128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135
Bar
Bus #3
Bus #2
Entrance
Food
DOORS TO
HYATT
Water
Station
136 137 138 139 140
141 142 143
144 145 146 147 148 149 150
Bus #1
40'W x 20'H DOOR
EMERGENCY EXITS
Waterman & Main
EMERGENCY EXITS
33

USA-KANSAS RAFFLE DRAWINGS FOR
GREAT PRIZES IN EXPO HALL
4:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Please take time to visit our 2024 vendors and business partners. With their support, we are able to offer
additional convention activities and programming. We have several vendors that have donated to a raffle
drawing for some great prizes. During the vendor reception at various times from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. we will have
raffle drawings.
To participate in the drawing you will need to visit a vendor’s booth and they will give you a “Prize Sponsor
Buck” for you to take to the announcer booth. Please print your name and district on the back of your
buck and put it in any of the drawing boxes to win prizes at the USA-KS booth located in the center Expo Hall
under the large celling circle.
NEW THIS YEAR – USA-KS PLINKO for more prizes!! (located at the USA-KS Booth)
You must be present to win and will have 15 minutes to claim your prize before another winner is
drawn (everything must be picked up by 7:00 p.m.). Drawings will be held at the following times: 5:00 p.m.,
5:30 p.m., 5:45 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 6:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and staff baskets at 6:45 p.m.
2024 RAFFLE PRIZES
$100 Gift Cards for each – Bass Pro Shops (2), Target, Old Navy, Home Depot, Amazon (2)
$50 Gift Cards for each – Kohls (2), Dick’s Sporting Goods, Barnes & Noble (2)
2024-2025 Complimentary USA-Kansas Dues
2025 Complimentary USA-Kansas Convention Registration
USA-KS STAFF GIFT BASKETS
G.A. – Dress for Success
Jerry – Mexican Fiesta
Cara – Summer Fun/BBQ
Jessica – Pool Party
Kim – Cha-Ching
Sara – Shake it up (Cocktails)
Houston – Bourbon Basket
Jessi – Self Care
Marty – What’s Your Beef?
Sarah – Family Game Night
Jara – Coffee Love
2024 RAFFLE
34
PRIZES
2024 RAFFLE SPONSORS
• Playscape Recreation LLC
• SchooLinks
• Strawbridge Studios, Inc.
• SSC Services for Education
• Wray Roofing
• Anderson Knight Architects

WE ARE SPORTS SPECIALISTS
Mammoth Sports Design serves athletes at
every level with our team of specialized
sports architects and civil engineers.
Our herd delivers sports facilities customized
to your community. We always leave it all on
the field.
INFOOMAMMOTHBUILT
MAMMOTHBUILT.COM
Let Renaissance Help You See Your Data More Clearly
Strengthen evidence-based systems of support with an interactive, whole child data
management solution that helps educators improve student outcomes.
Easily import academic
and non-academic data
Make whole child data
actionable
Evaluate and monitor
intervention effectiveness
Monitor KPIs and progress
through an equity lens
Visit or call
www.renaissance.com | (800) 338-4204

LEARNING CLUSTER
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Time Location Session Title
8:30a-9:15a Peach 201 B Exploring Excellence: Navigating Our Educational Journey
8:30a-9:15a
Cherry 202A
Relationships or Resilience: Strategies for Success in Alternative
Education
8:30a-9:15a
Cherry 202B
Optimizing Student Outcomes Through Common Formative
Assessment
8:30a-9:15a Birch 203
Inside Out: Implementing a School within a School Model for
Positive Change
8:30a-9:15a Cedar 204 Understanding Your Evidence of Impact as a Leader
8:30a-9:15a Maple 205 Neuroscience Insights for Effective School Communication
8:30a-9:15a Oak 206
Everyone Has An Eeyore: Leadership Lessons from the 100 Acre
Wood
8:30a-9:15a Osage 207
Put your assessment data to work while seeing everything about
a student in one place!
8:30a-9:15a Walnut 208 Increasing Coaching Capacity Through Innovation and Learning
8:30a-9:15a Cypress 209 A Setting Up For Success: Onboarding New Board Members
8:30a -9:15a Cypress 209 B
Avoiding Administrator Burnout: How to stay passionate about
education!
8:30a-9:15a
Redbud 210 A
The Cameras Keep Roll'n: An in depth look at discipline for
students who share/receive videos and/or photographs of
prohibited conduct, and/or thumbs up or forward the content.
8:30a-9:15a Redbud 210 B Administrator Self Care
8:30a-9:15a Redbud 210 C Creating a Culture of Instructional Excellence -- Yes YOU!
9:30a-10:15a Peach 201 A See the Full Story, Plan for Success with MyEducationData
9:30a-10:15a
Peach 201 B
Current State of Student Loans & Forgiveness Programs for
District Employees
9:30a-10:15a Cherry 202A Overcoming Obstacles through Systems Leadership
9:30a-10:15a Cherry 202B Building a Resilient School
9:30a-10:15a Birch 203 Advanced Seminar in School Finance & Budget
9:30a-10:15a Cedar 204 Connecting the ""Dottes": #FutureReady Success for All
9:30a-10:15a Maple 205 Transforming Athletic Facilities
9:30a-10:15a Oak 206
Navigating change in innovative learning environments: Shawnee
Mission School District’s Project Building Manual
9:30a-10:15a Osage 207 Starting an Alternative School
9:30a-10:15a Walnut 208
Lions, Tigers and Paras! Oh My! A comprehensive approach to
providing high quality consistent training for all paraeducators.
37

#USAKS24
Time Location Session Title
9:30a-10:15a
Cypress 209 A
Wanted: Advocates for Public Education - No Experience
Necessary
9:30a-10:15a
Cypress 209 B
Resiliency Practices and Interventions within a BSEL MTSS
framework that Provide Love and Support for Students and
Improves Behavior!
9:30a-10:15a
Redbud 210 A
I Need a Lifeline: When and who to get involved in investigations
both at the student and staff levels
9:30a-10:15a Redbud 210 B Are You a Successful School Leader?
9:30a-10:15a Redbud 210 C Influencing Board Culture
10:30a-11:15a Peach 201 B
Helping the Whole Child: Strengthening Student Outcomes
through Community Partnerships
10:30a-11:15a Cherry 202A Creating A Roofing Standard That Prevents Future Loss.
10:30a-11:15a Cherry 202B Finding Our Way Out of the River of Cruelty
10:30a-11:15a Birch 203 Leveling up your staff PD days
10:30a-11:15a Cedar 204 Building Trust
10:30a-11:15a Maple 205 Defining School Improvement in Kansas
10:30a-11:15a Oak 206 Experience the best Teacher
10:30a-11:15a Osage 207 Activity Funds - Best Practices
10:30a-11:15a Walnut 208
"Empowering Educators: Leading Teacher Efficacy for Enhanced
Learning"
10:30a-11:15a Cypress 209 A
Connecting the Dots: Bridging Needs, Strategy, Budget, and KESA
2.0
10:30a-11:15a Cypress 209 B
The Science of Teaching Reading: How Structured Literacy Can
Empower All Students
10:30a-11:15a Redbud 210 A
Talks That Toe the Line: Navigating difficult conversations
with employees surrounding legally protected conduct (i.e.
performance issues)
10:30a-11:15a Redbud 210 B
Culture = Student Attitude + Staff Attitude + Community
Involvement
10:30a-11:15a Redbud 210 C Update on the Legislature
12:45p-1:30p
Peach 201 A
Unlock Parent Engagement: Proactive Outreach and Telling
Student Stories
12:45p-1:30p Peach 201 B Using Data to Reduce Variability in the Classroom
12:45p-1:30p
Cherry 202A
Breaking Barriers: Enhancing Mental Health for Middle School-
Aged Students Through the Kansas MHIT Program
38

LEARNING CLUSTER
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Time Location Session Title
12:45p-1:30p Cherry 202B Help your Students get a GREAT paying job & career-ALL FREE!
12:45p-1:30p Birch 203
Recruiting and Retaining Different Generations in Today's
Educator Shortage
12:45p-1:30p Cedar 204 The John Wooden Way
12:45p-1:30p Maple 205 Safety in School with Technology
12:45p-1:30p Oak 206 What Districts Miss in Attracting Talent
12:45p-1:30p Osage 207 Growing Our Own! Western Kansas Careers Showcases
12:45p-1:30p Walnut 208 Leverage Your Gifts: Transform Your Teams
12:45p-1:30p Cypress 209 A Building Leadership Bridges: Understanding the Role of the Board
12:45p-1:30p Cypress 209 B Surviving Special Education From the Principals Chair
12:45p-1:30p Redbud 210 A Reading Between the Lines: Student/Staff Sexual Harassment
12:45p-1:30p
Redbud 210 B
Conversations that Count: A Strategic Approach to School
Culture and Staff Retention
12:45p-1:30p
Redbud 210 C
Improving attendance through intentional communication,
education and celebrations for today’s school community.
1:45p-2:30p
Peach 201 A
Title: Harnessing AI with No-Code Chat Builders: Elevate
Leadership Workshop Series
1:45p-2:30p Peach 201 B The Revenue Playbook: Winning the Revenue Game
1:45p-2:30p Cherry 202A Developing an SEL Culture of Supporting Students
1:45p-2:30p Cherry 202B Special Education 101
1:45p-2:30p Birch 203 Podcasting 101: Launching Shawnee Mission Mic’d Up
1:45p-2:30p Cedar 204 The Anatomy of Relationship Building among Adults
1:45p-2:30p Maple 205
Chat 453: Top AI Use Cases from the 23-24 School Year & Future
Planning for Classroom Integration
1:45p-2:30p Oak 206
Leveraging Data for Impact: KTRI Educator Engagement and
Retention Panel
1:45p-2:30p Osage 207
Working with that Pessimistic Parent through their Optimistic
Child!
1:45p-2:30p Walnut 208
Now What? Putting Trauma Informed Practice into Action - 5
Must Do's for Schools
1:45p-2:30p
Cypress 209 A
Promoting a Culture of Respect: Tools and Techniques for
Cultivating Civility
1:45p-2:30p Cypress 209 B Ameritime’s Administrator Retirement Workshop
39

#USAKS24
Time Location Session Title
1:45p-2:30p
Redbud 210 A
Reasonable or Not Reasonable? That is the question: Employee
Accommodations
1:45p-2:30p Redbud 210 B Level Up Your Internal Communication
1:45p-2:30p
Redbud 210 C
Cultivating a Positive School-Community Culture: The Power of
Building a Strong Brand
2:45p-3:30p
Peach 201 A
Replacing Your District's Growing List of Deferred Maintenance
with an Untapped Resource.
2:45p-3:30p
Peach 201 B
All Hands on Deck: Leading a County-Wide Professional
Development Day
2:45p-3:30p
Cherry 202A
Relationships, Emotional Regulation, and Preventative Deescalation!
2:45p-3:30p Cherry 202B Protecting Your School Through a Layered Approach to Security
2:45p-3:30p Birch 203 Making Your Data Actionable in the School Improvement Process
2:45p-3:30p Cedar 204
“From The Nest to Life’s Best” Early Childhood Education in a
Rural District Beginning at Birth
2:45p-3:30p Maple 205 Transformation Through Instructional Leadership
2:45p-3:30p Oak 206 Infusing CTE with Core Instruction and Community Partners
2:45p-3:30p Osage 207
Unlock the Secrets of Gifted Minds: Navigating Overexcitabilities
and Exceptionalities
2:45p-3:30p Walnut 208 Motivate with Student Incentives
2:45p-3:30p Cypress 209 A Legal Grab-Bag: School Law Issues for Administrators
2:45p-3:30p Cypress 209 B School Finance & Budget Basics for KS School Leaders
2:45p-3:30p
Redbud 210 A
#Bullying - One of the Most Used Works in Education - But what
does it really mean?
2:45p-3:30p
Redbud 210 B
It's More than Checked Boxes: How to Make Classroom
Walkthroughs Meaningful for Everyone Involved
2:45p-3:30p
Redbud 210 C
Empowering Growth: Cultivating Collaborative Professional
Learning Communities in Schools
USA-Kansas is proud to have some of the most talented and dedicated education
professionals as our members. USA-Kansas has a strong network of practicing
and retired administrators who have been recognized for their achievements.
Membership in USA-Kansas allows individuals access to these talented
professionals; supports a forum for open and engaging dialogues; opportunities to
share experiences; and participation in professional development programs.
40

