David Ludwig Named Executive Director for Iowa’s AEAs

Iowa’s Area Education Agencies (AEA) have selected David Ludwig to be the system’s next Executive Director. Ludwig has over 30 years of experience as a school administrator in Nebraska, with the past five years serving as the State Executive Director for the Educational Service Unit Coordinating Council (ESUCC) of Nebraska.

On Friday, the AEA Executive Board approved a two-year contract with Ludwig with a start date of July 1. He will be based out of the Heartland AEA office in Johnston.

In his new role with Iowa’s AEAs, Ludwig will facilitate and coordinate Iowa's nine Area Education Agencies in working collaboratively to support and provide services to the children, families and educators served by all of Iowa’s 333 public schools, and 182 accredited, nonpublic Iowa schools. The AEA system also provides direct services to nearly 56,000 students who receive special education services.

"We are extremely proud to offer the position to someone with the leadership and experiences that Mr. Ludwig has,” said Jim Green, president of the IAAEA Executive Board. “David’s experience with rural and urban districts, legislative advocacy, along with his leadership at local and state levels, are a perfect fit for the AEA system."

Ludwig began his education career as a special education teacher and coach, and has also been a special education director, principal and ESU Administrator. A graduate of Midland College with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Elementary Education, and Physical Education, Ludwig earned a master’s in school administration and education specialist degree from Wayne State College. He is currently working on a doctorate in education at the University of Nebraska in Omaha and is expected to complete that work in May 2021.

"I’m excited to begin the next phase of my professional career with an organization known nationally for its focus on student learning and outcomes, quality people and programs, and attention to providing equitable services to all Iowa children, families, and educators,” Ludwig said.

Dr. Tom Lane, who has served Iowa’s AEAs since 2013, will retire on June 30.

Iowa’s Area Education Agencies provide services in special education, professional development, technology, media, and instructional resources to every Iowa public school district, and accredited nonpublic school. The Iowa Legislature formed AEAs in 1975 to provide equity and efficiency of educational services for children from birth to 21 years of age, families, educators, and school administrators.