Mark is joined by two members from the Lawrence school board and their Director of Technology to discuss an innovative approach to saving millions in the district and working to close the digital divide for Lawrence students. 

Because of this project, the district will save around 3 million dollars in the next 5-6 years.

Tune in now to learn more!

Welcome back to The Advocate!

Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball discuss the recently passed K-12 Budget bill, SB 387, which fully funds the Gannon formula and provides an additional $75 million in state funding to special education. The team also looks back at the successful lobbying efforts for public education earlier this year. Though the regular legislative session has ended, Governor Laura Kelly could call everyone back due to not reaching an agreement on a state tax cut bill. Thank you, Leah and Shannon, for your work this session!

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Tune in for the latest from Leah and Shannon at the Statehouse! 

This week, they cover House Sub for SB 387, enrollment count and literacy bills in the Senate and the conference committees that will begin meeting next week. 

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In this episode, Leah & Shannon discuss the recent Day at the Capitol hosted by KASB, which brought together advocates from across the state to meet with their legislators and share their stories about the successes of public education. They also discuss the upcoming debate over the K-12 Education Budget bill and how the legislature is trying to attempt to give the façade of a fully funded special education by diverting local tax dollars through SB 387. 

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Leah and Shannon cover SB 387, the K-12 education budget. SB 387 has numerous controversial provisions, including counting local taxes as part of SPED funding.

Also, join us on March 21 for KASB's Day at the Capitol! This event brings public education advocates together to tell the story of public education at the capitol and meet with their legislators. Register here!

This week, Leah and Shannon discuss the controversial voucher bill, SB 509, which received overwhelming opposition compared to supporters. They also talk about the continued SPED funding shortfall, and how the upcoming K12 Education Budget Committee may affect funding in the future, plus much more. 

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Unlock the secrets behind Derby USD 260's educational success! Dive into our latest podcast as we dissect their robust needs assessment process, linking it to strategic planning and accreditation. Explore how data-driven decisions, strong teacher support, and student engagement led to impressive improvements in state test scores.

Tune in now for a closer look at Derby's innovative approach to student and district improvement!

Access some of Derby's Resources that they use for Building Needs Assessments here.

Catch up on the latest from the Kansas State House with The Advocate!

Leah and Shannon discuss Thursday's SPED Funding briefing in the Senate Education Committee, setting the record straight about SPED funding, totaling a $432 Million shortfall in SPED funding for districts across the state. The team also covers SB 509, another attempt to create voucher programs in Kansas, and much more. 

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