Our Mission

To improve the learning outcomes and well-being of all children and youth by providing services and leadership in partnership with families, schools and communities.

Our Goals

• Increase learning growth for students
• Decrease the gap in achievement
• Increase annual graduation rates
• Increase gateways to post-secondary success

 

Plan to Attend: Heartland Administrators' Association March 5

The next Heartland Administrators' Association (HAA) meeting will be held on March 5 from 9-11:30 a.m. at the Heartland AEA Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Drive in Johnston. This will be an in-person meeting with lunch provided. The agenda features Session 2 of INspired Leadership Overview with guest speakers Tamara Lindholm and Kelly Turcotte, from ESSDACK, and partnership updates.

Registration Fees Covered for Districts to Recruit Quality Educators at Annual ISU Teacher Education Career Fair

Heartland AEA is once again excited to offer our districts an opportunity to participate in an event that will assist you in recruiting quality educators to your district -- the annual Iowa State University School of Education Teacher Education Career Fair! The Fair is open to the public and is predicted to host 250+ students in multiple content areas.

March 4, 2024
1 - 4 p.m.
Iowa State Alumni Center

To encourage your participation in this worthwhile event, Heartland AEA will cover the cost of your district/school's $75 Career Fair registration fee.

Registration for the Career Fair is open!
You will register for the event on your own, designating that you're a Heartland AEA area district. ISU will invoice Heartland AEA for all applicable registration fees. Please note that space is limited, and it fills up quickly!

Registration
Registration takes place through Iowa State's CyHire system. To log in or create a new account, visit the CyHire website. If you don't remember your password, click on "Forgot Password" and enter your email address. On your CyHire homepage, click on the "Teacher Education Career Fair - Spring 2024" link under "Attend Events" to complete the registration form.

Career Fair Details
Registration includes lunch for two, a 6' skirted table, Wi-Fi, electricity (upon request), parking and unloading/set-up assistance. Lunch will be provided before set up. There is a limit of two recruiters per booth, at one time. Booths will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the date of registration.

Mock Interviews
On the morning of the Career Fair, we will provide professional development sessions, including mock interviews, for our current student teachers. Consider participating in our mock interview session to provide tips and suggestions to upcoming graduates. An option to sign up is included in your registration.

On-Site Interviews
You may sign up to conduct on-campus interviews with students you meet immediately following the fair. If you select this option, ISU will provide a blank interview schedule for you to fill at the fair.

Questions?
For more information about the fair, visit the ISU Teacher Education Career Fair website. If you have any questions, contact CHS Career Services, Teacher Education Services, tecareerfair@iastate.edu or (515) 294-7559.

We hope you will consider participating in this great event -- not only for your district but for students getting ready to begin their careers serving our schools and students!

Online High School Courses Now Available from AEA Learning Online

AEA Learning Online is now offering Chemistry, Earth Systems Science and the Art of Computer Science courses. These courses are flexible, self-paced and instructor facilitated. Get all the details here. Express interest in learning more by completing this Interest Form. Questions, email highschoolcourses@aealearningonline.org.

Our February 2024 Digital Learning Newsletter has arrived!

In this issue:

• AEA Digital Resources for February Observances
• Transform Your Teaching with UDL
• Host a Digital Learning Micro-Summit
• Upcoming Tech Courses and more!

Read it here: https://bit.ly/3Up7Hmh

Check Out Our February Literacy Newsletter

In this issue of the Heartland AEA Literacy newsletter:

• We Still Have Time: How to Better Students’ Reading Skills
• National Center for Improving Literacy: Intensification Framework
• A guide for parents and caregivers to teach children word reading skills
• New and Not-Well Known Research about Reading Disabilities: Teachers Want to Know
• Self-Regulated Strategy Development: Center Writing in Your Literacy Instruction to Move ALL Students Forward
• Professional Learning Opportunities

Join the Numeracy Project Workshop for K-8 and High School Educators on March 5

The Numeracy Project Workshop is for K-8 educators and high school teachers who have been trained in the Numeracy Project and would like further support in implementing with students. This workshop will address common questions that have come from practitioners who have been utilizing the Numeracy Project 2.0. We will also provide learning to assist teachers and coaches in planning for small group instruction along with suggestions for integrating progress monitoring.

