Qualitative Measures
Districts must submit applications for awards in Social-Emotional Growth, Kindergarten Readiness, Individual Plans of Study, and Civic Engagement to be considered for the Kansans Can Star Recognition Program.
The deadline for the 2025-2026 school year will be disclosed at a later date.
Social-Emotional Growth
Kansas school districts share the State Board of Education’s vision of preparing successful high school graduates. Each district tracks progress toward the goal of helping every student build social, emotional, and character skills that support learning and life success.
The Kansans Can Star Recognition Program gives districts a way to show their long-term commitment to improving outcomes for students and adults. When social-emotional learning is used across the district as a proactive, prevention-focused approach—not just for certain students—it creates fair conditions for achievement and a safe, positive school climate.
Kindergarten Readiness
The path to student success begins in early childhood—long before a child enters kindergarten. Strong early learning and community partnerships are key to achieving Kansas’ vision for education.
The Kansans Can Star Recognition Program honors communities that provide quality, inclusive opportunities for young children and their families, helping every child start kindergarten at age 5 socially, emotionally, and academically ready to succeed.
Individual Plan of Study (IPS)
Helping every student succeed after high school starts with a clear plan. Continuous growth, combined with support from teachers, families, and the community, gives students the tools they need for future success.
The Kansans Can Individual Plan of Study Star Recognition Program honors districts that provide meaningful, connected learning experiences. These opportunities help students build academic knowledge along with technical and employability skills for life after graduation.
Civic Engagement
The Civic Engagement Star Recognition rubric is based on school-level participation in the Civic Advocacy Network (CAN) Award process. In the spring of each year, schools will be invited to apply for the CAN award. Applications are scored using the CAN award rubric, and applicants may be awarded a Promising Practice or CAN Award. Award winners are notified by Sept 1.
Following the notification of winners, these schools will be added to the Civic Engagement Star Recognition database (to be created in Excel). This database will identify each district and its K-12 schools and will note whether an individual school has received a Promising Practices or a CAN Award. This information will be used to inform the Civic Engagement Star Recognition rubric in early fall.
For more information concerning this award visit the Civic Engagement website.
