Kansas Recreation & Park Association upcoming events

Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course & Exam (Fall 2026) (17 Nov 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Individuals taking the CPSI Classroom Course will gain practical, hands-on training on how to apply the ASTM standards and the CPSC guidelines to playground environments. Course participants will learn how to identify hazards on public playgrounds and playground equipment, how to rank hazards according to injury potential and how to apply that knowledge and establish a playground safety program.

Includes: Lunch on course days, 1.5 CEUs and the CPSI Course Manual*

Sponsored by:

Additional Course Details:

Times: November 17-18 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, check in starts at 7:30 AM
November 19 (Exam Day) 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, check in starts at 8:00 AM

The CPSI course materials that must be read in advance will be mailed to the course registrants 4 weeks prior to the course.

*The CPSI Manual is mailed to registrants for the course. It is not included in the Exam Only option.

Please access the CPSI Candidate Handbook (Paper & Pencil Testing) on the CPSI Material and Resources page to review critical information regarding completing the course/examination. The handbook contains detailed information on requesting Special Accommodations, English as a Second Language accommodations, how to access Latin-American Spanish materials and day-of examination policies (wearable technology policy, ID policy, etc.)

The option to take the CPSI exam via computer based testing is available through the NRPA. To obtain additional information please visit www.nrpa.org/cpsi. Please be advised if you register to take the examination with the course, you will not receive a refund to take your exam via computer based testing at a later date. Please decide now if you would like to take the exam on Day 3 of the course or via a Computer Based Exam at a later date.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

The Kansas Recreation and Parks Association (KRPA) values the contributions and engagement of our commercial partners. To maintain a professional environment that supports both educational and networking opportunities for our members and sponsors, KRPA has established the following policy regarding commercial vendors attending workshops and events:

Policy Overview: Commercial vendors may not register or participate as general workshop attendees unless they are sponsoring the specific event in question. This policy ensures that the presence of commercial entities at KRPA events is aligned with their purpose of networking and building relationships within a professional context, while respecting the intent of these events as learning opportunities for non-commercial attendees.

Commercial Vendor Definition: According to the KRPA bylaws Commercial Vendor is defined as: Individuals, organizations, companies, or business firms selling products or services to recreation, park, conservation, and leisure service agencies.

Exclusions: Commercial vendors may register and participate in these certification programs as general attendees. These courses are designed to provide specialized training and a certification from the National Recreation and Park Association. We understand the need of vendors may have to receive these certifications.

Virtual Education - Floaties Won’t Fix Poor Leadership (03 Dec 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Floaties Won’t Fix Poor Leadership

Strong aquatics leadership requires more than a whistle, a smile, and a pair of floaties to keep things afloat. When team culture struggles, programs suffer, and guest experience dips below the surface, it takes intentional leadership, not a quick fix, to get back on course. This session explores the essential skills aquatics leaders need to move beyond “band-aid” solutions and build teams that are confident, engaged, and ready to dive into challenges.

Implement leadership strategies that strengthen communication, accountability, and trust within aquatics teams.
Examine the limitations of quick-fix approaches in aquatics leadership and their long-term impact on staff and operations.
Design actionable steps to build resilient staff who can confidently handle challenges and contribute to a positive organizational culture.

Includes: .1 CEUs

Additional Course Information:

Speaker:

Devon Poulos, Aquatics Manager, North Port Parks and Recreation

About Devon: Devon Poulos has over a decade of experience in the recreation field, having worked with local YMCA organizations and county-level government agencies. Since joining the City of North Port in November 2018, he has held several key roles, including Recreation Program Coordinator, Head Lifeguard, Assistant Aquatics Supervisor, and Aquatics Manager.
Devon has earned multiple professional certifications, including the Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) in 2019, Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (LGIT) in 2022, and Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) in 2023. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

Devon completed The Emerging Leaders Institute in 2021 and graduated from the Abrahams Jones Academy for Leadership Excellence in 2023. He played a vital role in helping the City of North Port achieve its initial CAPRA accreditation in 2019 and contributed to the successful reaccreditation in 2024.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

Virtual Education - Recruiting and Growing the New Gen Maintenance Professional (20 Jan 2027)

Wed, 20 Jan 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Recruiting and Growing the New Gen Maintenance Professional

Capturing the attention of today’s tech-savvy, socially conscious youth requires reimagining not just the services we provide but also how we present, recruit, and inspire. Thoughtful maintenance, intentional recruitment, and personal development can transform not only the spaces we manage but also the people who make it all happen.

Learn how to overcome the maintenance stereotype.
Learn how to appeal to a generation that increasingly relies on devices for stimulus and guidance.
Learn how to engage new professionals in ways that create a lasting passion for service and parks.