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
8:30-9:15 A.M.
EXPLORING EXCELLENCE:
NAVIGATING OUR
EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Bryce Wachs, Superintendent, Fort
Larned USD 495
• Allisa Spain, Fort Larned USD 495
• Catrina McGurk, Fort Larned USD
495
Join us for an insightful presentation on
our district improvement plan, “Exploring
Excellence.” This initiative includes our
rebranded strategic plan and introduces the
innovative “Journey of Collaboration.” At its
core is the newly established Student Advisory
Council, dedicated to “Generating Purposeful
Solutions” (GPS). Inspired by Larned’s history
along the Santa Fe Trail and Fort Larned,
our compass-themed approach emphasizes
communication, engagement, and our vision
of ‘Developing positive relationships with ALL
school partners to ensure students receive
ALL skills for success.’ This presentation will
explore how ‘Exploring Excellence’ and the
‘Journey of Collaboration’ guide us with
precision and purpose, using the compass
as a symbolic guide. Discover how our
community-inspired approach is shaping a
future of educational excellence and fostering
collaboration among students, educators,
41
and the entire community. Don’t miss this
opportunity to learn about the transformative
elements shaping the future of education in
our district.
RELATIONSHIPS OR
RESILIENCE: STRATEGIES FOR
SUCCESS IN ALTERNATIVE
EDUCATION
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Jen Wilson, Director of Alternative
Programs, Hutchinson USD 308
Alternative education, whether the dayschool
setting or a regular alternative to suspension
program has unique facets in every classroom
or district that it sits within. Perspectives
and vision change based on the position
of a person, and shifts in administration.
This presentation will focus on a strategies
toolbox for educators that work within the
alternative environment and detail strategies
for success in all areas: from avoiding burnout,
to implementing better structure and overall
management skills.
OPTIMIZING STUDENT
OUTCOMES THROUGH
COMMON FORMATIVE
ASSESSMENT
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Elizabeth Parker, Curriculum &

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Instruction Consultant, ESSDACK
• Janea Gray, ESSDACK
Are you swimming in data and aren’t quite
sure what to do with it? Does thinking
about additional assessment seem like it will
just be another addition to an already-full
plate? Join us as we explore how common
formative assessments can be leveraged to
access immediate feedback about student
progress and overall growth toward state
standards. In this session, leaders will learn
how their school teams can collaborate
on the development of common formative
assessments with an emphasis on Depth of
Knowledge (DOK). This type of assessment
can lead to actionable data that drives
instructional decision-making and meets the
needs of each learner, while also supporting
standards alignment, a balanced assessment
system, and maximizing high impact practices.
Session participants will receive evidencebased
strategies and resources that can be
immediately implemented in their schools.
Examples of assessments, developed along the
four DOK levels, will also be shared.
After a series of listening sessions and
input for an updated strategic plan, USD
453 identified student behavior as one of
the trending concerns at all buildings and
grade levels. As such, the team embarked on
implementing a Behavior Continuum to create
additional supports that would lead to great
student success and decreased suspensions.
One of the pilot strategies utilized was
creating a School within A School model at
both the elementary and secondary level.
After completing the pilot, the intended goal
is to create such programming in all buildings
across the district.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR
EVIDENCE OF IMPACT AS A
LEADER
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Josh Lee, Kansas MTSS System
Alignment Specialist
• Kansas MTSS System Alignment
Specialist
INSIDE OUT: IMPLEMENTING
A SCHOOL WITHIN A SCHOOL
MODEL FOR POSITIVE
CHANGE
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Kellen Adams, Superintendent,
Leavenworth USD 453
• Dr. Rebekah Varvel, USD 453
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In this conference session, delve into
the crucial exploration of measuring and
identifying the impact of educational initiatives.
Learn practical strategies for gathering and
analyzing evidence of the effectiveness of your
programs. This session will focus on strategies
to empower educators and leaders to make
informed decisions based on evidence.

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
NEUROSCIENCE INSIGHTS
FOR EFFECTIVE SCHOOL
COMMUNICATION
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• Austin Karr, Principal, Monkeythis
• Tim Hayden, Renwick USD 267
EVERYONE HAS AN EEYORE:
LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM
THE 100 ACRE WOOD
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Don Epps, Superintendent,
Pleasanton USD 344
Dive into this breakout session for a dynamic
fusion of neuroscience applied to school
communication strategies.
Discover the brain’s hardwired and surprising
responses to communication stimuli and learn
how to leverage this knowledge for impactful
engagement with students, parents, and the
70% of your audience without students in
school.
You’ll learn what works and doesn’t work
based on the latest research and how
to engage, instill pride, and excite your
community to discover the amazing things
you’re doing for kids.
Explore practical applications for fostering
trust, building rapport, and maximizing
support. You’ll gain actionable insights into
effectively sharing your story and how data
analysis is key to continuous communication
improvement.
Join us to unlock the power of neuroscienceinformed
communication that drives positive
outcomes and reaches your entire community.
43
The session will concentrate on providing
leaders with tools to rekindle the passion
and purpose that initially inspired staff to
enter the teaching profession. Participants
will explore the transformative power of
positive leadership in shaping the culture
they serve. Don’t miss out on the chance to
Chase Greatness, where you’ll be enlightened,
inspired, and perhaps moved to tears of
laughter (hopefully not from a wardrobe
malfunction, a real possibility at a Don Epps
presentation).
PUT YOUR ASSESSMENT
DATA TO WORK WHILE
SEEING EVERYTHING ABOUT
A STUDENT IN ONE PLACE!
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Latoya Davis, Ed.S., National
Academic Advisor, Renaissance
• Adam Wade, Blue Valley USD 229
Are you looking to take a data-driven
approach to accelerate learning, promote
equity, and meet the needs of the whole

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child all in one place? Renaissance offers
an interactive system that integrates whole
child data into a single platform. We also
provide built-in tools for intervention tracking,
collaborative workflows for leaders, teachers
and coaches, effectiveness reporting, and so
much more.
In this session, we will explore the top
challenges that districts face and share
solutions to increase academic and nonacademic
insights for all students regardless of
the data source or assessment platform. We
will also highlight our interactive district-level
to whole child data management solution that
can maximize results.
Key takeaways will include:
• Support the whole child through datadriven
academic and intervention data.
• Strengthen Tier 1 instruction and
promote proactive and early Tier 2 and 3
interventions.
• Evaluate effectiveness and improve
outcomes for every student and school
• Data management made easy – it’s all here!
INCREASING COACHING
CAPACITY THROUGH
INNOVATION AND LEARNING
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
• Tyson Eslinger, Superintendent,
Deerfield USD 216
• Chris Everett, Engage 2 Learn
• Kim Mauk, Southwest Plains
Regional Service Center
• Brittany Schields, Southwest Plains
Regional Service Center
Learn how USD 216 Deerfield Public Schools
utilizes support from eGrowLab partnered
with consultants from Southwest Plains
Regional Service Center. The eGrowLab
platform provides teachers with a consistent
coaching structure that leads to intentional,
evidence-based coaching conversations and
ultimately, educator and learner growth, all
documented and easily analyzed through
detailed, customizable reporting. This
partnership has built coaching capacity
with SWPRSC consultants and provided
the framework for direct work with USD
216 Deerfield to build the capacity of their
teachers. The intentional capacity building
has been a key strategy for ensuring that the
Kansas Can Personalized Learning Initiative is
being implemented with fidelity in all Kansas
schools.
44

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
SETTING UP FOR SUCCESS:
ONBOARDING NEW BOARD
MEMBERS
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 A
Presenter(s):
• Lori Blake, Leadership Services
Consultant, KASB
• Steve Karlin, KASB
Come learn about practices to set up a
culture for effective board governance with
newly elected board members.
AVOIDING ADMINISTRATOR
BURNOUT: HOW TO STAY
PASSIONATE ABOUT
EDUCATION!
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 B
Presenter(s):
• Clark McCracken, Principal,
Lexington Trails Middle School, De
Soto USD 232
Whether you are feeling the stress
and burnout that comes with being an
administrator or not, this session is for you.
We will look at how you keep (or regain)
the passion that all administrators need to
be the instructional leader of your building.
Participants will workshop proven time-saving,
stress-relieving practices so they can focus on
the parts of the job that bring them the most
joy. If you participated in “How To Make Time
To Be An Instructional Leader” last year, this is
a great follow-up and next step.
45
THE CAMERAS KEEP ROLL’N:
AN IN DEPTH LOOK AT
DISCIPLINE FOR STUDENTS
WHO SHARE/RECEIVE VIDEOS
AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHS OF
PROHIBITED CONDUCT, AND/
OR THUMBS UP OR FORWARD
THE CONTENT
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
This presentation will address how to use
the District’s student code of conduct to
appropriately discipline students who share/
receive videos and/or photographs of
prohibited conduct, and/or thumbs up or
forward the content. We will cover common
pitfalls that may implicate first amendment
free speech protections as well as give
practical examples on how to properly
identify the discipline worthy conduct.
ADMINISTRATOR SELF CARE
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Patrick Crowdis, Superintendent,
Hoisington USD 431
District and building administrators are
hardworking individuals that many times fail

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to take care of yourself or those around you.
This presentation will give you permission
to set the phone and computer aside and
refocus on what is really important. Hopefully
you will gain at least one idea you as an
administrator can utilize individually, with
other administrators or with your family to
take that time to take care of oneself, so you
will be able to give your best to your building,
district and students.
and Adelyn bring a wealth of experience and
knowledge and will help empower you to take
the next step in being the instructional leader
you want to be!
CREATING A CULTURE
OF INSTRUCTIONAL
EXCELLENCE - YES YOU!
Time: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Jaclyn Pfizenmaier, Director of
Curriculum & Instruction, Clay
County USD 379
• Adelyn Soellner, Valley Center USD
262
Administrators are busy, and instructional
excellence often gets pushed to the side.
You want to be an instructional leader, but
how can you do that with all that is on your
plate? Where do you start? What do you
need to know? What if curriculum is “not
your thing”? What if it is? Come learn how to
create a culture of excellence around teaching
and learning by just asking a few questions.
Learn how to motivate others to talk and
think about teaching and learning even when
you are not around. You will also leave with
a couple ideas you can use to promote
instructional talk within your district. Jaclyn
46

