Meeting Public Comments

Subcommittee meeting and times are as follows:

A bill for an act relating to education, including modifying provisions related to the number of area education agencies in this state, the duties and powers of area education agencies, area education agency boards of directors, the department of administrative services, the director of the department of education, the division of special education within the department of education, the services provided by area education agencies, area education agency funding, the calculation of the teacher salary supplement district cost per pupil, and minimum teacher salaries, and including transition, effective date, and applicability provisions.

Subcommittee members: Wheeler-CH, Collins, Steckman

Date: Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Location: RM 103, Sup. Ct. Chamber

Names and comments are public records. Remaining information is considered a confidential record.

Comments Submitted:

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01-29-2024

Angie Lamb []

I know you're getting thousands of comments about this bill and I'm asking, begging you to please not support it. Iowans don't support it. Children won't benefit from it. The state won't benefit from it. It feels like AEA's, and our children, are being used as pawns in a ploy for political gain. Words like "choice" get thrown out by those who support this bill in an attempt to find favor with voters, and that makes me sick. We all know that once children lose access to AEA services, they don't have a CHOICE for new providers. My son, who was born 6 weeks early, benefited immensely from the AEA's services several years ago and it's because of them that he's now a thriving 5th grader. I can't imagine not having access to the AEA services. The thought is terrifying! You've added changes to teachers' salaries to this bill, for nefarious reasons I suspect, but I would offer that most teachers would refuse a raise to their base salary if it came at the expense of our AEA's. You have a legal obligation to provide a quality education to the children of the state of Iowa. Support of this bill precludes meeting this obligation and takes another step towards leaving Iowa's children behind (remember...there are tiny humans' lives at stake here, not just your personal political gain).

01-29-2024

Wendy Liskey []

Let me highlight some of my concerns regarding this legislation.SPECIAL EDUCATION DEFICITS: I want to be sure all members of the Education Committee realize the enormous amounts of Special Education deficits many public school districts are currently dealing with. Over 280 of the 327 districts in the state ended FY22 with a negative SpEd balance. You can see that in the attached file. Twentytwo of those districts have deficits in excess of $1,000,000. As someone who served on the Waukee School Board for 8 years, I realize the negative impact this legislation would have on this already large deficit. Redirecting state aid to districts does nothing to minimize these Special Education deficits.AEA BLOAT: I have heard and seen comments about the genesis of this legislation was a concern over the bloat of the AEA, specifically at the administrative level of the AEAs. Id appreciate seeing the actual numbers that are concerning. It is my understanding that AEA salaries are in line with the requirements outlined in lowa Code regarding administrative compensation which states all public schools and AEAs may not spend more than 5 percent of their total expenditures on total administrative compensation. The percent of total administrative expenditures in all of lowa's nine AEAs for all administrators is lower than the 5 percent limit.As a reminder, these are the cuts made to the AEA state funding over the last three years. If anything, the AEAs are doing more with much less.2021/2022: $22.5 million cut2022/2023: $24.5 million cut2023/2024: $29.5 million cutOVERSIGHT: I have seen some House members releasing communication saying the AEAs have been operating without meaningful oversight. The AEAs are accredited by Iowas Department of Education, as recent as 2022 (see this compilation of reports: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19QzTj10qtEKxZm7SDb1LycvmXay5Nad?usp=sharing). If some do not feel that is meaningful oversight then we should not support legislation that would house all AEA services under the DE. And last year the ESA legislation was signed into law with no transparency or oversight and that is being rolled out by the DE so I see a lot of hypocrisy in the argument that AEAs are lacking transparency and oversight when that has been an overriding criticism of the Voucher/ESA law. DE OVERSIGHT: The Department of Education has a questionable track record of timely and effective communication to those they serve. I experienced this firsthand as a Board President during the pandemic as we waited for DE guidance on Return to Learn plans. Prior to any of this legislation advancing, I would suggest an audit of the DEs ability to handle the proposed expansion of oversight and services and part of that audit should include feedback from Public School Superintendents from across the state. I think many legislators would be surprised to learn the level of frustration administrators have experienced with the DE. If this legislation moves forward in its current form, schools will have to request certain services and receive approval for those services through the DE. This process will be very detrimental to a school if the DE does not improve. Having an outsider with little public school experience leading the DE does not give me much hope that the DE will improve.PERFORMANCE: The Governor highlighted her concern over special education performance. In her COS address, she referenced NAEP test scores. In my personal experience as a School Board member in a district with one of the states largest Special Education student populations, I know this is NOT the correct way to measure Special Education performance. The NAEP tests a random selection of students in the state for a snapshot of progress. The NAEP test was given to approximately 266 SpEd students in the state which is .003% of the total SpEd students in the state. Instead, SpEd progress should be measured through multiple data points across time school records, IEP progress, transition data. Progress should not be based on a snapshot because performance can be inconsistent but progress over time can be seen. If performance is the concern, we should be evaluating all parts of a childs Special Education experience. Limiting this to criticism of the AEA is shortsighted. Special Education students are in general ed classrooms first so SSA factors into any examination of performance. The Governor has supported low SSA during her tenure (not keeping up with inflation) and that has a direct impact on every child's public education. AEA ORIGIN: The Governor also stated in her COS address that she wants AEAs to get back to their original focus on Special Education. This is factually incorrect in 1974, AEAs were created to provide special education services, media and other programs and services. (Iowa Code:https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/ico/chapter/2023/273.pdf) What I would like to see is a pause on this legislation so a comprehensive evaluation can occur of AEAs and the ways their services are utilized by schools and families across the state. I think the expansion of AEA programs and services is strategically correlated to the diversity of learners over 50 years (socioeconomic, ethnic, special needs) and the more recent trend of SSA not keeping up with inflation. The AEAs provide an equity of services across all of Iowas 99 counties. A child needing reading intervention in a small, rural public school can get meaningful intervention from the AEA which would be similar to what a Reading Interventionist employed in Waukee Schools would provide. I worry about how this legislation will impact equity and accessibility. TEACHER COMPENSATION: I would ask that legislators separate the Governors commitment to raise teacher salaries from the AEA changes. I appreciate the recognition that teachers deserve more compensation but combining that in the same bill that guts an essential educational support agency seems disingenuous.Please do what is right for the children in the state, not what is best for you politically!

Attachment

01-29-2024

Brandon Westbay []

I am opposed to this HSB 542, meaning opposed to all parts of it, and it should be scrapped completely. As a service provider who has worked any many different states, including for private companies, contract companies, school districts, and cooperatives, there is not a more efficient or effective way to provide special education services (physical, occupational, speech, mental health, etc.) as Iowa consist of so many small rural school districts and even districts that are considered "large" or small in comparison to other states. The districts do not have the funds or ability to staff special education services (physical, occupational, speech, mental health, etc.) as not all districts have the same amount of needs, and it is unrealistic for a small district to staff a physical therapist when only 5 students need physical therapy, as an example. In terms of contract companies or private companies providing services to school districts, other states use this as a last resort because it is crazy expensive to use a contracting private company. Depending upon the state and position, for a physical therapist contract for one position, the company charges between 120180,000 dollars, and the school district has to find those funds, because the school district is unable to hire anyone themselves, as there are not enough speech, occupational, or physical therapist and those service providers are not going to work for nothing. Thus, the use of the AEA to provide all special education services (not special education teachers school districts employ them, not the AEA), is the most efficient and costeffective way to ensure every district has the support needed without trying to figure out who they are going to staff what position, how they will pay for it, and even if they will be able to hire (many other states go without services because they can't find anyone). Lastly, cutting media services at a time when digital technology is growing like crazy and AI is on the cutting edge of everything, is not smart. The media technology AEA consultants provide training and support, with AI training to teachers and students to ensure students and staff are staying technologically relevant in an evergrowing and changing digital world, which without these individuals, teachers and school districts would not be able to teach and train their students on AI and various other relevant technology, as they are not specialist, and the media technology consultants at the AEA are. I urge you to please scrap this bill and amendment which can allow AEAs to provide all services to all school districts without "opting out" or "only 2year contracts" or "use of private companies." Please do what is right for your constituents and the people of Iowa, including families, students, parents, teachers, schools, and AEA employees.

01-29-2024

Maureen Lonsdale []

This bill was written by an out of state company with NO input from stakeholders. This feels like a hostile takeover! Our AEA system has supported and served schools for over 50 years. Why is there a rush to dismantle it? Why was stakeholders not included in writing this bill? We need to slow down and complete a comprehensive study to ensure that we understand all the negative implications of any changes for ALL schools, both rural and urban. There are over 3,000 Iowans that jobs are in limbo; this is not the way to create a safe culture and implement reform. Please see the attached document with the impacts of this legislation. This does NOT give more local control. It actually takes it away. When schools and AEAs have to get "approval from director of Dept. Education" for many things in this bill; that is unfair and definitely not local control.Our schools need social workers in their buildings. This has been a need for many years; and the AEA provides them through operational sharing. In this bill, that would be eliminated. Therefore, school will no longer have that service for their identified need. Why would you pass something that takes away needed services??AEAs provide a seamless, effective, and efficient way to deliver services and support to schools. We might need to make changes as all agencies have room for improvement. But, we should NOT throw it away and try to recreate it with a system that we have no idea will work. That will create many unintended consequences that negatively impact families and children as my example above is just one of them.Vote NO! And create a committee with all stakeholders to address any issues or concerns.

Attachment

01-29-2024

Joy Leafgreen []

Please please vote NO to this bill! As a parent to a non speaking autistic child, we have accessed AEA services since she was 18 months. Also I am a proud Iowa public educator. Having researched this bill and what I know about the AEAs, I do not see how this will benefit any of Iowas children or educators. AEAs bring both a professional and personal level of expertise that support teachers, students, parents and professionals. Please please do NOT pass this bill.

01-29-2024

Tony Reid []

First, let's do the "comprehensive review" that the Governor called for in December. Then let's add back the $22 million she cut from AEAs last spring. If special ed really is the problem, let's study the data. Iowa was first listed "needs improvement" back in 2018, why is the Governor just now calling attention to it? AEAs have worked with the DE to implement a plan and it is working and improving test scores, so let's give it a chance. There is a national shortage of special ed teachers. This bill has scared all the AEA special ed teachers because they will lose their job and *maybe* become employed by the DE. They may be assigned to a different place but won't know for sure until summer. I fear that a certain percentage of them will decide to move to another state this summer, and our teacher shortage will be worse.Please separate the teacher salary increase into a separate bill to address the overall shortage, and slow down on the rest.

01-29-2024

Susan Olesen []

I know that you have been inundated with objections related to this AEA bill. It was not written by Iowans nor do Iowans want this bill. It cuts the $32 million currently allocated for media services which will cost twice as much when districts are forced to negotiate this service on their own. The superintendent in my school district says he depends on the AEA for a variety of services including special ed, personalized professional development, operational sharing, school safety, social workers, media, and more. As a rural resident I am particularly offended that the governor wants to move 130 educated people to Des Moines. Another swat at rural schools and rural communities. Its unusual because Republicans have claimed to support local control in the past and opposed centralized government. Some have even called for the elimination of the Department of Ed. This bill consolidates power in Des Moines and takes power away from our local school board. This bill is egregious and should be voted down.

01-29-2024

Anthony M []

As Republican voter I am appalled by HSB 542 / SSB 3073 and find the bill deeply disturbing for special education and professional qualified staff at AEA in the state of Iowa. I am commenting to you today to ask you to oppose HSB 542 and SSB 3073. Since the creation of AEAs, they have existed to provide fair, equal, costeffective services across the state in the areas of special education, education services (such as literacy and math instruction), and media/technology. They provide resources that are too costprohibitive for schools to secure independently. The AEAs resources support all Iowa students, not just those in special education. AEAs follow the standards of service established in Iowa Administrative Code 281 and provide these services to all public schools and accredited private schools within Iowa. I am concerned that if AEAs are dismantled and defunded as HSB 542/ SSB 3073 calls for, this will in fact result in a massive negative and adverse effect on the entire educational system of Iowa. And our children and our economy will ultimately suffer in the end.I hope you will join me in opposing this legislation in its current form. The governor promised a study and evaluation of the AEA system, but HSB 542/SSB 3073 removes the possibility for any improvement because it eliminates large segments of the system entirely. This bill needs full public transparency and engagement from parents, teachers, administrators, and others that will be directly impacted. I believe we are going about this the wrong way, and theres a better way to improve outcomes for Iowas students.

01-29-2024

Alison Cocks []

The AEA is vital to quality school education. Cutting back the numbers of AEAs and the services they provide would hurt all school, particularly in rural areas. As a teacher I appreciated all the support and programs the AEA had to help me in the classroom.

01-29-2024

Dani Johnson []

Iowa needs ALL parts of the AEA. This amended bill achieves nothing the governor claims it will. Nothing about this serves special education students in this state, and it is an insult to use those kids for a political agenda to privatize education in Iowa.Say NO to this poorly conceived bill and poorly amended bill!

01-29-2024

Beth Harms []

As someone who has used AEA services as a parent, paraprofessional, teacher, and now as an AEA special education consultant I have seen firsthand the positive impact these services have. Please vote no to this proposed legislation. Im not opposed to change but this is not the way.

01-29-2024

Rae Miller []

As the parent of a child who benefited from AEA services I speak from experience that supporting the dismantling of the AEA through HSB 542 will have a negative impact on kids who receive special education as well as impacting, teachers, paraprofessionals, and general education students as well. It is my understanding that this bill was written by someone who doesnt live in Iowa or know our AEA system. Local control is going out the window and administration will be done by the Department of Education, lead by a director who is not an educator. How will timely services and supports be given if final approval lies with one person. Add to that the fact that out of state companies are already advertising for Special Ed Consultant positions in Iowa (read private contract). These contracts will require administrative fees, so tell us how this will save overhead costs. Please dont compare Iowa students and scores to students from other states as each state determines special education eligibility. I have yet to see how the birth to three year olds will receive service in the proposed model. This bill is wrong for Iowa. Please vote no.