Includes: .1 CEUs

Additional Course Information:

Speakers:

Thomas White, Deputy Administrator, Henry Co Parks and Recreation
Bryan Dixon, Deputy Administrator, Henry Co Parks and Recreation

About Bryan: Bryan Dixon has dedicated more than 19 years to Henry County Parks & Recreation, rising from his first role cleaning restrooms and running a weed eater to his current position as Deputy Administrator. Over the years, he has held multiple leadership roles, including Golf Course Superintendent, where he developed advanced expertise in turf science, irrigation, and environmental management. He is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Pool Operator (CPO), and Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM). Bryan also helps lead the “Watering Can” mentorship program, where he has shaped its focus on developing technical skills for the next generation of parks professionals.

About Thomas: Thomas White has nineteen years of experience in state and local government. He is currently Deputy Administrator of Recreation Services for Henry County Parks and Recreation, where he oversees 120 team members, four recreation centers, a tennis center, and a classroom facility. He is also a member of the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association Board of Trustees and serves as GRPA District 6 Commissioner. He has appeared on multiple podcasts, regularly speaks at conferences and workshops, and writes for the GRPA and NRPA magazines. Thomas has Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Troy University, where he graduated magna cum laude, and a Master of Public Administration from Georgia College and State University, where he won the Malcolm Moore Award for exceptional academic research.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

KRPA Student Poster Presentation Challenge 2027 (26 Jan 2027)

Tue, 26 Jan 2027 06:00:00 GMT

KRPA Student Poster Presentation Challenge

Hyatt Regency Wichita

400 West Waterman

Wichita, KS 67202

Deadline: December 11, 2026

Showcase your creativity and professional skills by developing an original program or event concept for the KRPA Student Poster Presentation Challenge. This hands-on project lets you apply what you’ve learned in class, connect with parks and recreation professionals from across Kansas, and compete for scholarship prizes.

Students will pay their KRPA Student Membership fee ($15) at the time of this registration, which will be reimbursed upon completion of their poster presentation at the KRPA Conference. Must attend student summit on January 26th.

If you are interested in learning more, please sign up for our informational webinar on October 13, 2026 at 1:30pm. Sign up here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/v_izWk-ZQSyLTqFtvLKiOg

Students:

Student members may attend the Student Summit and conference sessions at no charge IF they pre-register. Students can join KRPA for $15 when registering online for the conference.

NOTE: The student registration does not include lunches or evening socials. Students can purchase tickets in advance for the meals and socials for an extra fee.

Refunds: Conference Attendees cancellations received by December 31st are entitled to a 100% refund for those that paid by check, and 96% for those paid by credit card. Cancellations received between January 1 - 8 will receive a 70% refund if paid by check, and a 66% refund if paid by credit card. No refunds will be given after January 8th.

Registration Fees: Attendee fees must be paid by January 22, 2027

Annual KRPA Conference and Trade Show 2027 (26 Jan 2027)

Tue, 26 Jan 2027 06:00:00 GMT

KRPA Annual Conference and Trade Show

January 26-28, 2027

Hyatt Regency Wichita

400 West Waterman

Wichita, KS 67202

Early Bird Cut off date: January 4, 2027

Students:

Student members may attend the Student Summit and conference sessions at no charge IF they pre-register. Students can join KRPA for $15 when registering online for the conference.

NOTE: The student registration does not include lunches or evening socials. Students can purchase tickets in advance for the meals and socials for an extra fee.

Vendors:

Registration Fees: Attendee fees must be paid by January 22, 2027

KRPA Book Club (26 Jan 2027)

Tue, 26 Jan 2027 06:00:00 GMT

KRPA Book Club

Join us for the first-ever KRPA Book Club! Led by KRPA member, Cherie Riffey, Parks Division Assistant Director of Administration for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

The inaugural book is The Mental Game: Winning the War Within Your Mind by Darrin Donnelly.

We’ll meet during the 2027 KRPA Conference in January to discuss the book, share takeaways and hear different perspectives from fellow parks and recreation professionals.

This first gathering will also be your chance to help shape the future of the KRPA Book Club. We’ll vote on our next book and talk about what we’d like the book club to look like going forward.

There’s no cost to participate, and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to be a lifelong book club person. Come ready to read, share and have a good conversation.

The book is available through bookstores, many local libraries, and library apps such as Hoopla. Audiobooks are welcome, too!

Meeting details will be shared with those who RSVP.

