2026 K-ACTE Career Tech Summit has ended

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2026 K-ACTE Career Tech Summit

Welcome to the K-ACTE Career Tech Summit 2026: Shaping the Next Generation of Workers!

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

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9:45am CDT

K-ACTE House of Delegates

Monday July 20, 2026 9:45am - 10:25am CDT

NMOCA 217 Hudson Auditorium

The K-ACTE House of Delegates represents members of each affiliate group and is responsible for setting policies, decision-making, representation, oversight, and advocacy. By fulfilling these roles, the House of Delegates ensures that K-ACTE remains responsive to the needs of its members and effectively supports the advancement of career and technical education statewide.

Please note: No food or drink can be taken into this meeting space.

Speakers

Linda Chase

Agriculture Instructor, Wellington High School

Linda has been teaching agriculture for 26 years. Over half her career has been spent managing high school greenhouses and teaching horticulture. She has focused on having great sales and teaching students how to run the greenhouse and run the sale. Her success has lead to her horticulture... Read More →

Laurali Masterson

FACS teacher/CTE Coordinator, Hill City Junior Senior High School

Jamie Manhart

Monday July 20, 2026 9:45am - 10:25am CDT
NMOCA 217 Hudson Auditorium Nerman Museum of Contemporary Arts at Johnson County Community College St, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Business Meeting
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

AI 201 | Designing Instruction in an AI Enhanced Classroom

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Once you understand what AI is, the exciting question becomes: how do I use it intentionally and powerfully? This high energy, hands-on workshop moves beyond awareness into real time application. Educators will experiment with classroom ready AI tools, test how they function, and design learning experiences on the spot, including building, refining, and rethinking instructional tasks that elevate student thinking rather than replace it. Expect learning by doing, collaborative problem solving, and practical takeaways you can implement the very next day.

Key Takeaways
Hands on experience using AI tools in real time
Strategies for designing AI supported tasks that increase rigor rather than reduce it
Approaches to strengthen clarity and creativity in instruction
Ready to implement ideas for your classroom

Speakers

Dyane Smokorowski

Digital Literacy & Citizenship Coordinator, Wichita Public Schools

Dyane Smokorowski is an accomplished educator, having been inducted into the National Teacher Hall of Fame in 2019 and named 2013 Kansas Teacher of the Year. As Coordinator of Digital Literacy in the Wichita Public Schools, she fosters a student-centered classroom that builds skills... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

New Class but NO Curriculum?

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Are you teaching a new class but have no textbook, lesson plans, or curriculum maps? Do you need to give a current class an overhaul? Fall 2025 I found myself in this exact spot, a brand new class being offered across the state, but no curriculum provided. Come to a hands-on workshop to build the curriculum directly from your course competency using AI products.

Speakers

Shanta' Kemp

Computer Teacher, Ottawa High School

Shanta’ Kemp taught for five years in Wellsville, KS, then left teaching to run a successful Pampered Chef business for 15 years. In 2016, she returned to the classroom via a long term substitute position at Ottawa High School that turned into a full-time position. Currently Shanta... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 245 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Pitching with Purpose: Bringing Client-Connected Projects into Any Classroom

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Engage students by giving their work purpose beyond the classroom. This session showcases how Speech classes at Gardner Edgerton High School partnered with local government and business professionals to create meaningful, client-connected projects. Students addressed real challenges and pitched their ideas directly to decision-makers. Participants will gain a step-by-step look at how the project was developed, how community partners were engaged, and how student and client feedback shaped the experience. The presenter will also discuss how this framework can be adapted to fit a wide range of courses and disciplines.

Speakers

Jaylene Freeman

CTE and RWL Coordinator, USD 231 Gardner Edgerton

Jaylene Freeman has a background in secondary education and business, with degrees from Kansas State University and Baker University. She’s spent her career helping students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences while teaching a wide range of business and technology... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Business & Community Partnerships, Student Career Development, Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Rooted in Purpose: Growing Leaders the Kansas FCCLA Way

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

This session is designed for FCCLA advisers who want to strengthen student leadership, chapter impact, and program sustainability through Kansas FCCLA. Participants will receive a comprehensive Kansas FCCLA state update, including current initiatives, program highlights, and upcoming opportunities for students and advisers.
Beyond updates, this session will focus on intentional program support, showcasing how FCCLA aligns with Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum, leadership development, and schoolwide goals. Attendees will leave with practical ideas for supporting FCCLA at the local level, increasing student engagement, and fostering strong partnerships between advisers and administrators.