01-29-2024

Jeremy Parrish []

I am writing to strongly encourage you to vote no on the new bill that would eliminate the Area Education Agencies (AEA) in our state. This bill would be detrimental to the state of education. As an educator of the Western Dubuque Community School District, I cannot possibly count the number of times I have relied on the expert knowledge from the AEA staff. They have helped with strategies to help special education students and given advice on interventions related to general education students. Their assistance has helped keep some of the bubble kids off an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Honestly, I could go on and on of the tremendous impacts the AEA has had on both students and adults. Their impact reaches further than just when students are in school. Their assistance helps create productive members of society. They are there to help those students who some have given up on. Their compassion and dedication to the children they serve in unmatched. I have become a better educator due to the training I have received from the AEA. I am able to take what I learn at those trainings and implement them into my classroom which benefits all students. I firmly believe Governor Reynolds has brought politics into education on this issue. It appears her main goal is to completely destroy the education system in favor of privatization and radical ideas. She isnt even forthcoming and truthful with the people of Iowa. She blatantly lied about the purpose of the AEAs simply so she could press her agenda. The people of Iowa have spoken out against her plan. As a leader and legislator, it is your responsibility to listen to and represent the people based on all the information. This bill is not supported with any substantial data and the people of Iowa have spoken loudly in their disagreement with this piece of legislature. I ask that you please make sure you are fully informed of the impact this bill would have on the education system. The future of Iowas children is on the line here. The impacts the AEAs have had on students far outweighs any false negative connotations that our governor is spreading throughout the state. While I fully understand leadership means making difficult decisions, those decisions should be made for the greater good of the people. That is why I ask you to be a leader in this situation and say no to this destructive piece of legislation. This bill will create irreparable damage for the students and school districts of Iowa. There appears to be a lack of data to support these drastic changes. Basing these decisions without the input of the people of Iowa is reckless and downright negligent. We have not seen any data to support the people of Iowa need or want this change.

01-29-2024

Jackson Kleinmeyer []

The AEAs are a vital pillar of our education system. As recent graduate of a rural school I cannot over state the true value of the AEA system. During my time at school 8 students died whether from accidents or self harm, and every time the AEA provided mental health support who were on site in less than an hour. The laptops that governor Reynolds mandated to be used in all schools in the state used databases provided for free by the AEAs. My teachers were trained how to use these laptops by AEA staffers. Not to mention the countless other behind the scenes improvements the AEAs carried out at my school. We would be doing all students a great disservice if we got rid of our AEAs.

01-29-2024

Nissa Greenquist [Norwalk teacher and Des Moines parent]

We need MORE money for AEAs not less! Our current AEAs have more transparency to the public than our government has right now, blocking our state auditor. Why are we defunding AEA resources that help small districts share social workers? Speech pathologists? Small districts share resources so they can have equal access as larger schools. AEA helps that happen.

01-29-2024

Shalyn Huber []

I am writing this from my perspective as an educator in Iowa. I am the educator I am today because of the support I received from the AEAs. I consider myself well educated when it comes to being a teacher, but there are several things college could never prepare me for.but the AEA could. One of the first things they warned us about in college was meeting the needs of 20 different students in a classroom. Math, reading, behavior, IEP, social emotional. Yep, the AEA was there to help me navigate that by offering professional development opportunities, behavior coaching advice, PBIS training, technology integration, curriculum support and more. I wouldnt have this knowledge if it wasnt for the aeas. Next, a big component of my teaching of the standards focused on literature and standards. How was a brand new teacher supposed to afford those resources for all the students in her classroom? Ah yes! The AEA came through again and provided free resources that were standards aligned and my students loved! We wouldnt have had this if it wasnt for the AEAs. I also want to add on that this support isnt for brand new educators it hits ALL educators and all students. Just last year as an instructional coach, I worked with the AEAs to receive vital new learning to take back to my staff in all areas of curriculum and social emotional learning. This is only a teeny tiny small sampling of how the AEA has shaped me as an educator. I cant fathom being an educator in a world where the AEAs didnt exist. The fact that I even have to think about it makes me sad for my colleagues and students. I urge you to please become familiar with all of the services offered by the AEA and understand how education would be terribly ruined for our students if the AEAs were to change.

01-29-2024

Greg Hankins [Retired educator]

I have personally known many administrators, educators, consultants, and board members of our AEAs. They work hard, and provide vital services to both schools and families across the state. Without their efforts, many inviduals would fall through the cracks, and they would not be able to live up to their potential.I would further say that every family in the state has likely been impacted by an AEA, either directly through services provided or by screenings.AEAs are vital. Local control is essential. Provide the funding needed for them to operate efficiently, and do nothing to dilute their effectiveness.

01-29-2024

Jennifer Dockter-Lago []

Let me paraphrase what the people of Iowa are saying. No one wants this bill, no one asked for this bill. Iowans are not in favor of this bill and it is not what is best for schools, students, or Iowans. Vote no!

01-29-2024

Jennifer Dockter-Lago []

01-29-2024

Kim Wise []

I think weve established the data the governor is citing does not back up her claim that AEAs are the problem, nor does it establish how we will know this model shes suggesting is working. Whats the measure for the DE? Other issues Local decisionmaking authority is transferred from the local level to the Director of the Iowa Department of Education (DE), another agency, or is simply eliminated 133 times including eight transfers of decisionmaking power away from the State Board of Education (elected positions ) to the Iowa Department of Education Director. So, the Director of Education, an APPOINTED position now has ultimate authority 133 times. Thats lot of power. Doesnt support a goal of local control. Gives the Department of Management power over total tax levy remains. (Note: If a school district does not reduce the tax rate to account for the removal of media services, the Department of Management will do so.) This provision will allow the Department of Management to arbitrarily reduce a districts levy after an elected board approved the levy rate which will establish precedent for overturning locally controlled decisions by locally elected board. OUR SCHOOL BOARDS. Requires the use of the Science of Reading programming. (Currently, curriculum decisionmaking is made at the district levelits always been this way. Schools would have NO CHOICE) We I used to be so proud of district level decisions but weve gone away from that in the last decade. Prohibits some sharing agreements (such as shared Social Workers, Tech, School Business officials) which many schools use to save money. Why??????No funding to support the local school district choice for AEAs to contract for mediawhich I think youve heard in the comments and your media is essential to classrooms. Fee for service thats very vague and to be approved by, you guessed it, the Director of Education. One persontotal control. The timeline is June 1st of THIS YEAR. Please SLOW DOWN! Leaves teacher pay increases despite local school districts concerns about budget issues. Of course we want to increase teacher pay but what happens when small schools cant afford enough teachers? SOOOOOO many questions to be answered. Please listen to your constituents. Slow down or KILL this bill.

01-29-2024

Kathy Graeve []

I am also a retired English Teacher with 29 years of experience in teaching in small rural districts and large districts, finally retiring from Ankeny High School. I am alarmed at the restructuring of the AEAs in Iowa for many reasons. When a shooter attacked the Perry schools last week, an AEA Crisis Response team came immediately. Over 100 AEA employees who are trained in how to handle crises, arrived and counseled students, counseled teachers, and advised administrators.We now know the principal of the school has died of the wounds from the school shooting. The Perry Schools are going to need grief counseling and services provided only by the AEA for quite some time. This is a trauma that does not go away quickly. Please leave the AEAs alone and focus on issues which will benefit Iowans. In my long career, I experienced many tragedies such as deaths of students and faculty. AEA counselors were on the spot to help us all deal with these tragedies.As an English Teacher in Ankeny, my last years were spent coteaching with a Special Education Teacher in the classroom with me. We taught the curriculum AND adjusted according to each students individual IEP. The class sizes were large, usually around 35 students with about 20 or more students with an IEP. That was one class period. I taught two of those class periods. The Special Ed teacher I worked with taught 7 class periods that day with other teachers in other subject matters. Her load was tremendous. I too had a lot of responsibility to work with ALL the students in the room as well as making individual lessons and adjustments for the IEP students. This number DID NOT INCLUDE the students who had 504 plans that needed accommodation. We also must be compliant with Federal and State Laws in all our interactions and lesson plans for students. Our Special Education Consultant with the AEA was essential to help us with paperwork, ideas on modifications for lessons, and compliance with all laws. I had one 45minute period prep period per day as did my Special Education CoTeacher. The paperwork alone for one student can take hours. I know the governor state the AEAs will continue to focus on special education only but what she does not understand is the additional resources these students receive from the AEA liketextbooks that are modified for students, printing of books, materials, that we cannot have access to through our district, speech pathology services, occupational counseling for students who are 18 and older. Remember, special education students stay in schools until they are 21. Social Workers, School Psychologists, and the testing required to ensure a student qualifies for special services. The whole studentphysically and emotionally is impacted, and most districts cannot afford school counselors let alone social workers, and school psychologists.AEAs are a political body, like school districts and cities. Board members are chosen by the school districts they serve. Since school districts are governed by elected school boards, voters control them. The DE, on the other hand, has no elected officers. In the past, directors of the DE have been educators with vast experience in Iowa schools, committed to success. The current director of the DE was appointed by the governor and has NO experience in Iowa schools or public schools. This law will take control AWAY from districts and move it to the DE in Des Moines. Services will suffer due to logistics of travel to and from districts which now will not be served in their area, but from Des Moines.As I stated earlier, my experience began in a small rural school in Underwood, Iowa. The district could not provide any of the services I needed to deliver the curriculum. The AEA was a tremendous resource, and all the teachers used it daily. Ask small schools and they will also attest to the services besides special ed. The regional AEA provided (a) media services and (b) instructional services to all its schools. Most Iowans are unaware of these services; they operate seamlessly behind the scenes.The AEA can print materials within a day, with big machines that are much more cost effective than a school's copier. The AEA can do complicated printing, like booklets and banners, that most schools do not have the expensive equipment to do. Teachers can get a classroom set of books for the students to read; this set will be used multiple times during a year by various schools, rather than the individual school buying a set that will only be used once a year. A teacher can check out science kits that provide handson, meaningful learning on a topic; such kits are often too expensive for a school to purchase. You can see how AEAs save school districts millions of dollars. AEAs have digital subscriptions to hundreds of online resources, thus saving individual districts more money. And AEAs provide critical expertise in technology.Instructional services: AEAs have experts in Reading, in science, in Math, counseling, and many other topics. These people keep up to date on research and current best practices. When a school wants advice on what curriculum materials to choose, they usually turn to the AEA for guidance. AEAs helps districts interpret test data to pinpoint areas needing improvement. If a school is struggling academically, the AEA aids in improving their curriculum and instruction. If a teacher wants to expand their skills, there are hundreds of resources and online classes she can take. There is help for new teachers and new administrators.AEAs make it possible for small, rural districts to exist. Many districts have just a superintendent, a principal, a secretary, and a business manager. They do not have someone whose main job is to stay abreast of technology, or special ed, or curriculum. It is the economies of scale, provided by the AEA, that allow these districts to thrive. Many will have to merge, and as you know, when a small town loses its school, it withers. Please listen and vote No on the proposed bill that will crush these services provided by the AEAs in Iowa.Please listen to Iowans. Do not pass this bill and leave the AEA's as they are.Thank you

01-29-2024

Jessica Kite []

Listen to the thousands of your constituents who are begging you to vote NO for this bill that permanently devastates education for our entire state. As an educator of over 20 years, I know firsthand how hard AEAs work to support teachers and children. You dont fatally cut educational services in order to improve education. Work WITH the educational experts at the AEAs to improve them if improving education is the actual intent. Its time to truly fund education and stop the smoke and mirrors. We, educators, deserve respect and support.

01-29-2024

Kelsey Baker [Central Rivers AEA]

While the intent to empower local school districts, I urge careful consideration of HSB 542's potential unintended consequences for students with disabilities. The bill's current focus on specialized services risks overlooking the critical, comprehensive support systems provided by Area Education Agencies (AEAs). These multifaceted services encompassing media, technology, professional development, and more form an intricate web that empowers our students with disabilities to reach their full potential. Dismantling this network by limiting AEA support could leave rural districts, already facing resource constraints, scrambling to cobble together essential resources, potentially jeopardizing the educational development and academic success of our most vulnerable learners.The prevailing sentiment among educators, schools, and families is that the Area Education Agency (AEA) provides justintime support that cannot be replicated. There is a widespread belief that a comprehensive review would be more beneficial than an overhaul of the system. Such a review could identify areas for improvement without causing the unnecessary distress that seems to be accompanying the proposed changes.The outcry from the community is a testament to the impact that the AEA has had on the education system in Iowa. An overhaul, such as the one proposed in HSB 542, may disrupt the work that educators, schools, and families do each day with students. It is essential to consider the potential consequences and unintended negative effects on the education landscape.I urge you to listen to your constituents and consider the broader implications of HSB 542. A thoughtful and comprehensive review of the current system is more likely to yield positive and lasting improvements without causing unnecessary upheaval.

01-29-2024

Ryan Dumkrieger []

The amendment misses the mark on every single issue. It disrupts a system open to a comprehensive review and gives too much power to a single government entity. The bill removes local control and does so in 133 instances throughout the bill. Make sound decisions like mandating a Director of Education who has worked in education. Better yet, mandate that the person has been employed as a teacher or administrator in an Iowa school. Lets start putting Iowans first!

01-29-2024

Heather Schuldt []

With as much interest the AEA bill is giving, I would think that any elected individual would take notice. I dont feel that democracy sometimes works as it should and I PRAY that this time, things do work as they are intended. That you the elected individuals will listen to those who put you into office, not Kim Reynolds. I ask you to examine how irrational she has acted. Ask yourselves why? Why do people behave that way? If you are worried that you will lose your seat like Dustin Hite and Jon Thorpe did,for going against Kim, I beg of you to examine how democracy should work and that we are not a monarchy. We will remember who listened and who did not. This is a question of moral character, not keeping your seat at the table because of one person. All eyes are on this process. Iowans know better. The lies and misinformation dont fool us.Vote NO for this. Do the right thing and have a comprehensive review of the AEA.

