Around 135 educators from across the state attended the 2024 Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference Feb. 22-23 in Topeka.

Darrion Cockrell, 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year and 2023 Missouri Physical Educator of the Year, gave the keynote general session: "Relationships that Bring Joy."

Attendees had two opportunities to attend share sessions.

Some of those sessions included:

• Elevating Kansas Educators, hosted by Dyane Smokorowski, Wichita USD 259.
• Growth Mindset Through Hands-On Activities, hosted by Kathleen O'Brien, Derby USD 260.
• Say Yes to the Right Things, hosted by Jessica Gazzano, Spring Hill USD 230.
• Neuroscience Unveiled: Decoding the Science of Learning, hosted by Erica Huggard, Emporia USD 253.
• Formative Can Be Fun, hosted by Kirsten Cigler Nelson, Washburn University and Kyle Nelson, Auburn Washburn USD 437.
• Education in Motion-Bust a Move, Not Your Back or Bank Account, hosted by Heather Potter, Goddard USD 265.

Amy Hillman, a recruiting liaison for Olathe USD 233, hosted an energetic general session Thursday afternoon titled, "Boost, Belong, Believe."

Day two of the conference continued Friday with a community conversation led by Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Ben Proctor. 

A luncheon and awards program honoring the 2023 Milken Educators and the 2024 Kansas Horizon Award Educators wrapped up the 2024 KEEN Conference.

Click the video above to see a video slideshow of the conference or click here.