With the changes in the Child Find procedures in the state of Iowa, there are implications for general education teachers and support for interventions. We will be providing professional learning sessions in locations throughout Heartland for building principals and general education teachers. The sessions will help participants learn more about the changes of Child Find procedures and the support offered through Heartland to develop structures within general education to support general education interventions. It is recommended that principals attend with teachers (teacher leaders, BAT members, IDM team members or other general education teachers). Click here to view session times and locations.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Iowa Core Curriculum Leadership Team Training: Year Two
Heartland AEA is sponsoring a series of training sessions designed for district/school Iowa Core Leadership teams. The information presented will be new or will extend information from the leadership sessions held during the 2008-2009 school year. Click here for a flyer of dates, locations and times of Day One one-day sessions.
Heartland AEA Resources for Supporting Gifted and Talented Education
Heartland is again offering gifted and talented learning opportunities and support for administrators, curriculum staff and teachers. Fall sessions are listed below. Click on the activity number links to register, or go to the Heartland Professional Development catalog.
New GT Orientation
Activity Number: GT007192111001
When: September 15, 2009 from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Room 14
Who: Teachers new to gifted and talented education in Heartland AEA area schools
This day-long session will provide an introduction to gifted and talented programming, Heartland AEA services and resources related to gifted and talented eductaion, reousrce recommendations from experienced g/t teachers and tips on surviving your first year in gifted education from those who have been there, done it and are here to talk about it.
There is no charge for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure that all participants receive materials.
Best Practices in Gifted Education: Site Visit Preparation Activity
Activity Number: GT007092111001
When: September 24, 2009 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Room 8
Who: Central Office and Building Administrators, Curriculum Directors, Directors of School Improvement/Student Services, Teachers and Coordinators of the Gifted and Talented
This session will overview elements of quality K-12 gifted and talented programming and services and will provide ideas and guidance for constructing a sound written gifted and talented plan. This session is primarily designed for schools receiving Department of Education Site Visits this year or next.
There is no charge for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure that all participants receive materials.
Gifted and Talented Table Discussion: Web 2.0 Tools in Gifted Programming
Activity Number: GT0079292111001
When: October 22, 2009 from 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Rooms 3 & 4
Who:Teachers of gifted and talented, administrators, program coordinators, other friends of gifted education
This hands-on session will provide the opportunity to explore Web 2.0 tools that will enhance learning for your students. If you have a favorite tool, be prepared to share. Bring your laptop, your ideas and your questions. Note: Contact Mary Schmidt at mschmidt@aea11.k12.ia.us if you do not have laptop access, and one will be provided for you.
There is no cost for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance. If there are fewer than five registrants three days prior to the session, it will be canceled.
Gifted and Talented Academy
Activity Number: GT006799991001
When: September 29 and December 8, 2009; February 23, April 13 and June 15-16, 2010
The Gifted and Talented Academy and Heartland AEA is a year-long (six-day) professional development opportunity for teams of K-12 teachers of g/t students and instructional leaders from individual districts to audit, develop and/or improve their written Comprehensive Gifted and Talented Program Plan and Programming. Teams will meet throughout the year to study their current plans, consider best practices in gifted education, analyze data and more.
Gifted and Talented Academy Year 2
Activity Number GT006992111001
When: October 13 and December 1, 2009; February 16 and April 6, 2010
Gifted education services must include curricular and instructional opportunities directed to the specific needs of gifted learners (Aiming for Excellence. NAGC, 2001). Gifted and Talented Academy Year 2 is an opportunity for Year 1 teams to extend their learning, thinking and application of comprehensive gifted and talented programming. The focus will be on curriculum and instruction, and teams will have the opportunity to identify an area of focus and develop goals for their learning using the Academy outcomes as guidelines.
Please share this information with those who would benefit from these opportunities and contact Mary Schmidt, Gifted Education Consultant, at mschmidt@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-0405 ext. 14375.
New GT Orientation
Activity Number: GT007192111001
When: September 15, 2009 from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Room 14
Who: Teachers new to gifted and talented education in Heartland AEA area schools
This day-long session will provide an introduction to gifted and talented programming, Heartland AEA services and resources related to gifted and talented eductaion, reousrce recommendations from experienced g/t teachers and tips on surviving your first year in gifted education from those who have been there, done it and are here to talk about it.
There is no charge for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure that all participants receive materials.
Best Practices in Gifted Education: Site Visit Preparation Activity
Activity Number: GT007092111001
When: September 24, 2009 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Room 8
Who: Central Office and Building Administrators, Curriculum Directors, Directors of School Improvement/Student Services, Teachers and Coordinators of the Gifted and Talented
This session will overview elements of quality K-12 gifted and talented programming and services and will provide ideas and guidance for constructing a sound written gifted and talented plan. This session is primarily designed for schools receiving Department of Education Site Visits this year or next.
There is no charge for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure that all participants receive materials.
Gifted and Talented Table Discussion: Web 2.0 Tools in Gifted Programming
Activity Number: GT0079292111001
When: October 22, 2009 from 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Where: Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive), Rooms 3 & 4
Who:Teachers of gifted and talented, administrators, program coordinators, other friends of gifted education
This hands-on session will provide the opportunity to explore Web 2.0 tools that will enhance learning for your students. If you have a favorite tool, be prepared to share. Bring your laptop, your ideas and your questions. Note: Contact Mary Schmidt at mschmidt@aea11.k12.ia.us if you do not have laptop access, and one will be provided for you.
There is no cost for this session, but attendees are asked to register in advance. If there are fewer than five registrants three days prior to the session, it will be canceled.
Gifted and Talented Academy
Activity Number: GT006799991001
When: September 29 and December 8, 2009; February 23, April 13 and June 15-16, 2010
The Gifted and Talented Academy and Heartland AEA is a year-long (six-day) professional development opportunity for teams of K-12 teachers of g/t students and instructional leaders from individual districts to audit, develop and/or improve their written Comprehensive Gifted and Talented Program Plan and Programming. Teams will meet throughout the year to study their current plans, consider best practices in gifted education, analyze data and more.
Gifted and Talented Academy Year 2
Activity Number GT006992111001
When: October 13 and December 1, 2009; February 16 and April 6, 2010
Gifted education services must include curricular and instructional opportunities directed to the specific needs of gifted learners (Aiming for Excellence. NAGC, 2001). Gifted and Talented Academy Year 2 is an opportunity for Year 1 teams to extend their learning, thinking and application of comprehensive gifted and talented programming. The focus will be on curriculum and instruction, and teams will have the opportunity to identify an area of focus and develop goals for their learning using the Academy outcomes as guidelines.
Please share this information with those who would benefit from these opportunities and contact Mary Schmidt, Gifted Education Consultant, at mschmidt@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-0405 ext. 14375.
2009-2010 HIV (STD & Pregnancy) Prevention Teacher Training
Click the following links for this Iowa Department of Education's program.
Invitation Letter
Class Schedule
Registration Form
Invitation Letter
Class Schedule
Registration Form
Be the FIRST to Receive a Rockwell Collins Grant
Rockwell Collins recognizes the value of forming positive relationships with students who will become the next generation of engineers and innovators. That is why they are teaming up with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) to dramatically increase FIRST LEGO League (FLL) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) teams throughout Iowa and across the nation.
