Regional school leaders, community members, and Kansas lawmakers gather to discuss key legislative priorities facing public education.
SALINA, Kan. — Smoky Hill Education Service Center (SHESC) hosted its 37th Annual Legislative Luncheon today at its Salina headquarters, 605 E. Crawford St., bringing together state lawmakers with regional educators, school administrators, and community leaders.
Held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the annual forum focused on current and future issues impacting Kansas classrooms, students, educators, and local communities. During the moderated legislative session, attendees and lawmakers engaged in open dialogue covering critical policy and operational topics, including:
- School Finance & Funding: The overall state education budget, special education funding, at-risk programs, education vouchers, and E-Rate connectivity support.
- Educator Workforce & District Sustainability: Teacher shortage and retention strategies, KPERS retirement benefits, and the unique challenges facing rural districts and enrollment.
- Policy & Classroom Culture: Bipartisan collaboration, student responsibility, and school technology bans.
Elected officials and legislative representatives attending the event included:
- Kansas Sen. Dr. Scott Hill, District 24
- Kansas Rep. Lewis “Bill” Bloom, District 64
- Kansas Rep. Luci Larson, District 69
- Kansas Rep. Steven Howe, District 71
- Kansas Rep. Lori Shultz, District 73
- Kansas Rep. Ken Rahjes, District 110
- Kansas Rep. Dr. Sherri Brantley, District 112
- Brady Kappelmann, District Representative for U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann
The day’s agenda opened with an informal meet-and-greet at 9:30 a.m., followed by the legislative meeting at 10:00 a.m. and a noon luncheon.
“Everyone who participated today understands that Kansas benefits from a strong educational system,” said Chris Moddelmog, Executive Director of Smoky Hill Education Service Center. “I am confident that everyone working together can have an impact on student success. This year’s 37th Annual SHESC Legislative Lunch was a great success, and we appreciate all the elected officials, school administrators, board of education members, and community leaders who took time out of their busy schedules to participate in this important conversation.”
About Smoky Hill Education Service Center
Founded on July 1, 1990, in Salina, Kansas, Smoky Hill Education Service Center (SHESC) is dedicated to creating learning opportunities and solutions through responsive service. Endorsed by the Kansas State Department of Education, SHESC serves more than 50 school districts across 25 counties, supporting 2,700 teachers and administrators who educate more than 31,000 Kansas students through professional development, instructional coaching, volume purchasing, and administrative support. Learn more at www.smokyhill.org.