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
9:30-10:15 A.M.
SEE THE FULL STORY,
PLAN FOR SUCCESS WITH
MYEDUCATIONDATA
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Peach 201 A
Presenter(s):
• Skyler Lightner, Principal, Ingalls
USD 477
• Ted Brown, Ingalls USD 477
• Justin White, Data Insight Partners
• Nathan Trenholm, Data Insight
Partners
• Kim Mauk, Southwest Plains
Regional Service Center
Ever wondered how to get a full picture
of your students’ academic and personal
journey? Join us for an engaging session on
MyEducationData, a tool that’s changing the
game in using academic insights and planning.
Discover how districts like Ingalls USD 477
are using MyEducationData to view everything
about a student - from state and benchmark
assessments to grades and personal interests.
This comprehensive approach gives a deeper
understanding of each student, helping
teachers and parents alike.
But that’s not all. Learn how this detailed
student story can be turned into effective
academic plans. Whether it’s intervention
plans, ESOL learning plans, or tracking
47
student progress, MyEducationData makes
it simpler. With its integrated data and easyto-use
templates, teachers can focus more
on improving student learning rather than
paperwork.
Hear directly from the users at Ingalls USD
about their experiences and successes. This
session is perfect for educators looking to
make informed plans and truly support their
students.
CURRENT STATE OF
STUDENT LOANS &
FORGIVENESS PROGRAMS
FOR DISTRICT EMPLOYEES
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Landon Warmund, Certified Student
Loan Professional, Teachers With a
Plan LLC
Do you or your staff feel a bit overwhelmed
when it comes to navigating student loans?
You’re not alone! The student loan system is
larger and more complex than most think.
Often times when individuals try to get their
student loans under control, they simply don’t
know where to start, can’t get trusted help, or
they just don’t know which federal programs
are applicable to them. Listen to Certified
Student Loan Professional, Landon Warmund
as he breaks down the current state of
student loans. Landon will be going over all
the temporary programs available, upcoming
changes to the system, a breakdown of the

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current forgiveness programs available to
educators, and what you can do to make sure
your employees are getting the help they need
when it comes to student loans.
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
THROUGH SYSTEMS
LEADERSHIP
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Tim Leffert, Principal, Piper Middle
School, USD 203
The role of a K12 administrator can be
overwhelming if every issue is reacted to
individually without creating proactive systems
to overcome recurring obstacles. In this
presentation participants will engage with the
tools needed to address complex challenges
in the K12 setting through the framework
of systems leadership. Participants should
come with a problem or obstacle in mind
they would like to tackle in the upcoming
year with the goal of creating a plan of action
throughout the presentation.
BUILDING A RESILIENT
SCHOOL
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz, Director
of Student Services/Resilience Team
Lead, ESSDACK
How do we build both physically and
emotionally safe schools and classrooms?
What new understanding of human
behavior will be helpful as we endeavor
to create change for our kids? What can
we do both today and long term to create
better outcomes for students, staff, and the
community?
In the realm of trauma-informed education,
the Resilience Science and Framework
emerge as a beacon of hope and actionable
strategies. This session aims to delve into the
essence of resilience, exploring its scientific
underpinnings and providing practical insights
on fostering resilience in ourselves, colleagues,
and, most importantly, our students. By
employing co-regulation hacks, we can actively
contribute to transforming outcomes and
creating a positive impact in the educational
landscape.
48

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
ADVANCED SEMINAR IN
SCHOOL FINANCE & BUDGET
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Kellen Adams, Superintendent,
Leavenworth USD 453
• Sheila Meggers, Assistant
Superintendent of Finance,
Hutchinson USD 308
This session seeks to further advance the
concepts presented in School Finance &
Budget Basics for KS School Leaders. The
two primary areas developed will be school
finance and school budget, with a third area of
focus on the building needs assessment. The
concepts presented will include:
• Understanding state aid
• Mill rate calculations
• Deeper dive into the Legal Max
• Budgeting from macro (district) and micro
(building/site) levels
• Developing the needs assessment process
CONNECTING THE “DOTTES”:
#FUTUREREADY SUCCESS
FOR ALL
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Dr. John Nguyen, Assistant
Superintendent, Piper USD 203
• Polly Vader, Piper USD 203
Every school system is unique and is
connected by a shared aspiration: that all
49
students have an educational experience
preparing them to be successful postgraduation.
Now more than ever, that learning
experience must not only provide for the
acquisition of rigorous academic content, but it
must also be more intentional about fostering
critical thinking, encompassing specific 21stcentury
skills, and habits of mind needed
to navigate and thrive in a complex, rapidly
changing world.
Piper High School works to ensure that
its graduates are future-ready for their
postsecondary pursuits through the
implementation of six wall-to-wall academies
that house twenty-four different sectors. These
sectors provide a clear course of study that
ties closely to the Kansas State Department
of Education’s Career and Technical Education
pathways. The Academy experience culminates
in a year-long Capstone course that allows
students to showcase their work and create
industry-specific experiences that reflect their
unique learning
The Senior Capstone Experience at Piper
High School is twofold, both of which are
rooted in the design thinking process and
are constructed to create authentic realworld
experiences for students. The first
component is a connection with real-world
industry partners. Students engage with
working professionals via client-connected
Senior Capstone Experience projects,
internships, and entrepreneurial experiences.
It is the ‘experience’ portion of the Senior
Capstone Experience. The second component
is a culminating public presentation of their

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experience that incorporates key artifacts
that document the student’s research and
progress toward attaining a Market Value Asset
and the district Portrait of a Piper Graduate
Competencies.
TRANSFORMING ATHLETIC
FACILITIES
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• Steve Noble, Director of Business
Development, Mammoth Sports
Construction
• Dr. Jessica Dain, Piper USD 202
• Bryce Wachs, Fort Larned USD 495
Athletic facilities are more than just spaces
for your sports teams. They can also be your
largest classroom/community spaces. This
session will provide a learning opportunity
from two current Kansas superintendents
who will share their expertise in how master
planning, design, estimation, communication,
and implementation are all critical stages
in facility transformation. Dr. Steve Noble,
retired superintendent of schools and
current Director of Business Development
at Mammoth Sports Construction will
facilitate the conversation. This will be a highly
interactive and engaging session.
50

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
NAVIGATING CHANGE IN
INNOVATIVE LEARNING
ENVIRONMENTS: SHAWNEE
MISSION SCHOOL DISTRICT’S
PROJECT BUILDING MANUAL
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Tyler Clubb, Director of Facilities,
Shawnee Mission USD 512
• Justin Durham, Hollis + Miller
Architects
• Jenny Lake, Hollis + Miller Architects
In the dynamic landscape of modern
education, change is an undeniable constant.
As the Shawnee Mission School District
prepared to unveil two innovative elementary
schools, educators, administrators, and staff
found themselves navigating not only the
evolving educational culture but also the
challenges of effectively teaching in a state-ofthe-art
facility.
Beyond the usual adjustments, such as
locating the nurse’s office or estimating the
time it takes for third graders to journey
to the Media Center, these educators had
the additional task of understanding and
leveraging the new learning spaces, amenities,
and tools integrated into the environment.
Recognizing the importance of documenting
and elucidating the rationale behind these
innovations, Shawnee Mission Administration
partnered with Hollis + Miller Architects
to create an interactive Building Manual.
This comprehensive online resource aims
51
to visually convey the purpose behind the
new spaces and tools to a vital group of
stakeholders.
This new tool helps educators and staff
discover the ‘why’ behind key design decisions
and embark on a self-guided tour exploring
the LEED features seamlessly integrated into
each building. Join us as we delve into the
creation and impact of this interactive tool,
shedding light on its transformative influence
on the educational team and the learning
environment.
STARTING AN ALTERNATIVE
SCHOOL
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Tyler Applegate, Assistant Principal,
Chanute High School, USD 413
Join us as we tell our story about creating an
Alternative School at Chanute. From research
and creating a vision, to implementation, staff,
physical space, student application, curriculum,
and day to day operations.

#USAKS24
LIONS, TIGERS AND PARAS!
OH MY! A COMPREHENSIVE
APPROACH TO PROVIDING
HIGH QUALITY CONSISTENT
TRAINING FOR ALL
PARAEDUCATORS
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
• Andrea Palmer, Executive Director
of Professional Development, Maize
USD 266
• Lisa Ellis, Maize USD 266
• Brandi Clarke, Maize USD 266
Maize USD 266 knows that paras play a key
role in our schools. We heard from our paras,
teachers, and administrators that paras want
and need high quality and consistent training.
In response, we developed a long range
professional development plan to meet the
unique needs of paraeducators who serve
in a variety of roles. Our new Para Academy
equips our paras with the skills they need to
best serve students and provides them with
opportunities to connect with peers. Through
these efforts we anticipate improved retention
of staff who are confident and capable of
serving our students. We are excited to share
our program outline, successes and lessons
learned during the first year.
WANTED: ADVOCATES FOR
PUBLIC EDUCATION - NO
EXPERIENCE NECESSARY
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 A
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Steve Karlin, Assistant Professor,
Newman University
• Judith Deedy, Director, Game On for
Kansas Schools
Now is the time for “all hands on deck”. Our
public school system is under attack from
entities inside and outside our state. There is
an actual plot to eradicate public schools as
we know them. District and building leaders
are big supporters of Kansas public schools.
These leaders may be hesitant to approach
state legislators due to a lack of expertise and
experience in these matters. This presentation
will arm attendees with talking points and/
or strategies to use when advocating for our
public schools. The time for action is now!
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LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024
RESILIENCY PRACTICES AND
INTERVENTIONS WITHIN
A BSEL MTSS FRAMEWORK
THAT PROVIDE LOVE AND
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS
AND IMPROVES BEHAVIOR!
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 B
Presenter(s):
• Eric Nachtigal, Behavior Intervention
Consultant, ESSDACK
Come join this engaging and interactive
session to learn about Trauma Informed Tier
I Best Practices for learning, teaching, and
regulating...as well as how to amplify Tier I
practices into Tier II and Tier III Interventions
to support students’ BSEL needs. We’ll discuss
and collaborate on daily classroom practices,
interventions, and resources schools and
teachers can implement immediately into their
daily practices and learning environments!
I NEED A LIFELINE: WHEN
AND WHO TO GET INVOLVED
IN INVESTIGATIONS BOTH
AT THE STUDENT AND STAFF
LEVELS
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
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This presentation will provide real world
examples addressing multiple legal issues
(discrimination, harassment, insubordination,
etc.) that require an investigation and
provide listeners with a practical approach to
identifying the conduct and using the correct
policies/procedures to guide the investigation.
Most importantly, the presentation will help
listeners identify the appropriate personnel
legally required to be involved in specific
investigations.
ARE YOU A SUCCESSFUL
SCHOOL LEADER?
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Justin B. Henry, Superintendent,
Goddard USD 265
If school leadership were easy, anyone could
do it. Do you take time to reflect on what
makes you a successful leader, or are you so
busy running from crisis to crisis that you
don’t take time to consider the characteristics
of successful leaders?
As Dale Carnegie stated, “Happiness doesn’t
depend on outward conditions. It depends
on inner conditions.” In this presentation, we
will review the importance of school leaders
taking the time each week to invest in their
own well-being and making it a priority to
read and reflect on their leadership skills.
Additionally, we will review how the Light on
Leadership app and leadership research can
help you achieve your goals.

