MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Educators from across Reno County will come together once again for “All Hands on Deck,” a countywide professional development event set for Jan. 5, 2026, on the Hutchinson Community College campus.
The one-day event will host more than 1,100 educators representing every public school district in the county, as well as private schools such as Central Christian and educational institutions like HutchCC and RCEC. The event features a full schedule of keynote presentations, breakout workshops, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen instruction and collaboration across the region.
“This is really an all-inclusive event for anyone involved in education in Reno County,” said Paul Erickson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction for grades 6–12 at Buhler USD 313 and a lead organizer for the event. “It’s a massive undertaking, but the results have been well worth it.”
Originally launched in 2024, the event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, prompting organizers to bring it back after a one-year break. “It takes more than a year to plan an event of this scale,” Erickson noted. “With HCC offering their entire campus and school districts dedicating a professional development day, it’s a huge team effort.”
Keynote speaker Kim Bearden from the renowned Ron Clark Academy will headline the 2026 event. Bearden, co-founder and author of The Essential 55, will also lead breakout sessions throughout the day.
While outside experts like Bearden are invited to share their expertise, the majority of the workshops will be led by local educators. Topics will include balanced assessment, high-level instruction, early literacy strategies, and specialized training for coaches, including strength and conditioning sessions.
In addition to professional development, the event includes a vendor showcase during the extended lunch hour from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Businesses are invited to sign up and present their products and services directly to the region’s educators. Erickson said vendor participation helps keep the event affordable for schools and provides valuable exposure.
“Last time, we had about 30 vendors, and the feedback was phenomenal,” he said. “We’re hoping to fill those spots again. Vendors get direct access to over a thousand education professionals in one place.”
Businesses interested in participating can find the vendor registration form through local school district social media pages or by contacting Erickson directly at [email protected].
“All Hands on Deck” will run from morning to 3 p.m. on January 5, with raffle prizes and closing remarks to wrap up the day. Organizers hope for the same mild weather they enjoyed in 2024 — but rain or shine, they’re ready to go.
“It’s a great time to be an educator in Reno County,” Erickson said. “We’re excited to bring everyone together again for a powerful day of learning, growth, and connection.”