By Pat Bone, KSDE division of learning services 

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) invites district and building leadership teams to the 2026 Great Ideas in Education Conference, July 27-29, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Convention Center, in Wichita. This powerful three-day experience has been designed to strengthen coherence across Kansas’ school improvement efforts.  

Coherence—shared purpose, aligned action, and collective commitment—is essential for creating meaningful, lasting change for students. This year’s conference focuses on high-leverage, foundational practices that accelerate student learning, expand opportunity, and reduce barriers for every Kansas learner. 

Each member of your leadership team will participate in sessions aligned with their role, ensuring that every perspective—academic, operational, and strategic—is represented in shaping your district’s next steps. This is coherence in action. 

Conference pricing and registrations 

Pre-conference day only, July 27: $200 

Team of 4 - per person: $400 

Full conference (includes pre-conference day): $450 

EARLY BIRD PRICING will run through April 30.  This will give each participant a $50 discount. (Does not apply to pre-conference day only registrations.) 

REGISTERING A TEAM OF 4 will qualify for a $50 discount.  (If prior to May 1, this is in addition to early bird pricing!) 

REGISTRATION will open no later than April 1. Plan now which teams will attend so you are ready to register once it opens. 

Hotel reservations are now open at the Hyatt. Contact Pat Bone, pat.bone@ksde.gov, with questions.