Together with the City of Wichita

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Khan Lab School Wichita

For a long time, school looked the same, but nowadays schools come in all shapes and sizes.

We have public schools. We have private schools.

New types of schools take a different approach like the Wonder School and the Montesorri method.

Today, we want to talk about a new-ish school that opened its doors in 2024.

Introducing the Khan Lab School Wichita.

What is the Khan Lab School?

Sal Khan is the Founder of Khan Academy which offers free lessons for all types of subjects.

(He is also the reason I was able to make it through calculus thanks to his online video lessons, thanks Sal.)

Khan is also the author of The One World Schoolhouse (2012) and more recently Brave New Word (2024). His first book laid the groundwork for a new educational model that seamlessly integrates online and in-person learning, focusing on mastery, curiosity, and individualized pacing. The Wichita campus marks the first major expansion of KLS, reflecting a decade of educational innovation and success.

Khan Lab School aims to revolutionize education through a unique blend of personalized, student-centered learning that transcends traditional grade levels and time constraints.

Long story short, it’s a different take on schools and allows students to go as fast or as slow as they can and teach/learn from one another.

What makes Khan Lab School Wichita different?

The school's approach revolves around three core principles: Curiosity, Collaboration, and Community.

1. Curiosity:

At KLS Wichita, students are encouraged to follow their unique educational paths, acquiring knowledge and skills at their own pace. This personalized approach allows learners to build a strong foundation tailored to their individual interests and strengths. The emphasis on curiosity drives students to explore their passions and develop a love for lifelong learning.

2. Collaboration:

Collaboration is at the heart of the KLS Wichita experience. Students are not only encouraged to master concepts but also to share their knowledge with peers. This collaborative environment fosters effective communication skills and the ability to work as both leaders and team members. Through peer learning, students enrich their own understanding while contributing to the collective growth of their classmates.

3. Community:

Building a sense of community is fundamental at KLS Wichita. As students grow in self-awareness and confidence, they also develop empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. This inclusive culture empowers learners to actively participate in the well-being and harmony of their larger community, preparing them to be thoughtful and engaged citizens.

Why KLS Wichita Stands Out

1. Personalized Learning

Unlike traditional schools, KLS Wichita allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring that each learner fully grasps concepts before moving on. This mastery-based approach caters to the individual needs of students, providing a customized educational experience.

2. Integration of Technology:

Building on the legacy of Khan Academy, KLS Wichita integrates technology seamlessly into the curriculum. This blend of online and in-person learning provides flexibility and a wealth of resources, enhancing the educational experience.

3. Focus on Skills for the Future:

KLS Wichita prioritizes not only academic excellence but also the development of essential life skills. Students are equipped with critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

Who is Khan Lab School Wichita for?

The founding class of KLS Wichita was 4th - 9th graders.

They are rounding out their 2nd full school year with grades 5- 10. KLS Wichita is currently boosting middle school (6th - 8th) and building up the upper school (starting with 9th and 10th) next year and then 11th and 12th grades the following year.

Applications are open.

Financial Aid is also available to those in need.

Where is Khan Lab School Wichita?

So, is Khan Lab School Wichita online or…..?

KLS Wichita is currently located in the Learning Lab, an educational incubator in downtown Wichita, that is located in the historic Union Station.

It is strategically placed downtown to ensure accessibility for students and educators from surrounding areas, promoting an atmosphere of innovation and collaboration.

They will likely soon outgrow this space ( 🙌) in the best way possible, so a new location is on the horizon.

Who is behind Khan Lab School Wichita?

You already met Sal Khan, but no, he’s not moving to Wichita. Meet the team behind KLS Wichita:

1. Kim Hett - School Director:

   • Kim brings over three decades of educational experience to KLS Wichita. She co-founded and operated Andover eCademy, one of Kansas’s first K–12 blended online education programs, launched 15 years ago. With a strong background in both traditional and alternative learning environments, Kim’s collaborative leadership and commitment to student-centered, personalized learning align perfectly with our mission. She is poised to build on our school’s strong foundation and serve the KLS Wichita community with dedication and vision.

2. Camille Davis - Teaching Specialist:

   • Camille Davis, a distinguished alumna of Wichita State University, excels in building meaningful relationships with students. With seven years of teaching experience, she is known for her relational teaching style and commitment to student engagement. Camille integrates technology and practical learning experiences to enhance her teaching methods continuously.

3. Hailey Thomas - Teaching Specialist:

   • Hailey holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's in Educational Psychology from Wichita State University. Before joining the KLS team, she spent seven years in the classroom as a teacher. Her approach focuses on supporting students academically, emotionally, and mentally to help them feel successful and nourished in all areas of their development.

4. Allison Klusener - Operations Coordinator:

   • After seven years of teaching high school English and earning her master’s in Building Leadership, Allie Klusener is bringing her passion for people and systems to KLS Wichita. With a deep belief in the power of student-centered learning, Allie is excited to be part of a team that values curiosity, choice, and doing school differently. She thrives on building structures that support bold ideas—and she’s ready to help students, families, and staff do their best work.

Khan Lab School Wichita

This is a big deal and it is awesome to see Wichita take such a big swing on innovative education.

Khan Lab School Wichita is helping redefine education here in town and give students an opportunity for a brighter, more personalized educational journey.

For more information, visit Khan Lab School Wichita.

If you’re interested in learning more, they have an Open House Tonight (Wednesday 3/25) from 6-8pm or Monday 3/30 form 6-8pm at their location in Union Station.

Wichita Life Podcast

If you’d like to hear more from the School Director Kim Hett, check out our episode on the Wichita Life Podcast. You can listen on Youtube, Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

This deep dive is in partnership with Khan Lab School Wichita.

What do you want to see us go deep on in a future deep dive?

Let us know!

Together with Wichita Riverfest

Riverfest Sign-Ups are now open! Riverfest is only 79 days away which will be here before we know it.

This year the party takes place from May 29 through June 6, but you can sign up for many of the events today!

• 5/30 - Fidelity Bank River Run

• 5/30 - 6/5 - Photography Contest

• 6/6 - Pickleball Tournament “Dinks on the River”

• 5/30 - 6/2 - 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament

• 6/6 - Classic Car Show

• 5/31 - Cardboard Regatta

• 5/30 - Cowboy Bathtub Races

There are so many ways to get involved and participate, make this the year you try something new (or continue a tradition)!

Quick Rundown

• WBIT | Charles Koch Arena | 3/30 & 4/1

• Wichita Life Dinner Club | Various | 4/7

• Wichita Riverfest | Downtown Wichita | 5/30 - 6/7