The Advocate - A KASB Podcast Mon, 11 May 2026 14:29:06 -0400 http://www.kasb.org en-us © 2026 The Advocate - A KASB Podcast yes 13f6abfa-25df-5682-bd23-f78bcc4e795c Kansas Association of School Boards episodic false The Kansas Association of School Boards Advocacy and Communications Teams bring you semi-regular updates from Topeka on current issues affecting K-12 Education.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Kansas, Education, ksleg, KASB, K-12, Advocacy, School, Kansas Legislature, Kansas Capitol, Kansas Statehouse, Kansas Education, ksed, School Boards Kansas Association of School Boards https://storage.buzzsprout.com/il7g1dgo1bpd3c7jwaj32i5cvj29?.jpg The Advocate - A KASB Podcast http://www.kasb.org Mandates Rise, Funding Gaps Widen as the 2026 Legislative Session Winds Down Mandates Rise, Funding Gaps Widen as the 2026 Legislative Session Winds Down As the Kansas Legislature heads into the veto session, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball unpack what the final weeks of the 2026 session mean for public schools. From a narrowly passed state budget to last‑minute policy moves, this episode examines a growing pattern at the Statehouse: rising mandates, persistent underfunding, and increasing costs shifted onto local school districts.

The hosts break down continued shortfalls in special education funding, cuts to student mental health services, new literacy and staffing mandates, CEP policy changes, voucher expansion, and the proposed tax lid bill—while also noting a small but meaningful budget win for school safety grants. The takeaway is clear: schools are being asked to do more with less, and advocacy for Kansas public education is more important than ever.

]]> As the Kansas Legislature heads into the veto session, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball unpack what the final weeks of the 2026 session mean for public schools. From a narrowly passed state budget to last‑minute policy moves, this episode examines a growing pattern at the Statehouse: rising mandates, persistent underfunding, and increasing costs shifted onto local school districts.

The hosts break down continued shortfalls in special education funding, cuts to student mental health services, new literacy and staffing mandates, CEP policy changes, voucher expansion, and the proposed tax lid bill—while also noting a small but meaningful budget win for school safety grants. The takeaway is clear: schools are being asked to do more with less, and advocacy for Kansas public education is more important than ever.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18958281 Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0500 1490 4 10 full false Kansas Special Education Funding Crisis Deepens as Legislature Barrels Toward the Finish Kansas Special Education Funding Crisis Deepens as Legislature Barrels Toward the Finish As the Kansas legislative session nears First Adjournment, the state’s special education funding crisis remains unresolved—and is growing more urgent.

In this solo episode of The Advocate, host Shannon Kimball breaks down where things stand, from an unexpected halt in House activity to the fast-moving shift into conference committee negotiations.

This episode covers:

  • Key education bills still in play
  • The impact of unfunded mandates on districts
  • Voucher expansion and a new statewide cell phone ban
  • And the latest budget decisions, including continued underfunding of special education

With major decisions looming, the stakes for Kansas public schools—and especially students with disabilities—are high.

Stay informed and ready to advocate.

]]> As the Kansas legislative session nears First Adjournment, the state’s special education funding crisis remains unresolved—and is growing more urgent.

In this solo episode of The Advocate, host Shannon Kimball breaks down where things stand, from an unexpected halt in House activity to the fast-moving shift into conference committee negotiations.

This episode covers:

  • Key education bills still in play
  • The impact of unfunded mandates on districts
  • Voucher expansion and a new statewide cell phone ban
  • And the latest budget decisions, including continued underfunding of special education

With major decisions looming, the stakes for Kansas public schools—and especially students with disabilities—are high.

Stay informed and ready to advocate.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18880839 Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0500 1070 4 9 full false Who Decides? Who Decides? This week on The Advocate, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down a fast-moving week at the Kansas Statehouse. They discuss the Senate’s debate over a statewide bell-to-bell cell phone ban, ongoing budget negotiations around special education funding and a controversial amendment related to student walkouts and truancy.

The episode also covers legislation impacting local school governance, school meal programs and at-risk funding, restrictions on classroom technology and the latest developments in voucher proposals.

Plus, they highlight inspiring students and educators from across Kansas and share simple ways listeners can engage with lawmakers to support their local public schools.

]]> This week on The Advocate, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down a fast-moving week at the Kansas Statehouse. They discuss the Senate’s debate over a statewide bell-to-bell cell phone ban, ongoing budget negotiations around special education funding and a controversial amendment related to student walkouts and truancy.

The episode also covers legislation impacting local school governance, school meal programs and at-risk funding, restrictions on classroom technology and the latest developments in voucher proposals.

