KANSAS DAY 2024

A PK-12 FREE VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP EDVENTURE
Hosted by the USD 259 EdTech Team for Classrooms All Across the Sunflower State

TEACHERS - Would you like your students to take notes and reflect on their learning today? Click on the listening guide that fits your classroom and either print or share with students in Google Classroom

Teachers - If you enjoy our EdVentures and would like to setup your own virtual field trips and guest speaker events for your classroom, be sure to check out the full list of Kansas museums and organizations who are ready to connect with you. There are several opportunities and most of them are FREE of cost. YAY!

Happy 163rd Birthday, Kansas!  

Get ready for an awesome Kansas Day celebration! As January 29th approaches, we're thrilled to extend an invitation to all Kansas educators to join us for a captivating Ed-Venture. This series of virtual field trips, designed for grades PK-8, is an extraordinary educational journey that will take place on Monday, January 29th.

Prepare to dive into a diverse array of subjects including History, ELA, STEM, Fine Arts, and Careers. Each session is curated to spark curiosity and inspire learning among your students. It's more than just a field trip; it's an opportunity to bring the excitement of discovery into your classroom.

Mark your calendars and be part of this unique experience. We're looking forward to sharing this special day with you and your students. Let's make learning unforgettable! Join us and let the adventure begin!

TEACHERS - All live event sessions will be recorded and available for on demand replay within one hour.  Recordings will be accessible for the remainder of the school year.

We'd love to see you learning today!  Please share your class photos on social media using our #KansasDay2024 along with any district hashtags you regularly use.  Twitter and Instagram handles are listed for each session below, so please give our guest speakers a Cyber High-5 for sharing their expertise with us today. 

SCHEDULE BY GRADE BAND

PK-2 Sessions

ON DEMAND SESSIONS - Available all day

LIVE SESSIONS - Scroll down below the On Demand videos to find the live events

9:30-10:00

11:10-12:10 LUNCH AND LEARN

1:00-1:30

2:00-2:30

3-5 Sessions

ON DEMAND SESSIONS - Available all day

LIVE SESSIONS - Scroll down below the On Demand videos to find the live events

9:30-10:00

10:30-11:00

11:10-12:10 LUNCH AND LEARN

1:00-1:30

 2:00-2:30

6-8 Sessions

ON DEMAND SESSIONS - Available all day

LIVE SESSIONS -  Scroll down below the On Demand videos to find the live events

9:30-10:00

10:30-11:00

LUNCH AND LEARN

1:00-1:30

 2:00-2:30


ON DEMAND SESSIONS

These are accessible for the entire day.  Simply click the link to view at your convenience.

Teachers be sure to also visit the Kansas State Historical Society to find additional resources such as

Kansas Historical Society provides a variety of education resources and opportunities for all ages. Visit KSHS.org or contact KSHS.Education@ks.gov for more information. 

Celebrate Kansas Day with STEM Experiments at Exploration Place

GRADES 2-8

Come check out some of the coolest science experiments that celebrate Kansas geology, wheat, and wind. 

TEACHERS - if you use this video for either showing in class or doing the experiments live with students complete this short survey letting Exploration Place know your thoughts. They would love to hear from you! 

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Home on the Range with Friends University Education Majors

Grades PK-5
Music

Happy Kansas Day! Join Friends University's Music Education majors as they take you on a journey exploring the origins of Kansas's beloved song "Home on the Range". 

Make sure to watch the end for a special treat (hint: it includes an original arrangement)! 

Instagram: FriendsU_Finearts

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

KANSAS AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR VISIT - Grant Snider

Grades PK-2
ELA, Art

Join Wichita author-illustrator Grant Snider as he shares how he was inspired to write his first picture book What Color Is Night? and look for some familiar Wichita landmarks!  He will also share his latest picture book There is a Rainbow that is the hopeful book we all could use right now.

Purchase copies of Grant Snider's Books from Watermark Books and Cafe

TEACHERS - Download the There is a Rainbow Activity Kit for more resources.

Twitter
 @watermarkbooks

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

KANSAS AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR VISIT - Sheila Wagner and Scott Dawson

Grades PK-2
ELA, Art

 Vist Cowskin Creek Clydesdale Farm and meet the inspiration for the book Clay's Mustache written by Sheila Wagner.  Find out if Clydesdales really have mustaches?  What does a baby Clydesdale look like?  Find out about illustrator Scott Dawson and his fabulous artwork!