#USAKS24
INFLUENCING BOARD
CULTURE
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Raquel Greer, Superintendent,
Maize USD 266
• Kerry Fellows, USD 266 Board
PresidentDr. Jeff Jarman, former USD
266 Board President
Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast. This
quote was attributed to management guru
Peter Drucker back in 2006 and then made
famous by Mark Fields, who later became
chief executive of Ford Motor Company. In
the post-COVID era, school board culture
has become an important element that
impacts the success of a district. How does
a superintendent influence a positive board
culture and connect its members with
meaningful participation in our work, while
maintaining appropriate boundaries with
respect to the role of board members? In this
session, learn about the intentional steps used
by a superintendent and BOE president to
build a successful board culture and facilitate
appropriate board member engagement. The
effort yielded a 20 percentage point change in
teacher perception of board leadership on the
Emporia State University teacher retention
study between 2021 and 2023.
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LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
10:30-11:15 A.M.
HELPING THE WHOLE CHILD:
STRENGTHENING STUDENT
OUTCOMES THROUGH
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Kara Schuetz, Coordinator of
School Psychology, Topeka USD 501
• Brett Martin, Vice President of
Community Impact with United Way
of Kaw Valley
A collaboration among seven Shawnee County
community partners and Topeka Public
Schools (USD501) began in 2020 with a vision
to improve economic and social mobility
within our community by increasing access to
early educational and social supports. Focusing
on low-income children and caregivers, we
sought to (1) identify the most accessible
programs within our early childhood systems,
(2) increase coordination among Shawnee
Country agencies, and (3) address the factors
impeding families’ access to community
services. Academic research was conducted
using inter-agency data to analyze the
correlation between kindergarten students’
performance on academic and socialemotional
assessments with their participation
in early childhood community resources.
Ultimately, our findings were used to develop
the Whole Family Coalition, which is centered
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around 2Gen research from Ascend at the
Aspen Institute, and includes more than
40 cross-sector partners across Shawnee
and Douglas counties. Our presentation
will share how other school districts may
replicate our successes by identifying effective
community partnerships in order to maximize
opportunities and outcomes for low-income
families. We will highlight the findings of our
academic research, discuss our grant funding,
identify the systems changes and action steps
that have resulted from the Whole Family
Coalition, and the timeline of implementation.
CREATING A ROOFING
STANDARD THAT PREVENTS
FUTURE LOSS
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Kelly Coryell, Sales Manager, Coryell
Roofing
• Jeremy Hey
• Mike Couch
• Mindy Bruce
The Importance of Roofing for Your District.
How this can help your School District.
FINDING OUR WAY OUT OF
THE RIVER OF CRUELTY
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz, Director
of Student Services/Resilience Team
Lead, ESSDACK

#USAKS24
Is violence an issue in your district? Are the
adults struggling with how to show up to
these incidents with students?
In this experiential session, after we learn how
to do a trauma-informed check-in, we will dig
into our survival in the River of Cruelty. The
river flows from generation to generation
and at some point, we all find ourselves in
this river. To survive the emotional loads
experienced by being thrown into the river,
we build defense systems. These defense
systems are necessary, but all too often we
hang onto them, even after the cruelty has
stopped and this creates consequences in our
lives. The existence in the river also embeds
belief systems within us that ultimately, if not
examined and challenged, wind up permitting
us to throw others in the same river... and
thus the cycle continues.
There are ways out of the River of Cruelty.
One of the most profound ways to get out
is through the presence of an Enlightened
Witness. Someone who just showed up in our
lives and cared for us, and we didn’t have to
earn it. We will close with a call to action for
restorative work in our schools to help all the
kids impacted by cruelty.
• Ryan Jones, Assistant Principal/
Activities Director
Struggling to get staff to attend PD? Are your
coaches watching film in the back disengaged?
This session is all about ways to get the
most out of your building level professional
development days with proven strategies for
engagement. Ty and Ryan are 1st year Assistant
Principals with 30 years combined classroom
experience ready to give you ideas that will
energize your time with staff. Topics covered:
Buy-in, Intentional teaching, Choice PD, RCD
installation, Using Feedback, and Review
Strategies.
Designing the Learning
Environment Experience
LEVELING UP YOUR STAFF PD
DAYS
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Ty Unrau, Assistant Principal/
Athletic Director, Valley Center
Middle School, USD 262
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Turner Middle School, Kansas City, KS
RACHEL R. TREANOR, CPSM
K-12 Education
Business Development Leader
rtreanor@dlrgroup.com
913.685.5685
Read More

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
BUILDING TRUST
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Todd Dain, Principal, Shawnee
Mission South High School, USD 512
As an educational leader, everything you
do impacts your ability to foster trust.
Consciously or unconsciously, you establish
the level of trust in your school. We must
be emotionally intelligent when it comes
to proactive planning, decision making, and
responding to situations. Building trust is a
delicate process and can seem arduous at
times. So much of this aspect of leadership is
inherent in a principal’s personality. However,
as leaders we need to be intentional about
enhancing our own skill set and improving
our communication tool box. In this session,
attendees will learn about TRUST BUILDERS
and TRUST KILLERS that are paramount to
being intentional about fostering trust. Once
you begin wielding these tools, it will soon
become second nature and part of your
culture - and that is where we all can make
the biggest impact in our schools.
DEFINING SCHOOL
IMPROVEMENT IN KANSAS
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Ben Proctor, Deputy
Commissioner, Kansas State
Department of Education
• Myron Melton
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• Dr. Jake Steel
• Dr. Jay Scott
It’s been stated many times in many different
ways but the premise holds true - success
in anything is a natural consequence of
consistently applying the basic fundamentals.
The KSDE believes that student success
follows when fundamental practices are
applied consistently, and in an effective manner,
in each classroom across the state. During this
session, the KSDE will share its definition of
school improvement, which is rooted in four
fundamental practices - structured literacy,
balanced assessment, standards alignment, and
quality instruction. In the context of these
four fundamentals, the discussion will delve
into the critical role of an instructional leader
and the importance of building coherence in
your school or district’s improvement model.
If you are an instructional leader or aspire to
improve in this area, this session is for you.
EXPERIENCE THE BEST
TEACHER
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Dan Brungardt, Supt, Bonner
Springs/Edwardsville USD 204
In this presentation, a thirty--year
veteran School Superintendent/Building
Administrator will delve into the art of
successful collaboration with Board of
Education Members. Drawing upon a wealth
of experience and a proven track record, the

#USAKS24
seasoned superintendent will share insights
and strategies that have been instrumental in
fostering positive relationships and achieving
goals.
Expect to gain valuable perspectives on
aligning superintendent goals with board
expectations, overcoming challenges, and
sustaining a collaborative spirit over the long
term. This session is not only an opportunity
to learn from a seasoned professional
but also a chance to explore the evolving
landscape of educational leadership. Join the
presentation and learn the keys to successful
superintendent-board relationships that
transcended decades of invaluable experience.
ACTIVITY FUNDS - BEST
PRACTICES
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Sheila Meggers, Assistant
Superintendent of Finance,
Hutchinson USD 308
• Matt Morford, Chief Financial
Officer, Maize USD 266
EMPOWERING EDUCATORS:
LEADING TEACHER EFFICACY
FOR ENHANCED LEARNING
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
• Mischel Miller, Executive Director,
Kansas Educational Leadership
Institute, Kansas State University
Join me for an insightful session that delves
into the critical role of educational leaders
in fostering and leading teacher efficacy.
Teacher efficacy is the belief in one’s ability
to positively impact student outcomes, and
is a cornerstone of effective teaching. In this
session, we will explore strategies and best
practices for educational leaders to cultivate
an environment that nurtures and enhances
teacher efficacy. All educators are welcome!
The most common area for fraud to occur is
in student activity funds. What processes and
procedures can you put in place to safeguard
activity funds? Building administrators have
many daily responsibilities. It is easy to
overlook activity funds. This session will
include:
• Management of Activity Funds
• Allowable uses of Activity Funds
• Sales Tax
• Fundraising/Accounting Best Practices
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LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
CONNECTING THE DOTS:
BRIDGING NEEDS, STRATEGY,
BUDGET, AND KESA 2.0
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 A
Presenter(s):
• Britton Hart, Assistant Executive
Director of Leadership Services,
KASB
• Dr. Marty Stessman, Director of
Executive Leadership, USA-Kansas
This session is designed to serve as a
comprehensive guide for administrators,
fostering a deeper understanding of the
intricate connections between needs
assessments, strategic planning, budgeting, and
the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation
(KESA) 2.0 framework. Participants will
leave with practical insights and actionable
strategies to ensure decisions align with
district’s goals in order to drive student
success.
THE SCIENCE OF TEACHING
READING: HOW STRUCTURED
LITERACY CAN EMPOWER
ALL STUDENTS
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Cypress 209 B
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Laura Tortorelli, Associate
Professor in the Department of
Teacher Education at Michigan State
University, Just Right Reader
Dr. Tortorelli of Michigan State University will
describe what the Science of Reading reveals
about how children learn to read and how
to use the Science of Teaching Reading in
classroom literacy instruction. She will discuss
common myths, which key factors to look for
in your high-quality instructional materials, and
how a structured literacy approach can help
teachers empower every student to become a
stronger reader and writer.
TALKS THAT TOE THE
LINE: NAVIGATING
DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS
WITH EMPLOYEES
SURROUNDING LEGALLY
PROTECTED CONDUCT (I.E.
PERFORMANCE ISSUES)
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
This presentation will provide practical tools
to use during conversations with employees/
staff surrounding conduct that may be legally
protected. Listeners will learn buzz words,
how to recognize non-verbal cues that
may identify legally protected matters, and
a process on how to prepare for difficult
conversations before they occur.
59

#USAKS24
CULTURE = STUDENT
ATTITUDE + STAFF ATTITUDE
+ COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Greg Rosenhagen, Principal, Cheney
High School, USD 268
• Jill Albers, USD 268
• Travis Johnson, USD 268
We are privileged to live and work in a
community that so deeply cares about the
schools. Our school is entrenched in the
community and our patrons have great pride
in our students, staff, and our programs. Our
students and staff believe that we need to
invest in our community and sit willing to
contribute our efforts to community projects.
We have an excellent working relationship
with our city government, police force,
chamber of commerce, and recreational
programs. With a community that cares so
deeply about our schools, it allows for all to
be involved in the culture of our buildings and
the attitudes of our students and staff. Go
Cardinals!
UPDATE ON THE
LEGISLATURE
Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Jerry Henn, Associate Executive
Director, USA-Kansas
• Jim Karlskint, Director of Legislative
Services, USA-Kansas
• Dave Younger, Representative
This session will focus on what was passed in
the Kansas Legislature for 2024.
60

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
12:45-1:30 P.M.
UNLOCK PARENT
ENGAGEMENT: PROACTIVE
OUTREACH AND TELLING
STUDENT STORIES
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 A
Presenter(s):
• Ty Theurer, Superintendent,
Comanche County USD 300
• Liz Plunkett, Syracuse USD 294
• Elizabeth Thomeczek, Syracuse USD
294
• Matt Jellison, Comanche County
USD 300
• Bud Valerius - Comanche County
USD 300
• Nathan Trenholm, Data Insight
Partners
• Justin White, Data Insight Partners
• Kim Mauk, Southwest Plains
Regional Service Center
Are you ready to revolutionize the way your
district communicates with parents?
Join us for an insightful session on harnessing
the power of MyEducationData to proactively
engage parents in their child’s education
journey. Discover how this innovative platform
empowers schools to craft a comprehensive
narrative for each student, featuring
personalized weekly highlights for parents,
without putting more work on staff.
61
Hear firsthand from the trailblazers at
Syracuse USD 294 and Comanche County
USD 300 as they share their success
stories and practical tips. Learn how they’ve
leveraged the personalized newsletter system
of MyEducationData to transform parentteacher
communication, ensuring every
parent stays informed and connected to their
child’s academic progress. And, learn about
the powerful tools included for teachers and
school leaders.
This session is a must-attend for educators
seeking to foster a more collaborative and
informed educational environment.
USING DATA TO REDUCE
VARIABILITY IN THE
CLASSROOM
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Chad Schuetz, Principal, Blackmore
Elementary, USD 490
• Judy Slayton, Blackmore Elementary,
USD 490
This session will provide an opportunity
to learn about McRel’s What Matters Most
Framework, specifically focused on “Data
Driven Systems.” Participants will learn about
setting “no excuse goals” that are tied to
KESA goals. Participants will also look at how
the data is used to find facts and observations,
interpretations of the data, and develop a plan
of action.