Participants will:

• have opportunities to learn strategies for supporting students who struggle with mathematics
• understand how skills from multiple stages can be connected and taught together
• explore how intentional selection of skill codes allows for differentiation opportunities
• identify opportunities within instruction where progress monitoring can occur

Date: March 5

Time: 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Dr., Johnston

Register at this link: bit.ly/NPworkshopregister
*there is no cost to attend

Calling all Principals! We have a Networking Group Just for You

Principal Alliance Meeting: Feb. 29, 2024

The Principal Alliance Lasting Leadership Series will focus on current practices in the field of leadership and principalship. Join your colleagues on the last weekday of the month from 9-10 a.m. for thematic whole group and small group discussions centered on current problems of practice. Additional resources will be shared to support the topics. Visit the Iowa’s AEAs website for meeting dates.

Behavior Support Community of Practice Continues on Feb. 29

The intention for the Behavior Support Community of Practice (CoP) is to engage in common learning, network, and collaborate to build community among individuals who hold similar roles. This CoP is designed for staff who serve in the role of a Behavior Interventionist, Behavior Coach, Behavior Strategist, etc.

Attendance at last year’s CoP is not necessary to join us this year! If you did not attend last year, and are interested in attending this year, please complete this Google Form to ensure you are added to the distribution list.

We will be facilitating the CoP on the following dates and times for the 2023-2024 school year:

• Feb. 29, 2024 - 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 101
• April 9, 2024 - 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 141
• May 14, 2024 - 12:00 - 3:00 p.m - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 101

**To facilitate a meaningful CoP, in person attendance is recommended. However, we do recognize that your responsibilities may not allow you to attend in person; thus a zoom option will be offered, upon request. Please contact Jadie Boens, Heartland AEA Director of Social Emotional Behavior Mental Health (SEBMH) Services, to request a zoom link and/or for any further questions.

Dive into Authentic Learning at the Iowa Authentic Learning Network Virtual Student Expo!

Calling all Iowa students! Are you curious about real-world learning experiences? Do you crave opportunities to connect with peers and professionals from across the state? Look no further than the Iowa Authentic Learning Network Virtual Student Expo!

This exciting event, taking place live and on-demand, offers a unique chance to:

• Explore authentic learning paths
• Connect with a community of learners
• Experience a virtual conference

Teachers, this is for you, too! The Expo provides a resource to enrich your classroom with authentic learning experiences. Use the event as a springboard for discussions about local opportunities and inspire your students to explore their passions.

Registration is now open!
Students: Register individually for live or on-demand sessions by April 4

Presenters: Sign up by April 4 to showcase your project, program or skills during the event. Choose between a live presentation or submitting a pre-recorded video.

Find more information:
Event website: bit.ly/49xYAE7
Program guide
Agenda

Contact: iowaaln@iowaaea.org

Unlocking Wellbeing Potential: Explore our Well-being Newsletter

Iowa’s Area Education Agencies are committed to supporting schools in promoting healthy learning environments that address the social, emotional, behavioral and mental health well-being of students. The resources in our AEA Statewide Well-being newsletter were compiled by a statewide AEA team dedicated to supporting the well-being of students, families and districts. For more information about these resources or other AEA services, contact your local Area Education Agency.

In this issue:

• Did You Know? U.S. Worker Burnout
• What Universal Strategies Can Improve Teacher Well-Being?
• How Does Teacher Well-Being Impact Outcomes?
• What Are the First Steps States, Districts and Schools Can Take to Improve Teacher Well-Being?
• Making Connections: Additional Resources

Our Mission

To improve the learning outcomes and well-being of all children and youth by providing services and leadership in partnership with families, schools and communities.

Our Goals

• Increase learning growth for students
• Decrease the gap in achievement
• Increase annual graduation rates
• Increase gateways to post-secondary success

 

CANCELED: Heartland Administrators’ Meeting on Feb. 6

Instead: Plan to Attend Day on the Hill, Feb. 12-13

There will be no Feb. 6 Heartland Administrators’ Association (HAA) meeting. Superintendents are encouraged to attend the Day on the Hill - Feb. 12-13. View details and registration below. The next regular HAA meeting will be held on March 5.

Register Today: One day at the Capitol—three organizations—one unified voice for public education

The AEAs, IASB and SAI are uniting for the 2024 Day on the Hill! With three events across two days, along with two pre-training webinars, you will be well equipped to advocate for public schools and student success!