01-29-2024

Traci Heimer []

My dad worked for AEA starting in 1975 and retired after 27 years. He was there for the beginnings and the growing pains until the AEAs became a an efficient and integral part of every community in Iowa. This bill is written off of recommendations by Guidehouse based out of Virginia. All the talking points are out of this report. This is our Governors comprehensive review thats shes been eluding too. This review was made without any input from stakeholders who actually work in Iowa with our kids. Across Iowa, legislators have held forums to hear from us Iowans who are packing these rooms. Not 1 person showing up for these town halls/forums is for this bill. Not one! I ask legislators to do the right thing, and listen to Iowans, both Republican and Democrats, your constituents in each of your communities who have pleaded not to pass this bill. A bill that was created by sn out of state consulting firm. Please table or kill this bill.

01-29-2024

Pamela Schroder []

My name is Pamela Schroder and I am a resident of Scott County. I am a parent of two children that went through our public school system, as did I, and a grandparent of two children currently attending public schools. I am also retired from the Mississippi Bend AEA. I am writing to express my deepest concern and opposition to the proposed legislation that could significantly impact the AEAs and ultimately the students it serves.There are federal laws and regulations governing special education implementation. The collaborative efforts between AEAs and schools are vital, especially for rural/small districts to ensure compliance with these regulations. Attempting to do this without the help of the AEA could compromise the quality of education for students with special needs as well as those without.The Department of Education, situated in Des Moines, will not be able to replace AEA functions/services with the proposed addition of 139 employees. When my district needs help how quickly will they get a response, let alone a meeting to collaborate on a solution. Our AEA, MBAEA, is a matter of a few miles away and things happen quickly. I just do not understand how making a new department at the DE with only 139 staff is going to be effective.Please support AEAs and push back these policy changes.This whole thing is happening way too fast and it's the children of our state that will suffer, especially our special needs children and their families.Thank you.

01-29-2024

Lance Lennon []

I fail to see the urgency with this bill. Why does this have to happen so quickly? What research has been done to determine the best steps? There will be an incredible void in services if this bill passes. It is poorly written and moves too fast. Is there room for improvement in the AEA system, possibly, but timeneeds to be taken. Please do not pass this legislation.

01-29-2024

Annie Volker []

Commissioning a study ("comprehensive review") with all stakeholders is the one and only action that should be considered. It's quite clear that an actual problem has not been sufficiently identified. Bring a lamp to illuminate our collective responsibilities Don't bring a torch and burn everything to the ground Do not allow this to be your legacy. For the love of our very future... do the right thing and vote a resounding NO!

01-29-2024

Heather Schantz []

This bill is NOT providing factual statements of what AEAs have been providing to ALL Iowa youth. Our kids education should be a high priority! This proposal will KILL rural schools education enhancements. PLEASE be sure you understand the full scope of this REACTIVE change to something that isnt broken!

01-29-2024

Jennifer McGregor []

The governor touts local control, yet proposes to move all decisionmaking capabilities to 1 sole entity that serves at her pleasure. She boasts about multibillion in Iowa's surplus (really, how much reserve does a state actually NEED??), yet year after year reduces funding to all schools in Iowa, as well as the Area Education Agency system. I think, with some checking you would find several public agencies in Iowa woefully underfunded while growing Iowa's coffers. Why?? Our constitution is set up in order to create checks and balances of government, so that no one entity gets too much control, and in this situation, I think our governor is operating with some hidden agenda that does not have Iowa's children, families, and educators, not to mention rural public schools, at the forefront. At the very least, please stop this bill from moving any further and complete that comprehensive review that the governor originally mentioned before landing her bombshell of a bill in everyone's lap. At the very most, this bill should be completely scrapped and schools as well as the AEAs should be adequately funded for more than 1 year in order to let the current MTSS work show measurable progress. Why is our governor in such a rush to push this bill through? Why are there already job postings for a nonexistent specialeducation department? I urge you to vote no. Teacher compensation should be considered separately, but a plan should also be made for how to make sure school budgets can sustain increased teacher pay moving forward. I appreciate the work that you do. Please consider the children. They are the future of this state.

01-29-2024

Elizabeth Luttrell []

I (like the governor) want our students with disabilities to make gains and help them "do better." That is why I have to speak out against this plan. There needs to be input from Iowa educators. Outofstate groups do not know what it is like in rural Iowa. There is no data to say that these gaps are due to AEAs. Except in rare circumstances, (like a special school), AEA staff do not instruct students with disabilities. I work 30 minutes from the Minnesota border for Central Rivers AEA, how will supervisors from Des Moines be able to offer support when I need it like my current administrators do? How will an appointed AEA director offer impartial support that is not political? This is very sad to get so far from the values of public education that have been part of Iowa's great legacy. As a parent, my sons will have fewer opportunities for media and teacher training with this plan. I'm the only one of my friends and family living in rural Iowa and am well aware that my two sons already have much fewer opportunities than their cousins in outofstate suburbs. I'm committed to rural Iowa, and heartbroken at how this plan will affect our rural schools in such a negative way. AEAs were designed to get them on a level playing field with other big city schools and it has been, but now it is on the verge of being changed beyond recognition.

01-29-2024

Melissa Hvitved []

The AEA offers essential services for students and resources for educators. Eliminating these will be detrimental to the future of education in Iowa, student success rates, and mental/emotional health of students. Make Iowas children a priority!

01-29-2024

Beth Tisher []

01-29-2024

Gina Iverson []

Your constituents are imploring you to vote against this bill. The support for AEAs and the services they provide is tremendous. Vote for what is ethical and right, and in the best interest of Iowa students, listen to the needs and wants of Iowans, vote against this bill. Do the right thing, be true to a moral compass

01-29-2024

Josephine O'Donnell []

I am urging the committee to kill this bill outright. The cuts make no sense especially in the wake of the voucher program bleeding our public schools and them being chronically underfunded for the past decade or more.Please do not do Gov. Reynolds bidding. The vouchers were a mistake and Iowas children will pay for generations. Cutting our AEAs will greatly compound the mistake.

01-29-2024

Pamela Schroder []

My name is Pamela Schroder and I am a resident of Scott County. I am a parent of two children that went through our public school system, as did I, and a grandparent of two children currently attending public schools. I am also retired from the Mississippi Bend AEA. I am writing to express my deepest concern and opposition to the proposed legislation that could significantly impact the AEAs and ultimately the students it serves.There are federal laws and regulations governing special education implementation. The collaborative efforts between AEAs and schools are vital, especially for rural/small districts to ensure compliance with these regulations. Attempting to do this without the help of the AEA could compromise the quality of education for students with special needs as well as those without.The Department of Education, situated in Des Moines, will not be able to replace AEA functions/services with the proposed addition of 139 employees. When my district needs help how quickly will they get a response, let alone a meeting to collaborate on a solution. Our AEA, MBAEA, is a matter of a few miles away and things happen quickly. I just do not understand how making a new department at the DE with only 139 staff is going to be effective.Please support AEAs and push back these policy changes.This whole thing is happening way too fast and it makes one think there's something underhanded going on.Thank you.

01-29-2024

April Brown []

I would like to make my voice known that I am NOT in support of the proposed bill! In my 25 years of working with people with disabilities, I have always had to rely on the AEA in some sort of capacity. With just a little under 500,000 (477, 726 last listed) people in services, this agency is ESSENTIAL for our state. I dont know if you realize what types of support they offer. From special education to early childhood interventions for both physical and mental health conditions, support for our schools and teachers, our medical providers, families and most of all KIDS!!! No one has stated WHO IS ASKING FOR THIS?? WHO said this was a good solution? Please do not do this to Iowa Kids, families, teachers, medical providers, case managers and citizens.

01-29-2024

Carla Knutsen []

I implore you to slow the momentum and really study the implications that any bill that dismantles the AEA will do to our schools. This bill implodes an infrastructuredesigned to provide equitable, effective and efficient services to all of Iowa and asks the DE to recreate it in just a matter of months. Secondly, if a school contracted with a locally based private company, those companies are unvetted and would have no oversight. One of Gov. Reynolds primary faults with the AEA was that we lack oversight (which is untrue) but these privatecompanies would have none. Consider also if these private providers will have access to all the Iowa special education paperwork and databased programs these are located on websites where ALL Iowa kids are listed. In addition, some of these will likely be private contract teleservices, which are often ineffective. Are we going to allow our tax dollars to flyright out of the state to these private companies whenit has stayed instate for thelast 50 years? As a school psychologist I work with 9 different special education teachers and help problem solve around student needs on a daily basis. My office is a revolving door of teachers coming in for support all week long. I do not think that a small district would be able to continue to fund this through this model. Continuing with this bill is not a win for Iowa kids,their families, or the schools that are the foundation of their communities.

01-29-2024

Marissa Berryman []

Hello, I am writing in opposition to HSB 542. I am a speechlanguage pathologist who started her career supporting rural school. This bill would destroy the ability for rural schools to adequately service their students and strips all school systems of supports they have come to rely upon. The people of Iowa have rallied together and been against this bill from the moment it was mentioned. The people of Iowa have rallied in a way I have never seen in opposition to this bill. Please listen to the people who elected you into office and love education enough to fight for it like you have seen.

01-29-2024

Jill Weathers []

This bill is not the answer to improving services for students. Rural districts will be hurt the most, and in turn, those students and families. Please do NOT support this bill. Listen to your constituents and the people (children and families) it will directly impact. It is clear from reading the comments that this will have a negative impact on the majority (if not all) Iowa students and districts. We ask ourselves all the time in education, is this best for students? Are you doing the same? ALL students first, ALL the time.

01-29-2024

K Harwood []

This bill is horrible. 90% of students in public education have no other resources for mental health, speech and other therapies. If you gut this your communities will suffer. Especially the communities living in or near poverty, communities of color and immigrant communities. Please stop and think about what youre doing.

01-29-2024

Angie Hance [Parent, Grandparent, taxpayer, VOTER]

I urge you to listen to the citizens of Iowa. This is one of the most controversial bills ever introduced and the nonsupporters outweight the supporters considerably. If you look at those registered for and against, the overwhelming majority do NOT support this bill (yes, I did not count the DE and Governor's office "For" vote nor did I count the AEA's "Against" vote). I would like to know the real impetus behind the urgency of this bill. If it is truly about children, time MUST be taken to review the proposed legislation along with the short and longterm implications. This hurts children, so why rush a decision without a true study on each piece of the proposed legislation and the impact, what can be changed, what needs to stay, etc. If it's about money, that is a completely story and we must approach the Governor differently. You tell me is it about money or kids? Your CONSTITUENTS are saying NO. These are the people that voted you into office. Make a wise choice for our children. And ask anyone in the school, the AEA, researchers, etc how much influence 1 piece of data should be put on an enormously big decision. I'd also like to know how much was spent on the report from Guidehouse for their report, which was prepared devoid of any real input from anyone in the state of Iowa that knows about the AEA system. Let's be transparent with the voters of Iowa. Wasteful spending at it's worst.

01-29-2024

Amy Monahan []

I support the AEA and the school districts, I am an Assistant Director at a daycare and I see first hand how the AEA benefits children and their families. I also have a son that is a school teacher and uses the AEA services all the time. Iowa needs the AEAs support to help our understaffed school districts. Isnt there a more recent study to use to base this bill on? Also, if we take away the public money we are giving to private schools this would help give our students more opportunities and support they deserve. Our schools districts have run just fine so why are we wanting to put all the control in Des Moines?? And in the new bill the governor is proposing she says that the AEA is too top heavy but we are wanting to add more jobs in Des Moines to control all education decisions. That is being top heavy when those wages could be going back into our districts! PLEASE VOTE DOWN THIS BILL, it what Iowans need and deserve!!

01-29-2024

Meryl Hiler []

It is the job of our legislatures to represent their constituents. All legislators should commit to opposing this bill, as it is has overwhelming and bipartisan opposition. Our AEA is highly respected and comprised of a multitude of educational professionals. They are willing to continually improve their services, but are being left out of the process as the bill is written. Gov Reynolds is touting numbers that are skewed and have no context for comparison. Take a moment to consider all that we would truly be giving up with the passage of this bill. As Gov Reynolds would say, Its unconscionable.

01-29-2024

Mary Forney []

Please do NOT eliminate or dwindle AEAs to ineffective educational programs! In the 32 years I taught, I experienced AEA help with students needing extra help, in school crisis help, with special education students, taking classes offered, media help, and the list goes on. Parents were ALWAYS part of their student's AEA help. The "giving parents control" phrase is yet another scare tactic used by this Republicanled debacle. Iowan WANT AEAs for their schools. Please listen to the people you work for.

01-29-2024

Bruce Lear []

This will harm all schools but it will hurt rural schools the most. Rural schools will not be able to attract professionals to provide the services of the AEA because of funding. This will increase the gap between rural and urban districts.

01-29-2024

Bruce Lear []

01-29-2024

Marissa Flugum []

I am begging on behalf of my children, my school district, and children who dont have a voice. AEAs provide a lifeline for many whether it be physical therapy, speech therapy, printing tests, sharing media resources, and counseling during a crisis. Gutting AEAs will destroy our rural public schools. PLEASE let them keep doing what theyre doing. They are not failing our kids, they are helping our future!

01-29-2024

Bruce Lear []

01-29-2024

Marisa Keeney []

I am opposed to HSB 542. AEAs and the many services they provide are vital to the success of children & families from birth through high school. Please do not make any changes that impact their ability to meet the needs of Iowas children. Rural children & their families stand to lose the most with the proposed changes. Please do not make pass yet another short sighted bill that has a negative impact on our education system.

01-29-2024

Amanda Hennigar []

I am writing to express my concerns about HSB542. I am strongly against this bill.In my 20 years working in various educational settings, I have seen numerous times how impactful the AEAs have been to children, families and schools. The AEAs have had a strong, positive, and important role to play in Iowa's education system for 50 years and I hope they can continue to do so.There is no upside to these proposed changes, and they would only be detrimental to Iowa's children. Rural school districts would be especially devastated by this bill.It is irresponsible to those you have been chosen to represent to even consider supporting this bill and I strongly urge you to vote no. Please take the time to visit with and listen to the stakeholders and what they have to say. Hear from those this bill would affect the most. Once this is done it can not be undone and would be catastrophic for most of your constituents.I worry for Iowa's future if this bill is passed.

01-29-2024

Jennifer Proctor []

Please vote no.As a proud Iowan for the past 24 years I have been proud of Iowas track record on education. I chose to move here and raise my children in the public schools which are deeply integrated into the daily instruction for children and their teachers.Please take time to consider this bill and the consequences of acting quickly and causing harm for future generations.