FIRST is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization that was founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989. FIRST gives students the opportunity to develop the "muscle between the ears" and to gain experiences that will affect their future. Students who participate in FIRST use and reflect Gracious Professionalism, get real-world application of STEM concepts and participate in an atmosphere that encourages team building, entrepreneurship and sportsmanship.
Funding for a limited number of FLL and FTC teams in Iowa will be available through Rockwell Collins FIRST grants through August 31, 2009. The grants place a special emphasis on teams that have not participated in the past, teams that include minority students and females and teams from schools with a high percentage of students on free and reduced lunch programs. Funding levels will vary and may include amounts to cover the cost of the robot kit, registration, field setup kit or a combination of items.
FLL teams are comprised of students in grades 4-8 and FRC is designed for high school students. Teams typically include 10 students, a coach and an engineering mentor.
Information and Rockwell Collins grant application is available at: http://www.rockwellcollins.com/about/community/engineering-experiences/first-grants/index.html
Information about FIRST programs is available at:
http://www.usfirst.org
Information about FLL in Iowa is available at:
http://www.isek.iastate.edu/
Information about FTC in Iowa is available at:
http://k-12.engineering.uiowa.edu/FTC-GeneralInfo.php
FIRST is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization that was founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989. FIRST gives students the opportunity to develop the "muscle between the ears" and to gain experiences that will affect their future. Students who participate in FIRST use and reflect Gracious Professionalism, get real-world application of STEM concepts and participate in an atmosphere that encourages team building, entrepreneurship and sportsmanship.
Funding for a limited number of FLL and FTC teams in Iowa will be available through Rockwell Collins FIRST grants through August 31, 2009. The grants place a special emphasis on teams that have not participated in the past, teams that include minority students and females and teams from schools with a high percentage of students on free and reduced lunch programs. Funding levels will vary and may include amounts to cover the cost of the robot kit, registration, field setup kit or a combination of items.
FLL teams are comprised of students in grades 4-8 and FRC is designed for high school students. Teams typically include 10 students, a coach and an engineering mentor.
Information and Rockwell Collins grant application is available at: http://www.rockwellcollins.com/about/community/engineering-experiences/first-grants/index.html
Information about FIRST programs is available at:
http://www.usfirst.org
Information about FLL in Iowa is available at:
http://www.isek.iastate.edu/
Information about FTC in Iowa is available at:
http://k-12.engineering.uiowa.edu/FTC-GeneralInfo.php
Meet the New Heartland Area Superintendents
Before the first Heartland Administrator Association Meeting next Tuesday, September 1st, we thought that we would introduce you to some new faces. Below are the new superintendents starting this year in Heartland AEA's area who submitted self profiles.
Jason Ellingson, Collins-Maxwell
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Iowa State University in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in English Secondary Education. I completed my master's with Viterbo University in 2004. My superintendency certification was completed in 2008 through the University of Northern Iowa. I am currently enrolled in the doctoral program at UNI, focusing on curricular leadership. I plan to complete my doctorate in the fall of 2010.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I was interested in continuing to move the district forward. I was the middle school principal and district curriculum director for Collins-Maxwell for three years before my promotion. I have been actively involved in developing school improvement plans, implementing board goals and challenging the district to seek new opportunities and accept new challenges. It seemed like a natural transition to the superintendent's position.
What is your vision for your district?
I have spent the summer trying to hone that very concept, and I have come to rely on something I stated to the staff two years ago, "know the leaners, grow the learners." Our district is relatively small, agricultural and close-knit. We have a fabulous opportunity to know every learner so well that we can truly help them find their path to success. We must continue to partner with other schools and institutions to make sure every student has the best opportunity to realize their goals.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy reading, writing, watching college sports, cheering on the Cyclones and spending as much time with my family as possible.
Kathy Elliott, Panorama
What is your educational background?
After teaching English and Spanish in Guthrie Center for 10 years, I became a school administrator in 1992. The last 13 years I have worked in Spencer Schools, six years as a high school principal and seven years as an assistant superintendent. I received my undergraduate degree from Graceland University, my master's degree from ISU and my superintendent certification from UNI.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
There were several things that attracted me to the Panorama School District. The school district is thriving and growing, with a strong sense of pride in the communities it serves. The Panorama area is also growing and is an attractive place to live. Having taught in a neighboring district, I have many friends and family in the area. In many ways, it feels as though I'm coming back home.
What is your vision for your district?
I would like to see the district continue to grow and expand in the future. Always I feel it is essential to create a district-wide culture of excellence that permeates all classrooms, programs and services that serve students.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
When I can free up the time, I enjoy reading and writing. I also bike during the summer months and plan to use the Raccoon River Valley Trail system that's available in this area.
Vern Henkenius, Kuemper Catholic Schools
What is your educational background?
I have degrees from the University of Iowa and the University of Nebraska, Omaha. I was a high school classroom teacher and coach for nine years followed by a high schoolprincipalship for six years. I moved into Central Office School Administration as a Business Manager and Assistant to the Superintendent for twenty-eight years. I have a total of 43 years of experience in education.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
At the Kuemper Catholic Schools, I am the President. I taught at Kuemper for nine years. I live in the community, as for the past 28 years I was a Central Office Administrator at the Carroll Community School and then retired. My familiarity with the community and the school were major factors in my hiring. I currently have a half time contract.
What is your vision for your district?
Our school system provides a Christ-centered environment where students grow spiritually, academically and socially so that they become responsible citizens. I need to do whatever I can to make sure students and staff are accountable for that mission.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I like to do gardening, lawn work and go golfing. I also like spending time with our children and grandchildren. During the winter months, we enjoy spending some time in Arizona.
Sara Keehn, United
What is your educational background?
BS - Central College
MA -Drake University
CAS - Iowa State University
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I am a rural school advocate and truly believe in what small schools can do for children. United has an excellent reputation and seems like a perfect fit for my strengths and background.
What is your vision for your district?
United will become a model for 21st century elementaries. Our 1:1 laptop initiative for grades 4-6 combined with the ability to be responsive to student needs and
changes in education set us up perfectly to do that.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
Free time? With six daughters, who has free time! :)
Bradley Manard, Boone
What is your educational background?
2009-Present: Superintendent Boone, IA Community School District
1998-2009: Superintendent Solon, IA Community School District 1993-1998: Superintendent Emerson-Hubbard, NE Community School District
1990-1993: High School Principal Plattsmouth, NE Community School District
1988-1990: Assistant High School Principal Plattsmouth, NE Community School District
1977-85: Language Arts Teacher Lincoln Southeast High School, Lincoln, NE Public Schools
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
The opportunities at Boone are tremendously exciting, and I believe my skills and talents align quite well with the goals established by the Boone Board of Education. I am excited about the opportunity to move to a larger community of great quality and lead a district striving to provide an exceptional educational environment.
What is your vision for your district?