#USAKS24
BREAKING BARRIERS:
ENHANCING MENTAL
HEALTH FOR MIDDLE
SCHOOL-AGED STUDENTS
THROUGH THE KANSAS
MHIT PROGRAM
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Tom Albers, Principal, Hays Middle
School, USD 489
• Jamie Malone, PMHNP-BC,
Behavioral Health Liaison, Hays USD
489
• Donna Lubbers, Ed.S. School
Counselor, Hays USD 489
• Olivia Zellmer, MS, School
Counselor, Hays USD 489
• Julie Zollinger, Ed.S., NCSP, School
Psychologist, Hays USD 489
The Mental Health Intervention Team (MHIT),
a grant-funded initiative by the Kansas
Department of Education in collaboration
with the Association of Community Mental
Health Centers of Kansas, addresses barriers
to mental health services for Kansas schoolaged
children. Established in 2018 with funds
from Governor Kelly’s budget, the program
situates mental health services within schools
during the school day. Behavioral health
liaisons, supported by grants covering 75%
of their salary, collaborate with school and
mental health staff. Local school district funds
cover the remaining 25%. Program funding has
grown, enabling 182 liaisons in 90 districts for
the 2023-2024 school year.
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USD 489 Hays, a participant since 2019-
2020, employs two behavioral health
liaisons to coordinate school-based mental
health services in partnership with High
Plains Mental Health Center, Hays. This
collaboration reduces barriers to services
and benefits Hays school children and families.
The presentation delves into the MHIT
Program’s implementation at a rural middle
school, aiming to enhance school attendance,
academic engagement, and address internal
(anxiety, depressive symptoms) and external
symptoms (in/out of school suspensions, office
visits, nurse visits).
Your partner for creating energy
efficient, cost-effective, and
sustainable learning environments.
Stop by our booth
to discuss your energy
saving possibilities!
Ryan Terry
Luke Lindesmith
913-344-0049
navitas.us.com

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
HELP YOUR STUDENTS GET
A GREAT PAYING JOB &
CAREER-ALL FREE!
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Brad Starnes, Build Up Kansas
Education Coordinator, Associated
General Contractors of Kansas/Build
Up Kansas
• PJ Reilly, BUK
• Humberto Jimenez, BUK
Teaming with AGCKS-Build Up Kansas can
provide a plan for your students to receive
a life long nationally recognized National
Center for Construction Education and
Research (NCCER)credential in over 75
different areas. BUK will train your teacher,
provide all textbooks and pay for the NCCER
testing subscription-ALL FREE while helping
your school’s VE-II/Perkins funding, raising
your schools KSDE Success/Effective rates by
providing a credential and keeping taxpayers
in Kansas-helping your local school budgets!
Kansas needs 58,000 construction jobs in next
3-5 years and students start at entry level of
$60,000 right out of high school with NO
school debt. KS Board of Regents (KBOR)
has recognized NCCER as the construction
curriculum, has articulation agreements with
community/tech colleges and 4 year colleges/
universities-so your students can receive
concurrent/dual credit all free and providing
your school district needed Vocational funding.
Not all students need to go to college to
be successful-BUK can help you help your
students and school districts!
63
RECRUITING AND RETAINING
DIFFERENT GENERATIONS
IN TODAY’S EDUCATOR
SHORTAGE
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Andy Koenigs, Employee
Benefits/Account Executive, IMA
Financial Group
• Jalaa Miller, IMA Financial Group
We all know the critical shortage of workers
in education today. Finding and keeping top
talent will be the most difficult challenge
for school leaders in future. This session
will explore what different generations in
the workforce want from their employers
and in their workplaces. We will discuss
the main factors in pay, benefits, workplace
environments, and leadership that keep quality
employees, and how to keep a pulse on
employee satisfaction.
THE JOHN WOODEN WAY
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Tom Trigg, USA-Kansas Consultant
The name John Wooden is synonymous with
winning championships. While many focus
on the incredible results on the court of the
10-time NCAA Basketball Championship
Coach, John Wooden’s success was about
so much more than winning basketball
games. The John Wooden Way focuses on

#USAKS24
leadership principles that are transferrable
to any organization or team. This session
will provide an overview of the leadership
principles that were instrumental in propelling
John Wooden, considered by many to be The
Greatest Coach of All-Time to his ultimate
success. While winning basketball games was
often the outcome, it was never the goal of
The Wooden Way. By learning the process
Coach Wooden used to achieve success,
any organization can apply these principals
to ultimately achieve true success. Topics
included are: The Definition of Success, The
Seven Foundations and Fundamentals, The
Seven Point Creed, The Two Sets of Three, and
The Pyramid of Success.
SAFETY IN SCHOOL WITH
TECHNOLOGY
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• Jake Strecker, Chief Sales Officer/Co-
Owner, INA Alert
WHAT DISTRICTS MISS IN
ATTRACTING TALENT
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Tyler Vawser, VP of Marketing,
SchoolCEO
Attracting and retaining talent is a crucial
challenge for many districts. Based on the
SchoolCEO 2023 multigenerational study of
teachers, you will learn key misconceptions
about recruiting teachers, what your
prospective staff is actually looking for, and
private sector best practices on how to stand
out.
https://www.schoolceo.com/a/our-teachersatisfaction-survey-spanned-generations/
We will discuss topics of safety in schools
across KS. What measures they’ve used
Technology to address the need for Safety.
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LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
GROWING OUR OWN!
WESTERN KANSAS CAREERS
SHOWCASES
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Joe Coles, Teammate, Western
Kansas Careers Showcases
• Dr. Marty Stessman, USA-Kansas
Goal: Encourage graduates to have a career
they are passionate about through exploration
of Western Kansas career opportunities.
Mission: Create partnerships with young
adults and local organizations to explore
careers, build connections, and encourage
young adults to remain in Western Kansas.
Over the past three years, we brought
together high school students, professional
educators, and businesses to explore Western
Kansas and rural careers.
We do this by putting on showcase’s that
paired students with professional educators
to share career opportunities right here in
our area. Develop relationships, and build
connections that can start by job shadowing,
work study, and apprenticeships.
attended our rural showcases.
Over 30 businesses and professional
organizations participated in our rural
showcases. Three local community colleges
and two other colleges have also participated
in the showcases.
We partner with USA Kansas and Southwest
Plain’s Regional Service Center.
This is more than a career day! We teach first
impression and essential skills through our
student-led team made of from students from
several schools in our area!
LEVERAGE YOUR GIFTS:
TRANSFORM YOUR TEAMS
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
• Tammy Fellers, Director of
Professional Learning, ESSDACK
Join us for an interactive session delving
into Patrick Lencioni’s powerful framework
of the “Working Genius.” Discover how to
tap into your innate talents to excel in your
professional endeavors and find fulfillment in
your work.
Our career showcases focused on Agriculture,
Education, Technical/Vocational, Healthcare,
Business Entrepreneurship, City/County
Essentials, and Multi-Career paths.
Over 1000 students and professional
educators from 30 different school districts
65
In this session, we’ll explore:
• Understanding Your Working Genius:
Identify your unique strengths and how
they align with Lencioni’s model of working
genius: Wonder, Invention, Discernment,
Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity

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• Unlocking Team Potential: Learn how
to leverage the working genius of team
members to enhance collaboration,
productivity, and overall team performance
• Overcoming Challenges: Explore strategies
for overcoming common obstacles teams
might encounter when a working genius is
absent.
Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your
team’s performance and cultivate a workplace
where everyone contributes their best.
*Optional: Take the Working Genius
Assessment before coming and bring your
results. Go to workinggenius.com to purchase
the $25 assessment
BUILDING LEADERSHIP
BRIDGES: UNDERSTANDING
THE ROLE OF THE BOARD
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Cypress 209 A
Presenter(s):
• Alma Henry, Director of Leadership
Services, KASB
• Dr. Britton Hart, Assistant Executive
Director of Leadership Services,
KASB
Step into an exploration of visionary
leadership with our session on the
Foundations of Boardsmanship, uniquely
tailored for building leaders. This session
is designed to equip building leaders with
an understanding of the intricate roles
and responsibilities of their local board of
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education. We aim to empower participants
with strategic insights on how they can
meaningfully contribute and positively impact
the overall system within their districts.
Participants will dissect the governance
blueprint that guides local boards of education,
gaining a comprehensive understanding of the
decision-making processes, policies, and ethical
considerations that shape the educational
landscape. Through interactive discussions,
leaders will explore how their unique position
can be leveraged to drive positive change and
contribute to the district’s overarching goals.
SURVIVING SPECIAL
EDUCATION FROM THE
PRINCIPAL’S CHAIR
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Cypress 209 B
Presenter(s):
• Cara Ledy, Director of Principal
Leadership, USA-Kansas; Executive
Director, Kansas Principals
Association
• Ann Mathews, Executive Director,
Kansas Association of Special
Education Administrators
This session will discuss the delivery of
requirements, share tips and ideas for IEPS,
Manifestation Determination hearings,
Behavior Intervention plans, and more. We will
end the session with time for Q & A.

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
READING BETWEEN THE
LINES: STUDENT/STAFF
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
Often times students subjected to sexual
harassment by adults do not respond openly
and honestly about what has occurred. The lack
of candid information blurs the line concerning
next steps. This presentation will discuss
the preliminary investigation steps in staffstudent
sexual harassment investigations and
provide the listener with tools to use during
preliminary interviews. We will dive into proper
communication, boundaries, and when involving
law enforcement and other agencies becomes
appropriate.
CONVERSATIONS THAT
COUNT: A STRATEGIC
APPROACH TO SCHOOL
CULTURE AND STAFF
RETENTION
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Rebekah Varvel, Assistant
Director of Special Education,
Leavenworth USD 453
• Amy Jo Troyer, Assistant Director of
Human Resources, USD 453
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• Dr. Kellen Adams, Superintendent,
USD 453
Embark on a transformative journey with
‘Conversations that Count,’ where the trainers
from USD 453 unveil a strategic approach to
revolutionize school culture and enhance staff
retention. This presentation delves into the
power of purposeful dialogue, exploring how
Crucial Conversations serve as a cornerstone
for fostering positive relationships and a
thriving school environment. By prioritizing
meaningful conversations, we’re not just shaping
communication; we’re shaping the future of our
school district. Join us as we outline a roadmap
for success, emphasizing the profound impact
of intentional dialogue on staff satisfaction,
collaboration, and, retention.
IMPROVING ATTENDANCE
THROUGH INTENTIONAL
COMMUNICATION,
EDUCATION AND
CELEBRATIONS FOR TODAY’S
SCHOOL COMMUNITY
Time: 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Heath Henderson, Principal, Skelly
Elementary, USD 490
• Emma Culbertson Student Support
Liaison
Building the relationships between school and
home to increase attendance and engagement
is a never ending process. During this process
it is important to ask a few questions. How

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do we educate the school community about
attendance laws? How are we communicating
with our school community? How are we
celebrating our students, staff, and school with
our school community? We will talk about
engaging and partnering with our community
through digital communication and education.
We will explore the benefits of a schoolwide
brainsmart start. Finally we will delve into the
importance of intentional celebrations and
when to do those.
1:45-2:30 P.M.
session is ideal for educators, administrators,
and technology leaders looking to enhance
their leadership skills and integrate AI into their
practices.
THE REVENUE PLAYBOOK:
WINNING THE REVENUE
GAME
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Drew Thon, Former District Athletic
Director; Current Director of HR,
Garden City USD 457
TITLE: HARNESSING AI WITH
NO-CODE CHAT BUILDERS:
ELEVATE LEADERSHIP
WORKSHOP SERIES
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 A
Presenter(s):
• Alan Landever, AI Strategy
Consultant
• Jara Wilson, USA-Kansas
In this session, participants will be introduced
to a powerful no-code chat builder and an AI
tool that has been trained using this innovative
platform. The presentation will demonstrate
how to effectively use this tool we developed
for the Elevate Leadership Workshop series.
Attendees will gain insights into the practical
applications of AI in educational settings and
explore the current USA-Kansas strategy for
fostering AI adoption and exploration. This
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“The Revenue Playbook: Winning the Revenue
Game” is an immersive presentation designed
for school administrators and athletic directors
focusing on innovative and practical strategies
for boosting revenue in school athletics
and activities during budget tight times. The
presentation will dive into the essentials of
annual giving, sponsorships, ticket sales, special
events, and more.
Participants will gain hands-on knowledge about
orchestrating successful fundraisers, forging
lasting corporate partnerships, and capitalizing
on merchandising opportunities. Each session
combines real-world examples, interactive
discussions, and expert insights, ensuring that
attendees walk away with actionable strategies
to turn their school’s athletic and activity
programs into financial powerhouses.
Join us to transform your school’s approach to
funding and score big in the realm of school
athletics and activities.