Purchase copies of Sheila Wagner's and Scott Dawson's Books from Watermark Books and Cafe

Twitter
 @watermarkbooks

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Kansas Day Symbols with the Kansas Historical Society

Grades PK-K
Social Studies

This kindergarten lesson introduces eight Kansas symbols through short expository texts that are read to the students. The lesson is a virtual adaptation of our Read Kansas! lesson P-3: Kansas Symbols Bingo. This video can be used in conjunction with the complete Read Kansas! lesson or separately. You can use this video to encourage class discussions of the texts.

TEACHERS - Download free PDFs of this Read Kansas! lesson

Twitter  @KansasHistory
Instagram @Kansas_History

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Wichita Symphony Kansas Day Edventure

Grades PK-8
Music, Careers

Join us for an extraordinary tour with the Wichita Symphony as they share with us a Kansas Day Musical Edventure.  We will meet Dr. Timothy Jones, Associate Concertmaster of the Wichita Symphony and Associate Professor of the Violin at Wichita State University and Film Composer Dr. George S. Clinton who was inspired to write a musical piece after visiting Wichita's Old Cowtown Museum.  His "Old Cowtown Suite" is fantastic!  

Twitter @WichitaSymphony
YouTube @Wichita Symphony Orchestra

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Home on the Range Sing-a-Long with the Kansas Historical Society

Grades PK-8
Music, Social Studies

Join us in a sing-a-long of our state song, Home on the Range.

Teachers - Be sure to check out this lesson plan from the Kansas Historical Society about the history of this classic song. 

And to know more about the original site where the poem was written, visit the Home on the Range Cabin online.

Twitter  @KansasHistory
Instagram @Kansas_History

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Oh Where, Oh Where, is Kansas? Sing-a-long with Kansas Historical Society

Grades PK-2
Music, Social Studies

This sing-along video is a great introductory lesson in Kansas geography that will teach kindergarten students how to find Kansas on a map. This video directly correlates to our Read Kansas! lesson P-02: Where is Kansas? 

TEACHERS - Download the  complete lesson plan along with worksheets.

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

State Fossils of Kansas with Exploration Place

Grades PK-8
STEM

What creatures roamed the plains of Kansas millions of years ago? Well they mostly swam and soared as the Sunflower State was part of the Western Interior Seaway. Join Brooke as she dishes the dirt on what fossils are commonly found in Kansas. Plus follow along with a sweet dino digging activity. 

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Kansas Character with Old Cowtown Museum

Grades 2-5
Social Studies

The people who started Kansas believed that not just anyone could live here. What defines a person who lives in Kansas and how did those expectations come to be? State symbols and folk characters reveal historic “Kansas Character.”

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

The Keeper of the Plains 

Grades 2-8
Art, Social Studies

The Keeper of the Plains is the icon of Wichita. Commissioned to be built as a beautification project in the 1960's, construction was completed in 1974. The Keeper of the Plains faces the rising sun, which is of importance to the Native American culture. There are several subtle features around the Keeper of the Plains; the bridges that connect visitors to the the sculpture were made to look like a bow and arrow; its location is at the confluence of the Little Arkansas River and Arkansas River where legend has it, this was a popular hunting area. 

Visit Wichita shares more information on The Keeper of the Plains. 

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow



Discover the Beauty, History & Science of the Khicha Family Carousel at Botanica

Grades PK-8
STEM, Social Studies

Join us at Botanica Wichita for a historical ride on the Khicha Family Carousel, a 40-foot, 36-horse, 2-chariot Allan Herschel carousel that is the only one of its kind left in existence.  This STEM focused lesson will feature simple machines, number sense, and a good dose of fun.  Come join us!

Twitter @BotanicaWichita
Instagram @BotanicaWichita

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Native Peoples of the Plains

Grades 3-8
Social Studies

Grammy® Nominated, Native American singer-songwriter Joanne Shenandoah narrates this video on Native Peoples of the Great Plains. The daily lives and cultures of America’s Native Peoples come to life for students through reenactments recorded at Native American living history museums and villages. 

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Famous Kansans - a Kansas Day Tribute

Grades 3-8
Art, Music, ELA, Social Studies, Science

Happy Kansas Day, everyone!  "Famous Kansans" is a video produced for the 150th birthday of Kansas in 2011.  It was part of the "Home on the Range" Sesquicentennial celebration staged by the Kansas Chapter of the Western Music Association.  Thousands of people enjoyed the performances in Hutchinson and Wichita.

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Learn to Draw a Bison with Wichita CityArts

Grades 3-8
Art

Join Alisha Gridley from Wichita CityArts for a bison drawing lesson.  Students will need paper, a pencil, and some crayons, markers, or colored pencils for this session.  We cannot wait to see what you create!