2027 KRPA Trade Show Registration (27 Jan 2027)

Wed, 27 Jan 2027 17:00:00 GMT

2027 KRPA Trade Show

Tuesday, January 26 - Thursday, January 28

Trade Show - Wednesday January 27 - 11:00am - 3:00pm

Hyatt Regency Wichita

400 West Waterman

Wichita, KS 67202

This registration site is for Sponsors and Exhibitors only.

Important: All booth representatives will need to review and sign the 2027 KRPA Conference and Trade Show Terms and Conditions. You can email the completed form to jamie@krpa.org.

2027 Vendor - KRPA Conference and Trade Show Terms and Conditions.pdf

We have several sponsorship opportunities available to fit all your needs, you can review them in our sponsor document.

2027 KRPA Conference Sponsorship Opportunities

$900 General Conference Sponsor:

Show your commitment to parks and recreation by sponsoring the largest gathering of professionals in Kansas. This package provides excellent brand visibility and networking opportunities.

Benefits include:

A printed list of conference attendees for personalized outreach.

KRPA membership

8x8 Booth (Pipe and Drape, 2 Lunch Tickets, 1 6' draped table, 2 chairs)

$700 Booth Only

Includes:

8x8 Booth (Pipe and Drape, 2 Lunch Tickets, 1 6' draped table, 2 chairs)

Cancellation Policy

All requests for cancellation must be in writing. Requests received by November 30, 2026 will receive full refunds (minus a 4% credit card processing fee if applicable). Requests received between December 1-4, 2026 will receive refunds less a $200 per booth cancellation fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations made after December 5, 2026.

Questions: Email Jamie Reed or call (785) 235-6533

The Mane Event - Horse Sponsorship 2027 (27 Jan 2027)

Thu, 28 Jan 2027 01:30:00 GMT

The Mane Event - Kentucky Derby Social

Be part of the excitement of the horse races at the The Mane Event by sponsoring your own horse! All guests will receive a program listing of the races showcasing the horses and have the opportunity to step right up to place their bets! Watch the races on the video screens and cheer as the announcer calls out the names of the horses as they round the track. Race winners will receive raffle tickets depending on the bets they placed and will have an opportunity to win prizes throughout the event! (Horse sponsorships will assist in offsetting costs for the social including food, entertainment, etc.)

$100 per horse

Deadline: 12/31/2026

Only 30 horses available!

Questions about the Horse Sponsorships? Contact:

Lisa Klaassen, lklaassen@wichita.gov

Jennea Noel, jnoel@wichita.gov

Virtual Education - Experiential Learning for Diverse Audiences in Conservation Wildlands (28 Jan 2027)

Thu, 28 Jan 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Experiential Learning for Diverse Audiences in Conservation Wildlands

How can conservation wildlands become inclusive spaces for learning, discovery, and connection? This session explores innovative approaches to education that engage audiences from varied cultural, socioeconomic, and ability backgrounds. Through real-world examples and interactive discussion, participants will discover strategies to design programs that foster stewardship among diverse communities.

Identify strategies for creating experiential learning programs in conservation and recreation wildlands that are inclusive and accessible to audiences of diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and ability backgrounds.
Analyze real-world examples of experiential education programs to evaluate their effectiveness in fostering belonging, engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Develop actionable plans for designing or adapting programs that promote connection, relevance, and inclusivity among diverse community audiences

Includes: .1 CEUs

Additional Course Information:

Speakers:

Olivia Roddenberry, Environmental Education Coordinator, Indian River County

About Olivia: Olivia Roddenberry (B.S. in Biology from Georgia Southern University) is the Environmental Education Coordinator for conservation lands within Indian River County, Florida. She designs and leads experiential learning programs across Florida’s diverse habitats, helping participants of all ages connect with the natural world. In addition, she manages the Conservation Lands Division volunteer program and supports habitat management efforts to protect and restore local ecosystems. Growing up celebrating wildlands, she developed a lifelong passion for Florida’s natural resources and is committed to inspiring public stewardship. Through hands-on education and community engagement, she strives to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment, encouraging others to protect and cherish the state’s unique landscapes.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

Virtual Education - Empower Your Ask: Budget Tools for Confident Presentations (10 Feb 2027)

Wed, 10 Feb 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Empower Your Ask: Budget Tools for Confident Presentations

Unlock the power of your budget! This hands-on session equips mid-level managers with tools and strategies to track expenses, revenue, staff, and volunteers, building the confidence to present and justify requests with data-driven precision. Leave ready to lead your next budget meeting with authority.

Identify budgeting tools that will help organize budget requests for presentations.
Discuss various budgeting techniques that have helped them prepare for budget presentations.
Demonstrate the ability to use budgeting tools efficiently to streamline financial planning and reporting.
Demonstrate the ability to use budgeting tools efficiently to streamline financial planning and reporting.