Speakers

Shandi Andres

State Adviser, Kansas FCCLA

Shandi serves as the Kansas FCCLA State Adviser, where working alongside Family and Consumer Sciences professionals and FCCLA members is the highlight of her role. She is passionate about supporting leadership development and meaningful learning experiences for students across the... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 221 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KATFACS
Session Type Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSO)
Subject Family & Consumer Sciences

10:45am CDT

Why Is Career Exploration so Critical Today?

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

HirePaths Founder and Manhattan mom Kristin Brighton will overview the latest national and state data behind why Kansas and the entire United States need to invest heavily in career exploration, starting with students as young as elementary school. She'll also share her personal story as a parent and entrepreneur and overview HirePaths, which offers free, Kansas-based career resources you can easily integrate into your district's classrooms.

Speakers

Kristin Brighton

Founder, HirePaths

Kristin Brighton is one of the principals and founders of New Boston Creative Group LLC, an integrated marketing communications firm based in Manhattan.

Ms. Brighton is the founder of HirePaths, a marketing campaign to introduce Kansas kids to high-demand careers.

In addition to her professional work, Ms. Brighton is an elected member of the USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden School Board, and she was the 2016 chair of the board for the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 181 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Clusters/Pathways, Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development, Work-Based Learning
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Work-based Learning Fundamentals

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Whether you are navigating Work-based Learning experiences for students in your CTE pathways for the first time or if you are a seasoned pro; this session will support looking at sharing best practices, resources, and partnerships as we create these meaningful learning opportunities for our students.

Speakers

Anthony Meals

Agricultural Education Program Consultant and Kansas FFA Advisor, KSDE

KSDE Agricultural Education Program Consultant and Kansas FFA Advisor

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 238 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Work-Based Learning
Subject All CTE

11:40am CDT

KATFACS Awards Luncheon

Monday July 20, 2026 11:40am - 1:00pm CDT

KATFACS invites members to come celebrate our affiliate award winners and induction of officers!

Speakers

Janet Holden

FCS Teacher, St. Mary's Colgan

Janet Holden is a high school FCS Teacher/FCCLA adviser at St. Mary's Colgan in Pittsburg, KS. She has been teaching 14 years and is an active member of KATFACS, currently serving as the 2025-2026 KATFACS President.

Monday July 20, 2026 11:40am - 1:00pm CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Affiliate KATFACS
Session Type Affiliate Awards
Subject Family & Consumer Sciences

1:00pm CDT

KATFACS Business Meeting

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

All FCS Members: Plan to attend the KATFACS Business Meeting to engage with key leaders and gain insights into the strategic direction of our organization. This session will cover important updates, discuss ongoing initiatives, and outline future plans to enhance our impact in the field of Family and Consumer Sciences. Board members and attendees will have the opportunity to contribute their perspectives and collaborate on shaping the vision for KATFACS. Your participation is vital as we work together to advance our mission and support our professional community. FCS Teachers should plan to attend even if you're not a member!

Speakers

Janet Holden

FCS Teacher, St. Mary's Colgan

Janet Holden is a high school FCS Teacher/FCCLA adviser at St. Mary's Colgan in Pittsburg, KS. She has been teaching 14 years and is an active member of KATFACS, currently serving as the 2025-2026 KATFACS President.

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KATFACS
Session Type Business Meeting
Subject Family & Consumer Sciences

1:00pm CDT

Real-World Personal Finance: Helping Students Navigate Today’s Money Culture

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

Personal finance is evolving faster than most curriculum can keep up. From sports betting and fast fashion to Buy Now Pay Later services and influencer investing, students are making complex financial decisions in real time. This interactive session gives CTE educators practical, classroom ready strategies to address emerging trends while reinforcing core concepts such as risk, credit, incentives, and consumer protection.

Speakers

Ryan Wood

Midwest Partnerships Manager, Next Gen Personal Finance

Ryan supports teachers, districts, and states in delivering engaging, high-impact personal finance instruction. A former business and marketing teacher, he brings firsthand classroom experience to his work with CTE leaders and educators. He focuses on practical implementation by helping... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KBOA, KATFACS
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development
Subject Business & Marketing, Family & Consumer Sciences

1:00pm CDT

Stronger Together: Turning ACTE & Kansas ACTE Membership into Meaningful Impact

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

ACTE and Kansas ACTE work in partnership to provide members with a wide range of benefits—but understanding how to fully leverage those benefits is key to maximizing their impact. In this interactive session, ACTE and Kansas ACTE leaders will highlight how national and state-level efforts align to support professional growth, leadership development, advocacy, and career success. Participants will actively explore member benefits, hear real-world examples, and leave with practical strategies for engaging more intentionally with both organizations throughout the year.

