2027 Kansas Social Studies Conference

Social Studies educators are invited to this day full of in person collaboration, connection and professional development. Check it out! Plan to join us for the 20276 Kansas Social Studies Conference to be held at the Rhatigan Student Center on the campus of Wichita State University. This year's keynote speaker is Bob Kendrick. Mr.Kendrick has served as President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City since 2011, championing the preservation and celebration of African-American baseball history and its profound impact on American society. Widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading voices on Negro Leagues history, Kendrick is especially celebrated for his captivating storytelling, bringing to life the personal experiences, triumphs, and struggles of the players and individuals who shaped the game. His unique ability to weave compelling personal stories with broader themes of race, civil rights, perseverance, and social change reveals a legacy that continues to resonate today. Kendrick's relationship with the museum began as a volunteer in 1993, and his leadership has been instrumental in building its national reputation and expanding its educational outreach. A passionate advocate for education, he regularly shares the stories and lessons of the Negro Leagues with students, educators, and audiences across the country. His contributions to history, education, and community service have earned him numerous honors and widespread recognition. As keynote speaker for the 2027 Kansas Social Studies Conference, Kendrick will inspire educators to explore the powerful connections between sports, history, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. The complete list of sessions, which cover a diverse array of social studies topics, will be released in January. Call for Presentations: 2027 Kansas Social Studies Conference Have a great lesson, strategy, resource, or idea to share with fellow social studies educators? We’re now accepting presentation proposals for the 2027 Kansas Social Studies Conference! Proposals are welcome for general conference sessions covering all areas of social studies, grade levels, and teaching strategies. This year, we’re also featuring a special conference track exploring the confluence of culture, pop culture, and social studies—from music, movies, sports, and social media to the trends, events, and cultural moments that help students connect the past and present. We invite you to bring your ideas, experiences, and creativity to the conference. The Call for Proposals form can be found at this link Preconference Sessions The organizing committee is pleased to offer 2 free preconference sessions on February 5. Both will include lunch and free resources. Pre-Service Teacher Workshop Build Your Future. Shape Young Minds. Your journey in social studies starts here. Topics to include: Deeper Student Engagement, How to Engage All Students; Suviving the First Year of Teaching and Getting Involved in the Profession The Economics of EVERYTHING: From History Books to Innovation Hubs Discover the economic connections woven throughout history, geography, government, and today's rapidly changing world. Explore ready-to-use classroom ideas, then experience innovation firsthand with a tour of Wichita State University's Innovation Campus. Conference Registration Fees: Teacher Admission: $80 Pre-Service Teacher Admission: $25 Vendors: $200 per table (includes 2 individuals) Registration Deadline. Online registration will be accepted until tickets are sold-out or until February 1. Lunch is included with registration. Friday Night Fun! Come early and join us for Trivia and adult libations for the Friday Night Social at Social Tap. Your $5 ticket covers admission and light appetizers. Hotel- A block of rooms will be available. Information to be released soon. Please check back! The 2027 Kansas Social Studies Conference is brought to you by: • Kansas State Department of Education • Kansas Geographic Alliance • Kansas Council on History Education • Kansas Council on Social Studies • Kansas Council for Economic Education