We look forward to a great day of learning and competition at the 2027 State Educators Rising Conference and Competition taking place from 9:15 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at Kansas State University's Student Union, 918 N. M.L.K. Jr. Drive in Manhattan.
Registration will begin at 8:45 a.m.
This year's opening keynote speaker will be Dr. Debbie Mercer, Nelson and Marilyn Galle Dean of the College of Education at Kansas State University.
A four-time K-State graduate and longtime Kansas educator, Mercer began her career as a library media specialist and kindergarten teacher in rural Kansas.
Since being named dean in 2012, Mercer has advanced innovative teacher-preparation programs, strengthened partnerships with schools and communities, and championed opportunities and support for future educators. Her leadership has also influenced educator preparation across Kansas through extensive service with the Kansas State Department of Education and work related to accreditation, assessment and education policy.
Conference attendees will hear from Dean Mercer as aspiring educators, teacher leaders and education partners from across the state come together to learn, compete and connect.
Conference details are being updated! Stay tuned for more information and updated links!
Finalized breakout schedules, competition schedules, and information will be arriving in your inbox in the coming months.
Competition Registration
To register your intent to compete in one of the Educators Rising State Competitions or Contests, please complete the JotForm linked below:
Compete at the Conference
Students eligible to compete in the state level competitions have met the following qualifications per our Kansas Bylaws:
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Active status at National level with annual membership paid AND
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Placed first or second at one of the two Regional competitions AND
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Scored at least an 80% or higher at the Regional competition
See the 2026 list of high school and collegiate competitions and contests plus their rubrics.
COMPETITION SCHEDULE
To be eligible to advance to Nationals, students must score 85% or better at the State Conference.
Questions regarding competitions: [email protected].
This form welcomes registrations from those who wish to ASSIST at the conference, as well as high school and collegiate Educators Rising students and their teacher leaders.
Teacher leaders, please submit this registration for ALL students who will be ATTENDING, including those who are competing.
Student competitors must also register SEPARATELY to compete at the conference.
Cost: $10 per person - includes lunch.
Lunch is being provided in the college cafeteria.
Invoices will be issued from KNEA to the teacher leader's email address.
Payments accepted via check only. The KNEA mailing address and PAYABLE TO information will also be provided on the invoice.
Payment is due before the conference. We cannot accept payments at the conference.
Checks payable to:
KNEA (Kansas National Education Association)
Attn: Makenzie Cochran-Dockerty
715 SW 10th Ave
Topeka KS, 66612
For registration questions or payment arrangements, please contact: [email protected]
Please ensure your school/entity email server will accept messages from @knea.org and check your Spam/Junk folder frequently for misdirected/rejected messages to ensure you receive your invoice and other vital communications pertaining to this conference.
