Great Ideas in Education Conference
2026 Great Ideas in Education Conference
July 27-29, 2026
Hyatt Regency Hotel and Convention Center
Wichita, KS
The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) invites district and building leadership teams to the 2026 Great Ideas in Education Conference, a powerful three-day experience 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.
A Statewide Back-to-School Kickoff
The 2026 conference will be held in late July, offering the ideal “back-to-school kickoff” for leadership teams. This timing provides districts with a strategic opportunity to come together, refine their action plans, and step into the new school year with clarity, alignment, and momentum.
Participants will connect with peers from similar districts to collaborate, exchange best practices, and problem-solve in ways that promote shared success across the state.
What to Expect
The 2026 conference is designed to equip leaders with the tools, resources, and inspiration needed to implement strong action plans and communicate those commitments system-wide. Attendees will benefit from:
- Pre-Conference Summit Experiences in areas including Literacy, Safe and Secure Schools, At-Risk Policy and Funding, KEDS Data Systems, and more.
- Collaboration Across Districts and Roles, offering opportunities to learn from peers with similar challenges and responsibilities.
- Breakout Sessions centered on the four fundamentals—explored from both teaching and administrative perspectives.
- Access to Practical Tools, Supports, and Resources that strengthen implementation.
- Direct Engagement with Education Leaders and Content Experts who bring research-informed strategies and real-world applications.
- Implementation for Results, with dedicated sessions focused on turning plans into measurable improvement.
- Leadership Strategies for Guiding Change, ensuring leaders leave prepared to foster coherent, aligned action in every building.
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.
Make 2026 Your District’s Most Aligned and Impactful Year Yet
Don’t miss this pivotal opportunity to launch the new school year with purpose, alignment, and actionable strategies. Make plans now for your full district and building leadership teams to attend the 2026 KSDE Great Ideas in Education Conference!
Conference Registrations
Early Bird Pricing will run through April 30, 2026. This will give each participant a $50 discount. (Does not apply to Pre-conference day only registrations,)
Registering a team of 4 will qualify you for a $50 discount. (If prior to May 1, this is in addition to the early bird pricing!)
Conference Pricing
Pre-Conference Day only, July 27, 2026 $200
Team of 4 - per person cost $400
Full Conference $450
Hotel Information
A room block has been established at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Group Rate is $133/night.
Reservations. First come, first serve.
Participant Registration
Great Ideas in Education conference participant registration form.
Product Showcase Registration
Great Idea Annual Conference Vendor Registration