Within a nurturing culture focused on students achieving their capabilities, I believe all students should have an opportunity to develop a capacity for understanding. This will allow them to not only learn but be able to apply knowledge successfully to different and unique situations leading to achieving success as positive contributors to our society. This belief aligns quite well with the Boone Community School District's mission.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
In addition to professional interests, I enjoy bicycling, playing guitar, nature and wildlife photography and writing. Most recently, the book Life Lessons of a Legend, the story of Key West's Captain Tony was released.
Dan Mart, North Polk
What is your educational background?
Certificate of Advanced Studies - Summer 2003 at Iowa State University
Superintendent Certification Administrative Endorsement - May 1999 at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa
Master of Arts Degree in Teaching emphasis in Technology-Based Learning - August 1994 at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa
Bachelor of Arts Degree - May 21, 1989 at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake,
Superintendent - Graettinger Community School and Terril Community School
I previously served as a shared superintendent and middle school principal of Graettinger Community School and Terril Community School and was involved in their fifth year of whole grade sharing.
Curriculum/Technology Director - MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District
Business Education Instructor - MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
North Polk attracted both myself and my family with the various opportunities provided to us.
Lynn Ubben, Perry
What is your educational background?
My undergraduate degree is in Elementary Education/Special Education from Morningside College. I have taught various ages and levels of special education ranging from severe & profoundly handicapped students through resource (learning disabled) students. My masters degree is in Learning Disabilities and specialist in Education Administration. I have been a teacher, coach and administrator in 1A, 2A and 3A districts across the state.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I was looking for a new challenge and the dynamics of the Perry district appealed to me as well as the location. After going through the interview process, it became evident that the Perry community embraces their diversity and truly cares and supports children.
My husband and I have a daughter in Ankeny and a son who will be a sophomore at UNI. We felt Perry was a good fit for our family and have really enjoyed the people.
What is your vision for your district?
I will be very busy over the next few months meeting people in the school and community and listening. We will develop/refine our vision together.
Mike Wells, Winterset
What is your educational background?
I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in Social Studies/Physical Education and an endorsement in coaching. I was a teacher and basketball coach at Anselmo-Merna Public Schools (Merna, Nebraska) and Elmwood-Murdock Public Schools (Elmwood, Nebraska). I received my Masters from Doane College, Crete, Nebraska, and became a principal/athletic director at Niobrara Public Schools (Niobrara, Nebraska).
In 2000, I came to Corning, Iowa as a secondary principal. I served as principal for three years and then was promoted (or maybe its demoted) to superintendent. I earned my specialist degree from UNI and have completed all but my dissertation toward my doctorate degree which I hope to finish by May of 2010. I served as superintendent for six years in Corning. I was hired as superintendent of Winterset, and I'm looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
Winterset is a great community and a wonderful school system. Dr. Scott has done a great job and I knew I would be following a class act. The location is nice for my family and the school board is progressive in their thinking, truly wanting the best for children.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision is to stabilize the financial condition of the district and to develop the best school system in the country.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy running marathons, fishing and scuba-diving, but most of my free time is spent with my wife, Karen, and my three wonderful children Randy (17), Emmy (15) and Beth (12).
Jason Ellingson, Collins-Maxwell
What is your educational background?I graduated from Iowa State University in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in English Secondary Education. I completed my master's with Viterbo University in 2004. My superintendency certification was completed in 2008 through the University of Northern Iowa. I am currently enrolled in the doctoral program at UNI, focusing on curricular leadership. I plan to complete my doctorate in the fall of 2010.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I was interested in continuing to move the district forward. I was the middle school principal and district curriculum director for Collins-Maxwell for three years before my promotion. I have been actively involved in developing school improvement plans, implementing board goals and challenging the district to seek new opportunities and accept new challenges. It seemed like a natural transition to the superintendent's position.
What is your vision for your district?
I have spent the summer trying to hone that very concept, and I have come to rely on something I stated to the staff two years ago, "know the leaners, grow the learners." Our district is relatively small, agricultural and close-knit. We have a fabulous opportunity to know every learner so well that we can truly help them find their path to success. We must continue to partner with other schools and institutions to make sure every student has the best opportunity to realize their goals.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy reading, writing, watching college sports, cheering on the Cyclones and spending as much time with my family as possible.
Kathy Elliott, Panorama
What is your educational background?After teaching English and Spanish in Guthrie Center for 10 years, I became a school administrator in 1992. The last 13 years I have worked in Spencer Schools, six years as a high school principal and seven years as an assistant superintendent. I received my undergraduate degree from Graceland University, my master's degree from ISU and my superintendent certification from UNI.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
There were several things that attracted me to the Panorama School District. The school district is thriving and growing, with a strong sense of pride in the communities it serves. The Panorama area is also growing and is an attractive place to live. Having taught in a neighboring district, I have many friends and family in the area. In many ways, it feels as though I'm coming back home.
What is your vision for your district?
I would like to see the district continue to grow and expand in the future. Always I feel it is essential to create a district-wide culture of excellence that permeates all classrooms, programs and services that serve students.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
When I can free up the time, I enjoy reading and writing. I also bike during the summer months and plan to use the Raccoon River Valley Trail system that's available in this area.
Vern Henkenius, Kuemper Catholic Schools
What is your educational background? I have degrees from the University of Iowa and the University of Nebraska, Omaha. I was a high school classroom teacher and coach for nine years followed by a high schoolprincipalship for six years. I moved into Central Office School Administration as a Business Manager and Assistant to the Superintendent for twenty-eight years. I have a total of 43 years of experience in education.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
At the Kuemper Catholic Schools, I am the President. I taught at Kuemper for nine years. I live in the community, as for the past 28 years I was a Central Office Administrator at the Carroll Community School and then retired. My familiarity with the community and the school were major factors in my hiring. I currently have a half time contract.
What is your vision for your district?
Our school system provides a Christ-centered environment where students grow spiritually, academically and socially so that they become responsible citizens. I need to do whatever I can to make sure students and staff are accountable for that mission.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I like to do gardening, lawn work and go golfing. I also like spending time with our children and grandchildren. During the winter months, we enjoy spending some time in Arizona.
Sara Keehn, United
What is your educational background? BS - Central College
MA -Drake University
CAS - Iowa State University
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I am a rural school advocate and truly believe in what small schools can do for children. United has an excellent reputation and seems like a perfect fit for my strengths and background.
What is your vision for your district?
United will become a model for 21st century elementaries. Our 1:1 laptop initiative for grades 4-6 combined with the ability to be responsive to student needs and
changes in education set us up perfectly to do that.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
Free time? With six daughters, who has free time! :)
Bradley Manard, Boone
What is your educational background? 2009-Present: Superintendent Boone, IA Community School District
1998-2009: Superintendent Solon, IA Community School District 1993-1998: Superintendent Emerson-Hubbard, NE Community School District
1990-1993: High School Principal Plattsmouth, NE Community School District
1988-1990: Assistant High School Principal Plattsmouth, NE Community School District
1977-85: Language Arts Teacher Lincoln Southeast High School, Lincoln, NE Public Schools
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
The opportunities at Boone are tremendously exciting, and I believe my skills and talents align quite well with the goals established by the Boone Board of Education. I am excited about the opportunity to move to a larger community of great quality and lead a district striving to provide an exceptional educational environment.
