How to Apply

The Kansans Can Star Recognition Program is an opportunity for Kansas school districts to be recognized for achievements in the outcome measures Kansans said they valued. This recognition is difficult to obtain and represents the highest level of achievement on the State Board outcomes. The measures are categorized as either quantitative or qualitative.

Qualitative Star Recognition Moves to a Two‑Year Cycle

Kansas school districts will now have an extra year to submit applications for the Kansans Can Star Recognition Program qualitative measures. Beginning January 2026, the qualitative Star Recognition process will transition to a two‑year application cycle, with the next application window for both renewals and first‑time applicants opening in January 2027.

Why the Change?

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) recently updated the qualitative rubrics to better align to the agency’s current work. Moving to a longer cycle supports:

  • More time for districts to implement and embed new practices.
  • Greater stability in districts’ long‑term planning.
  • Improved internal capacity, giving KSDE staff adequate time for reviewing applications and conducting follow‑up discussions.

Districts recognized in 2025 will automatically retain their stars through 2026.

The Star Recognition Program celebrates Kansas school districts and systems for their outstanding achievements in key areas that reflect success across the state’s education system.

The program highlights excellence in eight areas, using both quantitative and qualitative measures to showcase districts’ or systems’ accomplishments and areas of strength. Districts and systems can receive gold, silver, bronze or copper stars in the following quantitative measures based on data submitted to KSDE.

 

Quantitative Measures

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) will automatically determine district recognition in the Kansans Can Star Recognition Program using collected data. No application is needed. For more information visit the Quantitative Measures page.

Qualitative Measures

To be considered for the Kansans Can Star Recognition Program, districts must apply for awards in Social-Emotional Growth, Kindergarten Readiness, Individual Plans of Study, and Civic Engagement. For more information visit the Qualitative Measures page.

To apply for the following awards:

  • Social-Emotional Growth
  • Kindergarten Readiness
  • Individual Plan of Study

Artifacts and rubrics will be available Oct. 2026 with the applications will be open for the Qualitative Measures on Jan. 11, 2027. 

Award Timeline

  • JANUARY: Applications open.
  • MAY: Applications due.
  • OCTOBER: Kansans Can Star Recognition Program Award recipients announced.

For more information, contact:

kcstars
(785) 296-8110