Overview
In 2025, Aligned launched the Cradle to Career Listening Tour with a simple goal: listen first.
We traveled across Kansas to hear directly from parents, educators, employers, and community leaders about what is working, what is not, and where we should focus next. These were not presentations. They were conversations.
Over four months, we traveled more than 1,000 miles, engaged over 100 Kansans, and surfaced more than 160 ideas that are now shaping our work.
What We Heard
Across every community, the same themes emerged:
• Childcare access and affordability
• Teacher pipeline and support
• College cost and alignment with careers
• Workforce readiness and skill gaps
– Wichita Attendee
“The wide breadth of expertise in the room was important, in that it allowed for the understanding that at all levels, we’re working to improve systems and community … I was inspired that perhaps this group can find specific touchpoints that if resolved, will impact all areas represented in the room.”
Why This Matters
These insights are directly shaping Aligned’s 2026 policy priorities and partnerships. The goal is simple: focus on what works and move the needle for students and the workforce.
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