What is your vision for your district?
Within a nurturing culture focused on students achieving their capabilities, I believe all students should have an opportunity to develop a capacity for understanding. This will allow them to not only learn but be able to apply knowledge successfully to different and unique situations leading to achieving success as positive contributors to our society. This belief aligns quite well with the Boone Community School District's mission.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
In addition to professional interests, I enjoy bicycling, playing guitar, nature and wildlife photography and writing. Most recently, the book Life Lessons of a Legend, the story of Key West's Captain Tony was released.
Dan Mart, North Polk
What is your educational background? Certificate of Advanced Studies - Summer 2003 at Iowa State University
Superintendent Certification Administrative Endorsement - May 1999 at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa
Master of Arts Degree in Teaching emphasis in Technology-Based Learning - August 1994 at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa
Bachelor of Arts Degree - May 21, 1989 at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake,
Superintendent - Graettinger Community School and Terril Community School
I previously served as a shared superintendent and middle school principal of Graettinger Community School and Terril Community School and was involved in their fifth year of whole grade sharing.
Curriculum/Technology Director - MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District
Business Education Instructor - MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
North Polk attracted both myself and my family with the various opportunities provided to us.
Lynn Ubben, Perry
What is your educational background? My undergraduate degree is in Elementary Education/Special Education from Morningside College. I have taught various ages and levels of special education ranging from severe & profoundly handicapped students through resource (learning disabled) students. My masters degree is in Learning Disabilities and specialist in Education Administration. I have been a teacher, coach and administrator in 1A, 2A and 3A districts across the state.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
I was looking for a new challenge and the dynamics of the Perry district appealed to me as well as the location. After going through the interview process, it became evident that the Perry community embraces their diversity and truly cares and supports children.
My husband and I have a daughter in Ankeny and a son who will be a sophomore at UNI. We felt Perry was a good fit for our family and have really enjoyed the people.
What is your vision for your district?
I will be very busy over the next few months meeting people in the school and community and listening. We will develop/refine our vision together.
Mike Wells, Winterset
What is your educational background? I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in Social Studies/Physical Education and an endorsement in coaching. I was a teacher and basketball coach at Anselmo-Merna Public Schools (Merna, Nebraska) and Elmwood-Murdock Public Schools (Elmwood, Nebraska). I received my Masters from Doane College, Crete, Nebraska, and became a principal/athletic director at Niobrara Public Schools (Niobrara, Nebraska).
In 2000, I came to Corning, Iowa as a secondary principal. I served as principal for three years and then was promoted (or maybe its demoted) to superintendent. I earned my specialist degree from UNI and have completed all but my dissertation toward my doctorate degree which I hope to finish by May of 2010. I served as superintendent for six years in Corning. I was hired as superintendent of Winterset, and I'm looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead.
Why did you decide to become the superintendent for your district?
Winterset is a great community and a wonderful school system. Dr. Scott has done a great job and I knew I would be following a class act. The location is nice for my family and the school board is progressive in their thinking, truly wanting the best for children.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision is to stabilize the financial condition of the district and to develop the best school system in the country.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy running marathons, fishing and scuba-diving, but most of my free time is spent with my wife, Karen, and my three wonderful children Randy (17), Emmy (15) and Beth (12).
Friday, August 21, 2009
Invitation to the Administrator Connection
If you are interested in having the Administrator Connection sent to other personnel in your district in addition to the superintendent and principal, please contact the Heartland Communications Department at comms@aea11.k12.ia.us. Please include the name, prefix, title (assistant principal, curriculum director, etc.) and building that each person serves.
SAI, AEAs and the Wallace Foundation to Host "Global Achievement Gap" author Tony Wagner
School Administrators of Iowa, Area Education Agencies and the Wallace Foundation are co-sponsoring a workshop with Tony Wagner at the Polk County Convention Complex on September 16, 2009. The workshop is titled "Leading, Learning and Teaching in the 21st Century."
For more information about the workshop, please view the brochure at http://www.sai-iowa.org/storage/TonyWagner.pdf
Registration is available online at http://www.sai-iowa.org/sept16reg/
The registration fee is $80 per person, regardless of whether you are a member of SAI.
The registration fee is $80 per person, regardless of whether you are a member of SAI.
Superintendents: September Heartland Administrators' Association Meeting Agenda
Click here for the agenda of the September 1 Heartland Administrators' Association (HAA) meeting which will be held at the West Des Moines Learning Resource Center from 9:00-11:50 a.m.
HEART Database Checkoff List
Here are a few important pieces of information about the HEART database. These apply to every district using HEART. Please read and pass on to the correct people in your district for action.
• Send a K-12 barcode file to heart@aea11.k12.ia.us ASAP to update students to their new grade and building and to inactivate students who have moved away. This should be done at the start of each school year. Some displays will not work correctly without this information.
• Review the access and security settings for your users each year. Inactivate users who have left the district and modify other settings as needed.
• HEART training sessions for the year were posted over the summer. The next administrator and behavior training sessions are scheduled for September 3, 2009. Go to the July archive of the Administrator Connection or click here for details and registration information.
• A new version of HEART is up and running. Most of the changes are behind the scenes to accommodate the new ethnicity coding requirements. The changes visible on the Web are mostly minor tweaks to eliminate bugs and improve ease of use. Please let us know if you encounter any problems.
• There is a new administrator’s manual available for download from the Heartland Web site or by clicking here. Please download this version and trash your old administrator manual. The user manual is under revision and will be posted when finished.
As always, your questions and suggestions are welcomed. Please address HEART questions to Connor Hood at chood@aea11.k12.ia.us.
• Send a K-12 barcode file to heart@aea11.k12.ia.us ASAP to update students to their new grade and building and to inactivate students who have moved away. This should be done at the start of each school year. Some displays will not work correctly without this information.
• Review the access and security settings for your users each year. Inactivate users who have left the district and modify other settings as needed.
• HEART training sessions for the year were posted over the summer. The next administrator and behavior training sessions are scheduled for September 3, 2009. Go to the July archive of the Administrator Connection or click here for details and registration information.
• A new version of HEART is up and running. Most of the changes are behind the scenes to accommodate the new ethnicity coding requirements. The changes visible on the Web are mostly minor tweaks to eliminate bugs and improve ease of use. Please let us know if you encounter any problems.
• There is a new administrator’s manual available for download from the Heartland Web site or by clicking here. Please download this version and trash your old administrator manual. The user manual is under revision and will be posted when finished.
As always, your questions and suggestions are welcomed. Please address HEART questions to Connor Hood at chood@aea11.k12.ia.us.
Heartland AEA's Annual Progress Report Now Available
Heartland AEA's Annual Progress Report (APR) for the 2007-08 school year is now available. You can access the APR at the following:
https://www.edinfo.state.ia.us/web/aea_apr_summary_staticweb.asp
You can also access the Agency's APR via our Web site by selecting "Heartland Information" on the navigation on the left-hand side of the page and going to "Annual Progress Report."