Plus, they highlight inspiring students and educators from across Kansas and share simple ways listeners can engage with lawmakers to support their local public schools.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18802744 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0600 1109 4 8 full false The Pace Is Picking Up Again The Pace Is Picking Up Again In this episode of The Advocate, hosts Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball return after turnaround week to find the pace at the Kansas Legislature picking up. They break down major developments in the state budget, including ongoing debates around special education funding, where both House and Senate proposals fall significantly short of meeting legal obligations—leaving local districts and taxpayers to cover the gap.

The episode also explores key policy issues moving through the legislature, including property tax proposals, voucher expansion, classroom device restrictions, and legislation impacting student services, assessments, and school governance. Leah and Shannon unpack what these bills could mean for Kansas public schools, highlighting concerns around local control, funding stability, and student support systems.

Finally, the hosts zoom out to national education policy shifts in Washington, D.C., and share how listeners can take action—by engaging with legislators and advocating for fully funded special education. Stay informed on what’s moving, what’s stalled, and how your voice can make a difference for Kansas students.

]]> In this episode of The Advocate, hosts Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball return after turnaround week to find the pace at the Kansas Legislature picking up. They break down major developments in the state budget, including ongoing debates around special education funding, where both House and Senate proposals fall significantly short of meeting legal obligations—leaving local districts and taxpayers to cover the gap.

The episode also explores key policy issues moving through the legislature, including property tax proposals, voucher expansion, classroom device restrictions, and legislation impacting student services, assessments, and school governance. Leah and Shannon unpack what these bills could mean for Kansas public schools, highlighting concerns around local control, funding stability, and student support systems.

Finally, the hosts zoom out to national education policy shifts in Washington, D.C., and share how listeners can take action—by engaging with legislators and advocating for fully funded special education. Stay informed on what’s moving, what’s stalled, and how your voice can make a difference for Kansas students.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18762444 Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0600 1666 4 7 full false The Advocate | Episode: Happy Turnaround, To Those Who Celebrate The Advocate | Episode: Happy Turnaround, To Those Who Celebrate Turnaround Week has come and gone at the Kansas Legislature, and in this episode of The Advocate, hosts Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down what it all means for Kansas public schools.

From the fast-moving action on the House floor to a quieter Senate, this episode unpacks the biggest education bills still in play — including the evolving cell phone ban, major changes to bond election communications, and proposals impacting school operations and local control.

You’ll also hear a deeper dive into what didn’t make it past Turnaround (and why that doesn’t mean those ideas are gone), plus a look ahead at key debates returning next week — including vouchers, classroom policies and assessment changes.

But above all, this episode centers on the issue shaping everything else this session: the ongoing special education funding crisis. With Kansas still falling short of its legal obligation, Leah and Shannon connect the dots between policy decisions, budget priorities and real impacts on students and schools.

If you want to understand what’s happening under the dome — and what it means for your community — this is the episode to hear.

]]> Turnaround Week has come and gone at the Kansas Legislature, and in this episode of The Advocate, hosts Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down what it all means for Kansas public schools.

From the fast-moving action on the House floor to a quieter Senate, this episode unpacks the biggest education bills still in play — including the evolving cell phone ban, major changes to bond election communications, and proposals impacting school operations and local control.

You’ll also hear a deeper dive into what didn’t make it past Turnaround (and why that doesn’t mean those ideas are gone), plus a look ahead at key debates returning next week — including vouchers, classroom policies and assessment changes.

But above all, this episode centers on the issue shaping everything else this session: the ongoing special education funding crisis. With Kansas still falling short of its legal obligation, Leah and Shannon connect the dots between policy decisions, budget priorities and real impacts on students and schools.

If you want to understand what’s happening under the dome — and what it means for your community — this is the episode to hear.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18720114 Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0600 2244 4 6 full false It’s Getting Real: Funding Crises, Vouchers, and the Sprint to Turnaround It’s Getting Real: Funding Crises, Vouchers, and the Sprint to Turnaround It’s officially crunch time at the Kansas Statehouse — and this week on The Advocate, Shannon and Leah unpack the bills that could reshape public education in Kansas for years to come.

We’re talking:

  • A full-blown special education funding crisis, with districts forced to pull nearly half a billion dollars from classroom budgets just to meet legal obligations.
  • The House passage of HB 2468, the federal voucher opt-in bill — and why the 70–49 vote matters more than you might think.
  • Quiet but dangerous proposals that could cut at-risk funding, limit bond election communication and shift power away from locally elected school boards.
  • The real story behind cell phone bans, property tax changes and expanding state mandates on public schools.
  • And a rapid-fire preview of Turnaround Week, when dozens of major education bills hit the floor all at once.

