KASB Live Podcast

Ep. 10 Tallman Talks | Kansas Teacher Retention

Join Mark Tallman, Dr. Bret Church, and Dr. Jessica Dain as they discuss the Kansas Teacher Retention Initiative. KTRI offers insights into the reasons for the state's teacher shortage and possible pointers for helping retain and recruit future teachers.  Listen now!

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!

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!

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!

Ep. 9 Tallman Talks | Battling Chronic Absenteeism

In this episode, Mark is joined by administrative staff from the Haysville and Salina school districts to discuss chronic absenteeism and how they have been working to reduce the rate. During the COVID pandemic, chronic absenteeism was reaching all-time highs; now that we are on the other side, districts must work diligently to bring students back into the classroom. Listen as these districts share their methods and insights on how they have successfully reduced chronic absenteeism rates a...

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!

Ep. 8 Tallman Talks | Leveraging the Building Needs Assessment

Unlock the secrets behind Derby USD 260's educational success! Dive into our latest podcast as we dissect their robust needs assessment process, linking it to strategic planning and accreditation. Explore how data-driven decisions, strong teacher support, and student engagement led to impressive improvements in state test scores. Tune in now for a closer look at Derby's innovative approach to student and district improvement! Access some of Derby's Resources that they use for Building Nee...

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!

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!

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 legislatu...

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 ...

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!

Ep. 44 The Advocate | Updates From the Week of January 26

This week, Leah Fliter and Shannon Kimball discuss a busy week of testimony given by KASB at the K-12 Education Budget Committee. KASB testified on several bills, including HB 2514, which deals with open enrollment amendments, HB 2506, concerning virtual student participation in extracurricular activities, and many more. Tune in now!

Ep. 7 Tallman Talks | Kansas Future Teachers Academy

In this episode, Mark sits down with Todd Roberts, Director of the Kansas Future Teachers Academy, to discuss how KFTA can be used as a tool for teacher recruitment. KFTA is a five-day program designed for high school students interested in teaching as a profession. KFTA will be hosting two sessions this year: June 3-7 & July 15-19 Click here to apply for the KFTA. Want to read an interview with Todd? Click here.

Ep. 43 The Advocate | Flat Tax, Enrollment Calculations & More!

Welcome to another episode of The Advocate. This week, Leah and Shannon discuss some House Bills that could harm public education, including a flat tax bill passed by the legislature earlier this week. Learn about this and other bills KASB will be testifying on in the future. Listen now! Resources HB 2485 HB 2489 HB 2506 Flat Tax Bill

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!

Tallman Talks: Special Edition | Stan Reiss' 40 Years of Service

Tune in for a Special Edition of Tallman Talks! Mark sat down with Stan Reiss to discuss his 40+ years of service on his local school board. Hear about Stan's journey from teacher to long-standing board member in Kismet-Plains USD 483. Thank you for your service, Stan! You can also read about Stan's journey here.

Ep. 6 Tallman Talks | Spotlighting Student Success Across Kansas

Welcome back to another episode of Tallman Talks! Mark Tallman and Scott Rothschild discuss Mark's recent travels throughout the state to highlight exceptional Kansas districts. Most recently, he has visited much of the North Central Kansas region, including Pike Valley, Washington County, and Concordia, among many others. Tune in now to hear Mark's stories from the field. Also, click here to read about Mark's travels. 

Ep. 41 The Advocate | Student Success on the Rise in Kansas

The Advocate is back with a special guest, Dr. Randy Watson, Commissioner of Education! Join Scott Rothschild and Dr. Watson as they discuss the Commissioner's encouraging news in his annual brief to the State Board, efforts to boost literacy in Kansas, tackling chronic absenteeism, and a whole lot more!  Tune in now!

Ep. 5 Tallman Talks | Navigating Education Finance

As a new school year begins and legislative sessions approach, we delve into the nuances of education finance in Kansas. From the percentage of the state budget allocated to public education to the evolving definitions of K-12 funding, tax policies, and the impact of special education funding, we cover it all.  Listen now!

Ep. 4 Tallman Talks | Comparing Kansas National Rankings

In this episode, join Mark Tallman and Scott Rothschild as they discuss and decipher contrasting national education rankings, and explore the real story behind academic outcomes and funding. Dive into the evolving student landscape and the pandemic's impact on education. Tune in for valuable insights into Kansas public schools. Listen now!