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
DEVELOPING AN SEL
CULTURE OF SUPPORTING
STUDENTS
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Lisa Paige, Assistant Principal,
Eisenhower Elementary, USD 446
• Tommie Gonzales, Education
Behavioral Consultant, Greenbush
• Jen Vennart, Pediatric Occupational
Therapist, Foundations Trauma
Training and Support
Eisenhower Elementary is a K-2 school.
Over the past 5 years, our school has been
working with a behavioral consultant and an
occupational therapist to implement strategies
to teach students techniques to achieve
whole class regulation. Utilizing breathing and
mindfulness techniques in tandem with lessons
about the brain and stages of regulation have
resulted in benefits for both students and staff.
Tiered supports for Social Emotional levels
have been implemented including class
meetings, brain lessons, small group and
individual support. The culture of the school
has shifted and includes shared vocabulary and
a shift in the connection and care for students.
This presentation will share the process,
practical application and initial data results.
SPECIAL EDUCATION 101
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Trina Schmidt, Executive Director,
SKACD 613
In this session, administrators from SKACD
613 share insight and experience taken
from their work across nearly 40 Kansas
schools. Participants will explore the recent
hits, review the oldies, and spin the latest
selections regarding special education. Building
principals won’t want to miss this Top Ten
Countdown!
PODCASTING 101:
LAUNCHING SHAWNEE
MISSION MIC’D UP
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Michelle Hubbard,
Superintendent, Shawnee Mission
USD 512
• Dr. Jeremy Higgins
Join us for an engaging breakout session as we
unveil the journey of launching our podcast,
Shawnee Mission Mic’d Up. In this session,
we will guide you through the essential steps
of starting your podcast, drawing from our
experiences gained within the first year of our
podcasting venture.
69
Discover the nuts and bolts of podcasting,
including insights on choosing compelling
topics, exploring various platforms to

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promote your podcast effectively, and
navigating the podcasting landscape. Learn
about the essential equipment needed for a
successful podcast and gain valuable tips on
marketing strategies to amplify your podcast’s
reach.
Whether you’re a novice or looking to
enhance your podcasting skills, this session
offers practical advice and real-world
examples. Be part of the conversation as
we share our challenges, successes, and the
valuable lessons learned from launching
Shawnee Mission Mic’d Up. Don’t miss this
opportunity to dive into the exciting world of
podcasting and elevate your content creation
journey.
Join us, and let’s turn your podcasting ideas
into reality!
THE ANATOMY OF
RELATIONSHIP BUILDING
AMONG ADULTS
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Tyrone Bates, Jr., CEO/President,
True Empowering, LLC
• Shaunita Galloway, SMSD
• Dr. Keith Jones North Kansas City
Schools
In this engaging and interactive workshop,
participants will embark on a journey to
explore the intricate and dynamic world of
adult professional relationships. Titled “The
Anatomy of Relationship Building among
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Adults,” this session is designed to delve
deep into the various facets that form the
foundation of successful interpersonal
connections in our professional lives to
produce the best possible outcomes for all
students.
If your district
has a child with
high support
needs, we can help.
Heartspring Therapeutic
Residential & Day School
We transform the educational and home
life of children with neurodevelopmental
disorders, including autism. Students
receive individualized therapies to:
• improve behaviors
• communicate productively
• develop essential life skills
• grow academically
Connect with our
Admissions Team!
Kristina Baker
Director of Admissions
316-634-8874
kbaker@heartspring.org
VISIT
US AT
BOOTH
#13

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
CHAT 453: TOP AI USE
CASES FROM THE 23-24
SCHOOL YEAR & FUTURE
PLANNING FOR CLASSROOM
INTEGRATION
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• Jake Potter, Director of Public
Relations, Leavenworth USD 453
• Dr. Kellen J. Adams, Superintendent,
Leavenworth USD 453
This Fall, Leavenworth USD 453 openly and
transparently embraced Artificial Intelligence
(AI) in a variety of ways to advance the
district mission, and continuously engaged staff
and students along the way.
Leavenworth USD 453 Superintendent,
Dr. Kellen J. Adams, and Director of Public
Relations, Jake Potter, will review best
practices and lessons learned from updating
the district’s Strategic Plan; synthesizing Staff
Listening Sessions; and being the first school
district in the State of Kansas to pilot Magic
School AI and make it available to all staff
members for the second semester of 23-24.
This tool was used to generate lesson plans
and rubrics, write IEPs, draft school-to-home
communications, and more. In each case,
countless hours were saved by embracing AI
as a thought partner.
The session will also include some prompting
tips to get the most out of every AI
interaction, and prepare administrators for
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addressing and resolving concerns, skepticism,
and critiques regularly shared by those
that are hesitant to enter this new era of
education. Leavenworth will also share their
next steps for 24-25, and preview anticipated
challenges to overcome.
Participants are encouraged to bring a charged
device, and explore multiple AI platforms used
by the Leavenworth team on a weekly basis
(e.g. ChatGPT, ThoughtExchange, Perplexity AI,
Otter AI, MagicSchool AI, etc.).
LEVERAGING DATA FOR
IMPACT: KTRI EDUCATOR
ENGAGEMENT AND
RETENTION PANEL
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Bret Church, Associate Professor,
Emporia State University
• Dr. Jessica Dain, Superintendent,
Piper USD 203
Release of the 2023 Kansas Educator
Engagement and Retention Study includes
thoughts and perspectives from over 24,000
educators specific to recruitment and
retention. Districts are actively reviewing the
latest statewide data and comparing results to
their respective districts to assist with future
planning, prioritization, resource allocation,
and decision making. The Kansas Teacher
Retention initiative completed the second
Kansas Teacher Retention Survey in late 2023,
with 60% of Kansas Educators participating.

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The success of this initiative is a result of key
stakeholder organizations (USA-KS, KNEA,
KASB) joining together to focus on the
growing challenge of educator retention in
Kansas.
Join us for a panel discussion focused on
how to leverage educator engagement and
retention data to improve engagement,
retention, and district culture. The panel will
be comprised of stakeholders who serve
in a variety of roles, but who all play an
important role in the success of state and
district engagement and retention efforts.
Perspectives, best practices, and success
stories will be shared. Finally, attendees will
have the chance to ask questions to the panel.
WORKING WITH THAT
PESSIMISTIC PARENT
THROUGH THEIR OPTIMISTIC
CHILD!
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Joe Coles, Consultant
• Dr. Marty Stessman, Director of
Executive Learning, USA-Kansas
As we get to go into district, many times an
administrator, coach, activities person catches
us and wants to visit about how a small group
of pessimistic parents are making their lives
miserable!
change “that” parent! BUT, we can work
with their child and other kids in seeing and
experiencing things in a proactive way!
Uncommon leadership is the business of
identifying and meeting the legitimate needs of
the people entrusted to your care!
• Meeting the needs, not their wants.
• Needs like appreciated, respected, valued,
include, safe.
We get students involved in helping to identify
legitimate needs! Then after identifying these
needs not only do, they come up with possible
solutions, but we develop opportunities
for these students to work to solve these
solutions. The key is giving them the tools and
then some opportunities!
What people want the most:
• Being treated with dignity and respect,
being able to contribute to the success of the
organization, feeling in on things!
• Relationships is the key to it all!
i. The most important ingredient in a
successful relationship is “TRUST!”
Marty will be able to give you the
administrative perspective and Joe will share
what has worked with student-led leadership!
You will be able to take these ideas and use
them yourself in stopping pessimistic parents
in your district. It is very difficult for that
pessimistic parent to find fault in something
THEIR child is involved in!
We have a way a proactive way to make things
better! First, WE are probably not going to
72

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
NOW WHAT? PUTTING
members can serve as a model to students,
TRAUMA INFORMED
parents, and the broader community. Explore
PRACTICE INTO ACTION - 5 practical strategies for shifting from tense
exchanges to constructive interactions that
MUST DO’S FOR SCHOOLS
build relationships and keep student needs at
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
the forefront.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
AMERITIME’S
• James Moffett, Principal, Faris
ADMINISTRATOR
Elementary, Hutchinson USD 308
RETIREMENT WORKSHOP
You’ve been to a trauma-informed training, Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
and you’ve read a few books, what do you do Location: Cypress 209 B
now? In this session, James Moffett, Principal Presenter(s):
of Faris Elementary in Hutchinson, will share • Russ Lane, President, Ameritime LLC
5 must-do’s for schools to help you move
forward in trauma-informed journey. These How will you decide Which KPERS Pension
practices are simple, sustainable, and proven Option is right for you? Ameritime: “A firm
to work. As Maya Angelou so eloquently said, founded by educators, for educators.” With
“Do the best you can until you know better. more than a century of combined experience,
Then when you know better, do better.” Let’s Ameritime representatives bring diverse
do better together.
backgrounds and areas of experience together
to help educators successfully transition from
PROMOTING A CULTURE their working years into retirement. Topics
OF RESPECT: TOOLS
discussed:
• Which ONE of the KPERS 42 Options is
AND TECHNIQUES FOR
right for me?
CULTIVATING CIVILITY
• How will KPERS changes impact my
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Retirement?
Location: Cypress 209 A
• Am I eligible to purchase additional
Presenter(s):
pension years?
• Sara Reiter, Coordinator of Custom • What does my retirement plan look like
Courses, University of Kansas
with KPERS, Social Security and my own
• Dr. Brian Jordan, Executive Director, investments?
KASB
Join us as we navigate the vital role of civil
discourse in shaping school culture -- where
school leaders, teachers, and school board
73

#USAKS24
REASONABLE OR NOT
REASONABLE? THAT IS
THE QUESTION: EMPLOYEE
ACCOMMODATIONS
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
This presentation will walkthrough best
practices and common issues surrounding
workplace accommodations and cover
current legal analysis in a world of request for
remote work.
LEVEL UP YOUR INTERNAL
COMMUNICATION
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Jason Johnson, Superintendent,
Clearwater USD 264
How many times has your phone or watch
notified you of an email or text and you
are unsure what it is about? Or how many
times have you read the title and don’t
know what to do? Join me in talking about
how we leveled up our communication
internally at USD 264 to become efficient
and effective communicators. We will peek
behind the curtains on how to categorize
communication to immediately know how and
when to respond. You will walk away with a
communication matrix to share with your staff
and community that will alleviate the stress
around communication.
INFORMATION &
REGISTRATION
74
VIDEOS &
TESTIMONIALS