Speakers

Linda Chase

Agriculture Instructor, Wellington High School

Linda has been teaching agriculture for 26 years. Over half her career has been spent managing high school greenhouses and teaching horticulture. She has focused on having great sales and teaching students how to run the greenhouse and run the sale. Her success has lead to her horticulture... Read More →

Kelli Diemer

Senior Director of Membership, ACTE

Laurali Masterson

FACS teacher/CTE Coordinator, Hill City Junior Senior High School

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 181 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

A Clear Path to Success: Using the IPS Model for Student-Driven Enrollment

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Learn how to move beyond traditional course catalogs to create a more intentional, student-driven enrollment experience. This session will demonstrate how Iola High School successfully increased buy-in for CTE pathways by merging a new interest-based recommendation system with a redesigned community engagement model. Participants will walk away with actionable strategies for facilitating deeper career conversations between students and parents, ensuring that every course choice is a purposeful step toward a clear future goal.

Speakers

Dana Daugharrthy

CTE Coordinator / Academic Counselor, Iola High School

With a career rooted in the lab and the classroom, Dana is passionate about helping students navigate their future. He currently serves as the CTE Coordinator and Academic Counselor at Iola High School. My background includes teaching everything from robotics to physics, and I still... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 181 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Clusters/Pathways, Leadership, Access and Supports, Student Career Development
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

AI as a Teaching Tool: Practical Applications for Every CTE Program

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Artificial intelligence is already embedded in the industries our students are entering. CTE educators do not need to become AI developers, but they do need to understand how AI tools can enhance instruction, improve efficiency, and better prepare students for modern workplaces.

This interactive session focuses on practical, hands on applications of AI tools that educators across all CTE pathways can implement immediately. Participants will explore how AI can support lesson planning, rubric creation, technical documentation, troubleshooting simulations, formative assessment, and student skill development. Rather than emphasizing coding or technical AI development, the session centers on what AI can realistically do, where it adds value, and how to guide students in using it professionally and ethically.

Through structured peer collaboration, attendees will design one AI integrated classroom activity tailored to their own program area. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a drafted implementation plan, example prompts aligned to their field, and a clear framework for integrating AI as a productivity and learning tool within existing coursework.

Speakers

Hondo Tamez

Assistant Professor of IT/Department Chair, Johnson County Community College

Hondo Tamez is an Associate Professor and the Department Chair of Information Technology at Johnson County Community College. He spends his time exploring the worlds of networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and all the other tech that keeps modern life running. Hondo holds industry... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 238 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods, Data & Program Improvement
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

Be Future Ready: Empowering Tomorrow’s Financial Leaders

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

With digitization reshaping the way we bank, pay, and earn, it's crucial to deepen students’ understanding so they can navigate our evolving financial landscape. This session will explore a new online course that delves into the innovative world of finance and technology through a student lens.

The lessons cover digital banking and payments, how to manage one’s digital financial footprint, social trends that intersect with finance, risks associated with digital banking and payments, digital currencies, avoiding financial frauds and scams, and more. The three stand-alone modules offer student-centered activities, built-in assessments, and a comprehensive teacher’s guide, and can also be integrated into existing learning management systems for students to complete independently. Join this session to discover how this new curriculum can help teens take control of their financial future and empower them to make more informed choices in our digital world.

Speakers

Gigi Wolf Neil

Director of Education, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Gigi Wolf Neil is Director of Education for the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, where she coordinates the strategic direction of education outreach throughout Kansas, western Missouri, and the region. She has extensive experience developing curricula related to economics, entrepreneurship... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KBOA, KATFACS
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Business & Marketing, Family & Consumer Sciences

2:00pm CDT

Leveling Up Your Labs with iCEV

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Take your hands‑on learning to the next level with iCEV! This session highlights quick, practical ways to enhance your classroom labs using iCEV’s built‑in activities, projects, and management tools. Learn how to customize labs, integrate industry‑aligned skills, and streamline prep time while boosting student engagement. Perfect for educators looking to modernize and simplify their lab-based instruction.