This episode is your roadmap to what’s moving, what’s at risk and where your advocacy can make the biggest impact — right now.

]]> It’s officially crunch time at the Kansas Statehouse — and this week on The Advocate, Shannon and Leah unpack the bills that could reshape public education in Kansas for years to come.

We’re talking:

  • A full-blown special education funding crisis, with districts forced to pull nearly half a billion dollars from classroom budgets just to meet legal obligations.
  • The House passage of HB 2468, the federal voucher opt-in bill — and why the 70–49 vote matters more than you might think.
  • Quiet but dangerous proposals that could cut at-risk funding, limit bond election communication and shift power away from locally elected school boards.
  • The real story behind cell phone bans, property tax changes and expanding state mandates on public schools.
  • And a rapid-fire preview of Turnaround Week, when dozens of major education bills hit the floor all at once.

This episode is your roadmap to what’s moving, what’s at risk and where your advocacy can make the biggest impact — right now.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18677887 Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0600 1545 4 5 full false Flat Funding, Rising Costs: Stability vs Sustainability for Kansas Public Schools Flat Funding, Rising Costs: Stability vs Sustainability for Kansas Public Schools This week on the podcast, Leah and Shannon tackle one of the biggest issues facing public schools: the widening gap between expectations and funding.

In this episode, they break down how that gap is playing out from Washington, D.C. to the Kansas Statehouse — starting with federal education funding for 2026 and what “flat funding” really means for schools facing rising costs.

A major focus of the conversation is special education funding. Despite growing student needs and long-standing legal requirements, current Kansas budget proposals include little to no new funding for special education — forcing districts to backfill nearly half a billion dollars each year from general education funds and local property taxes.

Leah and Shannon also unpack several major bills moving through the Legislature, including proposals affecting at-risk funding, student privacy, recess and physical activity mandates, school nutrition rules, and local school board authority. The episode closes with a practical bright spot addressing the teacher shortage — and a clear call to action for school leaders and public education supporters.

]]> This week on the podcast, Leah and Shannon tackle one of the biggest issues facing public schools: the widening gap between expectations and funding.

In this episode, they break down how that gap is playing out from Washington, D.C. to the Kansas Statehouse — starting with federal education funding for 2026 and what “flat funding” really means for schools facing rising costs.

A major focus of the conversation is special education funding. Despite growing student needs and long-standing legal requirements, current Kansas budget proposals include little to no new funding for special education — forcing districts to backfill nearly half a billion dollars each year from general education funds and local property taxes.

Leah and Shannon also unpack several major bills moving through the Legislature, including proposals affecting at-risk funding, student privacy, recess and physical activity mandates, school nutrition rules, and local school board authority. The episode closes with a practical bright spot addressing the teacher shortage — and a clear call to action for school leaders and public education supporters.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18636768 Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0600 1300 4 4 full false Free Speech, Free Lunch, and the Future of Kansas Schools Free Speech, Free Lunch, and the Future of Kansas Schools It’s been another busy week at the Statehouse, and KASB is back with a full legislative update. In this episode, Leah and Shannon break down key committee hearings on election policy, school meals, and school finance, including testimony on bills that could criminalize public officials’ speech, require income verification for free meals and mandate toilet training for school entry.

They also highlight the uplifting recognition of the 2026 Kansas Teachers of the Year, discuss ongoing budget debates around special education and at-risk funding, and clear up misinformation surrounding school-based Medicaid services and the Community Eligibility Program.

Plus, a look ahead at major education bills scheduled for hearings next week—including proposals on vouchers, mental health services, student free speech and addressing teacher shortages. Stay informed and stay engaged with the latest from the Kansas Statehouse.

]]> It’s been another busy week at the Statehouse, and KASB is back with a full legislative update. In this episode, Leah and Shannon break down key committee hearings on election policy, school meals, and school finance, including testimony on bills that could criminalize public officials’ speech, require income verification for free meals and mandate toilet training for school entry.

They also highlight the uplifting recognition of the 2026 Kansas Teachers of the Year, discuss ongoing budget debates around special education and at-risk funding, and clear up misinformation surrounding school-based Medicaid services and the Community Eligibility Program.

Plus, a look ahead at major education bills scheduled for hearings next week—including proposals on vouchers, mental health services, student free speech and addressing teacher shortages. Stay informed and stay engaged with the latest from the Kansas Statehouse.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18597984 Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:00:00 -0600 914 4 3 full false Are Charter Schools Coming to Kansas? Are Charter Schools Coming to Kansas? Are charter schools coming to Kansas—and what would that mean for public education?

