In this edition ...

What does “school improvement” really mean, and how does it help your child? In the next episode of KSDE’s Insight Podcast, we explore how Kansas schools are working together to strengthen learning for every student.

Since the inception of the Star Recognition program in 2020, Kansas school districts and systems are raising their levels of student achievement, ensuring success before and after graduation.  

“We've never lowered our standards for these areas of recognition,” Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson said of the program’s quantitative and qualitative measures. “What has happened over the time is that we've awarded more and more awards which tells me people are rising to the standards, which is our hope.” 

This Saturday, Nov. 8, is National STEM-STEAM Day, a chance for school communities to celebrate and promote science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.  

While Kansas educators are always finding avenues to integrate STEM and STEAM subjects into their curriculum and other school-based activities, Lyndon USD 421 and Nemaha Central 115 are two examples of districts that have found unique ways to promote these important subject areas with younger students. 

During the Kansas State Board of Education’s monthly meeting, Nov. 12-13, members will begin the process of reviewing education-related state regulations to determine if they are unnecessary, burdensome or need to be revised.