Advocacy and Alignment Workshop: Feb. 12
Hilton Garden Inn, 8600 Northpark Dr., Johnston

This evening event on Feb. 12 will include a panel discussion with legislators and educational lobbyists on how to best engage with legislators. Panelists will provide up-to-date legislative insights in advance of the next day's Day on the Hill event. All attendees are invited to stay for a hosted dinner after the presentation. Thank you to the AEAs for hosting.

5 p.m. Name Tags/Registration
5:30–6:30 p.m. Legislative Panel Presentation
6:30 p.m. Dinner

Day On the Hill: Feb. 13
State Historical Building and Iowa State Capitol
600 E Locust St, Des Moines

Free parking available: Park in the Capitol Complex Parking Structure Located on Pennsylvania Ave. and Grand Ave. If you exit the structure on the Grand Ave. side, you can walk directly across the street and enter the State of Iowa Historical Building.

Join us on Feb. 13 for a session on talking points, key issues and logistical information for advocating at the Capitol.

The morning training will include:

• Welcome remarks from IASB Executive Director, D.T. Magee
• Lobbyist panel featuring Katie Walton (AEAs), Emily Piper (IASB), and Dave Daughton (SAI) with key points to make with your legislators moderated by SAI Executive Director, Lisa Remy.
• SAI Leadership Director Dana Schon on managing controversial discussions/issues
• IASB Government Relations Director Michelle Johnson with logistical information on navigating the Capitol, how to request a meeting with your legislator, and committee and subcommittee schedules
• Closing remarks/send-off from Heartland AEA Chief Administrator, Cindy Yelick

Following this hour-long training, you’ll head to the Capitol to meet and network with legislators in the rotunda.

Student feature! School districts across Iowa have been invited to showcase innovative programs and initiatives. Be sure to stop by their displays and support these students and staff!

Training Agenda
8 a.m. Registration and Breakfast
9 a.m. Advocacy Briefing/Training
10:30 a.m. Travel to the Capitol
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Advocate at the Capitol*
2–3 p.m. Return from the Capitol*

*Please note that there will be a shuttle available for those who are unable to walk to the Capitol, and in case of inclement weather. The Historical Building is a short distance from the Capitol and an easy walk!

REGISTER HERE

Fee: $45 for members. Fee includes continental breakfast and snacks on Feb. 13, materials and transportation to and from the Capitol. Special thanks to Iowa’s AEAs for hosting the workshop and dinner on Feb. 12.

Registration Fees Covered for Districts to Recruit Quality Educators at Annual ISU Teacher Education Career Fair

Heartland AEA is once again excited to offer our districts an opportunity to participate in an event that will assist you in recruiting quality educators to your district -- the annual Iowa State University School of Education Teacher Education Career Fair! The Fair is open to the public and is predicted to host 250+ students in multiple content areas.

March 4, 2024
1 - 4 p.m.
Iowa State Alumni Center

To encourage your participation in this worthwhile event, Heartland AEA will cover the cost of your district/school's $75 Career Fair registration fee.

Registration for the Career Fair is open!
You will register for the event on your own, designating that you're a Heartland AEA area district. ISU will invoice Heartland AEA for all applicable registration fees. Please note that space is limited, and it fills up quickly!

Registration
Registration takes place through Iowa State's CyHire system. To log in or create a new account, visit the CyHire website. If you don't remember your password, click on "Forgot Password" and enter your email address. On your CyHire homepage, click on the "Teacher Education Career Fair - Spring 2024" link under "Attend Events" to complete the registration form.

Career Fair Details
Registration includes lunch for two, a 6' skirted table, Wi-Fi, electricity (upon request), parking and unloading/set-up assistance. Lunch will be provided before set up. There is a limit of two recruiters per booth, at one time. Booths will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the date of registration.

Mock Interviews
On the morning of the Career Fair, we will provide professional development sessions, including mock interviews, for our current student teachers. Consider participating in our mock interview session to provide tips and suggestions to upcoming graduates. An option to sign up is included in your registration.

On-Site Interviews
You may sign up to conduct on-campus interviews with students you meet immediately following the fair. If you select this option, ISU will provide a blank interview schedule for you to fill at the fair.

