KSDE Newsroom

How Kansas schools are implementing a school improvement model to impact student achievement will be the focus of an upcoming episode of the KSDE Insight Podcast. 

After ten years, the Kansas State Department of Education’s Star Recognition Program continues to celebrate Kansas school districts and systems for achievements in key areas that reflect success across the state’s education system, including success beyond graduation. 

The Kansas State Board of Education has announced their 2026 monthly meetings dates.

In a rural southwest Kansas school district, Amy Ball wears several hats. 

As a member of the Sublette USD 374 staff, Ball handles the district’s bus, building, and grounds maintenance. She says her job “is never the same from day to day,” ensuring students and staff are safe is at the top of the list.  

“Our students who participate in activities and clubs travel a significant distance for competitions and diverse learning experiences,” she said. “The safety of our students and staff is the highest priority.”  

By Melissa Ostermeyer, KSDE school transportation safety unit 

School bus drivers often begin their day before sunrise to ensure every route runs smoothly, often not making it back home until after the sun sets. The vehicles they drive are among the safest on the road, thanks to rigorous maintenance and training. 

Understanding how your child performed on the state assessments and how their scores relate to their academic success is the focus of the current episode of the KSDE Insight Podcast titled, “Taking the Test: What parents should know about their child’s state assessment scores."

During National School Lunch week, Oct. 13-17, several Kansas school districts and partner programs were recognized for their efforts to ensure students have healthy, nutritious meals during the school day. 

Members of the Kansas State Board of Education were informed during their October meeting that the number of Kansas high school students preparing for their postsecondary pursuits after graduation continues to increase. 

Understanding how your child performed on the state assessments and how their scores relate to their academic success is the focus of the current episode of the KSDE Insight Podcast titled, “Taking the Test: What parents should know about their child’s state assessment scores."

Members of the Kansas State Board of Education will hear several presentations during their monthly meeting, Oct. 14-15, in Topeka, including a draft summary of the Kansas State Department of Education’s 2024-25 annual report, "Coherence." 

Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson will provide the highlights for the time period covering Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025.