Teachers - we invite you to share some of the drawings on social media. Be sure to tag CityArts in your posts and include our #edventure hashtag.

Twitter: @CityArts
Instagram: @WichitaCityArts

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

William Allen White and the Red Rocks State Historic Site

Grades 4-8
ELA, Social Studies

Learn about William Allen White, an influential American newspaper editor, political commentator, and author while we take a tour of his home in Emporia, Kansas. 

Twitter  @KansasHistory
Instagram @Kansas_History

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Charles Curtis, The 1st Native American Vice President from CBS Sunday Morning

Grades 6-8
 Social Studies

Elected in 1928, Charles Curtis became the first, and only, Native American Vice President of the United States. After being raised among the Kaw Tribe in Kansas, he stayed in Topeka to live with his White father's family. His professional and political rise (from lawyer, to Congressman and Senator, to Herbert Hoover's running mate) was swift and compelling. Correspondent Mo Rocca looks back at the incredible life of Curtis, and the not-always-positive impact he had on Native American peoples.

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Tragic Prelude Mural at the Kansas State Capitol Building

Grades 6-8
Art, Social Studies

Tragic Prelude, featured on the second floor of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka, is considered one of John Steuart Curry’s best murals. However, the painting’s rich symbolism was so heavily criticized throughout the 1930s and 1940s that Curry left without completing the murals planned for the rotunda. He even refused to sign the two murals he completed.

Take your class on a tour with Capitol Visitor Center Coordinator Joe Brentano, as he explores the history behind the mural and the symbolism depicted in it.

TEACHERS - Be sure to check out additional information about the mural from the Kansas Historical Society.

Twitter  @KansasHistory
Instagram @Kansas_History

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

Kansas Oil Museum Tour

Grades 6-8
STEM, Careers, Social Studies

The Kansas Oil Museum is the one of the largest museums in the state with a focus on the history of America's early 20th-century oil industry. We also preserve and interpret the history of Butler County, Kansas, from the earliest days of the Native American tribes and the pioneers, to small-town and ranch life of the 1900s. 

Follow along with curator Suzanne Walenta and Kenneth Spurgeon as we see exhibits from the people of early Kansas to the discovery and history of oil in Kansas. 

TEACHERS - Be sure to check out more information on the Kansas Oil Museum website. 

Twitter @BCHistory_KSOil

Teachers - If the video doesn't play properly, try accessing it through this Google Slideshow

9:30-10:00

NOTE: Sessions are subject to change based on guest speaker availability, technology issues, and weather conditions

Kansas State Symbols 

Grades PK-3

Presented by the Kansas State Historical Society

Presenter - Trae Johnson, Asst. Director of Education and Outreach, Kansas Historical Society

A symbol is something that stands for something else. Just like your school or favorite sports team, states have symbols too. Students will learn a sense of place and identity as they explore all 23 official state symbols of Kansas, like the sunflower, American Bison, and many more.

I is for Ike - Meet Dwight D. Eisenhower

Grades PK-3

Presented by IKEducation

Join us for a delightful journey into history with IKEducation's interactive story time! Tailored for our youngest learners in grades K-3, we'll explore the life of Dwight D. Eisenhower through the wonders of the alphabet and engaging primary sources. This fun and educational experience is perfect for introducing little historians to a key figure in our history in a way that's easy to understand and full of discovery. Get ready for an alphabet adventure that brings history to life! 📚✨🌟

The Son of the Sunflower State: Meet Senator  Bob Dole 

Grades 3-8

Presented by the Dole Institute of Politics

Get ready to celebrate Kansas Day with an exciting adventure into the life of a remarkable Kansan, Senator Bob Dole from Russell! For over 35 years, Senator Dole dedicated himself to representing our Sunflower State in the U.S. Congress. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of archives and dive into the treasure trove of Kansas-themed primary sources at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas. It's a journey back in time to discover the rich history of Kansas and the inspiring story of one of its most famous citizens. Perfect for young historians in grades 3-5, this session promises to be an educational and engaging experience! 🌻📚🌟 

Echoes of the Plains: Exploring Native American Heritage in Kansas

Grades  2-8

Presented by Wichita Public Schools Native American Program

Dive into "Echoes of the Plains: Exploring Native American Heritage in Kansas," a culturally enriching session by the Wichita Public Schools Native American Program. This presentation offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Kansas's Indigenous peoples through authentic Native American artifacts. Students will explore the rich history, traditions, and artistry of these communities, gaining insights into their daily life on the great plains. It's an opportunity to appreciate and honor the diverse cultural heritage that has shaped our state, fostering a spirit of respect and inclusivity in our young learners. Join us for an enlightening journey that connects the past with the present. 🌾🪶🌿

