KASB is proud to announce the second class of Thrive, a year-long human resources learning cohort for school district leaders. The cohort will gather five times throughout the year at sites across Kansas. Members will gain knowledge of HR law and best practices to champion and support a positive and engaging workplace culture.

Thrive is designed to equip school district leaders with the tools to create a positive and productive workplace culture. During Thrive, participants will learn about critical processes within the human resources function, problem-solving skills and essential best practices in the HR role. They will also gain an understanding of technical and practical aspects of employee management, awareness of state and federal laws impacting the human resources function and skills to navigate difficult conversations. Additionally, participants will learn about systems to establish and maintain employee information and will have access to a supportive network of colleagues from across the state. 

Thrive also provides an opportunity for participants to learn about KASB services and support. KASB is dedicated to supporting Kansas school districts, and Thrive is just one of the many ways we are committed to helping school district leaders succeed.

The Thrive Class of 2026:

• Jereme Brueggemann, Turner USD 202, Executive Director of Administrative Services
• Courtney Carpenter, Wamego USD 320, Chief Human Resource Officer
• Kelly Colter, Chanute USD 413, Human Resources Director
• Dr. Janet Doud, Augusta USD 402, Assistant Superintendent
• Susan  Doyle, De Soto USD 232, Chief Human Resource Officer
• Justin Dunnaway, Perry-Lecompton USD 343, Assistant Superintendent
• Dr. Erica Mickelson, Emporia USD 253, Director of Human Resources
• Nick Grummert, Goddard USD 265, Director of Human Resources and Student Services
• Bryce Johnson, Morris County USD 417, Business Office Manager/Accounts Payable
• Jennie  Keller, Dodge City USD 443, Assistant Director of Human Resources
• Nickole Laflin, Burlington USD 244, Chief Human Resource Officer
• Jenny Lovitt, Holton USD 336, Chief Human Resource Officer
• Tonya Miller, Great Bend USD 428, Director of Human Resources
• Heidi Perkins, Udall USD 463, Superintendent
• Tonya Phillips, Tonganoxie USD 464, Assistant Superintendent
• Tanner Smith, Seaman USD 345, Director of Human Resources
• LeeAnn Thon, Garden City USD 457, Human Resources Coordinator
• Eric Tyler, Spring Hill USD 230, Director of Human Resources