Includes: .1 CEUs

Additional Course Information:

Speaker:

Rob Mattes, Director, Pinecrest Parks and Recreation

About Rob: Robert Mattes, CPRE, has served as Parks and Recreation Director for the Village of Pinecrest since 2017, bringing a people-first approach to building vibrant and connected communities. His career spans New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Florida, with a focus on excellence in public service and outdoor experiences. Under his leadership, Pinecrest Parks and Recreation achieved its initial CAPRA accreditation in October 2024, a major milestone for the department.
Rob holds a Master’s degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Recreation and Psychology from Plymouth State University. He currently serves as Vice President of the FRPA Board of Directors and is deeply committed to supporting members’ professional growth within the parks and recreation field.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

Certified Playground Safety Inspection Course and Exam (Spring 2027) (02 Mar 2027)

Tue, 02 Mar 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Individuals taking the CPSI Classroom Course will gain practical, hands-on training on how to apply the ASTM standards and the CPSC guidelines to playground environments. Course participants will learn how to identify hazards on public playgrounds and playground equipment, how to rank hazards according to injury potential and how to apply that knowledge and establish a playground safety program.

Includes: Lunch on course days, 1.5 CEUs and the CPSI Course Manual*

Sponsored by:

Additional Course Information:

Times: March 2-3 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, check in starts at 7:30 AM
March 4(Exam Day) 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, check in starts at 8:00 AM

The CPSI course materials that must be read in advance will be mailed to the course registrants 4 weeks prior to the course.
Course materials are not provided to those that register for the CPSI Exam only.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

AFO Aquatic Facility Operator Course - Lawrence, KS (07 Apr 2027)

Wed, 07 Apr 2027 13:00:00 GMT

AFO Aquatic Facility Operator Course

The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course is a 2-day training program designed to meet the needs of those working in public and semi-public recreational pool or water park facilities. The AFO Course offers unique discussions on risk management and pool management as well as training in proper water chemistry, water chemistry challenges and solutions.

The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

Upon successful completion of the AFO Course and 50 question open book exam, participants will be certified for 5 years by the National Certification Board in coordination with the National Recreation and Park Association.

Who Should Attend: Aquatic Directors, Recreation Directors, Water Park Directors, Pool Managers, Aquatic Supervisors, Resort/Hotel/Motel Staff, and any staff member responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of an aquatic facility.

Includes: Lunch and 1.5 CEU's

Additional Course Information:

Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center, 4706 Overland Dr Lawrence, KS 66049

Check-in begins at 7:45 A.M

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

AFO Aquatic Facility Operator Course - Virtual (14 Apr 2027)

Wed, 14 Apr 2027 13:00:00 GMT

AFO Aquatic Facility Operator Course

The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

Includes: Lunch and 1.5 CEU's

Additional Course Information:

Online Check-in begins at 7:45 A.M

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance

Virtual Education - Gen Z at Work: Strategies for Stronger Communication & Leadership (15 Apr 2027)

Thu, 15 Apr 2027 17:00:00 GMT

Gen Z at Work: Strategies for Stronger Communication & Leadership

Join us for a dynamic panel exploring communication between front-line staff and supervisors. Featuring insights from Gen Z undergraduate students, this session will highlight key challenges and practical strategies for improving workplace communication. We’ll examine how to ensure Gen Z employees feel valued, heard, and supported, while identifying ways to strengthen openness, respect, and understanding across roles. Through candid dialogue, participants will gain tools to bridge communication gaps and enhance effectiveness within their organizations. Whether you're a supervisor, front-line staff member, or interested in Gen Z perspectives, this session offers meaningful insights and actionable solutions for positive organizational change.

The participants will identify at least two key barriers that commonly hinder effective communication between Gen Z front‑line staff and their supervisors.
The participants will be able to list 2 strategies for communicating with Gen Z front-line staff.
The audience will be able to share 1 idea for building community between the generations for their workplace.

Includes: .1 CEUs

Additional Course Information:

Speaker:

Dr. Joy James, Appalachian State University

About Dr. Joy: Dr. Joy James has been a Professor in the Recreation Management program at Appalachian State University since 2007 and brings over twenty-five years of experience in teaching, research, resident camps, park interpretation, and environmental education. She is dedicated to helping people access and feel comfortable in outdoor settings and is passionate about preparing the next generation of recreation professionals with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the KRPA office at 785-235-6533 or jamie@krpa.org.

KRPA Event Policy:

No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.

Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance