"The Kansas Association of Public Employees (KAPE) was formed in 1962 as an organization representing public employees throughout Kansas. In an effort to strengthen the organization and provide additional service to public employees, KAPE affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO in 1987. In 2007, KAPE officially became a State Federation of the American Federation of Teachers and reorganized the membership into numerous local unions. The organization continued to be identified and referred to as KAPE until 2010. The transition concluded with the members electing to cease using the name KAPE and adopted the American Federation of Teachers - Kansas (AFT-Kansas) as the official name of the organization. The American Federation of Teachers-Kansas believes in public service, social and economic justice, and the democratic process. We work with integrity to improve delivery of public services for the people we serve, promote safe working conditions, encourage professional development, advocate for fair wages and benefits, and work to support and improve the community. Our work provides delivery of services by qualified professionals, a voice to those receiving services, and leadership for a healthy and vibrant community."