01-29-2024

Becky Nardy [Grandparent]

The AEA amendment was a disappointment to me. Very little of substance has changed and no real thoughtful evaluation of the AEAs is being included. This bill makes me so sad and fearful for my grandchildren and their classmates in OrientMacksburg, East Union and Creston districts. One of my granddaughters was helped to advance from having an IEP to no longer needing special ed help through assistance of our AEA. One grandson received AEA speech services. My daughter received AEA training while working as a para and went on to take AEA classes to be a substitute teacher.Another grandson is in a talented and gifted program assisted by AEA services. These essential services will be lost or greatly diminished in small, rural districts if this bill passes.The bill talks about local control but virtually all local decisions will have to be approved in Des Moines by the Department of Education. Special education decisions will ultimately be made by a Director of the DE who has no experience in Iowa, little experience in education, and no expertise in special Ed. Currently those decisions are made by trained staff controlled by local boards, and highly qualified professionals. Our AEA employs neighbors who know and care for these kids living in their own communities. They are part of their support system and work in support of their teachers. AEA staff attend our kids'activities and support their community in numerous ways. Their loss will be substantial to small towns.I pray you vote NO on moving this bill forward. The political spin on this bill and what it will accomplish has been deceptive in the least. I earnestly believe this bill hurts the future of Iowa kids. Iowa should do better than this and scrap this entire bill and work with stakeholders to identify and make improvements.

01-29-2024

Kara Franke []

I am adamantly opposed to this bill as it is detrimental to ALL of Iowas children. This bill takes away local control by giving oversight of any remaining AEA staff to the DE and mandating a particular reading program. Currently each AEA has its own board and each district chooses its curriculums. This bill takes resources and professional development away from all students public and private

01-29-2024

Autumn Bos []

I oppose this bill, it would be detrimental to education and Iowas children. They deserve better and the least we can do is allow for a comprehensive review of the AEAs who in Thursdays have overwhelmingly agreed to. Please do better for our state and our children and listen to your constituents.

01-29-2024

Kate Boonstra []

HSB 542s decimation of AEA services is unwelcome and unprincipled. Heed the widespread opposition of your constituents and vote no. Lets examine potential improvements to AEAs at a reasonable pace. If changes are truly needed, theyll withstand more scrutiny and time. Otherwise, why the rush?

01-29-2024

Andrea Nus []

Please do not advance the proposed HSF 542 and/or SSB3073. The legislation proposed by the governor is so comprehensive that adequate time is needed to review the issues and consequences of such a huge undertaking.The Legislative Service Agency has not researched the costs of the governors proposal.In 2022, Iowa had 517,444 students (representing 16.4% of Iowas total population) enrolled in a total of 1,310 public schools in 328 school districts. Pew Research estimates that 1314% of Iowas public school student population is served by special education services. https://ballotpedia.org/PubliceducationinIowaSpecial Needs students need individual evaluation not the typical datadriven test scores. Its an overreach to say that they can be evaluated on the same basis and their scores are not in line with other students or states. The Nations Report Card tracks student performance across subjects https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/ Privatizing services for special needs and other services that AEAs provide will cost more. Medicaid in Iowa has proven that again and again.AEAs are interconnected and can follow students district to district.Are school districts having problems or issues with a particular AEA or its staff? If so those issues should be brought to the attention of the AEA board and find a solution that works.Please provide or access accurate information when making such drastic changes to Iowans' lives. https://www.kcrg.com/2024/01/20/factcheckreynoldsaeahistoryspecialeducationperformance/.

01-29-2024

Tracy Grimes []

I am writing in opposition of this bill. Our schools, teachers, kids and parents all deserve the best possible educational experience and this bill would dismantle the AEA system that provides comprehensive supports to all our schools! Please vote No.

01-29-2024

Farrah Olson []

I am highly concerned that the valuable input from the vast amount of emails/comments/social media is being put aside to mask under a cover of "We need to do better for students with disabilities". Is there a thoughtful systematic plan in place starting in August, that will have the amount of immediate impact and expertise the current system of AEA's provide daily? We saw the Governor give the State of Address, drop 30 special education jobs the next morning, and then this bill. Did you know it was coming or were you blind sided like your constituents? Is the Department of Education ready for the influx and enormity of the responsibility of our children? Are the jobs being filled by the expertise the AEA currently has at it's finger tips for immediate response, whether that be the crisis response team at Perry, Professional Development in all areas of education, media services, coaching one on one in rural districts, establishing partnerships with community partners, collaborative teams ready for unique situations,and/or just in general returning an email in one day. This is just the tip of the iceberg, I am sure the correspondence of your constituents experiences have cemented the importance of the AEA in all areas. This is a high stake decision and it is concerning to me that this bill still exists. The AEA provides services to everyone connected to our children, because the children are the reason the AEA exists. The AEA provides equitable services to each individual child period. Have you ever seen so many people passionate, connected, and had the same powerful message at one time? This is a pretty incredible testimony to the impact of the AEA services. It all starts with great leadership, leaders impact the system. Just as leaders of the state impact the system. We the people live in communities and know people, and not one person I know is for this bill. Not one person.....that's unusual....when I think about that I wonder what ramifications this could bring to the forefront if this bill is passed. Take time, pause and listen you have all the right pieces of the framework in place already, don't recreate the wheel. Separate the teacher pay from this bill and listen to your constituents.

01-29-2024

Ron Russell []

I've reviewed the basics of the amendments to this bill, and want to share that the small improvements are not nearly enough! The amendment inexplicably takes decision making authority away from the local level and directly to one person an appointed Director of Education. What is billed as something bringing control back to districts, seems to be the opposite. And asking AEAs to be able to operate effectively when districts will not inform them if they want services until June 1st is completely unreasonable. How can AEAs be expected to have adequate staff to meet the requested services when budgets are set in the Spring, and the number of districts served won't be known until June. This seems to be designed to CAUSE the AEAs to fail in a new system. The other most devastating part of this bill is that the funds going to small districts will NOT be enough for them to contract services needed from the AEA or any other entity! It seems clear that this bill will cause great inequity for students across the state (students in small districts will have diminished or no services). The primary reason for the development of the AEA system in 1974 was to create equity in services and make sure all students with disabilities receive the services required under IDEA, and needed to ensure their success. Finally, I would encourage legislators to consider the data so many misleading statements of "AEA is failing our students" have been launched, and this claim is based on misinterpretation and the wrong data!

01-29-2024

Katherine Denniston []

Please stop the fast track of this bill to give time for a comprehensive review of real data that comes from current, valid sources of information. It is critical to fully assess the bills impact. The House bill shows an impact of 180 other codes that will be affected by this bill! Stand up for what your constituents want. Its an election year.

01-29-2024

Sandi Sickels []

I am writing in opposition to this bill. The Governor stated that she wanted a study completed. A study should include a comprehensive review of all services, interviews with all stakeholders, and discussions with stakeholders (i.e., parents, AEA personnel, teachers, principals, superintendents, community partners, and community members from IOWA) before making any proposed changes. What evidence is there that dismantling the AEA and moving all decision making to Des Moines is going to improve test scores? If you can't answer this question, then you need to vote NO on this bill. The AEA was created to provide economy of scale, equity of services, and efficiency of services regardless of whether students reside in a large urban district or a small rural district. How will rural districts be able to provide the same quality services to their students that urban districts are able to provide given their tax base? The answer is they will not. In my opinion this bill is discriminatory! What data is the DOE going to use to determine whether or not they will allow a district to contract with the AEA for special education and educational services? How will this fee for service work? If you can't answer this question, then you need to vote No on this bill. This bill prohibits districts from using operational sharing dollars to contract with AEAs for mental health services from social workers. How is reducing student access to mental health therapy, which is already severely lacking in rural areas, going to increase test scores? If you can't answer this question, you need to vote NO to this bill. There are far too many unanswered questions because this bill is being pushed through due to a political agenda. The AEA has never backed away from a continuous improvement model. Take the time necessary to make decisions based on appropriate data, not data that supports a political agenda. Our kids deserve better!!

01-29-2024

Christi Rohlfing []

Listen to the overwhelming majority of Iowans and vote NO to HSB 542. This bill will cause irreparable harm to our children, schools and state. I am a lifelong Republican and it sickens me to me to see this miscarriage of democracy. It makes me question my future affiliation. Your are elected to listen to constituents, not to pander to the governor. She has given no credible evidence to support her push for this bill. Please stop this bill and, if you must, do the comprehensive review the governor said she wanted. Dont go down as the party that destroyed the education system in Iowa. Vote NO and stand up for our kids!

01-29-2024

Lisa Roush []

I do not support this bill. AEA is a necessity, especially in our rural schools! Our children deserve better!You already stole money from us to give to the rich to pay for their children to go to private schools through Kims voucher program.DO YOUR JOB! Protect our childrens education opportunities! Stop the madness of tearing down the education system programs. Say NO to this bill!

01-29-2024

Kristi Chambers []

AEAs are essential to helping all of Iowas students be prepared in so many different ways. Removing or diminishing their role in our state educational system will irrevocably damage our future but more importantly the educational careers of Iowa students.

01-29-2024

Megan Ault []

This bill has no local input, does not give local control, and will not support local providers.Iowa parents, educators, administrators, school boards, AEA staff, and other citizens are speaking out: we do not want this bill. We do not support this piece of legislation. This bill was written by an out of state group that clearly does not see what Iowans value. We happily welcome a comprehensive review that was promised in December and would welcome the chance to sit down with involved parties to help make AEAs better. No one is perfect, but dismantling a system and hurting Iowas children is not the way to find a solution.The way the current amended bill is written, it takes control away from area education agencies and local districts and moves it to the department of education. There are 133 mentions in the current bill directing authority away from local control and granting it to one person in Des Moines. This person, written as the director of the department of education, has experienced extreme turnover in the last few years. Since 2018, there have been four different appointed directors. The most recent directors for the department of education do not hold teaching licenses, nor do they have any experience in a classroom. Why would we remove all local control for schools and give it to one person that has no experience in a school, and why would we grant a single position so much authority when there has been such high turnover and inconsistency in this role? Why would we create legislation that would require school districts to call the department of education to ask permission for every training, every service, and every decision related to special education?The current bill does not support local providers. Over the last three years the state has cut AEA funding by $76.5 million. The state has tasked AEAs to do more with less. This takes away necessary supports and impacts Iowas students. The current bill will cut this even further. It would prevent students from accessing media services. It would prevent teachers from accessing necessary trainings. It would limit the amount of coaching and support available to teachers of our most vulnerable students. It would hinder our legal obligation of child find. It would limit related service providers, like speech/OT/PT, from accessing materials, trainings, and collaboration that is directly brought back to students. It would eliminate so many possibilities for all of Iowa students.Iowa does not support this bill. Do what is right for your constituents and what is best for all students.

01-29-2024

Michelle Schaeffer []

Please listen to your constituents regarding HSB 542. The outpouring of communication you have received against this bill should not be ignored. This legislation will be devastating to Iowa communities, school districts, teachers, students, and families. If changes need to be made to the AEA system to improve its sustainability and effectiveness, then please call for the time to study what that might look like instead of rushing to approve it during this legislative session. The rush by the governor to push this through feels like a move for her political gain rather than a consideration of what is in the best interests of Iowas students and schools. I ask that you continue to be diligent and research the facts, claims and statistics Governor Reynolds is publishing.

01-29-2024

Brandon Watson []

I am an employee at Grant Wood Area Education Agency (AEA) in Cedar Rapids. I provide technology and networking support to not just Grant Wood AEA, but also for 23 school districts in Eastern Iowa.I would like to express my concerns that the governors proposed bill will be harmful to those schools that rely on my services to provide dedicated work to meet their technology needs. Almost of all of these school districts are small rural districts who do not have adequate resources to hire their own technology director, or are able to pay higher costs for private sector organizations who do not provide the same level of service that we at Grant Wood AEA do.I am personally responsible for making sure the students at these districts can receive quality content by making sure each districts network is functioning properly. As technology is crucial in todays learning, I make sure each device that is in a students or staffs hands can get to the internet to get this vital learning content. I not only maintain the equipment, but also assist in helping each district purchase the proper network equipment, such as switches, wireless access points, and routers/firewalls to keep the kids as safe as possible. In addition to this, I set up any necessary servers to provide any local onpremises services such as Active Directory, DHCP, file storage, and other functions like security systems.Governor Reynolds bill will eliminate these crucial services I and we at Grant Wood AEA provide these underserved school districts. I am compelled to write to you regarding the concerns I and my colleagues have with this bill. I understand the governor is attempting to make the system more efficient, and I completely understand, and even agree with, this objective. Any organization, whether in the private or public sector, have inefficiencies. I can only speak in regards to Grant Wood AEA and not the other AEAs. We welcome ways to make the system better and are open to hearing and collaborating to anyone who will raise these concerns. However, I feel this bill is a drastic measure that has not been thought out well without input of stakeholders and without input of the frontline AEA employees who actually perform vital work to assist children, not just in my field.If these crucial technology services we provide are eliminated, I believe it will prove more harm to school districts, especially the small rural districts, than it will help. These districts rely on us to make sure their technology needs are met (and even exceeded) at reasonable cost. Eliminating the services I provide, will make these cashstrapped districts have to hire their own technology directors at a substantially higher cost than they currently pay Grant Wood AEA to provide. In addition, if a district were to outsource to a thirdparty company, the district would also be paying higher fees for those same services, while receiving less support for the thirdparty company. I have been told by many administrators of the school districts we serve of how much happier they are with the services I and Grant Wood AEA provide compared to private sector companies they have used previously.

01-29-2024

Amanda McMartin []

Please listen to the thousands of educated experienced individuals telling you to vote NO to this bill. The students deserve the best education Iowa can provide; that does not include making drastic decisions in such a short time frame. Please at least take the time to have school staff, AEA staff, and others who have experienced the AEAs services firsthand at the table and work with them to better support students.

01-29-2024

Rachel Casper []

AEAs provide many more services than those for special education. All AEA services are needed. What the governor is proposing will eliminate thousands of jobs. While many larger schools can afford to hire outside services and agencies, our rural schools cannot. We need to look at the big picture without blinders on. This bill is not in the best interest of Iowas students, teachers, schools or AEAs.