10:30-11:00

NOTE: Sessions are subject to change based on guest speaker availability, technology issues, and weather conditions

Slippery Sleuths: The Barred Tiger Salamander Our State Amphibian

Grades 3-5

Presented by Great Plains Nature Center

Dive into the fascinating world of the barred tiger salamander, Kansas' very own state amphibian since 1994! In our thrilling "Slippery Sleuths" session, students will become wildlife detectives, unraveling the mysteries of these intriguing nocturnal creatures. Our expert Naturalist from the Great Plains Nature Center will guide your class through the damp burrows and hidden habitats of these slimy, semi-permeable-skinned salamanders. Discover how their unique skin helps them absorb moisture and thrive in their underground homes.

But wait, there's more! Get ready for an exclusive meet-and-greet with a live barred tiger salamander! This up-close encounter will bring students face-to-face with Kansas' slippery state treasure. Packed with fun facts and interactive learning, "Slippery Sleuths" is the perfect adventure for budding biologists and curious minds alike. Join us and leap into the world of these fascinating amphibians.

Wagons-Ho

Grades 3-8

Presented by Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site

Get ready for an exciting journey back in time! Imagine thousands of pioneers passing the historic Mahaffie house, each on their thrilling adventure to new lands like Santa Fe, Oregon, and California. Now, your students can step into their shoes! Through interactive and engaging stations, each dedicated to a different trail, your class will explore the captivating stories of why and how Americans ventured westward. It's a perfect chance to bring history to life and ignite your students' imaginations about the great American frontier. Don't miss this opportunity for an unforgettable educational experience! 

Famous Kansans

Grades 4-8

Presented by the Kansas State Historical Society

Presenter – Ashley Pheigaru, Museum and Education Assistant, Kansas Historical Society

When most people think about famous Kansans, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Gordon Parks, and Amelia Earhart might come to mind. However, many other individuals have made significant contributions to our state. Learn the stories of some lesser-known Kansans whose actions resulted in national and international significance.


 LUNCH & LEARN SESSIONS

NOTE: Sessions are subject to change based on guest speaker availability, technology issues, and weather conditions

11:10-12:10 Prairie Pals:  A Wild Journey Through Kansas Native Wildlife

ALL GRADES

Presented by the Sedgwick County Zoo

Join us for an exhilarating live tour of the Kansas Prairie exhibit at the Sedgwick County Zoo, a session we're calling "Prairie Pals: A Wild Journey Through Kansas' Native Wildlife." Suitable for students of all grade levels, this tour is a rare chance to get up close and personal with some of Kansas's most iconic animals. From the curious prairie dogs and majestic bison to the stealthy cougar, soaring eagles, diverse reptiles, playful ferrets, and adorable otters, each animal has a unique story to tell about life on the Kansas prairie.

We're thrilled to potentially have the prairie staff join us to share fascinating insights about these amazing creatures. Get ready to explore the natural wonders of your own backyard in this interactive and educational experience that brings the beauty and diversity of the Kansas prairie to life. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and discover the wildlife wonders of Kansas! 

11:30-12:15 Crossroads of Change: Western Expansion and Its Impact on Kansas' Indigenous People

Grades 6-8 

Presented by the  Wichita Public Schools Native American Program

Middle school classrooms are invited to join us for "Crossroads of Change: Western Expansion and Its Impact on Kansas' Indigenous Peoples," presented by the Wichita Public Schools Native American Program, targeting grades 6-8. This enlightening session explores the pivotal era of Western Expansion and its profound effects on the Indigenous communities of Kansas. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the cultural, social, and environmental transformations endured by Native American tribes during this period. Through historical narratives, cultural insights, and interactive discussions, this session aims to cultivate a deep respect for the resilience and adaptability of Indigenous peoples, offering a comprehensive perspective on a complex chapter of American history.

NOTE - Some of this content is best served for older students. We highly recommend middle school only viewers.  Thank you.

1:00-1:30

NOTE: Sessions are subject to change based on guest speaker availability, technology issues, and weather conditions

Kansas ABC's 

Grades PK-2

Presented by the Kansas State Historical Society

Presenter – Lois Herr, Education Coordinator, Kansas Historical Society

Come learn about Kansas as we travel through the alphabet. We will talk about things that are important to Kansas. Some may be familiar, and some may be new to you. Join us for this ABC journey then consider making your own Kansas ABC book. You’ll find directions and a template at the Kansas Historical Society’s website.

