News Releases

Our press releases provide timely, accurate information about key initiatives, policy updates, and important events in Kansas education. They serve as an official source for news and announcements from the Kansas State Department of Education, helping educators, families, and communities stay informed about developments that impact schools statewide.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2026

TOPEKA — The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has named Dr. Zach Conrad as deputy commissioner of the Division of Accountability and Technology. In this role, Conrad will lead the agency’s work in accountability, assessment, research, evaluation, information technology and data reporting.

Conrad brings extensive experience in Kansas education, with a background spanning classroom teaching, district leadership, state agency work and research. Most recently, he served as executive director of evaluation, research and assessment and technology information systems for Kansas City Kansas Public Schools, where he led districtwide data, assessment and technology systems and advised the superintendent and board of education on data-informed decision-making.

“Dr. Conrad understands how to turn complex systems into practical tools that help educators and leaders make better decisions for students,” said Commissioner Jake Steel. “His experience across Kansas education and his focus on using data to support improvement will strengthen how we serve districts and schools across the state.”

In his new role, Conrad will oversee the design and continuous improvement of state and federal accountability systems, ensure timely and transparent reporting of education data, and lead the state’s assessment and research efforts. He also will direct KSDE’s enterprise technology systems, supporting secure and reliable infrastructure that meets the needs of schools and stakeholders statewide.

Prior to his work in Kansas City, Conrad served as executive director of data and technology for Lawrence Public Schools and worked with the Kansas State Department of Education as an educational program consultant supporting assessment and research initiatives. His career also includes experience providing statewide training on assessment literacy and supporting district leaders in using data to improve instruction.

“I’m honored to serve Kansas in this role,” Conrad said. “I look forward to working with the Commissioner, the State Board and superintendents across the state to strengthen systems that support schools and improve outcomes for every student.”

Conrad holds a doctorate in research, evaluation, methods and statistics from the University of Kansas, along with a master’s degree in international education policy and management from Vanderbilt University.

He will begin his role with KSDE on July 1.

##