01-29-2024

Beth Rupe []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. From our previous experience with AEA assistance in our sons education, I cant express adequately the thanks and accolades for their provided services. Please allow others to experience our service confidence and successes.

01-29-2024

Thomas O'Donnell []

Please read these many comments carefully, especially those from the professionals and school board members who have compiled ample evidence contradicting the assumptions behind these bills. They have all the marks of a rushed attempt to consolidate further power in the executive branch. I lie in a rural area with a falling population and schools struggling to survive and provide services. I know they rely on the AEA not just for special education but also training, media services and access to professionals that would otherwise be impossible to find in our part of the state. AEAs help make our schools better and plans to throw up roadblocks, such as requiring Department of Education approval to obtain services, will lead to poorer outcomes. Rural schools already suffer from state school aid that doesn't meet their needs and a voucher program that saps that aid even further. Keep the teacher salary increases in their own bill, send consideration of the "science of learning" program to the Department of Education for evaluation and possible implementation, and drop the AEA overhaul. Thank you.

01-29-2024

Kevin Schlomer []

I am against this bill. Legislators need to vote against it and set up a committee of parents, teachers, superintendents, school board members, administrators, AEA staff, health care providers, and legislators to study the AEA supports over an entire year. This is being pushed too fast and on misunderstandings and incorrect accusations. The proposed amendments do not address my concerns.

01-29-2024

Brenda Janisch []

I am writing to express my deep concern about the proposed bill impacting Area Education Agencies (AEAs). I believe this bill would have significant negative consequences for the quality of education in Iowa and for the wellbeing of our children. I strongly urge you to consider a comprehensive review of AEAs before enacting this proposed legislation. Such a review, as requested by the vast majority of AEAs themselves, would provide a more nuanced understanding of the vital services they offer and the potential impact of their reduction on Iowas children!! They are the innocent victims in this!!

01-29-2024

Josie Woosley []

I would like to make my voice heard to express that I am not in support of the amended bill. The AEA is essential for our children and schools. This bill does nothing to address the real issues facing schools. It only seeks to privatize support services and move power and control from local governance to state bureaucrats. Few of the Governors claims hold up scrutiny. This bill is an unnecessary solution to a problem that doesnt exist. AEAs are frequently reviewed and assessed. The data cited has been shown to be unrepresentative of the reality of special ed students. Further, the bill and the administration have not indicated how the proposed changes will improve outcomes. Please do not move this bill forward. Take the time to work with parents, educators, and communities to find solutions that will provide improved outcomes for our children and families.

01-29-2024

Ambre Grund []

As the parent of a child with complex disabilities and a school psychologist for the last 22 years, what I see in HSB 542 is a proposed system that is disjointed, unstable, and controlled far from our local district. Regionally organized services and AEA boards with representatives from local districts would be replaced by an executive director isn Des Moines, who may know nothing about our district and our son. We need carefully planned and implemented services nothing in HSB 542 delivers that. Please oppose this bill.

01-29-2024

Nicole Claussen []

I am writing in support of Iowa AEAs. I am a mom, a past school board member and the sister of one very hard working AEA employee.As a mom, my kids have benefited from our AEA in ways that I dont even know. Its services just integrate into daily schedules and patterns at school in a seamless manner. My kids have all taken part in the accelerated learning programs. I know of parents who have benefitted from specialized AEA therapists. Our kids have online learning options. During Covid, they were taught digitally. Grant Wood AEA supported all of these services.We live in a smaller school district. We already struggle to find new teachers and retain experienced ones. Our budget doesnt allow for extra professionals to be hired. Our students dont have affluent parents who can take them to receive private resources. Losing AEA resources will, quite simply, mean that our students lose services. I do not believe they will simply be replaced by other means for the majority of our students. This could be the beginning of the end for small districts. We cannot compete currently with the budgets of big districts. If we have to compete with them for essential services that they can afford but we cannot, it may be disastrous.I know how hard AEA employees work. I know they spend time traveling to districts that arent close to their homes. I know they work with troubled populations and take that home with them. I know they are in the schools teaching PD when their own kids are at home. I know that AEA employs some of our best educators and that they chose their jobs so they could make greater impacts. I know that cutting their jobs will end in many of them leaving our state and taking their resources elsewhere.Our districts teachers are already tired. They are already frustrated. They already feel under appreciated and overwhelmed. This bill will not help them. It will break them. Please fight for our AEAs and our kids. Please stand up for small districts with disadvantaged populations. Please protect the jobs of many of our top AEA educators and our district teachers.I remember a day when Iowa was known for the best public schools in the nation. That was a source of pride for our state. Taking away AEA services will be shameful and speak volumes about how this administration undervalues an Iowa education.

01-29-2024

Bailee Burks []

01-29-2024

Joan Peterson []

I ask you to vote no on the reorganization of the AEA. If you have concerns, then slow the process down. Why is the governor in such a big hurry? Imagine how much better it will be for all (if you feel there are problems) that you take the time to form committees with parents and actual educators. It feels like you are jamming this through regardless of testimonies and evidence.Thank you for reading.

01-29-2024

Jen Autera []

The AEA makes a difference in the lives of children, families, teachers. If the issue is test scores or data. Then look at ways to rework those issues. If the issue is the amount of money that the upper echelons make, then make adjustments to that. If the issue is money spent in property taxes and buildings, then look at ways to fix that. DONt cut services for children to be able to get an equitable education all children all age groups deserve the services provided by the AEA. Dont put more on the shoulders of teachers. The AEA provides a support system for teachers, families and mostly children. Dont make it harder for families to provide for loved ones. The AEA is doing what it was designed to do and if you listen to the people who are reaching out they support the AEA.

01-29-2024

Sara Perry []

I support the AEAs as they are now. Vote NO on this bill. As this reads it will hurt all the sped services that the AEAs provide for our rural schools. It will make it harder to receive the services these small communities need for their families.

01-29-2024

David Dubczak []

The proposed changes to Iowas AEAs in HSB 542 are in response to the governors claim that a 41% proficiency gap exists between all students and students with disabilities. Thats certainly a reasonable claim and something that should be addressed. HSB 542 is the proposed solution to this problem.I have not seen the case made by the governor and her advocates why this is the solution. Connect the dots for me.The problem at hand is a very specific, targeted problem. This bill is a sweeping, chaosinducing overhaul of the system that has come out of nowhere and will be implemented before anyone has a chance to truly understand the consequences. I fail to see why the proposed actions in HSB 542 are the solutions to this problem.After inducing this chaos into our special education services arena, what does this bill actually intend to change about the services, supports, and instruction these students receive?My experience in education shows that most issues in student achievement come down to two factors: 1) resources, and 2) collaboration. Education is an industry driven by collaboration between professionals. Any problem we have a problem solving is usually due to lack of resources to solve the problem, trouble finding the right people with whom to collaborate, or lack of time (a resource) to arrange the collaboration between the right people.Local Control seems to be the governors explanation about how HSB 542 solves the proficiency gap. Have any districts requested the ability to use outside services instead of their local AEA? If so, could this be because the state is not funding that district or their AEA adequately, thus causing the district to search elsewhere for solutions?By the time this bill passes, schools will have five months to make decisions about how to adapt to its parameters. For as sweeping an overhaul as this bill is, and the sheer number of areas in which it will impact, the only outcome I can foresee is an injection of chaos into our system that will have very little positive impact. In the end, well be right back here at this time next year with the same sort of problems in our special education programs: a lack of resources and collaboration to meet the needs of our students.This part of our industry needs targeted support, not systemic overhauls.

01-29-2024

Robyn Robbins []

Like with any organization that has existed for 5 decades, there are likely changes to be made for the better. However, this proposed bill is like using an axe to cut a carrot. Moving control to the department of education is not supporting local control. Our families will lose access to parent advocates. The special education services will be disjointed. If students with disabilities are falling behind when compared to other states, why is this the fault of AEA services not special and general education teachers? Please pay attention to the input from Iowans, not the DE director from out of state! I have worked as a school psychologist in Iowa for 23 years. In my experience, the special education services depends on curriculum consultants who provide insight/support on aligning their skills/abilities with grade level standards. Media services provides Van delivery of assessment and instructional materials, FOSS science kits that give hands on experiences to students in evidence based instructional practices. I have frequently relied on the expertise of autism and behavior consultants to understand the best way to provide instruction and support for students with disabilities. These experts also help general education students understand how to interact and support their peers with disabilities. These proposed changes are not going to help improve test scores, which is a simplified measure of educational progress.

01-29-2024

Melissa Rogers []

Voting for this rushed bill will not only be of detriment to Iowans for years to come because you failed to do your due diligence, it will be the damaging legacy you leave when youre voted out for acting against the will of the constituents youre supposed to represent. Youre going to turn this state blue which is the only silver lining in this.

01-29-2024

Jennifer Housman [Parent and educator ]

AEA's are essential to small rural schools and I think this bill will make it impossible for schools to serve students as they should. Please reject this bill and the amendment.

01-29-2024

Holly Conlee []

Both of our children received services thanks to the hard work and dedication of AEA and their educators. Both successfully graduated high school, and our youngest is now attending one of the state universities and will be a professional, working taxpayer. Isnt this what you want??? Independent, functioning, working taxpayers??

01-29-2024

Ashley Byrne []

This bill.does not need to move out of subcommittee.A bill like this, following just one year after the support for school choice, is actually hurtful to the school choice mentality. There is not providing a clear mechanism for nonpublic schools to access support and you are now discriminating against children with disabilities, both seen and unseen even further. I'm all for parents having a choice for education, however we can't be forcing children who need IEPs, and some are only in one area, to need to go to the public schools, because we have completely demolished the system that supports ALL Iowa children. This bill also takes away supports for 504 development so that experts in the field can work with general education students with disabilities, who do not qualify for special education, identity the accommodations that are needed for them to be successful in school.

01-29-2024

Denise Carlson []

I urge you to slow down and dig deeply into all the socalled facts and figures stated in this bill. The data quoted is not the most applicable data that should be considered. In addition this bill is disastrous for rural schools because it eliminates so many services they rely on. They will never be able to afford the same services on the open market. Thus our students learning and future achievement is at risk. Please do the right thing and support ALL of Iowa schools and students!

01-29-2024

Kim Cabel []

Please listen to what educators, families, and Iowans are saying about this bill, and vote NO. I am a parent of a child receiving early access services, and a AEA speech language pathologist in a rural school district. I know that AEA supports are necessary for children across Iowa to receive equitable services. AEAs are important for our children.

01-29-2024

Gail Maxwell []

As a retired teacher who relied heavily on our AEA for training, services to students, and resources I urge you to vote no on this bill. Our schools, especially rural schools, cannot possibly provide these services on their own. All students and staff will suffer tremendously if these services and resources are cut. I could not possibly have done my job as a technology integrationist and teacher librarian successfully if I hadnt had access to classes and trainings provided by the AEA, to their experts in the field, and to the many resources I used from their media department that our district couldnt possibly afford. Every teacher in every school will tell you the same thing. We rely heavily on the AEAs. If we lose the training, resources and services they provide all students lose, including our students receiving special education services. Again, I urge you to vote no on this bill. Thank you,Gail MaxwellSent from my iPhone

01-29-2024

Tina Finch []

AEAs play a vital role in ensuring equitable, efficient, and effective educational services for all Iowa children. As stated in their mission statement, they strive to prepare every child for a "life welllived." Their *local* presence allows them to provide crucial support and costeffective teacher training that is tailored to the specific needs of each community.House Study Bill 542, however, threatens to undermine this vital system by cutting back on essential AEA services. This would not only jeopardize the quality of education in Iowa but also take away valuable *local control* and place it in the hands of the state bureaucracy.I am particularly concerned about the following potential consequences of the bill:Reduced access to professional development and support for teachers: AEAs provide essential training and resources that help teachers stay uptodate on best practices and effectively meet the needs of their students. Cutting back on AEA services would limit teachers' access to this critical support, ultimately impacting the quality of education in our schools.Loss of local control: AEAs are in touch with the unique needs of their communities and can tailor their services accordingly. Centralizing control at the state level would create a onesizefitsall approach that fails to address the diverse needs of Iowa's school districts.Increased costs: While the bill may appear to save money in the short term, the longterm consequences of weakening AEAs could be far more costly. A decline in the quality of education could lead to lower graduation rates, decreased college enrollment, and a less skilled workforce, all of which would hurt the state's economy.I urge you to reconsider your support for House Study Bill 542. Instead, let's focus on strengthening our AEAs and ensuring that they have the resources they need to continue providing excellent educational services to all Iowa children.

01-29-2024

Lisa Harris []

Vote in opposition to this bill. It wound eliminate the ability for services to students, parents, teachers and administrators to be offered in a timely, cost effective manner. All the false information around the bill needs to be sifted through carefully by the people in Des Moines we elected to represent us! Vote No

01-29-2024

Jodie Stites-Huff []

I am respectfully asking that you reconsider the Governor's plan to dismantle the AEA as we know it. Our AEA consultants are professional and cooperative. The loss of services would really harm the young people of Iowa. We're talking about some of our most vulnerable population. Autism, behaviors, learning disabilities, hearing and sight difficulties, speech, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are just a few of the consultations our district has used. Giving the money you would supposedly save, doesn't help rural schools. They will find it impossible to hire people to perform those same services. Why is all the attention focused on one institution? Reynolds claims that special ed scores are lagging. Have you considered the Director of special education and the Department of ed's curriculum are a big part of the problem. Instead of sending our special education students into academic classes that make them feel inferior and confused. Why aren't we focusing on life skills that will ensure these students become contributing members of the community. In my 29 years of special education instruction, there was a time we taught job skills, filling out applications, dressing appropriately for work, fixing simple meals, navigating public transportation, making appointments by phone, simple measurement, telling time and counting back change. NCLB brought all that to a stand still. Even Des Moines schools are recognizing the need to return to basics and began a new program this year focusing on those same life skills. Standardized tests are not appropriate for special education individuals. Forcing those kids into classrooms they can't flourish in, brings forth the behaviors we need the AEA to consult on. Legislators have already decimated public schools by cutting funding and funneling it to "for profit" private schools. I feel like this is just another effort by politicians to destroy public schools and second guess educators. Please send this proposal back where it belongs, the trash can.

01-29-2024

Vicki DeMoss []

I employ you to vote NO to HSB 542The longawaited Area Education Agencies (AEAs) bill with new amendments was released today by Kim Reynolds as Senate Study Bill 3073. Subcommittees are scheduled and it appears that the intent from Senate Republican leaders is to move it for a vote as quickly as possible to avoid further defections on their part. I read all 123 pages this afternoon and Im surprised by how little shes agreed to change after her initial proposal ignited such fierce backlash.In short, the Department of Education (DOE) is still essentially taking over the AEAs. Almost all decisionmaking and oversight for the AEAs would be granted to the DOE director. The AEA directors (currently known as administrators) would now serve at the pleasure of the DOE director. The DOE director, of course, serves at the pleasure of Kim Reynolds. THIS IS NOT SHIFTING CONTROL TO THE DISTRICTS, and State Auditor is now more restricted so WHERE IS THE TRANSPARENCY & OVERSIGHT (checks & balances? Under the bill, the DOE director would now set the number of AEAs and couldnt allow more than 9 to operate. The DOE director SOLEY would be able to reorganize or dissolve AEAs at any time. The existing, (local) independent AEA boards would be relegated to a merely advisory role and serve at the pleasure of the directors who serve at the pleasure of the DOE director who serves at the pleasure of Kim Reynolds. All AEA real estate and property would be taken, granted to the Department of Administrative Services, and put under the decisionmaking of the DOE director. The media services and educational services provided by the AEAs would be removed throughout Iowa Code. THIS WILL SEVERELY IMPACT SCHOOL DISTRICTS ABILITY TO SUPPORT ALL GENERAL & SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS AND LIMIT TEACHERS ABILITY TO DIFFERENTIATE INSTRUCTION FOR ALL STUDENTSAll AEA staffing plans, job classifications, and budgets would now be annually approved SOLEY by the DOE director. The director salaries would be set by the DOE director. AEA child welfare liaisons could only be employed if they were approved by the DOE director. Public hearings on AEA budgets would no longer be required. All personnel classifications employed by an AEA would have to be approved by the DOE director. The Iowa Board of Education would no longer be able to develop standards and rules for accrediting AEAs unless they consult with the DOE director.MANY UNANSWERED QUESTIONS? Who is asking for this? Which superintendents are demanding this takeover? How does concentrating all power in a state agency help promote local control? Wouldnt independent advisory boards provide better oversight than a state agency already struggling to administer vouchers and book bans? As a direct service provider for special education, I also provide services & support to teachers and students in the general education settings, will I not be able to provide the same level of services to ALL students as directed in IOWA CODE? Has the cost to districts been considered if they chose to contract privately for direct services? For example, in IN private therapy companies are charging over $140/hr to schools! There is already a significant shortage of therapists in the medical and educational settings, how will rural districts compete? Who will ensure private therapists have extensive knowledge of State and Federal special and education law and State BOEE licensure? And the most pressing question, of course, comes from the hundreds of parents that Ive heard from who have kids and grandkids thriving because of the AEAs why are we taking a quick chainsaw to institutions that actually work for Iowans when we could be putting in the time and bipartisan effort to use a scalpel that would actually improve them? Ultimately, our families deserve better than this.

01-29-2024

Luke Rogers []

This bill does not put our students first. AEAs offer vital supports to both students and teachers. If we want to provide the best possible future for our children, why are we taking away tools that help them?

01-29-2024

Shelley Conover []

Iowans have been standing firm and advocating for AEAs since this study bill dropped on January 10th. The support for AEAs at forums is resulting in recordsetting attendance. It is evident Iowans are NOT in support of this bill. Please consider digging deeper into the data. This will take some time. Bring all stakeholders to the table to conduct a quality comprehensive review which is what the governor originally proposed. Let's start funding education and stop taking away from it. Please do not support this bill. And let's not forget that "Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions." Unknown

01-29-2024

Anna Crenshaw []

As an itinerant teacher with the AEA, Im quite literally begging you to stop this bill. I am so incredibly passionate about my work, which is making a difference every single day in all of my schools. This bill would dismantle the system that I love. I love my team, my consultants, my print shop, my media options, and more. Please, dont take away every support that I have and that my schools have. Please, stop this bill. Dont even amend it. Just please block it completely. Im begging you.

01-29-2024

Karmen Weddle []

I truly hope our elected officials are listening to the concerns of Iowans.This bill is being bullied through the committee. Lots of pages, plenty of half truths and way to fast. Take your time, ask the questions of everyone involved. Dont let us down. The AEA and rural schools need your help!

01-29-2024

Jean Boger []

Please slow down and carefully consider the repercussions of this bill, especially to rural Iowa schools and students. Conduct a comprehensive review of the AEAs, and decide, based upon data and evidence, what needs to be changed, but please vote no to this bill as it currently stands. This is far too important of a decision to make based on misconstrued data or personal opinions.

01-29-2024

Ashlee Madetzke []

As a special education teacher I had two students that needed extensive services and support that I did not have knowledge to provide. AEA staff entered my classroom immediately upon request and NEVER left. They didnt leave me until I was completely prepared with materials, knowledge of pedagogy I didnt already have, and confidence to do my job better. And then they came back. They came back and they came back and they came back. I cannot support a bill that limits that kind of support to our teachers and students in Iowa. This bill will limit what little support our teachers and students have and it will absolutely lead to a loss of teachers for our state. Please say NO to this bill and take time to really look at what support means before completely changing its structure for our most vulnerable population of students. This will be a disaster for parents and students in Iowa.

01-29-2024

Megan Immel []

I have worked as a teacher for 12 years. Central Rivers AEA is a gift to all of our area educators and students. Please remember who you represent, it's the people of Iowa. This bill will do nothing but harm all young people of Iowa, if privatization of our mental health services wasn't enough of an indication of how poor privatization of services is, do not let Kim do the same to our AEA. All Iowa students benefit from the AEA public and private! We welcome a review, teachers are life long learners show us how to do better not punish us with less services.

01-29-2024

Jeff Glade []

This moment presents a unique opportunity to demonstrate true leadership and courage. Standing up against this bill is not just a stand for better education policy but a stand for the principles of local governance and democracy. I urge you to consider the longterm impact of this bill on our educational system and to act bravely in the face of political pressure. Decimating the AEAs as this bill tries to do would have catastrophic consequences for our educational system, punishing all children, but especially those most vulnerable. Please stand up for our kids!

01-29-2024

Dustin Reese []

Do NOT support this bill written by an out of state company that knows nothing about how AEAs operate. NOBODY in Iowa (outside of the governor) supports the dismantling of our AEA system that is the envy of so many other states. If you pass this bill, the harm to our schools, especially our rural schools, will be significant. It will take years to recover as you try to rebuild the AEAs after recognizing your mistake. The data being shared by the governor is cherrypicked to support the plan she had from the start, much of it completely fabricated. Slow the process, review the AEAs, and you will see that they are an effective system that can grow even stronger. Have the COURAGE to do what is right for our students.

01-29-2024

Chris Wirtz []

I am commenting because I am against HSB 542. I am a preschool teacher in Southwest Iowa. I am currently working with our AEA with 4 of my students. Our speech pathologist has teamed with us to help get a communication device for 1 student. We alhave set up interventions for the other 3. I don't have a speech specialization and am grateful to our collaborative team for strategies to work at school with these students. Their parents also get information on ways to work at home. I believe that just taking away our current AEA system isn't the answer. We need to work together with school districts, teachers, staff and parents to see what is working and what may need to be changed. I am angered that there are already job postings on the dept of education website and this bill is in committee. Please vote no to this bill and work on changes we can make to the current system so it continues to serve students and families in Iowa. Thank you.

01-29-2024

Jane Steele-Bolt []

AEAs are a vital tool to our schools, educators, and families. They provide many resources to support education for all accredited schools. Losing their help and support would be detrimental for our children and schools. I am asking you to vote no for this bill.

01-29-2024

Brenda Gerdes []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. While I am a current employee of an AEA my comments are not on their behalf. My comment is on my personal behalf. I benefitted from receiving speech services as a general education student in the mid 70s. AEA were fully funded and as a student in a very small rural school (my grade size was 26 total students) I also was from a low income family. Neither would have been able to provide access to me without the creation of AEAs. My speech impediment was not only affecting my peer relationships it was also negatively impact my progress in reading. With the speech treatment I received as a first and second grade student, I was able to cure my impediment and was prevented from continued/increasing reading and social deficits developing a gap of progress between me and my grade level peers. That was when AEAs and schools were fully funded. Since then in particular the last 10 years AEAs and schools have seen large budget cuts. When cuts happen the services that are not legally mandated are cut first. Now a child would have to have a severe speech impediment that significantly impact their academic performance before getting speech therapy and it would only be afforded through an IEP. That is the concern I have with this bill that it will cut services especially in the rural areas that the only way for students to receive services like I was afforded is to be identified for special Ed. Driving up identification rates! Im also concerned that the newly formed division of special education will take our state backwards to a test and place model for special education eligibility. As a noncategorical state in how eligibility is determined students are leased on their needs rather than a label. My son had a disability label however he did not have academic needs as such to need special education. If this bill passes and returns us to test and place he would be placed in special Ed no matter his need for it. While special education students are general education students first and are served in general education for the majority of their day, identification for special education is a high stakes decision for many maybe even majority of students. Across the US the high population of young people who are victims of bullying are those with disabilities. With this and Iowa being in the bottom 5% of states in regards to access to mental health services that puts young people at risk for untreated mental health problems. We NEED AEAs support in schools to assist in the development and support of a multitiered system of support that includes education services and mental health services. This bill does not provide this in an equitable and effective manor. The cooperative manor in which AEAs function has been nationally recognized as a model for other states why mess with that. Please vote no for the future of our students. Please stand with you constituents that nearly all are not in favor of this bill and amendments.

01-29-2024

Caleb Bonjour []

Dear Members of the House Education Committee,I am writing to you as the Superintendent of a small, rural school district in Iowa to express my profound disapproval of HSB 542, including its recent amendments. As an educator deeply invested in the future of our students and the quality of education in our state, I find the proposed changes in this bill concerning, even with the provision to allow districts to retain some additional funds.The revised bill, while appearing to offer a compromise by enabling districts to keep more funds, fails to address the core issue: the significant reduction in the capacity and efficiency of Area Education Agencies (AEAs). These agencies are not just service providers; they are vital partners in our educational ecosystem. AEAs offer specialized expertise and resources that cannot be replicated by individual districts, especially those in rural areas like ours.The proposed changes still result in our inability to access essential resources and expertise in a timely and efficient manner. Collaborating with local school leaders and content area experts through the AEAs has been a cornerstone of our educational strategy, contributing significantly to our successes. The bill's changes do not adequately explain how funding will be managed or how AEAs will continue to operate effectively. This lack of clarity is a source of great concern for our district and others across the state.Furthermore, the rationale behind the introduction of this bill remains unclear. AEAs in Iowa have consistently received high praise for their services and support. They have been recognized nationally as exemplary models in the education sector. It is perplexing why a system that has been so effective and beneficial is being targeted for such drastic changes. This proposed legislation seems to undermine a wellestablished and successful structure without a clear or justified reason.The potential impact of these changes is enormous. They threaten to widen the gap in educational equity, especially impacting rural districts like ours that rely heavily on AEAs for specialized services. It is not just about the financial aspect but the overall accessibility and quality of educational support that our students and teachers will receive.In conclusion, I urge the committee to reconsider the implications of HSB 542. Our focus should be on strengthening and supporting our AEAs, not diminishing their capacity to serve our communities. As educational leaders, we should be building on the successes of our AEAs, ensuring that every child in Iowa, regardless of their district, has access to the best possible education.Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I am available for further discussion and to provide insights into the impact of these proposed changes on our district and others like it across Iowa.Sincerely,Caleb BonjourSuperintendent, GladbrookReinbeck CSD

01-29-2024

Amy Ball []

SelfReflection Questions for Elected Officials Is this the largest unified bipartisan response ever received in response to a bill? Wonder how that translates in November? Do I want to gamble and see? Am I really in favor of transparency for myself or just others? Especially, if I support a bill written by paid wealthy noneducator consultants over 1000 mi away from Iowa. How does that help me get reelected? Do I say things to those I should be serving that sounds like I am enjoying my power and not listening such as, You only want to save your job. How will that impact me when I run for my seat again? Things to ponder.

01-29-2024

Phillip DeMoss []

Vote No. These GOP idiots continue to follow the village idiot Kim down this rabbit hole in a race to the bottom. This years GOP legislative agenda steal public money and services from children with disabilities, Iowas most vulnerable citizens to give to Kims friends in private business. I see the Iowa GOP Dept of Ed just hired another idiot from number 50 dead last in the nation in education from New Mexico, Deb Elder. Idiots. This comes one year after adopting school vouchers like the type the nearly last place number 48 ranked in education Arizona has in place. There is a special place in hell for all these GOP backers of this bill and amendments. May the ghost of the great Governor Robert Ray soon summon the grim reaper to kill this bill!!!

01-29-2024

Dustin Gean []

Please vote not on the AEA bill and amendment.Just the way this bill has been bandied about is a disservice to the children of Iowa who receive support from the AEAs and a slap in the face to the educators who work for Iowa AEAs. If you have a problem with the salaries of the top admins at the AEAs, cap it. If you have a problem with too many AEAs, reduce the number. If you have a problem with the test scores, quit cutting the AEAs millions of dollars year after year. Instead you've made thousands of good people worry if they will have a job or not, you've called thousands of educators who have dedicated their lives to helping children "failures". This is unconscionable. This bill is a disaster for Iowa and Iowans. Please let this bill die.