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
CULTIVATING A POSITIVE
SCHOOL-COMMUNITY
CULTURE: THE POWER OF
BUILDING A STRONG BRAND
Time: 1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Dr. Chad Higgins, Executive
Director, ESSDACK
This breakout session delves into the
transformative impact of cultivating a brand
to build a cohesive and positive culture.
Administrators will explore the strategic
integration of branding elements to foster a
sense of identity, pride, and community within
their districts. Participants will learn how a
well-defined brand can serve as a powerful
tool for communication, recruitment, and
community engagement.
Participants will explore strategies to identify
and articulate their school district’s unique
values, mission, and vision. School leaders
will learn how to craft compelling narratives
and create visual elements that communicate
their district’s story effectively. The session
will also address the importance of consistent
messaging across various platforms, including
social media, to engage and connect with the
broader community.
by unifying the school-community, fostering
a positive culture, and ultimately enhancing
the overall teaching and learning experience.
School leaders will be empowered to embark
on a journey toward creating a resilient,
distinctive brand that reflects the essence and
aspirations of their school district.
2:45-3:30 P.M.
REPLACING YOUR DISTRICT’S
GROWING LIST OF DEFERRED
MAINTENANCE WITH AN
UNTAPPED RESOURCE
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 A
Presenter(s):
• Luke Lindesmith, Business
Development Manager, Navitas
• Ryan Terry
Discover how companies specializing in
energy efficiency updates can help fund
construction needs, enhance the learning
environment, and cut operational costs,
leading to substantial long-term savings for
your district. Gain insight into the process
and outcomes through examples of successful
projects in other districts.
By the end of this session, administrators
will be equipped with practical insights and
actionable steps to cultivate a strong brand
that not only reflects the school district’s
values but also inspires a shared commitment
75

#USAKS24
ALL HANDS ON DECK:
LEADING A COUNTY-
WIDE PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT DAY
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Peach 201 B
Presenter(s):
• Paul Erickson, Director of Secondary
Schools, Buhler USD 313
• Kyle McClure, Director of Secondary
Schools USD 313
• Megan Hett, Dir of CIA, USD 312
• Amy Jones, Assistant Superintendent,
USD 309
• Sheila Berridge, Assistant
Superintendent, USD 313
We would like to unpack our efforts in Reno
County to work collaboratively to host
a county-wide professional development
day where 1,100 local educators including
our community college and private schools
joined together for a day of networking and
professional growth. Our first ever All Hands
on Deck was January 3rd, 2024.
RELATIONSHIPS,
EMOTIONAL REGULATION,
AND PREVENTATIVE DE-
ESCALATION!
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202A
Presenter(s):
• Eric Nachtigal, Behavior Intervention
Consultant, ESSDACK
When kids feel loved, a sense of belonging, are
seen and heard, and understand expectations...
that’s when emotional regulation and learning
is successful! It all starts with the “R” word...
Relationships...that’s where we will start! We’ll
also be focusing on preventative de-escalation
strategies, dosing emotional regulation
strategies, and Tier I BSEL best practices for
supporting student’s social emotional and
behavioral needs. Join me for collaboration,
connection, interaction, and resources to use
in your classroom immediately!
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LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
PROTECTING YOUR SCHOOL
THROUGH A LAYERED
APPROACH TO SECURITY
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Cherry 202B
Presenter(s):
• Tim Brant, Executive Director of
Health, Safety & Prevention, Maize
USD 266
School administrators today confront a
heightened sense of concern for safety from
students, parents and staff. While attacks on
schools are rare, constant media coverage
of high-profile attacks elevates anxiety for
communities. Districts tend to have in place
good policy and security equipment to
prevent intruders from entering schools. What
do we do when the threat comes from within,
or when our systems fail? This session will
highlight how district leaders can use a variety
of security processes and procedures to build
a layered approach to create redundancy,
and strengthen security operations. Security
functions such as visitor management systems
(VMS), security cameras, panic alarms and
door lock systems coupled with behavior
threat assessments and good emergency
operations planning can create a secure
environment for students and staff. Identifying
and using resources such as DHS campus
threat assessments or crime prevention
through environmental design (CPTED)
assessments can help identify structural and
operational deficiencies that can permit acts
of violence. Whether its leveraging technology
as force multiplier, having School Resource
77
Officers in the building, or simply locking
the doors, we’ll examine the importance of
engaging staff and putting the right processes
and equipment in place to make it all work
effectively.
MAKING YOUR DATA
ACTIONABLE IN THE SCHOOL
IMPROVEMENT PROCESS
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Birch 203
Presenter(s):
• Tammy Fellers, Director of
Professional Learning, ESSDACK
• Beth Parker, Education Consultant,
ESSDACK
When your school reviews data, do people
excuse it away, beat themselves up, look for
who else can be blamed, or does it drain your
school culture? Does your needs assessment
process lack collaborative structures and
actionable next steps? In this session, leaders
will understand the five mindsets educators
bring to data conversations and how effective
feedback drives meaningful discussion, leading
to goal-setting and action steps. Leaders will
leave this session with tools and strategies
to help them establish common norms and
engage others in collaborative, data-driven
conversations. The protocol provided can
lead to rewarding conversations that leverage
student data and the strengths of your
school community in aligning system-wide
goals and taking action as part of the school
improvement process.

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“FROM THE NEST TO LIFE’S
BEST” EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION IN A RURAL
DISTRICT BEGINNING AT
BIRTH
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Cedar 204
Presenter(s):
• Lisa Gehring, Superintendent,
Plainville USD 270
• Chris Rinehart
USD 270 Plainville owns and operates a child
care facility. We would like to share our process
of obtaining grants, working with community
partners, and now successfully managing a
daycare. During our presentation, we will share
the benefits of a birth to graduation experience
for our children and students.
TRANSFORMATION
THROUGH INSTRUCTIONAL
LEADERSHIP
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Maple 205
Presenter(s):
• April Lutz, Principal. Clearwater
Elementary West, USD 264
structures
• Being proficient in leading the collective
• Knowing how to effectively implement,
evaluate, and improve the impact of
interventions
I’ll reveal how these principles led to:
• 31% increase in staff feeling supported for
professional growth through administrative
feedback
• 32% increase in staff feeling welcome and
included
Discover how you can unlock the collective
power to create a school where everyone
thrives!
Remarkable
results for
Kansas schools.
Raymond James has extensive experience in primary
and secondary school underwriting. We’re a dedicated
partner to school districts across America, including
those right here in Kansas.
Join me as I share the journey transforming
Clearwater Elementary West from a school
facing challenges to a thriving environment for
ALL. We’ll dive into the power of:
• Developing a shared narrative
• Having high expectations and promoting
challenging goals
• Providing supportive processes and
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Proud sponsor of the USA-Kansas Conference.
RJWorksForKSSchools.com
RELATIONSHIPS | IDEAS | EXECUTION
© 2023 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock
Exchange/SIPC. Raymond James® is a registered trademark of Raymond
James Financial, Inc. 23-PF-1212 JPR 5/23

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
INFUSING CTE WITH
CORE INSTRUCTION AND
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Oak 206
Presenter(s):
• Ryan Cobbs, Superintendent, Ottawa
USD 290
• Kelly Whittaker. Principal Ottawa
High School
• Amy Bybee, Assistant Superitndent/
Director of Curriculum
We will discuss how we infuse CTE
competencies and our pathways into our
core instruction creating a seamless academic
approach coordinating a true college
and career readiness platform, while also
engaging our industrial/business community
in partnership ensuring that our graduates
are prepared for locally needed skilled labor
positions.
UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF
GIFTED MINDS: NAVIGATING
OVEREXCITABILITIES AND
EXCEPTIONALITIES
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Osage 207
Presenter(s):
• Summer Cowick, Gifted Facilitator,
Olathe USD 233
This session delves into the intricate world of
gifted students and their unique manifestations
of exceptionalities. Gifted individuals, often
misunderstood, showcase their talents
79
and challenges in diverse ways, presenting
a tapestry of abilities that can be both
positive and complex. This session unveils the
emerging trend of students exhibiting dual
exceptionalities, where giftedness intersects
with conditions like ADHD, autism, and
sensory processing disorders.
Grounded in Dabrowski’s Theory of
Overexcitabilities, this presentation offers a
comprehensive exploration of the intensities
and sensitivities that characterize a growing
segment of the gifted population. Attendees
will gain a deep understanding of how these
overexcitabilities manifest and intersect with
other exceptionalities.
Discover practical insights and strategies
for navigating the complexities of gifted
minds, drawing from the wisdom of
Dabrowski’s theory. Learn how to identify
and support students who embody multiple
exceptionalities, fostering an environment
that allows them to thrive. The session will
empower administrators and to recognize the
inner superhero within each gifted student
and guide them toward unleashing their full
potential.
MOTIVATE WITH STUDENT
INCENTIVES
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Walnut 208
Presenter(s):
• Leslianne Craft, Principal, Andover
Central Middle School, USD 385
• Shanda Seibel, Asst. Principal/AD,
Andover Central Middle School,
USD 385

#USAKS24
Join us for an engaging presentation on
motivation in education, where we dive into
the impactful realm of student incentives.
Explore strategies and examples that inspire
academic excellence, cultivate a passion for
learning, and foster a positive educational
environment. Discover how targeted
incentives can be a catalyst for student
success, transforming the learning experience
into a motivating journey.
LEGAL GRAB-BAG:
SCHOOL LAW ISSUES FOR
ADMINISTRATORS
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Cypress 209 A
Presenter(s):
• Luke Sobba, Attorney, KASB
Is your district prepared for open enrollment?
Did you know that revised Title IX sexual
harassment regulations go into effect on
August 1? Were you aware of the new “final
rule” concerning salaries and compensation
under the Fair Labor Standards Act? Join
KASB Attorney Luke Sobba to survey these
and other burning legal issues as they apply to
schools and school administrators.
SCHOOL FINANCE & BUDGET
BASICS FOR KS SCHOOL
LEADERS
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Cypress 209 B
Presenter(s):
• Matt Morford, Chief Financial
Officer, Maize USD 266
• Dr. Kellen Adams, Superintendent,
Leavenworth USD 453
Each year school boards across Kansas are
charged with overseeing approximately $3B
for Kansas school district budgets. These
funds, accounting for over half of the state’s
General Fund, are primarily raised through
local taxation. The expectations for efficient
and effective uses of these funds has never
been more scrutinized as these decisions
are constantly subject to the public view.
Whether you are a new or experienced board
member, it is important to understand the
funds that have been entrusted to your office
by your stakeholders. This session provides
for an overview of both the finance and
budget structures for Kansas School Districts,
including (but not limited to):
• How funds are generated - mill rates, state
aid, etc.
• Basics of fund expenditures and how and
where funds are expended from
• Student enrollment and how it affects the
LegalMax
• Common practices for districts on how to
properly manage the funds they have
80

LEARNING CLUSTERS
THURSDAY, May 30, 2024
#BULLYING - ONE OF THE
MOST USED WORKS IN
EDUCATION - BUT WHAT
DOES IT REALLY MEAN?
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 A
Presenter(s):
• Jessica Bernard, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
• Anthony McDaniel, Attorney, Guin
Mundorf LLC
This presentation will address how parents
and students frequently default to the term
bullying when describing conduct at school.
This presentation will take a deep dive into
the definition of bullying, how to investigate
it, and how to keep student discipline
surrounding bullying consistent.
IT’S MORE THAN
CHECKED BOXES: HOW
TO MAKE CLASSROOM
WALKTHROUGHS
MEANINGFUL FOR EVERYONE
INVOLVED
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 B
Presenter(s):
• Amy DeLaRosa, Systems Alignment
Specialist, Kansas MTSS and
Alignment
• Josh Lee
Participants can expect an interactive session
that provides them with actionable takeaways
81
to enhance the quality and impact of their
classroom walkthroughs. Let’s embark on
a journey together to elevate the art of
observation and feedback, shaping a learning
environment where both educators and
students thrive.
EMPOWERING
GROWTH: CULTIVATING
COLLABORATIVE
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS
Time: 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Redbud 210 C
Presenter(s):
• Inge Esping, Principal, Mcpherson
Middle School, USD 418
• Chris Allen, Principal, Eisenhower
Elementary, USD 418
• Brandi Martinez-McWilliams,
Director of Curriculum &
Instruction, USD 418
Our district has witnessed a transformative
impact through the dedicated implementation
of Professional Learning Communities
(PLCs). Educators have actively engaged in
collaborative processes, embracing recurring
cycles of collective inquiry and action research
to enhance student outcomes. This year, our
focus has been on key objectives:
• Question TWO Mastery: We are
committed to further developing our
educators’ understanding of Question
TWO in the PLC Four Critical Questions,
delving into the nuanced aspect of
assessing student learning.

