From the President

Kansans Have Spoken: Our Work Continues

As the results of the Nov. 3 general election become clear, I want to thank you for the work you've participated in, from canvassing to volunteering and voting. We have much to be proud of and much to celebrate. 

Across Kansas, voters sent a powerful message about the kind of future they want for our state. KNEA saw many positive outcomes that reflect Kansans' continued commitment to strong public schools, strong communities and policymakers who understand the vital connection between the two.

While we celebrate these successes, we also recognize this election is not the finish line. It is the foundation upon which we continue our work. The progress we've made is meaningful, but there is still plenty of boots-on-the-ground organizing, advocacy and engagement ahead of us.

One of the themes I've shared repeatedly is that communities are the foundation of Kansas. What makes our communities strong is the partnership between our public schools and the people they serve. Schools do not exist apart from their communities. Public schools and communities grow together, succeed together and face challenges together.

Today, many Kansas families are experiencing real economic pressures. Rising costs, workforce shortages and uncertainty have touched nearly every corner of our state. When communities struggle economically, our public schools feel those impacts as well. That's why the choices made by elected leaders matter so much.

This election demonstrated that Kansans want policymakers who will stand behind public education, invest in our communities, and focus on policies that help Kansans not just live, but thrive. Voters made it clear they understand strong public schools are essential to a strong Kansas.

Our state's future depends on the success of today's students. Whether they choose careers in agriculture, become entrepreneurs and business owners, join a skilled trade, pursue higher education or enter public service, Kansas needs them. More importantly, Kansas needs opportunities that encourage them to build their futures right here at home.

The work ahead is about ensuring every student has access to the opportunities they deserve and every community has the support it needs to grow and prosper. That work requires all of us. It requires educators who continue to advocate for their students. It requires members who stay engaged in their local communities. And it requires us to hold policymakers accountable for the promises they make to Kansas families and public schools.

Just as importantly, it requires us to remember who we are as an organization. The Kansas National Education Association isn't about partisan alignment. It is about education professionals working together to fulfill the promise of public education.We advocate for policies that strengthen public schools, support educators and create opportunities for every student and community to succeed. Everything we do should help unite us as a union and advance the future Kansans want for their public schools.

Thank you for everything you have done to help make your voices heard during this election cycle. Your efforts mattered, and they will continue to matter in the months and years ahead.

Together, we will keep building stronger public schools, stronger communities and a stronger Kansas for all.

For an update on the 2026 general election from KNEA Director of Government Relations Timothy R. Graham, visit https://bit.ly/4ej6ZAc.

In solidarity,

Sherri Schwanz
President
Kansas National Education Association