01-29-2024

Heidi Farquhar []

I am writing to ask you to VOTE NO on HSB 542. This bill does not give local control to the schools to benefit the children of Iowa who receive special education. This bill just gives control to the Director of Education and the Governor. This bill sets special education services back to 50 years ago in Iowa when the superintendents had control and they were not able to provide economy of scale services to their students. The AEA system provides economy of scale to ALL Iowa students! Currently any school district big or small knows that whatever service a student may need the AEA is there to serve them. They can call and arrange to have that service provided to their school/student and not have to contract or go looking for a provider. If this bill is passed as is small school districts will suffer the most, they will have to resort to online out of state services to provide Speech, Occupational or Physical Therapy, school psychology etc., which takes away jobs for local Iowans who are currently providing that service locally to the school districts. These local providers are spending money in Iowa, contributing to the local economy and paying taxes! All systems can improve, take the time to do a full comprehensive review with all key players at the table. Invite students, parents, teachers, school administrators, AEA staff and Department of Education to review the current AEA system and bring those recommendations to the next 2025 legislative session. The Department of Education failings and misguidedness are not the fault of the AEA. The data they are using is too small of a sample. Remember AEA's do not provide special education instruction, they support special education teachers and providers. And all special education students are general education students first! The teacher pay increase is definitely needed but again the governor is only giving the districts money for this increase for one year and leaving them to figure out how to maintain those pay raises on their own for future years. Stop this bill and saves Iowa's children future of education. Vote NO on HSB 542Thank you for your timeSincerely Heidi Farquhar

01-29-2024

Susan Atwater []

My son was in third grade when I asked the school about his speech. He had trouble saying his Rs. He was signed up for a meeting with the AEA speech pathologist immediately. She worked with him and after a couple of lessons his speech improved and he was released from the program. She helped him when I could not. I was so thankful. He is now a successful well spoken businessman! We NEED ALL the services provided by the AEAs. Please do not fix something that is not broken!

01-29-2024

Lorri Mehmen []

I have witnessed firsthand the powerful impact that the AEA professionals have had on the lives of students and their families. As an educator familiar with the work done through the AEAs, I am begging you to please protect our children. Stop. This. Bill.

01-29-2024

Kathy Hanafan []

Please, please, please do not consider passing this bill. The AEA does tremendous work with our youngest families and students on IEPs, but they also impact all students in many different ways. From social workers providing direct therapy (free of charge for families) to collaborating with school counselors/atrisk staff to help mitigate adverse childhood experiences, their impact is amazing. All of the things Ive mentioned plus many more help school decrease chronic absenteeism and drop out rates. The little things that AEAs do matter.

01-29-2024

Mike Upah []

As more information comes out regarding the AEA bill, the legitimacy of the factors driving reform are increasing unclear. 1. Performance: the higher the performance of our students without disabilities, the greater the expected gap between students with and without learning disabilities would logically be. Using the gap as a need to overhaul the system is ingenious. Even so, in its last report the Department of Educations own data shows that the performance gap between students with and without learning disabilities is actually shrinking. MORE STUDY IS NEEDED. 2. Unintended Consequences: Private school and homeschool students currently access AEA services of all types without any outofpocket cost. When services are eliminated, a. All but the largest public schools will lack the economies of scale to replace AEAs, and they are unlikely to do so at the same ratio of cost to quality. b. Private schools access AEA services at no outofpocket cost. New funding is going to be required to create services for private school students. c. Homeschooled students currently access AEA services at no outofpocket cost. New funding is also going to be required for this student population as well. MORE STUDY IS NEEDED. 3. Local Control: The reform substantially reduces local control and centralizes authority and decision making in a growing bureaucracy at the Department of Education. 4. Winners and losers: It seems like Governor Reynolds and the Director of the Department of Education, (an office with tremendous turnover over the past few years) are at the top of a small population of Iowans who want the dramatic changes being proposed. Undoubtedly there is room for improvement in how AEAs are administered. However, trading away AEA services for accelerating tax cuts in the end will diminish Iowas best economic development tool our educational system, which is better because of the way AEAs create efficiencies and lower overall cost. It appears that there is an intentionality to cripple our public school system in favor of private schools It is said that dismantling AEAs is about accountability ... but private schools were funded last year in a manner that required no accountability. I am a product of Iowa education, a lifelong citizen, and a parent of two Iowa students. I am aware the services that AEAs provide, and see little chance that the private sector could ever replicate the AEA services, must less with any similar accountability, and feel it is impossible it could be done at a lower cost. Perhaps my mind could be changed by some data, but that seems to be in short supply by those pushing the overhaul. Our legislators MUST stand up to the Governor's demands to preserve public education.

01-29-2024

Jess Krob []

I am absolutely opposed to HSB542. This bill is not supported by accurate data and the thousands of constituents who are opposed should make it clear that we do not think this is in the best interest of our children. I am worried about the ramifications of this on my children in the Clear Creek Amana school district. It will take away hands on materials that enhance learning. We need our AEAs to provide support to teachers and students. To think that the is bill would improve education in Iowa illustrates how out of touch our governor is with our education system.

01-29-2024

Gretchen Eastman [Constituent ]

HSB542 is not a bill most Iowans want. Please vote no on this bill and do a true evaluation of the AEA system. This bill will not improve special education services but will in fact make things worse for Iowa kids, small schools, and communities.

01-29-2024

Colleen Knipper []

Please vote NO on this bill. You are elected to represent the people of Iowa, and the people of Iowa are saying NO to this bill loudly and clearly. This bill does nothing to improve special education services. It simply destroys a system that supports all students and teachers across the state and levels the playing field between urban and rural districts. If you truly want to improve education, and specifically special education, then conduct a comprehensive review at all levels (district, AEA and state) and take input from stakeholders such as teachers, principals, parents, students and AEA staff. Use multiple relevant sources of data to guide decisions rather than following talking points provided by an out of state organization. Stop using our children as political pawns! They deserve so much better than what this bill offers.

01-29-2024

Tina Whalen [Parent/Educator/AEA Employee of ]

I am asking you to vote no to HSB542. Iowas Public schools deserve more consideration than a fast tracked dismantling of the AEA system; a system that has served this state exceedingly well for many years. It is the envy of educators across the United States because it is locally guided and responsive to the current needs of the communities each AEA serves. The bill proposes replacing these services with something that is completely unknown and unfamiliar to schools in Iowa. Without a thorough study and thorough training to administrators and school boards about changes of this magnitude, decisions will be made without understanding of the true needs of the special education children the bill professes to support. Decisions will be driven by money, not student needs. If change is truly needed in the AEA system, you, our voted representatives, owe it to the thousands of educators and families in Iowa to make this change in the right way. This bill is not the right way to treat anyone! Again, I beg you to slow down and allow reason to lead and not political agendas.

01-29-2024

Ryan Andreassen []

Legislators, you are the stewards of our educational system. You were elected to seek the best interests of those who you represent. With a "yes" vote, your stewardship will undoubtedly lead Iowa's educational system into ruin. In 50 more years, what will Iowans say about the legacy you're building today? I would encourage you to pause and, at this moment, try to jot it down. If you can't articulate that legacy with laser precision, you need more time to seek to understand, to listen, and to lead in a direction that puts students above all things. Plain and simple. This bill puts us on track toward an educational support system that will be littered with minimally viable services. Iowa's students deserve better!

01-29-2024

Lisa Drinkall []

As an educator and parent, I ask you to support the needs of all students of all ages and all educators by NOT dismantling our AEAs. In the past two weeks alone, I have used the AEA for my own children 4 times and as an instructional coach more times than I can count. Ive communicated with, presented pd, and planned in person and online with many consultants in the areas of literacy, math, OT, behavior, and speech. Do not take away such precious resources from our educators to help students become successful future citizens of Iowa.

01-29-2024

Chris Engelstad []

Under governor reynolds tenure NAEP average test scores have decreased every year after being steady for 15 years. Iowa's once excellent public schools are now average, and decreasing. Governor Reynolds has demonstrated she cannot affectively goven our public school program. She should not be making decisions that could affect the education of our states children.The AEA however has been a high functioning agency for fifty years. They've developed the infrastructure, knowledge and experience to support public and private education. In no part of this bill is the necessary framework to transition away from an already functioning system. Please don't support, this poorly planned bill.

01-29-2024

Jill Purcell []

I oppose this bill. There has been no study to see if the changes will improve outcomes. The only thing this bill is sure to do is to privatize special education services in rural areas, which will end up costing more and taking more time to deliver. There are no facts backing up the assertion that 1.Iowas students with IEPs have worse outcomes and that 2. Those outcomes are due to the public nature of the services. This bill is clearly another money grab written by out of state lobbyists, not experts with the state.

01-29-2024

Emily Odden []

Please vote note. We need the AEA in it's entirety. We can not afford to lose services for our children. We need to be putting more money into the education of our youth instead of taking services and money away.

01-29-2024

Amy Gulling []

This process needs all stakeholders to analyze the data and agree upon presented facts to decide necessary next steps. In order to do this, it is essential that this process slows down and that our legislators do not act quickly in a response to misrepresentation of information.

01-29-2024

Nancy Mulvania [Retired]

Please do not pass this bill! I worked in the CBCSD for over 8 years and saw how many teachers and students benefited from the AEAs. My sister worked at one of the AEAs in southwest Iowa so I know firsthand the work she did for many school districts and Superintendents. I have a niece who is a Special Ed teacher and she depends heavily on the resources she gets from the AEA. Passing this bill would be a tremendous mistake fir the schools in Iowa.

01-29-2024

Nancy Mulvania [Retired]

01-29-2024

Kandi Brittain [Educator and parent]

Please stop this bill and ask yourself, To what problem is this a solution? In a grownup world, if something needs to be changed, best practice would be to collect accurate data from all stakeholders, then take the time to review the information and discuss possible solutions. I would also ask if legislators are hearing from voters regarding this bill, wouldnt it make sense to pay attention? Obviously the people of Iowa have a different opinion about the value of our AEAs. Please take the time to listen. Oppose this bill and keep AEAs.

01-29-2024

Nancy Mulvania [Retired]

01-29-2024

Kris Baldwin []

Please listen to Iowans and not Governor Reynolds and vote NO to all versions of HSB 524. This bill does not help any student in the entire state. Please listen to your constituents and do what is right!

01-29-2024

Julie Parnau []

As a special education teacher I beg that you consider this bill carefully!! Please vote no on making any major changes to the AEA! The cost will be severe to all districts!! In my job alone, my students and I rely on the AEA daily. The cost that would be put on the districts, that are already underfunded, to replace the services provided by the AEA would be astronomical with no guarantee we would be provided the same educated and supportive services we receive now. We ABSOLUTELY need our AEA as it is!! For my students and all students I beg that you please think of who is really being affected by this bill!

01-29-2024

Teresa Paulson []

Vote NO on HSB 542. I find this rushed approach blatantly disrespectful to the schools and teachers of our state all in an effort to destroy an efficient and cost effective organization who has adapted and grown to meet the needs of their school districts and ALL students in the state of Iowa. If changes are needed, there needs to be a thorough, systematic approach looking at ALL data and not basing the demolition of a system based on data that doesn't even truly represent the whole picture of the successes of students with the support of the AEAs. Discussions need to happen and this requires time. Appoint a group of representatives from the School Superintendents, Principals, Teachers, AEA staff, School Boards,Legislators, and the Department of Education and work together to create a strategic and well thought out plan instead of lines drawn in the sand! If there is an issue with the AEAs, then the department of education needs to be reviewed also. Our governor loves to state how much she cares about the children and youth of Iowa...I am asking you to SHOW us YOU care about them...actions are louder than words! Vote NO!

01-29-2024

Grace Blazevich []

Dear Legislator, I am writing to oppose HSB 542. I am a product of the Iowa education system K through College, I graduated from the University of Iowa and I am currently working on my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Drake University. I am also working my way through graduate school as a registered behavior technician (RBT). I have extensive experience working with children on the autism spectrum and I know first hand the dedication and passion of AEA staff members and the vital role they play. I have worked cooperatively with AEAs both in my current role and when I worked at Child Serve in Iowa City. As I have researched this bill and the amendments it is obvious to me, the extensive services that AEA provides, Education Services, Media Services and Special Education, I am unsure how it is not obvious to those of you making these important decisions? All of these services are intertwined, one cannot exist without the other. Any changes to the AEA system will have drastic outcomes to future generations of students in Iowa. I am also able to see how the rural schools will be most disadvantaged. It is transparent to me; Governor Reynolds is out to destroy Iowa's public education. This bill will have a detrimental impact on the educational system. I am the future of Iowa. I am a young professional who has chosen to stay in the state. I am gravely concerned about the future of education in Iowa. I am speaking up and using my voice to express displeasure. This is not a political issue, vote NO on HSB 542 to stop this nonsense now. Thank you.

01-29-2024

Janean Hauser [Public School Educator]

We are absolutely in need of the expertise the AEAs bring to school districts. They have been a vital resource for us as we navigate through our curriculum review and adoption processes. They are experts in their fields and assist in the vital professional planning and learning that takes place within our districts. Their assistance in the education of our teachers is directly reflected in the quality of instruction each and every student receives within their classrooms. The importance of the services they provide outside of their direct mentorship can not also be understated.

01-29-2024

Paula Mohr []

HSB 542 will do irreparable harm to our public schools and passing this legislation would be a travesty. I live in a rural county with just one school district. My school district, friends, and neighbors rely on the services and support provided by the AEA. This is a bad bill. Vote no on HSB 542.

01-29-2024

Amy Endle []

I'm truly concerned that passing this bill will inflict significant damage to Iowa's schools, students, and overall education system. As an Iowa School Psychologist, I have worked with numerous UNI School Psychology graduate students. UNI grads are highly sought after by the AEAs. Due to the needless turmoil created by the governor, our future school psychologists are now seeking out of state employment. As a 12 year Iowa school psychologist veteran, I'm now considering returning to my home state of Wisconsin. If this bill passes I fear the state will witness a mass exit of highly educated professionals.It the AEA system needs improvement, then sit down with the AEA leaders, but come to the table with positive intent. Withholding a secret report written by an outside entity only fosters distrust in your intentions. While teachers deserve a raise, this bill should not be passed as written. Please vote "no." This will be a decision your constituents will remember.

