Thirty-seven educators who will for the first time be at the helm of Kansas school districts during the 2023-2024 school year had the opportunity to network, build new relationships, ask questions and share concerns during the 2023 Kansas School Superintendents’ Association New Superintendent Workshop. 

The workshop took place in Topeka on June 13-14. 

On Tuesday, attendees had an open dialogue with G.A. Buie, of USA-Kansas and KSSA. They also met with Deputy Commissioner Dr. Ben Proctor, Dr. Jay Scott, director of KSDE’s Accreditation and Design (AD) team, and Dale Brungardt, KSDE School Finance director. Current superintendents shared information about building new relationships and communication strategies and also discussed the importance of self-care. 

Tuesday night, attendees had an opportunity to mingle with KSSA Board members, and staff members from KSDE and the Kansas Association of School Boards. 

Wednesday, June 14, kicked off with a continental breakfast and discussion with more current Kansas superintendents. There also were presentations on the first 100 days of school, finding resources and understanding the budget. 

The group then traveled to KSDE to meet with Kansas State Board of Education members and have lunch with Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson and others. 

Overall, there are 43 newly hired or new-to-the-state superintendents, Buie said. Thirty-seven attended the workshop, and 34 were able to meet with State Board of Education members and Dr. Watson. 

“This is our largest group of brand new superintendents,” Buie said.