In this episode of The Advocate, Leah and Shannon recap one of the busiest weeks yet at the Statehouse. They break down major bills impacting local school governance, including HB 2452 on school board elections, expanding voucher proposals and legislation that could open the door to charter school expansion through changes to Kansas’ innovative school's law.

The conversation also covers key education budget updates, ongoing special education funding gaps, and several new bills affecting student supports, recess requirements, dual enrollment and classroom practices. With a fast-moving session and growing influence from outside groups, the stakes for public schools are high.

Stay informed on what’s happening under the dome—and why local control, transparency, and sustained investment in public education matter now more than ever.

]]> Are charter schools coming to Kansas—and what would that mean for public education?

In this episode of The Advocate, Leah and Shannon recap one of the busiest weeks yet at the Statehouse. They break down major bills impacting local school governance, including HB 2452 on school board elections, expanding voucher proposals and legislation that could open the door to charter school expansion through changes to Kansas’ innovative school's law.

The conversation also covers key education budget updates, ongoing special education funding gaps, and several new bills affecting student supports, recess requirements, dual enrollment and classroom practices. With a fast-moving session and growing influence from outside groups, the stakes for public schools are high.

Stay informed on what’s happening under the dome—and why local control, transparency, and sustained investment in public education matter now more than ever.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18559971 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:00:00 -0600 1699 4 2 full false 2026 Legislative Session Begins 2026 Legislative Session Begins The 2026 Kansas legislative session is moving fast, and education is front and center. Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down key developments from opening week, including proposed cell phone restrictions in schools, KASB’s concerns with SB 302 and HB 2421, and what’s next as these bills advance.

They also cover highlights from the Governor’s budget, including special education funding, school meals and professional development, plus what declining enrollment means for K-12 funding.

Looking ahead, the episode previews a busy week at the Statehouse with Literacy Day, major education budget hearings, and several bills that could significantly impact public schools, local control, and school board governance.

Stay informed and engaged as the session unfolds—your voice matters.

]]> The 2026 Kansas legislative session is moving fast, and education is front and center. Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball break down key developments from opening week, including proposed cell phone restrictions in schools, KASB’s concerns with SB 302 and HB 2421, and what’s next as these bills advance.

They also cover highlights from the Governor’s budget, including special education funding, school meals and professional development, plus what declining enrollment means for K-12 funding.

Looking ahead, the episode previews a busy week at the Statehouse with Literacy Day, major education budget hearings, and several bills that could significantly impact public schools, local control, and school board governance.

Stay informed and engaged as the session unfolds—your voice matters.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18520973 Fri, 16 Jan 2026 14:00:00 -0600 1300 4 1 full false Education Funding Task Force Education Funding Task Force The Kansas Legislature’s Education Funding Task force met throughout 2025 to discuss possible changes to the state’s constitutional school funding formula, which will expire in 2027. Join Leah and Shannon for an analysis of the good, the bad, and the ugly of the Task Force's deliberations, the outlook for 2026, and why school board members need to be prepared to advocate for all Kansas kids.

 

The Advocacy team is joined by special guest April Hilyard of the Butler County Special Ed Interlocal for a bonus discussion of how Kansas' special ed funding formula is in the mix as well.

]]> The Kansas Legislature’s Education Funding Task force met throughout 2025 to discuss possible changes to the state’s constitutional school funding formula, which will expire in 2027. Join Leah and Shannon for an analysis of the good, the bad, and the ugly of the Task Force's deliberations, the outlook for 2026, and why school board members need to be prepared to advocate for all Kansas kids.

 

The Advocacy team is joined by special guest April Hilyard of the Butler County Special Ed Interlocal for a bonus discussion of how Kansas' special ed funding formula is in the mix as well.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-18406030 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0600 1490 full false Federal Funding Freeze Federal Funding Freeze In this episode of The Advocate podcast, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball dive into the implications of the federal education funding freeze and what it means for Kansas public schools. They explain how recent actions by the U.S. Department of Education have stalled key K-12 funding streams and how the U.S. Congress enacted a controversial nationwide voucher program."  The conversation outlines how these decisions could impact school districts across the state, from delays in funding delivery to limitations on essential programs and services. Fliter and Kimball also describe the advocacy strategies KASB is using to ensure lawmakers understand the real-world consequences of a prolonged freeze. Their central message is clear: school board members must stay actively involved and vocal to protect the resources their students and communities rely on.

]]> In this episode of The Advocate podcast, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball dive into the implications of the federal education funding freeze and what it means for Kansas public schools. They explain how recent actions by the U.S. Department of Education have stalled key K-12 funding streams and how the U.S. Congress enacted a controversial nationwide voucher program."  The conversation outlines how these decisions could impact school districts across the state, from delays in funding delivery to limitations on essential programs and services. Fliter and Kimball also describe the advocacy strategies KASB is using to ensure lawmakers understand the real-world consequences of a prolonged freeze. Their central message is clear: school board members must stay actively involved and vocal to protect the resources their students and communities rely on.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-17516797 Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0500 460 full false 2025 Legislative Session Wraps, Leaves Work to do 2025 Legislative Session Wraps, Leaves Work to do The quicker-than-usual legislative session is over. Leah and Shannon discuss what happened in the veto session, as well as the year as a whole. Underfunding, misinformation, tax plans, voucher bills and an extension for the statewide mill levy headlined some of the top education issues this year. 

Be on the lookout for the KASB Legislative Listening Tour in August and September to make sure your voice is heard.

]]> The quicker-than-usual legislative session is over. Leah and Shannon discuss what happened in the veto session, as well as the year as a whole. Underfunding, misinformation, tax plans, voucher bills and an extension for the statewide mill levy headlined some of the top education issues this year. 

Be on the lookout for the KASB Legislative Listening Tour in August and September to make sure your voice is heard.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16985205 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0500 1487 2025 10 full false Legislature Finalizes K-12 Budget, Heads to Veto Session Legislature Finalizes K-12 Budget, Heads to Veto Session Leah and Shannon discuss what the legislature accomplished before its first adjournment. The K-12 budget plan was finalized with only $10 million in additional SPED money for 2026, though it will only look like $7.5 million. The two talk about what this means, as well as what programs were cut going forward. They also look at tax plans and a bill that would allow the attorney general to step into local board of education decisions.

]]> Leah and Shannon discuss what the legislature accomplished before its first adjournment. The K-12 budget plan was finalized with only $10 million in additional SPED money for 2026, though it will only look like $7.5 million. The two talk about what this means, as well as what programs were cut going forward. They also look at tax plans and a bill that would allow the attorney general to step into local board of education decisions.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16900590 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0500 1567 2025 9 full false Misunderstanding of School Finance Hurting Legislative Debate Misunderstanding of School Finance Hurting Legislative Debate Leah and Shannon discuss issues that they, and other education advocates, are encountering with legislators not fully-grasping school funding topics like: cash balances and differences between general education, local option budget and SPED funding. 

The two are monitoring the Senate's budget plan without additional SPED funding in the future and cuts to programs this fiscal year. That is expected to be voted on Tuesday, March 18th. (Contact your Senators right away!) In the other chamber, a voucher bill and the school board micromanagement bill are heading to the House floor.

In positive news - House Education Committee members held a roundtable meeting to discuss the state's new school system accreditation process. Want to hear an in-depth analysis of KESA 2.0? Listen to our podcast by Mark Tallman: What's Different About KESA 2.0?


]]> Leah and Shannon discuss issues that they, and other education advocates, are encountering with legislators not fully-grasping school funding topics like: cash balances and differences between general education, local option budget and SPED funding. 

The two are monitoring the Senate's budget plan without additional SPED funding in the future and cuts to programs this fiscal year. That is expected to be voted on Tuesday, March 18th. (Contact your Senators right away!) In the other chamber, a voucher bill and the school board micromanagement bill are heading to the House floor.

In positive news - House Education Committee members held a roundtable meeting to discuss the state's new school system accreditation process. Want to hear an in-depth analysis of KESA 2.0? Listen to our podcast by Mark Tallman: What's Different About KESA 2.0?


]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16793492 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1674 2025 8 full false SPED Funding, Education Programs Take Hit in New Proposal SPED Funding, Education Programs Take Hit in New Proposal Leah and Shannon discuss the flurry of bills being debated in Topeka before the legislature's first adjournment. The Senate is proposing SPED gets no new dollars for next year. The pronouns bill advances in the House, and a voucher bill and school board micromanagement bill get House committee hearings.


Wednesday, March 12 is our KASB Day at the Statehouse! Sign up to join us: kasb.org/events

]]> Leah and Shannon discuss the flurry of bills being debated in Topeka before the legislature's first adjournment. The Senate is proposing SPED gets no new dollars for next year. The pronouns bill advances in the House, and a voucher bill and school board micromanagement bill get House committee hearings.


Wednesday, March 12 is our KASB Day at the Statehouse! Sign up to join us: kasb.org/events

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16753691 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600 1263 2025 7 full false Big Week for Education: Tax, Budget, Mental Health, KPERS, BOE Authority Bills Coming Big Week for Education: Tax, Budget, Mental Health, KPERS, BOE Authority Bills Coming Leah and Shannon talk about the busy week ahead. The SPED funding battle still looms large in budget discussions, multiple tax bills could affect school funding and some positive bills on mental health and KPERS are expected to be discussed this week.

]]> Leah and Shannon talk about the busy week ahead. The SPED funding battle still looms large in budget discussions, multiple tax bills could affect school funding and some positive bills on mental health and KPERS are expected to be discussed this week.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16712229 Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600 1148 2025 6 full true Senate Passes Controversial Ed Bills, Both Receive Bipartisan Pushback Senate Passes Controversial Ed Bills, Both Receive Bipartisan Pushback Leah and Shannon discuss the Senate passing two bills, one a voucher and another stripping local control for BOEs, but neither with veto-proof majorities. They also talk about the House budget only including an additional $10 million for SPED. 

Next, the KASB Advocacy Team is anticipating the education funding task force holding its second meeting on what the next school funding formula should look like. That will be Monday, February 24 from 9 am to 12 pm. You can watch that by going to this link: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGnUWv2THZAiSnnk5BpcqTJovjNEsYqVB

]]> Leah and Shannon discuss the Senate passing two bills, one a voucher and another stripping local control for BOEs, but neither with veto-proof majorities. They also talk about the House budget only including an additional $10 million for SPED. 

Next, the KASB Advocacy Team is anticipating the education funding task force holding its second meeting on what the next school funding formula should look like. That will be Monday, February 24 from 9 am to 12 pm. You can watch that by going to this link: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGnUWv2THZAiSnnk5BpcqTJovjNEsYqVB

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16670252 Fri, 21 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0600 895 2025 5 full false K-12 Budget Plan Dwindles, Vouchers Get Hearings & KASB Visits D.C. K-12 Budget Plan Dwindles, Vouchers Get Hearings & KASB Visits D.C. Leah and Shannon discuss what the House Appropriations Committee agreed to cut from the K-12 budget plan, what two vouchers debated in committees look like and we hear about the priorities put in front of federal officials on the KASB trip to Washington D.C.

]]> Leah and Shannon discuss what the House Appropriations Committee agreed to cut from the K-12 budget plan, what two vouchers debated in committees look like and we hear about the priorities put in front of federal officials on the KASB trip to Washington D.C.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16582722 Fri, 07 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0600 1252 2025 4 full false SPED Funding Boost Gets Approval, Voucher Debate Next Week SPED Funding Boost Gets Approval, Voucher Debate Next Week 2025, Episode 3: Leah and Shannon discuss the plan to increase SPED funding by $30 million in FY 26 and 27, how the statewide mill levy change shouldn't decrease funding for schools, voucher bills that will be debated in committee hearings next week and more!

]]> 2025, Episode 3: Leah and Shannon discuss the plan to increase SPED funding by $30 million in FY 26 and 27, how the statewide mill levy change shouldn't decrease funding for schools, voucher bills that will be debated in committee hearings next week and more!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16540296 Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0600 1043 2025 3 full false Property Tax Discussion Heats Up, K-12 Budget Next Property Tax Discussion Heats Up, K-12 Budget Next 2025, Episode 2: This week, Leah and Shannon discuss possible property tax and statewide mill levy cuts, voucher bills, a Greeley County bond fix and preview next week's K-12 budget discussion.

]]> 2025, Episode 2: This week, Leah and Shannon discuss possible property tax and statewide mill levy cuts, voucher bills, a Greeley County bond fix and preview next week's K-12 budget discussion.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16496912 Fri, 24 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0600 919 2025 2 full false 2025 Legislative Session Begins 2025 Legislative Session Begins 2025, Episode 1: The Advocate is back! Leah and Shannon discuss the start of the legislative session, the State of the State address and what they heard in committee meetings this first week.

]]> 2025, Episode 1: The Advocate is back! Leah and Shannon discuss the start of the legislative session, the State of the State address and what they heard in committee meetings this first week.

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-16456631 Fri, 17 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0600 1322 2025 1 full false Ep. 54 The Advocate | A Successful Legislative Session for Public Schools Ep. 54 The Advocate | A Successful Legislative Session for Public Schools Welcome back to The Advocate!

Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball discuss the recently passed K-12 Budget bill, SB 387, which fully funds the Gannon formula and provides an additional $75 million in state funding to special education. The team also looks back at the successful lobbying efforts for public education earlier this year. Though the regular legislative session has ended, Governor Laura Kelly could call everyone back due to not reaching an agreement on a state tax cut bill. Thank you, Leah and Shannon, for your work this session!

Listen now!

]]> Welcome back to The Advocate!

Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball discuss the recently passed K-12 Budget bill, SB 387, which fully funds the Gannon formula and provides an additional $75 million in state funding to special education. The team also looks back at the successful lobbying efforts for public education earlier this year. Though the regular legislative session has ended, Governor Laura Kelly could call everyone back due to not reaching an agreement on a state tax cut bill. Thank you, Leah and Shannon, for your work this session!

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-15004033 Fri, 03 May 2024 12:00:00 -0500 1135 full false Ep. 53 The Advocate | Defeating Harmful Legislation Ep. 53 The Advocate | Defeating Harmful Legislation Tune in for the latest from Leah and Shannon at the Statehouse! 

This week, they cover House Sub for SB 387, enrollment count and literacy bills in the Senate and the conference committees that will begin meeting next week. 

Listen now!

]]> Tune in for the latest from Leah and Shannon at the Statehouse! 

This week, they cover House Sub for SB 387, enrollment count and literacy bills in the Senate and the conference committees that will begin meeting next week. 

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14793604 Fri, 29 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0500 1228 3 53 full false Ep. 52 The Advocate | D.C. Style Politics in Kansas Ep. 52 The Advocate | D.C. Style Politics in Kansas In this episode, Leah & Shannon discuss the recent Day at the Capitol hosted by KASB, which brought together advocates from across the state to meet with their legislators and share their stories about the successes of public education. They also discuss the upcoming debate over the K-12 Education Budget bill and how the legislature is trying to attempt to give the façade of a fully funded special education by diverting local tax dollars through SB 387. 

Listen now!

]]> In this episode, Leah & Shannon discuss the recent Day at the Capitol hosted by KASB, which brought together advocates from across the state to meet with their legislators and share their stories about the successes of public education. They also discuss the upcoming debate over the K-12 Education Budget bill and how the legislature is trying to attempt to give the façade of a fully funded special education by diverting local tax dollars through SB 387. 

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14747103 Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0500 1088 full false Ep. 51 The Advocate | Education Budget Bundling Ep. 51 The Advocate | Education Budget Bundling Leah and Shannon cover SB 387, the K-12 education budget. SB 387 has numerous controversial provisions, including counting local taxes as part of SPED funding.

Also, join us on March 21 for KASB's Day at the Capitol! This event brings public education advocates together to tell the story of public education at the capitol and meet with their legislators. Register here!

]]> Leah and Shannon cover SB 387, the K-12 education budget. SB 387 has numerous controversial provisions, including counting local taxes as part of SPED funding.

Also, join us on March 21 for KASB's Day at the Capitol! This event brings public education advocates together to tell the story of public education at the capitol and meet with their legislators. Register here!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14697090 Fri, 15 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0500 703 2 51 full false Ep. 50 The Advocate | The Voucher & SPED Funding Fight Continue Ep. 50 The Advocate | The Voucher & SPED Funding Fight Continue This week, Leah and Shannon discuss the controversial voucher bill, SB 509, which received overwhelming opposition compared to supporters. They also talk about the continued SPED funding shortfall, and how the upcoming K12 Education Budget Committee may affect funding in the future, plus much more. 

Listen now!

]]> This week, Leah and Shannon discuss the controversial voucher bill, SB 509, which received overwhelming opposition compared to supporters. They also talk about the continued SPED funding shortfall, and how the upcoming K12 Education Budget Committee may affect funding in the future, plus much more. 

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14654020 Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0600 757 2 50 full false Ep. 49 The Advocate | Confirming the SPED Shortfall Ep. 49 The Advocate | Confirming the SPED Shortfall Catch up on the latest from the Kansas State House with The Advocate!

Leah and Shannon discuss Thursday's SPED Funding briefing in the Senate Education Committee, setting the record straight about SPED funding, totaling a $432 Million shortfall in SPED funding for districts across the state. The team also covers SB 509, another attempt to create voucher programs in Kansas, and much more. 

Listen now!

]]> Catch up on the latest from the Kansas State House with The Advocate!

Leah and Shannon discuss Thursday's SPED Funding briefing in the Senate Education Committee, setting the record straight about SPED funding, totaling a $432 Million shortfall in SPED funding for districts across the state. The team also covers SB 509, another attempt to create voucher programs in Kansas, and much more. 

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14610006 Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0600 987 2 49 full false Ep. 48 The Advocate | Turnaround Week Ep. 48 The Advocate | Turnaround Week It was turnaround week in the legislature with two big bills not making it out of the Senate Education Committee, including SB 437, the KEEP program bill, and SB 465, providing additional capital outlay for safety, security, and ADA compliance. 

Also, listen in to learn about recent developments on SB 469, an ESA voucher bill recently "blessed" by the legislature. 

Listen now!

]]> It was turnaround week in the legislature with two big bills not making it out of the Senate Education Committee, including SB 437, the KEEP program bill, and SB 465, providing additional capital outlay for safety, security, and ADA compliance. 

Also, listen in to learn about recent developments on SB 469, an ESA voucher bill recently "blessed" by the legislature. 

Listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14563163 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0600 788 full false Ep. 47 The Advocate | Vouchers, Cell Phone Bans, Special Ed Funding & More Ep. 47 The Advocate | Vouchers, Cell Phone Bans, Special Ed Funding & More Leah and Shannon covered HB 2738 this week, which received a hearing in the House K12 Education Budget Committee. HB 2738 would change how funding is counted and then falsely assert that the legislature is more than fully funding special education. 

They also discuss bills testified on by KASB in the House Education Committee. These bills included legislation prohibiting cell phones in school buildings during the school day and another that would set up a book rating system by the legislature rather than keeping the issue to local control. 

Tune in now to catch up. 

]]> Leah and Shannon covered HB 2738 this week, which received a hearing in the House K12 Education Budget Committee. HB 2738 would change how funding is counted and then falsely assert that the legislature is more than fully funding special education. 

They also discuss bills testified on by KASB in the House Education Committee. These bills included legislation prohibiting cell phones in school buildings during the school day and another that would set up a book rating system by the legislature rather than keeping the issue to local control. 

Tune in now to catch up. 

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14518310 Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0600 1019 3 47 full false Ep. 46 The Advocate | Controversial Bills at The Capitol Ep. 46 The Advocate | Controversial Bills at The Capitol Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball have had a busy week of hearings and testifying against several controversial bills making their way through the legislature. 

Some of these bills include provisions that can allow almost anyone to challenge the accreditation status of any public school in Kansas, as well as a bill that could cut at-risk funding to districts. 

Looking forward, next week is set to be just as contentious with several high-profile bills being heard, including a bill on banning cell phones in school buildings, and one on censoring books. 

Submit testimony to k.12.budget@house.ks.gov for next Tuesday's hearing.

Tune in now!

]]> Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball have had a busy week of hearings and testifying against several controversial bills making their way through the legislature. 

Some of these bills include provisions that can allow almost anyone to challenge the accreditation status of any public school in Kansas, as well as a bill that could cut at-risk funding to districts. 

Looking forward, next week is set to be just as contentious with several high-profile bills being heard, including a bill on banning cell phones in school buildings, and one on censoring books. 

Submit testimony to k.12.budget@house.ks.gov for next Tuesday's hearing.

Tune in now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14473711 Fri, 09 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0600 1415 3 46 full false Ep. 45 The Advocate | Advocating in D.C. & Testifying in Topeka Ep. 45 The Advocate | Advocating in D.C. & Testifying in Topeka In this episode, Leah and Shannon discuss several bills KASB testified on this past week. Leah also discusses her recent trip to D.C. to advocate for public education at the Capitol! Several KASB Staff and public education advocates had the opportunity to meet with some Senators and staffers to discuss the importance of fully funding special education.

Tune in now!

]]> In this episode, Leah and Shannon discuss several bills KASB testified on this past week. Leah also discusses her recent trip to D.C. to advocate for public education at the Capitol! Several KASB Staff and public education advocates had the opportunity to meet with some Senators and staffers to discuss the importance of fully funding special education.

Tune in now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14429114 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0600 1157 3 45 full false Ep. 42 The Advocate | The Start of the 2024 Legislative Session Ep. 42 The Advocate | The Start of the 2024 Legislative Session The 2024 Kansas Legislative Session has kicked off, and the KASB Advocacy Team is here to update you on all new and developing news from the state house. 

Join Leah Fliter and newly added Advocacy team member Shannon Kimball as they discuss the January 5 Special Education Task Force, Governor Laura Kelly's budget proposal, school vouchers, and much more!

Stay up to date and listen now!

]]> The 2024 Kansas Legislative Session has kicked off, and the KASB Advocacy Team is here to update you on all new and developing news from the state house. 

Join Leah Fliter and newly added Advocacy team member Shannon Kimball as they discuss the January 5 Special Education Task Force, Governor Laura Kelly's budget proposal, school vouchers, and much more!

Stay up to date and listen now!

]]> Kansas Association of School Boards Buzzsprout-14299728 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0600 1531 3 2 full false