Ep. 3 Tallman Talks

Join Mark and Scott as they celebrate positive news in Kansas education! From increased graduation rates to career-focused education through CTE programs and other postsecondary offerings, Kansas education continues to improve! Listen now!

Ep. 2 Tallman Talks | Improving Reading Skills in Kansas Students

Welcome to Tallman Talks, hosted by Mark Tallman! This week, Mark is joined by Dr. Laurie Curtis, the Early Literacy/Dyslexia Program Manager at KSDE, and Jeri Powers, the USD 232 District Literacy Specialist, as they explore the captivating realm of developing reading skills in children. Gain insights into the importance of early childhood learning and how Kansas is working to improve reading skills in its students through evidence-based reading practices, professional development, and muc...

Ep. 1 Tallman Talks | Kansas Graduation Rates

Welcome to "Tallman Talks!"  A new KASB podcast focused on highlighting the great things happening in the world of education in Kansas.   In each episode of "Tallman Talks," we'll delve into the triumphs, challenges, and innovative ideas shaping our state's educational landscape.  Sit down with Hosts Mark Tallman and Scott Rothschild this week as they discuss Kansas graduation rates and what it means for Kansans.  Listen now!

Ep. 1 Tallman Talks

Welcome to "Tallman Talks!"  A new KASB podcast focused on highlighting the great things happening in the world of education in Kansas.   In each episode of "Tallman Talks," we'll delve into the triumphs, challenges, and innovative ideas shaping our state's educational landscape.  Sit down with Hosts Mark Tallman and Scott Rothschild this week as they discuss Kansas graduation rates and what it means for Kansans.  Listen now!

Ep. 40 The Advocate | The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of SB 113

In this last episode of the legislative session, the KASB advocacy team sits down to discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of SB 113.  While there are some provisions KASB supports in SB 113, there are many that KASB opposes.  They also discuss what could happen next as the bill makes its way to the governor's office.  Listen now!

Ep. 39 The Advocate

The 2023 regular legislative session ended this past Friday with much left undone, including the education funding bill. The fight for increased special ed funding and the fight against vouchers will continue when legislators return for the veto session on April 24.  Listen now for more updates!

Ep. 38 The Advocate

The team has lots to discuss in this week's episode! The Senate is churning through dozens of bills as we near adjournment on April 7. These bills include HB 2304 and HB 2080, both of which were sent to Governor Laura Kelly's office.  They also discuss the Senate not taking action on the education budget this week, which did not contain special education increases.  Tune in to listen to this and more!

Ep. 37 The Advocate

This week, Leah Fliter and Scott Rothschild continue to cover many of the controversial bills moving through the Kansas Legislature.  Recently approved was the K-12 Budget Bill in the House of Representatives. This bill included several tacked-on provisions, including a parent portal. The team also discusses SB 83, SB 128, and more.  Listen now!

Ep. 36 The Advocate

This week, the Advocacy Team covers the controversial voucher bill, SB-83, which heads to the Senate Monday for final action. Also discussed were developments in the House K-12 Budget Committee, among many more hot topics.  Don't forget to contact your legislators this weekend and let them know that public dollars belong in public schools!  Listen now!

Ep. 35 The Advocate

In this podcast, the Advocacy team discusses the House K-12 Education Budget's recommendation to approve a voucher bill for students to receive taxpayer-funded education savings accounts, special education funding, and teacher pay raises.  They also mention bills sent to Governor Laura Kelly, such as the transgender ban bill and the gun safety bill.  Don't forget to contact your legislator about the harmful voucher legislation!

Ep. 34 The Advocate

The whole team is here for the newest episode of The Advocate!  This week, they talk about what to expect for the second half of the legislature, a recent gut-and-go bill, and the "parent's bill of rights." Tune in now!

Ep. 33 The Advocate

Join Scott Rothschild and John Forrer as they discuss bills approved in the House and Senate this week, including many controversial bills like the SB-83 tuition tax credit bill, HB-2238, the bill restricting transgender women from competing in women's sports, and much more! New episodes every Friday. 

Ep. 32 The Advocate

The team is back! Leah, Scott, and John are here to give you all the latest updates from this week.  They discuss funding for special education, HB 2236 that focuses on parent rights, SB 66 setting up an interstate teacher mobility compact, and much more!  New episodes every Friday. 

