Research and Development Forum

R&D Forum Logo- a triangle with multi-color circles

About the R&D Forum

The Shawnee Mission School District Research and Development Forum (R&D Forum) is an annual event that celebrates student achievement and highlights innovative student projects and talent from across the district. The event, held in the spring, features student work in the areas of art, career and technical education, and science. 2025 year will mark the 63rd annual R&D Forum! Shawnee Mission is grateful to the Regnier Family, who has supported the R&D Forum since it began.

Student Showcase Info and Entry Form with Spotlight Icon
Next Great Idea Pitch Competition and Entry Form

 

Project Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Watch to Learn More about the R&D Forum

A display of student art at the R&D Forum.
A student presents at the Next Great Idea competition.
A student presents in the Next Great Idea competition. Behind her a sign says %22The Baby Bracelet%22
A student, surrounded by adults ,holds a giant prize money check.
A large crowd of people are gathered at the Center for Academic Achievement
Examples of student art displays at the R&D Forum.
A student shows an invention prototype at The Next Great Idea event.
A student holds up a large check and trophies and is surrounded by adults.
A student smiles by artwork on display at the R&D Forum.
A student speaks about a project at the R&D Forum.
A choir of students perform at the R&D Forum.
Trophies at the R&D Forum.
A student presents at The Next Great Idea competition at the R&D Forum.
Students operate robots at the R&D Forum.
Two students present at The Next Great Idea competition at the R&D Forum.
A student accepts an award at the R&D Forum.
A group of students perform at the R&D Forum.
A student shares a pitch at The Next Great Idea competition.
Students accept trophies at the R&D Forum.
Student woodworking projects on display at the R&D Forum.
Forum Calendar

SAVE THE DATE!

The SMSD R&D Forum will take place from April 20-April 25, 2026 

R&D Forum 2026 Event Dates 

April 21-23, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Student Showcase receptions for all student entrants, families, educators, and anyone in the community will be held at the Center for Academic Achievement, 8200 W. 71st St. These events feature interactive exhibits and performances! 

April 25, 2026 at 9 a.m. Next Great Idea pitch competition. Public voting will immediately follow the presentation. 

April 25, 2026 at 2 p.m.  Award ceremony for Student Showcase honorees, Regnier Award Presentation, Winners, and The Next Great Idea Pitch Competition award winners are announced. 

Important Dates and Deadlines! 

6 p.m. January 22, 2026 Pitch Info Session. Click here for the link to the information session. 

March 6, 2026- Deadline for Initial for Next Great Idea Pitch Competition 

March 27, 2026- Student Showcase Submission Deadline

April 3, 2026- Final Pitch Application Due for Next Great Idea Pitch Competition  

All events held at the Center for Academic Achievement, 8200 W. 71st Street, Overland Park, KS 66204

Questions

Dr. Leigh Anne Neal
Chief of Strategic Initiatives
leighanneneal@smsd.org

 

2024 R&D Forum