Iowa’s AEAs Enter a New Era: Changes as the 2024-25 School Year Begins

Legislation passed during the 2024 legislative session has ushered Iowa’s AEAs into a new era. Many services that have been offered at no cost to districts will now have a fee. Iowa’s AEAs are committed to partnership, communication, relationships and quality service as we go through this transition.  

Read more on our website

Download a synopsis of AEA Changes as We Enter the 2024-25 School Year

Heartland Administrators’ Association Meeting Reminder for Sept. 3

The first Heartland Administrators’ Association meeting for the 2024-25 school year will be held on Sept. 3 from 9-11:30 a.m. at the Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Drive, Johnston. Look for a meeting reminder and finalized agenda within the next week.

Iowa’s AEAs Implement New Creative Services Fees

We are pleased to announce that all aspects of Creative Services (including print, production and graphic design) remain available and on-demand to all educators within our service area!

Please note that as required by the new legislation, effective Oct. 1, 2024, there will be a modest fee increase for some of our products and services. We’ve made every effort to keep these changes minimal and ensure our pricing remains extremely competitive. You can contact our Creative Services Department to receive an estimate on a request before you order it. Information can be found on our Creative Services webpage.

Stay Connected: Curriculum Network Begins Sept. 6

Curriculum Network is an opportunity for educators to increase their knowledge and skills, gain support from peers and connect to AEA resources.

Curriculum Network begins Sept. 6, 2024 and is held on the first Friday of each month from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join the network at this Statewide Zoom link.

*Local AEA meetings will follow statewide updates and will have an agency-specific Zoom link.

Sept. 2024 Agenda
Iowa Department of Education Updates:

• Attendance requirements (Senate File 2435)
• Open Enrollment (Senate File 2435)
• Chapter 12
• ESSA

AEA Updates:

• AEA Statewide Networks
• Chronic Absenteeism
• Literacy and Math Standards Support
• Personalized Learning Plan for Literacy
• ESSA Supports - Your AEA can help

Facilitator & Director Contact: Susie Meade, Chief Academic Officer, Heartland AEA

Iowa AEAs to Continue Whole-Grade Hearing Screenings in 2024-25

Iowa’s AEAs will continue to provide universal whole-grade hearing screenings this school year. The roles and responsibilities of AEA hearing departments have changed, and this Fall 2024 AEA Hearing Screenings document provides guidance to start the school year. Additional information will be shared as more decisions are made.

Iowa’s AEAs Expand Educator Learning Networks

Iowa’s AEAs are pleased to provide opportunities for educators to increase their knowledge and skills, gain support from peers and connect to AEA resources through its AEA Learning Networks. There is no cost to attend these opportunities! Educators can engage in these learning opportunities with other educators, not only from their area but from across the state. We’re confident these networks will lead to increased learning, collegiality and connection to AEA resources.

Statewide AEA Networks

• Canvas Users
• Curriculum Directors
• English Learners
• Instructional Technology
• Principal Alliance
• School Counselors
• Special Education – TBD
• Talented & Gifted/Extended Learning
• Teacher Librarians
• Technology Directors

Heartland AEA Networks

• Curriculum Directors
• Mentoring
• Post-secondary Success
• Special Education Directors
• Superintendents
• Teacher Leaders/Instructional Coaches

Dates, times, facilitator names, Zoom links and/or meeting locations are available here: 2024-25 Professional Learning Networks.

Iowa’s AEAs Implement New Course Fee Structure

On Aug. 1, 2024, Iowa’s AEAs implemented a new fee structure for professional learning courses. This new structure is being put in place due to funding changes experienced by the AEAs due to legislation (HF 2612) passed during the 2024 Iowa legislative session. The AEA Course Fee Structure outlines changes in fees for all categories of courses including the new microcredentials category.

Additional Details

• AEAs may offer courses with additional fees to cover costs related to specific courses.
• Coaching for implementation will not be embedded in any course, but it is strongly recommended. Districts may access these supports at the daily rate.
• A minimum number of participants may be required for specific courses. Registered participants will be notified if a course is canceled.
• Out-of-network fees may differ for educators or retirees (i.e., police officers, private citizens).
• All AEA professional learning opportunities are subject to approval from the Iowa Department of Education beginning July 1, 2025.

If you have any questions, contact the Heartland AEA Professional Learning Department.

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

 

Student Planners: Help Keep Your Students Organized and Engaged!

Quality, affordable and beautifully-designed student planners are available for your school through Heartland AEA. Planners can support student engagement and awareness of school events, activities and projects. Visit our website to choose your planner style from the many options we offer. Order before the end of May to ensure delivery by the beginning of the 2024-25 school year. Check out our Creative Services newsletter for everything Student Planners, reading and literacy, specialty items and graduation celebrations!

Elevate Your Classroom Experience with EduProtocols for Any Class

Our EduProtocols for Any Class professional learning opportunity will allow you to discover the power of EduProtocols, innovative and customizable lesson frames that foster active learning, enhance student engagement, and cultivate critical thinking across all subjects and grade levels. Whether you're new to EduProtocols or looking to deepen your existing knowledge, this course offers valuable insights and strategies for all. Course participants will select an EduProtocols book of their choosing (Field Guide 1, Field Guide 2, Math, Social Studies, ELA or Primary Edition for K-2) to guide their learning while also participating in expert-led webinars, online discussions and developing impactful lessons tailored to their classrooms.

EduProtocols for Any Class
June 3 - June 28
More information and registration

Terrific Digital Learning Coming at 5th Annual Heart of Innovation Summer Summit

Heartland AEA’s digital learning team is thrilled to announce our 5th Annual Heart of Innovation Summer Summit! This year’s event will be held virtually on Aug. 6 & 7, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and will feature fantastic keynote speakers! The mornings will also include several breakout sessions featuring local teachers, AEA consultants and leaders from around the state sharing their innovative work. You won’t want to miss this incredible learning and networking opportunity!

The Heart of Innovation Summer Summit is a unique opportunity for educators to connect, collaborate and learn from each other. As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving educational landscape, staying informed and up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations in teaching and learning is essential. We encourage all educators to join us for this exciting event!

In addition to our keynote speakers, we invite educators to submit proposals to present at the Summit. The Heart of Innovation Summer Summit is an excellent platform to showcase expertise and share knowledge and ideas with a broad range of educators. We welcome proposals that explore successful educational practices, innovative teaching strategies and effective approaches to student engagement and learning.
Registration is now open for the 2024 Heart of Innovation Summer Summit. To register or to submit a session proposal, visit our website. We look forward to seeing you there!