Ep. 31 The Advocate

Leah Fliter and John Forrer have had a busy week at the Kansas Legislature and are here to bring you all the developments. They discuss HB-2218, allowing public tax dollars to go to private schools, SB-83, expanding a tuition tax credit scholarship program, and much more! Also, check your emails for the latest advocacy Call to Action for harmful bills toward public education currently heading to the legislature. Read about the Call to Action here: KASB's Call to Action

Ep. 30 The Advocate

Scott Rothschild and John Forrer are here to bring you another episode of The Advocate! This week they discuss bills introduced in the House K-12 Budget Committee, the upcoming hearing on HB-2218, and lots more!  Listen now!

Ep. 29 The Advocate

This week, the team discusses bills KASB testified on at the statehouse, the continued federal SPED funding shortfall, and the Kansas Teacher of the Year.  Listen now!

Ep. 28 The Advocate

This week on The Advocate, the team discusses its recent annual Advocacy in Action event, developments at the K-12 and House Education Budget Committee, several new bills being introduced, and upcoming testimony to be presented next week. Tune in now!

Ep. 27 The Advocate

The team is back! The 2023 Kansas Legislative Session has kicked off, and the KASB Advocacy Team is here to keep you up to date on all new and developing news from the state house.  On this week's episode, the team discusses Governor Kelly's 2023 budget proposal and what implications that has for public education, including newly proposed funding for special education. The team also covers the first State Board meeting of the year with the three newly elected members, the House and Senate E...

Ep. 26 The Advocate

This week on The Advocate, the team discusses the full funding of SPED and the November 10 Special Education press conference held at Kansas Capital. They also discuss the proposed options to meet SPED funding obligations, the importance of engaging with your legislator, the recent election results, and what it could mean for education in Kansas.  Tune in now!

Ep. 25 The Advocate

On this podcast, the advocacy team discusses the ongoing special education funding shortfall and the recent press conference held to bring attention to the issue. The team also covers the latest ACT results, KASB's 2023 Draft State and Federal Resolutions, the upcoming elections, and so much more! Listen now! Mentioned Documents and Resources: • Special Education Messaging Tool • 2023 Draft State and Federal Resolutions • Election Resources

Ep. 24 The Advocate

Leah Fliter, Scott Rothschild, and John Forrer are back again for another episode of The Advocate! The team has been on the road gathering input from across the state in preparation for the upcoming legislative session. Tune in as they discuss recurring issues and concerns heard at their stops, including special education funding, the ongoing teacher shortage, and more! Mentioned Resources and Links: Myths About School Choice www.sos.ks.gov

Ep. 23 The Advocate

Join Leah Fliter, Scott Rothschild, and John Forrer for another episode of The Advocate. This week, they discuss KASB's new "Myths about School Choice" report, highlighting common myths about Education Savings Accounts, Private vs. Public School performance, and much more! Read the new report here!

Ep. 22 The Advocate

The Advocate is officially back with its latest episode! Join Leah Fliter, Scott Rothschild, and our newest KASB Advocacy employee, John Forrer, as they discuss the upcoming general elections and what people can expect in November.  For General Election Resources, click here: https://www.kasb.org/343648_2

Ep. 21 The Advocate

On this podcast, Leah Fliter and Scott Rothschild discuss the passed and vetoed bills from the 2022 Legislative Session. Tune in and stay up to date! Access the documents discussed here: "2022 education bills signed into law, vetoed" "Gov. Kelly signs into law K-12 finance bill, policy provisions"

Ep. 20 The Advocate

The 2022 session is coming to a close! Join the Advocacy Team while they discuss the bills that came through this session and which of those passed or failed. Join us weekly!

Ep. 19 The Advocate

Ep. 18 The Advocate

We are getting closer and closer to wrapping up this year's legislative session and things are heating up! Make sure to tune in every week to get the latest on the current status of bills and more! 

Ep. 17 The Advocate

Mark Tallman, Scott Rothschild, and Leah Fliter have the latest news and updates from the Kansas Legislature. Tune in every Friday to The Advocate. To see the status of current education bills click here. 

Ep. 16 The Advocate

Join the Advocacy team as they discuss the latest education news from the 2022 Legislative session! New episodes every Friday.  Link to Where We Stand: https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=101524