Kansas Ensuring Student Access to Educational Attractions to Boost Engagement

Through a program funded by federal relief funds called “Sunflower Summer,” Kansas is providing all children statewide with free access to museums, zoos, state parks, and other historic landmarks and attractions.

Over 70,000 Kansans accessed the program in the summer of 2021 and the state renewed the program in 2022. After registering through an app, children and two accompanying adults can access free, single-use tickets at nearly 100 attractions statewide.

We are spotlighting this because it is a unique, localized action to help address inequitable access to educational and cultural sites by ensuring they can be visited by all families, regardless of background. Access to these sites also helps provide a well-rounded education to students across the state.

Learn more:

Reviewer Analysis

The Education Trust

Out of school time is an important part of students’ social, emotional, and academic development. This promising practice ensures all students can access rich educational opportunities outside of school.

National Parents Union

This is a great opportunity for children that would not be able to visit one of these locations due to the cost.

The Rural Alliance

We like this program as it provides education outside the classroom with socialization and fun learning.

Leslie Villegas

This effort could also be strengthened by looking at the app’s analytics to see who is accessing the service and identity groups of students that are potentially missing out.

EdAllies

This is a great use of funds to provide access to resources and opportunities to all students and their families. Kansas should consider investing in this permanently so that affordability cannot be a barrier to accessing these learning and enjoyment opportunities.

Southern Regional Education Board

Simple and has the potential to impact generations to come.

New Leaders

This is a strong use of funds to support equitable access for all students and families.

Back

About the Author

Chad Aldeman is a nationally recognized expert on education policy, including school finance; teacher preparation, evaluation, and compensation; and state standards, assessment, and accountability. Keep up with Chad on the EduProgess: Unpacked blog.