Kansas Critters and Their Adaptations

Grades PK-3

Presented by the Sedgwick County Zoo

This session offers students a unique opportunity to come face-to-face, virtually, with some of Kansas's most fascinating native animals. Students will delve into the world of animal adaptations, uncovering the incredible ways these creatures have evolved to thrive in the diverse landscapes of Kansas. They'll learn about the clever tricks and traits that help these animals survive, from camouflage to extraordinary sensory abilities.

But that's not all – we're not just about observing; we're about conserving! Our session will also focus on what we can do to protect these valuable species. Students will come away with not only a deeper understanding of wildlife but also a sense of responsibility and empowerment to make a difference.


Road Tripping Your Way Through Kansas History

Grades 4-8

Presented by Kansas Tourism Department

Get ready to bring history to life for your students! Discover amazing places across Kansas where you can step into the very spaces where our state's history unfolded. These excursions offer a unique opportunity to become a part of the Kansas story, providing an immersive and engaging learning experience that will captivate and inspire your students. Let's embark on this educational journey together! 🌟📚🏞️

IKE: Barefoot Boy in Abilene

Grades 4-8

Presented by IKEducation

Step into the world of Dwight D. Eisenhower, a true Kansas hero, in our engaging session "Ike: Barefoot Boy in Abilene." Perfect for grades 4-8, this journey takes students back to the early 1900s, exploring the life and times of Eisenhower before he became a celebrated World War II hero and U.S. President.

Discover how Eisenhower affectionately referred to his younger self as "a barefoot boy" when he returned to his hometown, Abilene, Kansas, after the war. We'll dive into what made Kansas in the early 20th century so special for him. Get ready to be fascinated by artifacts from that era, offering a tangible connection to the past. This session is not just about learning history; it's about understanding why President Eisenhower held his life in Abilene so close to his heart. Join us for a memorable exploration of one of America’s most beloved figures and the Kansas roots that shaped him. 

2:00-2:30

NOTE: Sessions are subject to change based on guest speaker availability, technology issues, and weather conditions

Melodious Meadowlarks

Grades 3-5

Presented by Great Plains Nature Center

Embark on a "Melodious Meadowlarks" adventure, perfect for PreK-2nd graders, to discover the charming Western Meadowlark, Kansas' state bird since 1925. Chosen by over 121,000 school children, this beloved bird triumphed in a historic vote. Our friends at the Great Plains Nature Center will bring its vibrant world to life with fun facts and pictures, inspiring young birdwatchers to spot and appreciate these melodious birds in their natural habitats. Get ready for a delightful journey into the world of the Western Meadowlark!

What's in a Nickname?

Grades 4-8

Presented by the Kansas State Historical Society

Presenter – Joy Brennan, Program Coordinator, Kansas Historical Society

A nickname is a substitute for a proper name for a person, place or thing. Nicknames can create an identity and vision before you learn anything more about the person, place, or thing. Did you know states have nicknames?  Join us as we explore several nicknames for Kansas that have had a lasting effect on the identity of our state.

Guardians of the Prairie

Grades 4-8

Presented by the Sedgwick County Zoo

Join us for "Guardians of the Prairie: Protecting Kansas Wildlife," where we'll meet Kansas's native animals and dive into their conservation tales. In this session, you'll not only witness the beauty of our state's wildlife, but also learn about the critical efforts to protect them. We'll explore the challenges these species face and share actionable steps on how we can all contribute to their safety and preservation. This journey promises to be an eye-opening experience, inspiring both you and your students to become active guardians of Kansas's natural legacy for future generations. 🌾🐾🌍

The Kansas Comet's Roommate - 45 min program 

Grades 5-8

Presented by The Pro Football Hall of Fame

Get ready to dive into an incredible story of friendship, courage, and breaking barriers! We're exploring the remarkable bond between Gale Sayers, a Gold Jacket athlete, and his teammate Brian Piccolo. Imagine being one of the first black and white roommates in the NFL – that's who these two were! We'll look at how they faced big challenges together, both in the game and in life, showing amazing character traits like teamwork and resilience. Plus, we'll watch a segment from the TV movie "Brian's Song" to see their story come to life. This isn't just about football; it's about friendship and standing strong in the face of adversity. Get ready for an inspiring journey! 🏈💪🤝

Thanks for joining us for Kansas Day!

Our next big event will be Friday, May 3rd for the state wide Career Day! Hope you can join us!

~The Wichita Public Schools EdTech Team