#USAKS24
• Formative Assessment Expertise: A pivotal
goal is to empower educators with a
profound understanding of formative
assessment techniques. This includes
equipping them with the skills to craft
high-quality formative assessments that are
valuable tools for gathering essential data,
ultimately contributing to student success.
• Formative Assessment Plan Creation:
Educators are being guided on creating
effective Formative Assessment Plans,
ensuring they can confidently apply
the parameters of writing high-quality
formative assessment questions
• District-wide Collaboration: We aim to
foster collaboration at the district level,
encouraging the design and planning of
PLC work as a cohesive unit. This collective
effort is strategically aligned with the
success of PLC Questions One and Two,
amplifying the impact of our Professional
Learning Communities across the entire
educational landscape. We are building a
culture of continuous improvement and
mutual support within our schools.
This session will discuss the impact of PLCs
and how we got started. We will explore
the Professional Learning Communities’
(PLCs) journey and delve into their evolution
from their beginning to their current state
(including the challenges and pivots). We
will discuss the transformative impact these
communities have had. Join us as we reflect on
the growth, challenges, and successes that have
shaped our PLC journey.
82

85

Celebrating innovation
like the future depends
on it. Because it does.
Trane/NC3 Footprint
in Kansas.
Today we celebrate the innovators and
trailblazers leading the way for Future Ready
Learning in the state of Kansas. Through their
relentless commitment to CTE for all students,
strategic public-private partnership with industry,
and innovative approach to learning, they are
paving paths to prosperity for today’s students
and tomorrow’s workforce.
See what innovation looks
like at Beloit USD 273
More than
2,000 Students
who’ve earned
an IRC in Data
Analytics or IRC
in a commercial
energy technician
pathway
Over 50 Certified
Instructors
at Over 30
Educational
Institutions
84
© 2024 Trane. All Rights Reserved.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2023
Association Meeting Hot Breakfast - Promenade Walkway (7:15 – 8:15 AM)
KSSA Board of Directors Meeting – Birch 203 (7:30 - 9:00 AM)
KILA Association Meeting – Enterprise Boardroom (8:00 – 9:00 AM)
KLCTE Association Meeting – Stimson Trail (8:00 – 9:00 AM)
Suit Tailoring (Al Han) – Chisholm Trail (8:00 – 10:00 AM)
Principal Meeting – Cypress AB (8:15 – 9:20 AM)
Breakfast - Eagle Ballroom (8:00 - 9:30 AM)
Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson - Eagle Ballroom (9:30 -
10:00 AM)
Closing Session with Thomas C. Murray - Eagle Ballroom (10:00 - 11:15 AM)
Dirty Dozen Meeting – Enterprise Boardroom (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
85

EAGLE BALLROOM - 10:00-11:15 A.M. - FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2024
Tom serves as the Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools®, a project
of All4Ed, located in Washington, D.C. He has testified before the United States
Congress and has worked alongside that body, the US Senate, the White House, the
US Department of Education and state departments of education, corporations,
and school districts throughout the country to implement student-centered
learning while helping to lead Future Ready Schools® and Digital Learning Day.
An ASCD best-selling author, Murray serves as a regular conference keynote, was
named the “2018 National/Global EdTech Leader of the Year,” by EdTech Digest,
the “2017 Education Thought Leader of the Year,” one of “20 to Watch” by NSBA
in 2016, and the “Education Policy Person of the Year” by the Academy of Arts and
Sciences in 2015. His best-selling book, Learning Transformed: 8 Keys to Designing
Tomorrow’s Schools, Today, co-authored with Eric Sheninger and published by
ASCD, was released in June 2017. His most recent book, Personal & Authentic:
Designing Learning Experiences that Impact a Lifetime, is also a best seller.
Before moving to his role in Washington, D.C., Murray served as an elementary
teacher, secondary teacher, middle school principal, elementary principal, and at the
district level in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He is most passionate about creating
cultures of innovation where teachers are empowered to create the types of
learning experiences today’s modern learners need to thrive. In addition to his role
at Future Ready Schools®, Murray works directly with school and district leaders
for administrative retreats, opening convocations, and professional learning days.
You can connect with Tom at thomascmurray.com and on various social media
channels.
86

USA-Kansas
Board of Directors
Past USA-Kansas
Presidents
Todd Dain- President
Jaclyn Pfizenmaier- President-Elect
Amy Haussler - Past President
Jamie Rumford - KSSA
Stacey Green - KPA
Kurt Seiler - KPA
Doug Anderson - KASEA
Juanita Erickson - KSSA
Volora Hanzlicek - KASCD
Ryan Flurry - KLCTE
Cindy Couchman - KSSA
Craig Correll - KSSA
Renee Nugent- KSSA
Michelle Hackney - KASPA
Bryce Wachs - KanSPRA
Heath Henderson - KPA
Eric Armstrong - KPA
Andrew Dempewolf - KPA
Chelsea Clark - KASPA
Ryan Cobbs - KSSA
Michael Speer - KASBO
G.A. Buie, Executive Director
Jerry Henn, Associate Executive Director
Jessica Griffin, Assistant Executive Director of
Professional Learning
Cara Ledy, Director of Principal Leadership
Jessi Clark, Director of Marketing & Communications
Sarah Perryman, Impact & Advancement Specialist
Dr. Martin Stessman, Director of Executive Leadership
Jara Wilson, Assistant Director of Leadership and
Learning
Dr. Jim Karleskint, Director of Legislative Services
87
1971-72 Charles L Stuart, KASA
1972-73 Harlan J Trennepohl, KASCD
1973-74 Melvin F McDonald, KASBO
1974-75 O L Plucker, KASA
1975-76 Walter L Davies, KASCD
1976-77 W Wayne Warner, KASBO
1977-78 Jack L Larson, KASSP
1978-79 Donald Crowell, KAESP
1979-80 Ferman P Marsh, KASA
1980-81 Clark Whiting, KASBO
1981-82 Glenn Pyle, KASCD
1982-83 Gerald W Henderson, KASSP
1983-84 Dick McCall, KAESP
1984-85 Donald Herbel, KASEA
1985-87 Leo Lake, KASA
1987-88 Tom Hawk, KASCD
1988-89 John Harris, KASBO
1989-90 James A Gates, KASSP
1990-91 Merry Wade, KAESP
1991-92 Pat Stephens, KASEA
1992-93 Jerry Webster, KASA
1993-94 Gary Marshall, KASCD
1994-95 Robert Balsters, KASBO
1995-96 Jim Sowers, KASSP
1996-97 John Geuy, KAESP
1997-98 Paulette Strong, KASEA
1998-99 Marietta Gray, KAMSA
1999-00 Marceta A Reilly, KASCD
2000-01 Jan Collins, KASA
2001-02 Sharon Zoellner, KASBO
2002-03 Jim Menze, KASSP
2003-04 Janice Strecker, KAESP
2004-05 Susan Sipe, KASEA
2005-06 Sue Givens, KAMSA
2006-07 Dennis Stones, KASA
2007-08 Rob Balsters, KASBO
2008-09 Mary Getto, KASCD
2009-10 Jacque Feist, KASSP
2010-11 Jacque Feist, KASSP
2011-12 Rob Garman, KAESP
2012-13 Bert Moore, KASEA
2013-14 Jill Dickerson, KAMSA
2014-15 Craig Wilford, KSSA
2015-16 Steve Splichal, KASCD
2016-17 Donna Zerr, KASSP
2017-18 Pete Bastian, KAESP
2018-19 Sean Cochran, KASEA
2019-20 Ryan Jilka, KAMSA
2020-21 Christie Meyer, KASCD
2021-22 Steve Noble, KSSA
2022-23 Amy Haussler, KASEA

Member
Association
Presidents
KPA - Leslianne Craft
KSSA - Craig Correll
KASBO - Debbie Walburn
KILA - Jaclyn Pfizenmaier
KASEA - Lena Kisner
KLCTE - Ryan Flurry
KanSPRA - Ben Boothe
KASPA - Chelsea Clark
KADPF - Dave Montgomery
USA-Kansas
Staff
G.A. Buie, Executive Director
Jerry Henn, Associate Executive Director
Jessica Griffin, Assistant Executive Director of
Professional Learning
Cara Ledy, Director of Principal Leadership
Kim Torrez, Business Manager
Jessi Clark, Director of Marketing &
Communications
Sara Warnow, Operations Specialist
Houston Chinn, Office & Outreach
Coordinator
Sarah Perryman, Impact & Advancement
Specialist
Dr. Marty Stessman, Director of Executive
Leadership
Jara Wilson, Assistant Director of Leadership
and Learning
Dr. Jim Karleskint, Director of Legislative
Services
88
USA-Kansas
Outstanding Service
Award Winners
1985 Leo Lake
Ferman Marsh
1986 Bob Nispel
1987 Dale Dennis
1988 Chuck Stuart
1989 Cecil Deel
1990 John Bottom
1991 Kent Hurn
1992 Howard Shuler
1993 Fred Campbell
1994 Bill Medley
1995 Tom Jerome
1996 Rosemary Kirby
1997 Sandra Terril
1998 Andy Tompkins
1999 Mike Soetaert
2000 Eliese Holt
2001 Rob Balsters
2002 Mary Devin
2003 Gerald W. Henderson
2004 Ron Wimmer
Sharon Zoellner
2005 Pat Terry
2006 John Heim
2007 Susan Sipe
2008 Sue Givens
2009 Jim Lentz
2010 Dennis Stones
2011 Ralph Beacham
2012 Jacque Feist
2013 Gene Haydock
2014 Norm Wilks
2015 Cynthia Lane
2016 Ron Vinduska
2017 Duane Dorshorst
2018 George Abel
2019 Kelly Gillespie
2020 Dr. Randy Watson
2021 Jacque Feist
2022 Stacey Green
2023 Dr. Christie Meyer

WIFI INFORMATION
Network Name: Century 2 Wireless
User Name: USAKS24
Password: USAKS24
Network Name: HyattMeeting
Password: USAKS24
89

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