KSDE Safe and Supportive Schools Conference

School safety is linked to improved student and school outcomes. Intentionality around planning is required by teams to address a comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), build systems of support for at-risk populations, and ideally address school safety prior to a crisis. Teaming should be the foundation of a comprehensive approach to maintaining a safe school, which offers a balance between physical and psychological safety. By fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, counselors, and community partners, schools can proactively identify risks, create supportive environments, and respond quickly to emerging situations. This collective effort builds trust, ensures student well-being, and strengthens the school's ability to handle crises effectively. Participants will gain knowledge in building these systems of support and obtain resources to navigate teaming around crisis prevention.

People, in general, don't know how to listen well. They might hear perfectly fine, yet not be a good listener. It is a skill that first has be to introduced to us then requires constant work and attention on ourselves, not on the communication skills of those around us. We can't control when someone is struggling, fearful, or dysregulated. We can learn to control how we listen to them to create safety and support. We will look at how we hear key words and see key expressions that trigger our problem solving skills, our desire to jump in and fix, advise, and rescue others from their pains.
Come to this session ready to practice HOW TO listen and be ready to leave behind your well-intentioned advice for others.

An overview of the KSICS radio system, its use and availability to schools. WPS, GETS, TSP and PACE planning for emergency communications.

In this 45-minute presentation, we will explore the critical issue of online exploitation of youth, focusing on the various forms it takes, including cyberbullying, grooming, sextortion, and exploitation through social media and gaming platforms. The session will address how young people are increasingly vulnerable to online predators and harmful content. Additionally, we will discuss strategies for prevention, including the importance of open communication with young people.  

The “dreaded” relationship between the SRO and school counselor. How we work together and the benefits we have found for students and staff.

An operational guide for preventing targeted school violence

How we manage connections, behaviors, student interactions, and school culture matters. KSDE has updated our guidance on Suicide Prevention. We are working on updating the Bullying Prevention Protocols. There is a guidance document being created to address when we suspect a student could pose a threat to the school that takes a comprehensive and whole child/whole team approach. There is also updated guidance on mandated reporting. Overwhelmed? Let me help you sort through "All The Things!" Let's also discuss when something is NOT a thing!

Come to this see this dynamic session as school safety specialist Ben Thursby and Robyn Kelso, coordinator on the career standards and assessment services team show how an effective partnership between school safety and building leadership can lead to better student outcomes.

Effectively planning, prioritizing, and communicating complex initiatives in K-12 education can be a daunting task, particularly in areas like cybersecurity, physical security, and technology infrastructure. Maturity models offer a powerful framework for assessing current capabilities, setting realistic goals, and mapping out strategic improvements. This session will explore how to apply maturity models in K-12 settings to drive informed decision-making, improve resource allocation, and align stakeholders. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for using maturity models to improve project planning, prioritize key initiatives, and enhance communication with district leaders, school boards, and staff.