Nominations Sought for STEM Teacher Awards

The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, in partnership with Kemin Industries in Des Moines, has launched the sixth year of the I.O.W.A. STEM Teacher Award and will be accepting nominations through Oct. 4. The award recognizes one full-time, licensed PK-12 teacher from each of the state’s six STEM regions for their passion in motivating students to develop a lasting interest in science, technology, engineering and math both in and out of the classroom. Each of the six teachers selected will receive an award of $1,500 for personal use, and an additional $1,500 for their classrooms. Once nominated, each teacher will fill out an application to be assessed by a panel of judges who will select the six award recipients. Honorees will be announced in January 2020. To nominate a teacher, click here.

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

Transition in Heartland AEA Region 6 Leadership Assignments

Nikki Roorda, current Heartland AEA Region 6 regional director serving the Ankeny Community School District, has accepted a position as the Executive Director of Teaching & Learning for the Johnston Community School District. We have been working closely with our leadership team to ensure a smooth transition for everyone. I am confident in our transition plans as Nikki departs Heartland AEA.

As the new school year begins, the following assignments will be in place in Region 6:

• Karla Jones, who is currently the regional director for the Urbandale Community School District, will move to the Ankeny Community School District and will provide leadership for K-12 Special Education services and supports.
• Charlie Johnson, a retired Heartland AEA regional director, will provide leadership for Early ACCESS/Early Childhood supports and general education/curriculum for Ankeny. He will also serve as the contact for non-public schools in Ankeny.
• Keri Steele, current regional director for the Saydel Community School District, will add the Urbandale district to her assignment and will continue to serve Saydel as well.

We ask that you share this information as you see fit with your administrators and staff. If you have any questions, please contact me at jsheldahl@heartlandaea.org or (800) 255-0405 ext. 14314. Have a great 2019-20 school year!

Jon Sheldahl
Chief Administrator
Heartland AEA