Please direct any questions or comments about the report to Kristi Upah, Assistant Director of Internal Accountability, at (800) 362-2720 or kupah@aea11.k12.ia.us.
https://www.edinfo.state.ia.us/web/aea_apr_summary_staticweb.asp
You can also access the Agency's APR via our Web site by selecting "Heartland Information" on the navigation on the left-hand side of the page and going to "Annual Progress Report."
Please direct any questions or comments about the report to Kristi Upah, Assistant Director of Internal Accountability, at (800) 362-2720 or kupah@aea11.k12.ia.us.
Last Call for Counselor Academy I
Don't let your district/school miss out on the last opportunity to participate in Counselor Academy I (CAI). This four-day professional development opportunity tailored for school counselors helps them write and refine their K-12 articulated, sequential school counseling program as required by Iowa Code. Help and guidance is provided to collect artifacts to ease schools through the new requirements for school counseling programs as related to the Iowa Department of Education site visits. There are two other professional development opportunities that are offered as follow-ups to CAI which are the following:
For more information about the counselor academies or other counselor support resources, please contact Sue Schirmer at sschirmer@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-0405 ext. 14379.
- Counselor Academy II, which focuses on using data to drive the school counseling program
- Counselor Academy III, which focuses on curriculum, instruction and assessment with regard to the school counseling program
For more information about the counselor academies or other counselor support resources, please contact Sue Schirmer at sschirmer@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-0405 ext. 14379.
What’s Different About Teaching Reading to English Language Learners?
These sessions connect research-based reading instruction and second language acquisition theory and practice. Through an interactive format, teachers learn about the important and striking differences between teaching reading to native English speakers and teaching reading to ELLs. Using a practical, hands-on approach, teachers then explore reading instruction strategies, focusing on areas of need particular to ELLs.
Instructor: Lynda Franco
Date: September 24, 2009
Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Office, Learning Center
Session 1: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. This session is geared for internal staff, but teachers are welcome, too. The activity number is ES0055-9211-10-01.
Session 2: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. This session is geared for teachers, but internal staff are welcome, too. Please bring a “brown bag” meal to eat during the brief break. The activity number is ES0055-9211-10-02.
Choose the session that works for your schedule. Register through the Heartland Professional Development catalog on the home page or click here. For an informational flyer, click here.
Instructor: Lynda Franco
Date: September 24, 2009
Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Office, Learning Center
Session 1: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. This session is geared for internal staff, but teachers are welcome, too. The activity number is ES0055-9211-10-01.
Session 2: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. This session is geared for teachers, but internal staff are welcome, too. Please bring a “brown bag” meal to eat during the brief break. The activity number is ES0055-9211-10-02.
Choose the session that works for your schedule. Register through the Heartland Professional Development catalog on the home page or click here. For an informational flyer, click here.
Spread the Word about "THE PUSH"
Scott McLeod is an Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Educational Administration program at Iowa State University. He also is the Director of the UCEA Center for the Advanced Study of Technology Leadership in Education (CASTLE), the nation's only center dedicated to the technology needs of school administrators.
Join his latest campaign, the PUSH, to identify excellent subject-specific blogs that are useful to P-12 teachers. If you know if any great blogs that could be a useful resource, please submit them on his Web site, Dangerously Irrelevant, at http://www.dangerouslyirrelevant.org.
Thanks in advance for helping with this initiative. If everyone contributes, two weeks from now there will be a bevy of excellent subject-specific blogs and resources to share with teachers in your district/school.
Join his latest campaign, the PUSH, to identify excellent subject-specific blogs that are useful to P-12 teachers. If you know if any great blogs that could be a useful resource, please submit them on his Web site, Dangerously Irrelevant, at http://www.dangerouslyirrelevant.org.
Thanks in advance for helping with this initiative. If everyone contributes, two weeks from now there will be a bevy of excellent subject-specific blogs and resources to share with teachers in your district/school.
A Two Step Online Fundraising Strategy for Schools and Nonprofits
Posted on August 17, 2009 by Will Marlow
Here is a solid online fundraising strategy that will work for many non-profits and schools:Will Marlow is an online fundraising consultant. Learn more about fundraising from Will Marlow’s blog at http://willmarlow.wordpress.com/
1. Become an excellent storyteller.
2. Adopt a proactive "spread the word" strategy that enables your donors and volunteers to begin carrying your flag and making requests for people to donate.
Of course, I would never suggest that an organization stop asking for money. I am suggesting, rather, that you start asking people to join you in making even more solicitations, which enables you to begin sending out more THANK YOU notes than requests for money.
It used to be that you had to do everything. You had to produce the content and deliver it. Now, you can get help with the second part of that, using tools like Facebook, Twitter and AlumniFidelity to ensure deliverability of your message. And this allows you to focus more of your own resources on the content part of the equation.
Inside your institution, you should cultivate your strength for storytelling so that whenever someone visits your Web site, they are hit hard by the compelling stories about how you impact the community and accomplish your mission: videos that discuss your impact on homelessness; interviews with your CEO talking about how many children you taught to read; a transcript of your school’s President talking about how excellent this year’s incoming freshman class is; stories about people you help and stories about how those people go on to help their communities. Whatever your institution’s mission, focus your resources on telling that story, and telling it well online.
And if you get the content right, your donors and volunteers will want to tell their friends and family about you; all you need to do is ask them to spread the word, and tell them exactly how you want them to do so (Facebook, Twitter, AlumniFidelity). It doesn’t need to be intrusive, but your message to your donors and volunteers should be: "Help Carry Our Message". Tell your friends and family. If you’re on Facebook, update your status message to tell people about your support. If you’re on Twitter, tweet on our behalf and include a link to your homepage. And for some supporters, ask them to create a personal fundraising page using a service like AlumniFidelity, or a product from Blackbaud or Convio, that let’s them do something like asking for donations to your charity or school instead of birthday presents. Let them be as creative as you like.
The bottom line is, you can tell your story better than anyone. And that story is the real asset you own. Create inspiring content that will make your donors feel good about giving you their money, and feel good about telling their friends. Your donors and volunteers are in the best position to deliver your message to their friends and family on your behalf. Let them do it.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Race And Ethnicity Changes 2009-2010: Project EASIER
Project EASIER (Electronic Access System for Iowa Education Records) is the Iowa Department of Education's initiative involving the transfer of individual student records. The mission of the project is to reduce data burden, encourage better decision-making by establishing and maintaining a cost effective method of accessing and transferring accurate and timely education information among school districts, post-secondary institutions and the DE.
To access the DE's Project EASIER resources, go to http://www.iowa.gov/educate/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=44&Itemid=1261.
If the documents on the Web site do not provide enough information or you need someone to talk to specifically about Project EASIER issues, please contact Jay Pennington at jay.pennington@iowa.gov.
To access the DE's Project EASIER resources, go to http://www.iowa.gov/educate/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=44&Itemid=1261.
If the documents on the Web site do not provide enough information or you need someone to talk to specifically about Project EASIER issues, please contact Jay Pennington at jay.pennington@iowa.gov.
Department of Education Site Visit Training Schedule
A choice of trainings is scheduled for school districts and accredited non-public schools receiving an Iowa Department of Education comprehensive site visit during the 2009-2010 school year. School districts and schools are encouraged to include the superintendent, curriculum director, building principals and other staff who will be involved in planning for the visit in the team it sends for training. Additionally, anyone serving as a team member on a site visit is highly encouraged to attend training. Please select one of the two face-to-face trainings that have been scheduled. Please send an e-mail to Julie Melcher, DE School Improvement Consultant (Julie.melcher@iowa.gov), to let her know how many from your district/school plan will attend and which training your staff will attend. Julie will respond to your email with site visit documents to be copied and brought to the training.
The Academy, January 13-14
Baxter, February 16-18
Carlisle (Equity Focus), December 15-17
Colfax-Mingo, February 23-25
Dowling Catholic High School, October 20-21
Holy Family School, October 15-16
Indianola, January 19-21
Knoxville, November 17-19
Madrid, December 8-10
Martensdale-St.Marys, February 9-11
Mt. Olive Lutheran, February 24-25
North Polk, January 26-28
Pella Christian Grade School, October 15-16
Pella Christian High School, October 12-13
Perry (Equity Focused), January 12-14
St. Augustin School, October 13-14
St. Cecilia School, October 27-28
Sully Christian School, November 17-18
West Des Moines, March 29-April 1
Persons wishing to register as a team member on one of the scheduled visit may do so through the following link, https://www.edinfo.state.ia.us/web/sitevisit.asp, at your earliest convenience.
Please contact Julie Melcher at Julie.melcher@iowa.gov or (515) 281-6293 with any questions.
- September 4, 2009 from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m., Heartland AEA, Johnston Office, Rooms 3 & 4, Johnston, Iowa (following the September Curriculum Network Meeting to be held at the same location)
- October 6, 2009 from 1:00 - 3:45 p.m., West Des Moines Learning Resource Center, 3550 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (following the October Superintendent Meeting to be held at the same location)
- Face-to-face training at the Iowa Department of Education, State Board Room 2nd floor, September 22, 2009 from 1:00-3:30 p.m.
- ICN training, September 29,2009 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Site availability and additional information will be sent to each district receiving a focused equity visit.
The Academy, January 13-14
Baxter, February 16-18
Carlisle (Equity Focus), December 15-17
Colfax-Mingo, February 23-25
Dowling Catholic High School, October 20-21
Holy Family School, October 15-16
Indianola, January 19-21
Knoxville, November 17-19
Madrid, December 8-10
Martensdale-St.Marys, February 9-11
Mt. Olive Lutheran, February 24-25
North Polk, January 26-28
Pella Christian Grade School, October 15-16
Pella Christian High School, October 12-13
Perry (Equity Focused), January 12-14
St. Augustin School, October 13-14
St. Cecilia School, October 27-28
Sully Christian School, November 17-18
West Des Moines, March 29-April 1
Persons wishing to register as a team member on one of the scheduled visit may do so through the following link, https://www.edinfo.state.ia.us/web/sitevisit.asp, at your earliest convenience.
Please contact Julie Melcher at Julie.melcher@iowa.gov or (515) 281-6293 with any questions.
Heartland Leadership Development Offerings 2009-2010
Heartland has a broad set of options available for administrative teams and individuals for enhancing there leadership skills. Below is a list of the opportunities with brief descriptions that are available during this school year. Click here for more detailed descriptions of each activity as well as dates, contact/registration information and decision making guides to help with your planning. If a registration number is provided, you may go directly to the Heartland Professional Development Web site and register for the activity. If a contact person is provided, this is an activity that will be tailored directly to your district needs. You may also contact your Partnership Director for more information.
Believe and Achieve
This is a four-day workshop covering the basics of "School Leadership that Works". This would be an excellent opportunity for those who want follow-up to Balanced Leadership or for team members who did not have an opportunity to participate in Balanced Leadership.
Showcase and Network Events
Networking opportunities will be available four times this year in various locations throughout the AEA. These network events will be held late in the day and early evening in a social setting to allow administrators a relaxed atmosphere for connecting. Each session will be facilitated by a local administrator.
Building Background Knowledge through Academic Vocabulary Development
This is only available to teams who attended last year's sessions provided by Dr. Robert Marzano. Participants will have an opportunity to implement the process Dr. Marzano introduced to develop a building-wide vocabulary development program. Wendy Robinson will facilitate.
Tregoe
Tregoe Analytic Processes are useful tools for administrators to use with group decision making and facilitation.
Time Audits
Heartland has a process for administrative teams to analyze their use of time in relationship to the 21 responsibilities introduced in School Leadership that Works (Balanced Leadership). These sessions are facilitated by Roger Scott and Dick Sundblad.
CBAM - Concerns Based Adoption Model
CBAM is a useful set of processes for leaders to use when analyzing and supporting initiatives and change.
Study Group Options
A variety of study group options are available for teams of leaders.
Learning opportunities are developed and available according to district leadership needs for learning the area of special education procedures, rules, regulations etc. These sessions are typically held on site in the requesting district.
Superintendent Network
This is a learning opportunity for superintendents using the Instructional Rounds process.
Believe and Achieve
This is a four-day workshop covering the basics of "School Leadership that Works". This would be an excellent opportunity for those who want follow-up to Balanced Leadership or for team members who did not have an opportunity to participate in Balanced Leadership.
Showcase and Network Events
Networking opportunities will be available four times this year in various locations throughout the AEA. These network events will be held late in the day and early evening in a social setting to allow administrators a relaxed atmosphere for connecting. Each session will be facilitated by a local administrator.
Building Background Knowledge through Academic Vocabulary Development
This is only available to teams who attended last year's sessions provided by Dr. Robert Marzano. Participants will have an opportunity to implement the process Dr. Marzano introduced to develop a building-wide vocabulary development program. Wendy Robinson will facilitate.
Tregoe
Tregoe Analytic Processes are useful tools for administrators to use with group decision making and facilitation.
Time Audits
Heartland has a process for administrative teams to analyze their use of time in relationship to the 21 responsibilities introduced in School Leadership that Works (Balanced Leadership). These sessions are facilitated by Roger Scott and Dick Sundblad.
CBAM - Concerns Based Adoption Model
CBAM is a useful set of processes for leaders to use when analyzing and supporting initiatives and change.
Study Group Options
A variety of study group options are available for teams of leaders.
- Art and Science of Teaching
- Building Background Knowledge
- District Level Leadership
Learning opportunities are developed and available according to district leadership needs for learning the area of special education procedures, rules, regulations etc. These sessions are typically held on site in the requesting district.
Superintendent Network
This is a learning opportunity for superintendents using the Instructional Rounds process.
Changes to the Heartland Iowa Core Curriculum Web Page
The Heartland AEA 11 Iowa Core Curriculum team as made some changes to its Web page found on the Heartland site. Search by leadership session or by topic for resource materials. Several resources have been updated to reflect the most current version including the Iowa Core Curriculum Overview document, now dated June 2009. Questions related to the resources may be directed to Linda S. Biermann Hoobin, Teaching and Learning Consultant for the Iowa Core Curriculum, Johnston Office at lhoobin@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-9030 ext. 14327.
"Crafting the Art of Differentiation" with Rick Wormeli
Rick Wormeli is a National Board Certified Teacher and a columnist for Middle Ground magazine. For more than twenty years he has taught science, math, English and history. He was the winner of Disney’s American Teacher Award for English in 1996. Rick is an internationally known speaker. In January 2008, Rick shared with Heartland that “Fair Isn’t Always Equal”. We anticipate that Rick’s next motivational presentation will be just as riveting when he shares his vast knowledge and skills on "Crafting the Art of Differentiation".
Please consider coming to this presentation. You can register on the Heartland Professional Development Web site at https://prodev.aea11.k12.ia.us/4DCGI/YYYYYYYYYYYYYYSRCH.
Crafting the Art of Differentiation with Rick Wormeli
Date: January 7, 2010
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Airport Holiday Inn
Cost: $60.00 (lunch will be provided)
Activity Number: AS004899991001
Questions can be directed to Cheryl Risen at crisen@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-9030 ext. 14587.
Please consider coming to this presentation. You can register on the Heartland Professional Development Web site at https://prodev.aea11.k12.ia.us/4DCGI/YYYYYYYYYYYYYYSRCH.
Crafting the Art of Differentiation with Rick Wormeli
Date: January 7, 2010
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Airport Holiday Inn
Cost: $60.00 (lunch will be provided)
Activity Number: AS004899991001
Questions can be directed to Cheryl Risen at crisen@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-9030 ext. 14587.
Introducing Heartland's 2009 updated "A Guide to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973"
This popular guide has been updated in accordance with the ADA Amendment Act of 2008 and is now available for your use. Click here for a pdf copy or by visit our Section 504 Web site at www.aea11.k12.ia.us/504/. If your district would like to order print copies to distribute to parents, you may order them as you have in the past using the blue production order form. The print order identification number is 400. If you would like to revise the upper portion of the back cover to add your district contact information, you may. Please contact the Heartland Communications Department at comms@aea11.k12.ia.us for further instruction.
Hired a new school nurse in the last year?
On September 2, 2009 Heartland will sponsor a FREE all day training session for new school nurses. MaryAnn Strawhacker RN, BSN, MPH, who is starting her 17th year as an AEA nurse consultant, will lead the sessions. School Nurses may attend one or both sessions.
Morning Session 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
"Vision Screening the School Age Child" will teach your school nurse how to screen vision according to the state guidelines. This hands-on experience uses local children from a diverse elementary school to practice screening. CEU credit available for a $10.00 fee. Click here to download a flier.
Afternoon Session 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. AEA 11's "New School Nurse Workshop" discusses medication administration, delegation, Section 504, Special Education and general screening guidelines. Since Ms. Strawhacker also teaches at the all-day University of Iowa New School Nurse Workshop, this content is meant to compliment the state workshop and provide heavy emphasis on laws, rules, regulations and policies that govern the practice of school nursing. There is no charge and no CEU credit for this workshop. Click here to download a flier.
Please have your new school nurse complete the registration forms online at Heartland’s Web site at http://www.aea11.k12.ia.us or on the attached forms and mail/fax to Heartland. August 30, 2009 is the final day for registration to guarantee to receive a free resource packet.
Morning Session 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
"Vision Screening the School Age Child" will teach your school nurse how to screen vision according to the state guidelines. This hands-on experience uses local children from a diverse elementary school to practice screening. CEU credit available for a $10.00 fee. Click here to download a flier.
Afternoon Session 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. AEA 11's "New School Nurse Workshop" discusses medication administration, delegation, Section 504, Special Education and general screening guidelines. Since Ms. Strawhacker also teaches at the all-day University of Iowa New School Nurse Workshop, this content is meant to compliment the state workshop and provide heavy emphasis on laws, rules, regulations and policies that govern the practice of school nursing. There is no charge and no CEU credit for this workshop. Click here to download a flier.
Please have your new school nurse complete the registration forms online at Heartland’s Web site at http://www.aea11.k12.ia.us or on the attached forms and mail/fax to Heartland. August 30, 2009 is the final day for registration to guarantee to receive a free resource packet.
IEP Training for New and Veteran Special Education Teachers
IEP Training will be available this fall for both new and veteran special education teachers. If you have special education teachers new to the state of Iowa, they must attend training to be able to complete an IEP that meets all state and federal regulations.
Click here to view a list of available new teacher training courses and here for a list of veteran teacher courses.
To register go to the Heartland professional development catalog on our website at https://prodev.aea11.k12.ia.us/4DCGI/YYYYYYYYYYYYYYSRCH. IEP training for veteran teachers will be held in each region in August. Please contact your Partnership Director for dates and times in your region.
Click here to view a list of available new teacher training courses and here for a list of veteran teacher courses.
To register go to the Heartland professional development catalog on our website at https://prodev.aea11.k12.ia.us/4DCGI/YYYYYYYYYYYYYYSRCH. IEP training for veteran teachers will be held in each region in August. Please contact your Partnership Director for dates and times in your region.
A National Showcase for Iowa Schools
The US Department of Education (USDE) is seeking recommendations of schools that have made substantial gains in student achievement. The USDE will showcase several schools in the Race to the Top program. If you believe one or more of the schools in your district have made significant gains in student achievement in recent years and would like to be recommended to the USDE, please contact Dr. Maxine Kilcrease at MKilcrease@IA-SB.org.
Superintendent Network: Seeking New Network Members
Superintendents in Iowa all have the opportunity to participate in a Superintendent Network. These networks are using a model of instructional rounds developed by Richard Elmore. AEA leaders and superintendents from each AEA in partnership with School Administrators of Iowa have participated in training with Richard Elmore and his team from Harvard to learn how to faciitate these networks. There are currently networks in each AEA in Iowa.
The primary purpose of the network is to provide superintendents with a professional learning opportunity that focuses on the role of the superintendent in supporting effective instruction. The instructional rounds process involves the network in site visits to member districts. The host superintendent with their building leadership identify a practice that is part of their overall instructional improvement efforts. The network members spend time learning about that practice, go into classrooms to observe the practice and then provide the host superintendent with feedback about what was observed and engage in a process to leave the host with suggestions or ideas for next steps in their efforts.
The network process was piloted in Heartland second semester of last year. Members of the pilot network are: Denny Wulf- Norwalk, Rob Cordes- Carroll, Theron Schutte- Boone, Ed Ackerman- Colfax Mingo, Clay Guthmiller, Johnston and Greg Defoe- Adel. Site visits were conducted in Norwalk and Carroll. Facilitators in Heartland are Denny Wulf, Superintendent, Norwalk; Sharon Kurns, Director Professional Learning and Leadership, Heartland and Dave Stickrod, Partnership Director, Heartland. We are also pleased to welcome Mike Wells, Superintendent, Winterset who was trained as a faciliator for AEA 14.
We are seeking new network members for the 2009-2010 school year. Network members will meet after HAA meetings on the first Tuesday of each month to plan the site visit for the month. Site visits typically begin first thing in the morning and go until about 2:00 p.m. We will likely have several networks if there are a sufficient number of superintendents who want to participate. If you would like more information, don't hesitate to contact one of the facilitators listed above. You may also want to talk to some of the pilot network members. If you would like to join a network please contact Sharon Kurns at Heartland 515-270-9030 ext. 14362 or skurns@aea11.k12.ia.us by August 15, 2009.
The primary purpose of the network is to provide superintendents with a professional learning opportunity that focuses on the role of the superintendent in supporting effective instruction. The instructional rounds process involves the network in site visits to member districts. The host superintendent with their building leadership identify a practice that is part of their overall instructional improvement efforts. The network members spend time learning about that practice, go into classrooms to observe the practice and then provide the host superintendent with feedback about what was observed and engage in a process to leave the host with suggestions or ideas for next steps in their efforts.
The network process was piloted in Heartland second semester of last year. Members of the pilot network are: Denny Wulf- Norwalk, Rob Cordes- Carroll, Theron Schutte- Boone, Ed Ackerman- Colfax Mingo, Clay Guthmiller, Johnston and Greg Defoe- Adel. Site visits were conducted in Norwalk and Carroll. Facilitators in Heartland are Denny Wulf, Superintendent, Norwalk; Sharon Kurns, Director Professional Learning and Leadership, Heartland and Dave Stickrod, Partnership Director, Heartland. We are also pleased to welcome Mike Wells, Superintendent, Winterset who was trained as a faciliator for AEA 14.
We are seeking new network members for the 2009-2010 school year. Network members will meet after HAA meetings on the first Tuesday of each month to plan the site visit for the month. Site visits typically begin first thing in the morning and go until about 2:00 p.m. We will likely have several networks if there are a sufficient number of superintendents who want to participate. If you would like more information, don't hesitate to contact one of the facilitators listed above. You may also want to talk to some of the pilot network members. If you would like to join a network please contact Sharon Kurns at Heartland 515-270-9030 ext. 14362 or skurns@aea11.k12.ia.us by August 15, 2009.
Superintendents: 2009-2010 Heartland Administrators Association Meetings
Meetings for superintendents in the Heartland area will again be on the first Tuesday of each month from 9:00 to 11:50 a.m. The location for all meetings is at the West Des Moines Learning Center in the Community Room. Dates for the 2009-2010 year are the following:
September 1
October 6
November 3
December 1
January 5
February 2
March 2
April 6
September 1
October 6
November 3
December 1
January 5
February 2
March 2
April 6
Friday, August 7, 2009
Welcome Back Message from the Interim Chief Administrator
On behalf of Heartland Area Education Agency, I’d like to extend a warm 'welcome back' to all of you for the coming 2009-2010 school year. We hope you've had an enjoyable and relaxing summer and are as excited and ready as we are to start the new school year. As always, let Heartland AEA help you extend your reach to better serve you and your districts to increase student achievement.
I invite you to take interest in this Heartland AEA Administrator Connection blog. The Administrator Connection is sent every Friday (excluding holidays and summer vacation) with important information, deadlines and professional development and scholarship opportunities for school administrators, teachers and students.
To our superintendent collegues, we invite you to join us for our monthly Heartland Administrator Association meetings. The meetings are a time to come together, collaborate and discuss educational laws and standards and district-wide issues. The meetings are held at the West Des Moines Learning Resource Center from 9:00 to 11:50 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. This year’s first HAA meeting will be on September 1, 2009.
If you have any questions about what Heartland AEA can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sking@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-9030. Questions and comments can also be addressed to the Heartland Communications Department at comms@aea11.k12.ia.us.
Best regards,
Sheila King
Interim Chief Administrator
I invite you to take interest in this Heartland AEA Administrator Connection blog. The Administrator Connection is sent every Friday (excluding holidays and summer vacation) with important information, deadlines and professional development and scholarship opportunities for school administrators, teachers and students.
To our superintendent collegues, we invite you to join us for our monthly Heartland Administrator Association meetings. The meetings are a time to come together, collaborate and discuss educational laws and standards and district-wide issues. The meetings are held at the West Des Moines Learning Resource Center from 9:00 to 11:50 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. This year’s first HAA meeting will be on September 1, 2009.
If you have any questions about what Heartland AEA can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sking@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-9030. Questions and comments can also be addressed to the Heartland Communications Department at comms@aea11.k12.ia.us.
Best regards,
Sheila King
Interim Chief Administrator
Instructional Decision Making (IDM) Evaluation Update
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for participating in Instructional Decision Making (IDM) during our initial years of training and supporting IDM practices in your school. The 2008-09 implementation data that was collected last spring for over 70 buildings has been delivered this week (August 3-7). The package will included a cover letter explaining how to interpret the results and a CD-ROM with the following files:
• A README file that explains how to (a) navigate the implementation data file on the CD-ROM and (b) interpret the building and agency-wide implementation data (pdf) (Note: you will want to read this file first)
• Implementation data for your building (Microsoft Excel)
• Implementation data summarized agency-wide (Note: individual schools are kept confidential) (Microsoft Excel)
• The PESA rating scale (pdf)
We continue to strive to make the data collection process timely and more efficient. We appreciate your willingness to partner with us in our efforts to better support you and the other schools we serve. We welcome any feedback you have regarding this process. Our hope is to return the 2008-09 student outcome data to you within the coming months.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to helping all children succeed. If you have any questions about the IDM implementation results, please contact Alecia Rahn-Blakeslee at arahn@aea11.k12.ia.us or Brad Niebling at bniebling@aea11.k12.ia.us.
• A README file that explains how to (a) navigate the implementation data file on the CD-ROM and (b) interpret the building and agency-wide implementation data (pdf) (Note: you will want to read this file first)
• Implementation data for your building (Microsoft Excel)
• Implementation data summarized agency-wide (Note: individual schools are kept confidential) (Microsoft Excel)
• The PESA rating scale (pdf)
We continue to strive to make the data collection process timely and more efficient. We appreciate your willingness to partner with us in our efforts to better support you and the other schools we serve. We welcome any feedback you have regarding this process. Our hope is to return the 2008-09 student outcome data to you within the coming months.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to helping all children succeed. If you have any questions about the IDM implementation results, please contact Alecia Rahn-Blakeslee at arahn@aea11.k12.ia.us or Brad Niebling at bniebling@aea11.k12.ia.us.
A National Showcase for Iowa Schools
The US Department of Education (USDE) is seeking recommendations of schools that have made substantial gains in student achievement. The USDE will showcase several schools in the Race to the Top program. If you believe one or more of the schools in your district have made significant gains in student achievement in recent years and would like to be recommended to the USDE, please contact Dr. Maxine Kilcrease at MKilcrease@IA-SB.org.
Visit Iowa's AEAs at the 2009 Iowa State Fair!
For the second year, Iowa's AEAs will be featured at the State Fair in a booth in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building. The booth will highlight information about AEA services and will provide visitors with the opportunity to share their personal AEA success stories. Heartland AEA staff members will be working in the booth on August 18th and 19th. For more information about the 2009 Iowa State Fair, which runs from August 13-23, visit www.iowastatefair.org.
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