Upcoming Events
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
KRPA Annual Conference and Trade Show
January 26-28, 2027
Early Bird Cut off date: January 4, 2027
Vendors:
Register here to reserve your booth at the KRPA Trade Show: Trade Show Registration.
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
Tuesday, January 26 - Thursday, January 28
Trade Show - Wednesday January 27 - 11:00am - 3:00pm
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.
$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:
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 - 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
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.
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.
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.
Rob Mattes, Director, Pinecrest Parks and Recreation
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.
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.
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.
Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center, 4706 Overland Dr Lawrence, KS 66049
Check-in begins at 7:45 A.M
Online Check-in begins at 7:45 A.M
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.
Dr. Joy James, Appalachian State University