Speakers

Dr. Calee McElwain

Territory Manager, iCEV

Dr. Calee McElwain is the iCEV Territory Manager for Kansas and Missouri. She spent 25+ years in public education in a variety of roles including classroom teacher, instructional coach, and curriculum director. She has experience in both rural and suburban school districts. Dr... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Clusters/Pathways, Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

Recruiting and Supporting Special Populations in CTE

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Join us as we explore strategies to recruit and support special populations in your CTE pathways. You'll have the opportunity to see specific strategies being used at Maize Career Academy to successfully promote participation in all CTE pathways available at Maize USD #266 and Maize Career Academy.

Speakers

Dr. Lindsay King

Director of College and Career Readiness, Maize USD #266

Dr. King serves as the Director of College and Career Readiness at Maize USD #266

Andy Ewing

Consultant, KSDE

KSDE Special Populations Consultant

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 245 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Access and Supports
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

Pathways to Creative Careers: A Look Inside the JCCC Fashion & Interior Design Departments

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:50pm CDT

NOTE: Please meet no later than 2:00pm to meet in the Regnier Center lobby by the Nerman museum entrance doors to meet Joy Rhodes who will walk everyone over to the GEB building. This session will start at 2:15 to allow attendees time to walk/drive to the GEB building.

Join the Department Chairs from both Fashion Merchandising & Design and Interior Design for an inside look at the dynamic programs shaping the next generation. We will explore academic pathways, student activities, and transfer options that can prepare your students for a thriving career. This seminar will wrap up with a guided tour of our studio spaces and a behind‑the‑scenes look at the Historic Fashion Collection, a campus treasure you won’t want to miss.

Speakers

Dr. Heather Carlile Carter

Associate Professor/Department Chair, Johnson County Community College

Dr. Heather Carlile Carter is the Department Chair and Associate Professor of Interior Design at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, Kansas. She holds a Ph.D. in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Architectural Studies from the University of Missouri and... Read More →

Joy Rhodes

Department Chair - Fashion Design and Merchandising, Johnson County Community College

Joy Rhodes is the current Department Chair of the Fashion Merchandising and Design department at Johnson County Community College. In addition to her Chair role, Joy has been teaching in the Fashion department for over 20 years. Joy has over 15 years of previous apparel industry... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:50pm CDT
GEB 353-A 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KATFACS
Session Type Tour
Subject Family & Consumer Sciences

3:00pm CDT

Educator Focus Group for HirePaths' Cool Careers Series

Monday July 20, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm CDT

HirePaths is gathering feedback on its free, Kansas-based career video series Cool Careers, which is especially designed for grades 4 through 8. Any educators or administrators who work with elementary or middle school students are invited to participate in this one-hour session to provide feedback on the series and input on marketing efforts.

This session will be capped at 20 participants.

All participants will receive $50 for their time, and a donation will be made to K-ACTE for each educator who participates.

Speakers

Kristin Brighton

Founder, HirePaths

Kristin Brighton is one of the principals and founders of New Boston Creative Group LLC, an integrated marketing communications firm based in Manhattan.

Ms. Brighton is the founder of HirePaths, a marketing campaign to introduce Kansas kids to high-demand careers.

In addition to her professional work, Ms. Brighton is an elected member of the USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden School Board, and she was the 2016 chair of the board for the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Student Career Development
Subject All CTE

6:00pm CDT

KATFACS Social

Monday July 20, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT

Join us for the KATFACS Social, an off-site networking event designed to foster connections and collaboration among professionals in the field of Family and Consumer Sciences. This informal gathering offers a relaxed atmosphere to meet fellow attendees, share experiences, and build lasting relationships. Don't miss this opportunity to unwind, connect, and expand your professional network.

Please RSVP to Janet Holden 620-249-3311

Location:
Nick & Jake's
6830 W 135th St.
Overland Park, KS 66223

Speakers

Janet Holden

FCS Teacher, St. Mary's Colgan

Janet Holden is a high school FCS Teacher/FCCLA adviser at St. Mary's Colgan in Pittsburg, KS. She has been teaching 14 years and is an active member of KATFACS, currently serving as the 2025-2026 KATFACS President.

Monday July 20, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Nick & Jake's 6830 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66223

Social/Networking

Affiliate KATFACS
Session Type Social/Networking
Subject Family & Consumer Sciences