Questions?
For more information about the fair, visit the ISU Teacher Education Career Fair website. If you have any questions, contact CHS Career Services, Teacher Education Services, tecareerfair@iastate.edu or (515) 294-7559.

We hope you will consider participating in this great event -- not only for your district but for students getting ready to begin their careers serving our schools and students!

February Future Ready Workshop: Districts Utilizing Their Career Information System

February’s Future Ready Network will focus on Utilizing Your Career Information Systems. During our Feb. 15, 8:30 - 11 a.m. session, we will discuss utilizing CIS within the DCAP, breakout to network with other districts using common CIS and have access to a variety of CIS reps to learn more. Visit the Heartland AEA Future Ready Website for other Future Ready opportunities across the state including STEM Best, Recordings, Career Exploration Events and more!

Discover IASL Award Books, ChatGPT Tips, AI Insights in our Library & Digital Resources Newsletter

In this issue of the Heartland AEA Library & Digital newsletter:

• IASL Award Books and TeachingBooks Resources
• How to Write Better ChatGPT Prompts in 5 Steps
• Transformativeness of AI
• MisinfoDay in March
• Encouragement Stickers
• A Roadmap for Integrating Digital Resources
• Professional Reading

Join the Numeracy Project Workshop for K-8 and High School Educators on March 5

The Numeracy Project Workshop is for K-8 educators and high school teachers who have been trained in the Numeracy Project and would like further support in implementing with students. This workshop will address common questions that have come from practitioners who have been utilizing the Numeracy Project 2.0. We will also provide learning to assist teachers and coaches in planning for small group instruction along with suggestions for integrating progress monitoring.

Participants will:

• have opportunities to learn strategies for supporting students who struggle with mathematics
• understand how skills from multiple stages can be connected and taught together
• explore how intentional selection of skill codes allows for differentiation opportunities
• identify opportunities within instruction where progress monitoring can occur

Date: March 5

Time: 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Dr., Johnston

Register at this link: bit.ly/NPworkshopregister

*there is no cost to attend

Calling all Principals! We have a Networking Group Just for You

Principal Alliance Meeting: Feb. 29, 2024

The Principal Alliance Lasting Leadership Series will focus on current practices in the field of leadership and principalship. Join your colleagues on the last weekday of the month from 9-10 a.m. for thematic whole group and small group discussions centered on current problems of practice. Additional resources will be shared to support the topics. Visit the Iowa’s AEAs website for meeting dates.

EdTech Course for Administrators Starts Feb. 14

This course will engage educational leaders in four modules for improving productivity, communication, organization, and school management through the use of technology. The culmination of skills and strategies covered in this course include:

• Integrating technology tools for leadership in digital environments to support student engagement, adult learning, and creativity (including AI)
• Exposure to digital-age learning experiences and digital tools that will help administrators become productive leaders in their schools and districts
• Growing an understanding of modernized, innovative options for feedback and data-based decision-making
• Exploring instructional and leadership practices utilizing education technology

Location: Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Drive, Johnston

Dates: Feb. 14 and Feb. 28

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Credit: 1 LR and/or Evaluator Approval

Course #203354

Instructors: Heartland AEA Digital Learning Consultants

Register Here

Behavior Support Community of Practice Continues on Feb. 29

Based on feedback and district requests, the Behavior Support Community of Practice (CoP) will be continuing in the 2023-2024 school year. The intention for the CoP is to engage in common learning, network, and collaborate to build community among individuals who hold similar roles. This CoP is designed for staff who serve in the role of a Behavior Interventionist, Behavior Coach, Behavior Strategist, etc.

Attendance at last year’s CoP is not necessary to join us this year!! If you did not attend last year, and are interested in attending this year, please complete this Google Form to ensure you are added to the distribution list.

We will be facilitating the CoP on the following dates and times for the 2023-2024 school year:
February 29, 2024 - 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 101
April 9, 2024 - 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 141
May 14, 2024 - 12:00 - 3:00 p.m - Johnston Regional Education Center, Room 101

**To facilitate a meaningful CoP, in person attendance is recommended. However, we do recognize that your responsibilities may not allow you to attend in person; thus a zoom option will be offered, upon request. Please contact Jadie Boens, Heartland AEA Director of Social Emotional Behavior Mental Health (SEBMH) Services, to request a zoom link and/or for any further questions.