01-29-2024

Kim Meyer []

Dear Legislatures, Seeing this highlighted list makes me sick to my stomach. Having over 14 years in education in a variety of roles, from teacher to administration,I have utilized both the materials support, training support and state mandated implementation supports across the years.My husband is a teacher and I have two middle school aged children. Both have been the recipients of AEA supports in both speech and language supports to Extended Learning supports as they get older. The AEAs are there for ALL KIDS from birth to after graduation.I have also been witness to powerful work with the GWAEA Mentoring & Induction program, curriculum specific consultants, school improvement consultants and more. The work that is done behind the scenes is invaluable to prepare and support teachers to keep up with state mandates, curriculum changes, standards work, behavior management and more. In my role as the Director of Teaching and Learning at VintonShellsburg CSD I had the luxury of not only being a district that was served by the Mentoring Induction program, but also I sat on their board for 5 years. We had a few teachers who were selected & borrowed from our district to serve the beginning teachers in the surrounding AEA schools and then getting to hear from and work with them again when they came back to our districts with so much knowledge, confidence and strategies to help us improve too. This coaching/mentoring practice has statistically spoken for itself over and over. Improving teacher retention; b/c they feel equipped to stay. Improving student test scores to having some of the highest rates amongst their peers. Increasing both their confidence and skill levels to implement highly effective teaching strategies that they just dont prepare you for in college.As a classroom teacher, Extended Learning Teacher and as a Curriculum Director Ive utilized the AEAs vast print and digital resources for supporting students needs in the classroom. Resources that are for the good of the whole AEA that can be borrowed and returned and house or pay for ourselves. Many get to use the same materials and they are always kept up to date. Being able to do classroom book studies, novel readings or leveled readings with materials from the AEA. Getting the FOSS science kits and letting our students do hands on learning, experience science and practice their problem solving skills. Having access to safe, accurate websites & research materials through the digital licenses for our younger students. While teaching them about quality sources, factual information and leveled materials they can both read and understand. Having access to content specific consultants that are up to date on latest strategies, state mandates and have a general pulse of whats working elsewhere to share with what could work well in our district too. The state witnessed in early January that we are not exempt from gun violence in our schools. It was the AEA that was right there by Perrys side to provide emotional & action oriented support, create action plans and help them make the next step forward for their students and staff to heal. That type of crisis support happens not only when theirs a school shooting, but also a death of a teacher, a student or other tragic events in a community. Ive been witness over the years of AEA staffs coming in for multiple reasons to help a school community get back up on their feet after a loss. As a Technology Director, the collaboration with the AEAs to manage our PowerSchools system, support in technology repair, cyber security and host our DIrector roundtables so that we all can stay on top of whats coming as well as problem solve together specific situations as they arise. Some of the most VALUABLE pieces of Iowa education is the work done in planning, resourcing and training and then supporting educators to execute the plan. The AEAs are not something that should be cut down to pay for the promised teacher pay increases. That money should come from the states surplus or tax funding that youve so proudly cut. I implore you to stop this bill. Stop this attack on Iowa education and fund the very resources that have kept this states system alive. The AEAs are an integral part of serving all students and for Iowas future.

01-29-2024

Megan Weaver []

I oppose HSB 542 and ask you to vote NO. We do not want this for the children of Iowa and we know, as do you, that this will do nothing but hurt schools, families and children.The information that the Governor has been sharing is misleading and sometimes completely false. High stakes decisions about our children's future cannot be made with halftruths. We need to have every stakeholder (parents, teacher, superintendents, AEA personnel) at the table, working together to develop a comprehensive plan. There is no data to support the decisions that are being made and no data to show that what is being proposed will make any difference. What it will do is take valuable resources and relationships away from our school districts and families and replace them with a system that is filled with chaos and uncertainty. As a member of the Education Committee, you have the power to stop that from happening.Please do the right thing for the children of Iowa and vote NO to SSB 3073. The consequences of getting this one wrong are too great.

01-29-2024

Holly Gerber [River Hills School]

I stand firmly with those who oppose this bill. The facts used to construct this legislation are indeed not factual at all. AEAs original purpose was to provide services to special education students, yes. However, it was school districts who called upon their local AEAs to provide expanded services to all learners. Blaming AEAs for the lower test scores of students receiving special education services is misguided, and dismissive of the fact that standardized testing tools are often not the best measurement of academic proficiency among diverse learners. From a fiscal standpoint, this bill will be devastating to rural districts. There was no study done on this bill beforehand, and it was drafted by an outofstate interest group. I implore you to consider the longterm and irreversible effects of this bill on children, schools, and families.

01-29-2024

Kailyn Wasielewski []

I am a SpeechLanguage Pathologist with Grant Wood AEA and strongly urge you to vote no to HSB 542/ SSB 3073. Ive seen so many comments demonstrating the necessity of the AEA so I wont go into much detail. I ask you to please take a deeper look into the services the AEA provides and the necessity of each role the AEA has in ALL students needs and consider the negative implications that dismantling the AEAs has on the success of all learners. Support our AEAs and vote no to HSB 542/SSB 3073.

01-29-2024

Karen Wessel Hesse []

After reading the governors revisions to HSB 542/SSB 3073, I urge you to please oppose this bill. The revisions fall severely short of addressing the multitude of concerns that have been expressed by the citizens of Iowa. For example, I am extremely concerned that this bill moves decision making authority to the Department of Education and away from local AEAs. Giving this much authority to the Department of Education is a clear example of unnecessary government expansion. More time and conversations are needed in order to thoroughly understand the issues and arrive at a solution that best meets the needs of all Iowa students. I respectfully ask you to listen to your constituents and reject this bill.

01-29-2024

Angie Orr []

Vote no for this bill. This is not how to go about a change to a valuable system that affects all students. There should be discussions about how to improve things, not how to over haul a system within months. Talk to the teachers, students, and families how the AEA has impacted more than just test scores.

01-29-2024

Jennifer Mars []

I am asking for a NO vote on Wed. The bill and current amendment make drastic changes to the AEA system. The Governor has said this will support local control but the amendment references moving control to the DE or DE Director over 100 times. How does this represent local control? There are numerous concerns about the current responsiveness and abilities of the DE without the additional duties being proposed by this bill. As a resident in a small rural district, I don't see my district needs being met with this bill. The support services, print/media services and professional development needs would be too costly without the AEA and force a district to choose between needed services. Proceed with a comprehensive study with all stakeholders at the table (parents, administrators, AEA staff etc). Make the table BIGGER, not smaller and have open and honest discussions so that our children get the best services and education possible. Please vote NO!

01-29-2024

Gina Beck [Ankeny Community School District]

As a Talented and Gifted (TAG) Specialist in a large school district, I have experienced the tremendous support and expertise Heartland AEA TAG Consultants have provided. They have supported our district through an intensive program review by assisting this process with the Gifted Self Audit Planner (GSAP), a Heartlandcreated audit tool designed to evaluate gifted programming to ensure compliance with Iowa Code. The tool allows a district to collect and analyze data in order to identify areas of strength and areas of refinement. It is the gold standard for evaluating TAG programs. Following the initial implementation of the tool, the TAG Consultants have continued to provide ongoing professional development, support, and guidance as we work through the program review process to improve practice and service. Their support has been paramount to the work we have been able to accomplish. With no federal dollars allocated to gifted funding and finite resources districts have to support students, this level of support is crucial. Students receiving gifted services have intense and unique learning needs. Local schools rely on local AEAs to support all students, including those receiving gifted services. I cannot adequately express my gratitude and respect for Heartland AEA for the high quality support they have provided.

01-29-2024

Jeremiah McGraw []

The original bill caused so much uproar that a change had to be made quickly. The new bill is doing the same. Is the current agenda of parents choice really about parents choice? If you reflect on that honestly, the answer is no. If there is a problem with our AEA system then I am all for evaluating it and making recommendations for an improved solution. Gutting a system this quickly will cause mass chaos in our state. On top of that, many educators including myself, rely heavily on the AEA system. I use it as a teacher for PD as well as to work with my local math consultant. I also use it as a parent. That started with early access and continued into help with special education and our local PEP representative. This bill does not work for smaller districts and does not provide answers for so many services that will be gone. This bill is not best for Iowa or our students.

01-29-2024

Kate Fisher []

This bill is harmful at best. It will not only gut the AEAs but Iowa will lose many professional educators. The biggest losers in this will be the kids, especially rural kids. If we would like Iowa to have a future we must protect our kids. Please vote no on this bill. Please listen to you constituents!

01-29-2024

Stephanie Stevens []

I want to explain this firsthand to people who may not understand what this elimination bill the Governor of Iowa has proposed. If I could describe this bill in one word, it would be heartless. This would be like if a bill was presented to remove all health care except for ER visits. No clinics, no testings, no doctor visits, no preventatives; just resources for the severe cases seen in the ER. Do you understand how serious the issue is now?AEA plays a large part in coordinating sped for both behaviours and disabilities. But it also provides curriculum and resources on loan. It provides help for any student displaying behaviors in a classroom. It provides resources for schools, classrooms and teachersespecially new ones. They do all the *legally mandatory* trainings that paras, teachers, and staff need to start the year off.In short, AEA bridges the gap for ANY child who needs help. And now ALL those services, (except for support for specific diagnosis) are being threatened to be removed. And the kicker? The "money saved" is not going back to public schools.If you have ever had a loved one with special needs or a disability, knew someone learning English, someone who fell behind in school, a kid "naughtier" than most kids, a stressed teacher, para, or school staff, if you or your child or a friend of a friend attended public school in any way, shape, or form...YOU SHOULD BE CONCERNED. Children are the future. There is no better investment than investing in children.

01-29-2024

Angel Copp []

Please vote NO to this bill. It will negatively impact so many families and loved ones. I can't sleep at night thinking children in public schools will suffer. It's NOT a Cost saving measure. Please think of another way to get rid of state income tax.

01-29-2024

Allison Landt []

Vote NO to this bill! Many hard, working Iowans will become unemployed and our students will suffer through the remaining years of their education by this bill. As a child, I was put into intense speech therapy with AEA and I know first hand how they have helped the students I've worked with in schools. The bill will destroy lives!

01-29-2024

Kristine Kienzle [School board member]

If you feel like the amendment to the AEA bill has improved in any aspect, it has not. If you think districts will have local control, as Reynold continues to preach, they will not. In this amendment 1)The Department of Education could override local school & school board decisions 2)If a district chose to raise tax dollars to sustain the loss of funding & support, the DE could say no 3)If a district decided to partner with the AEA's remaining services, the DE could still deny the partnership 4)Requires using the Science of Reading curriculum program, which removes the choice from the district 5)Shared positions between the district and AEAs (like social workers, SBOs, and technology support) could no longer exist; districts would be on their own to find & fund support 6)This bill eliminates $32 million from districts, removing access to media services, and does not route the funding back to districtsI need help understanding the big picture here... Is it privatizing education, or is it forcing small schools to consolidate? I do not know how districts (especially rural ones like ours) can sustain the same level of care with even less funding and resources. My heart is hurting for our public schools and all Iowa students. Advocate for you public people on the amended bills now!

01-29-2024

Ryan Robison []

I STRONGLY encourage you to vote NO to HSB 542! As the father of three children, I can not imagine having our LOCAL AEA supporting my children, their teachers, and their schools. This plan does nothing but give all of the power and oversight to unqualified people in Des Moines. AEAs do SO much good for ALL children. This plan was completely created by a company outside of Iowa, which has ZERO real knowledge of our state, our AEA system, and the needs of rural Iowa. Instead, I challenge us to take some time and get the REAL "players" (parents, school teachers, school administration, AEA staff, DE staff, etc.) at the table for a review of the AEA system and how it can be improved. MUCH more thought and processing MUST be done before we can destroy a successful system that has helped MANY children, teachers, and schools for 50 years! YOU are elected to represent US, the voters, now it is time to do your job and truly LISTEN to us, and vote NO to HSB 542!! Thank you!

01-29-2024

Sandy Wolf []

For the past 24 years I've been watching my daughter work tirelessly on behalf of the most vulnerable children in our community. The AEA professionals have been there for her offering their support and expertise every step of the way. For many families, the AEA has been the guiding force to help students reach their potential and become productive members of the community.Please don't let this bill destroy the many years of hard work, dedication, and compassion the AEA has provided to so many students, families, and school districts. Reject this bill.

01-29-2024

Cassie Vazquez []

As a mother and an educator who works in a rural school, please vote NO to this bill. Cutting funding to the AEA will cause our rural schools to lose out on resources, therapies, and materials that are available to our students in urban districts.Support rural Iowa by supporting our AEAs. Vote NO on this bill.

01-29-2024

Jake Strachan []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. As a career educator and parent, I have seen firsthand how valuable the current AEA structure is to the success of students, families, educators, and school districts across the state. This bill is dangerous in so many ways, and it undercuts the local control that allows public education to thrive in responsive and equitable ways in both rural and urban areas. It consolidates power under the Governor and eliminates equitable and timely access to vital services. Please do not allow this bill to move forward.

01-29-2024

Jake Strachan []

01-29-2024

Nicole Hall [Parent]

As a parent of a student whose learning needs were beyond that of the regular education classroom, Im grateful for the services the AEA provides. My son, his teachers and our family depended on the AEA help his teachers offer effective strategies for him to learn the material, to help monitor progress, and for accountability and legal follow through when things slipped through the cracks at the district level. He closed the gap. His test scores were not our concern, his progress and practical application of what he learned were. HSB 542 WILL HURT IOWA STUDENTS. Please listen to your constituents. Serve the people who elected you. Serve their families. Protect education. Please vote NO to HSB 542.

01-29-2024

ROGER WHITE [Self]

As a person who has worked with Area Education Agency staff for over 20 years, let me share that these professionals are among the most dedicated, welltrained and caring educators that Iowa has. The Area Education Agency itself is wellsuited for efficient provision of special education services, general education services and media services for the locals schools, teachers and students. It makes no sense to me to disrupt this efficient and effective service model just to cater to the whims of a governor. who apparently is clueless about the services and needs that the Area Education Agency staff meet on a daily basis. The motto used to be: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!" Well what exactly about the current Area Education Agency model is broken? This has never been identified. If you cannot answer this question with a precise, clear and convincing answer, then do not move this extremely harmful bill forward. Thank you.

01-29-2024

Dorothy Coffman []

As a parent I am urging you, begging you, not to move forward with this bill. My son is a kindergartner and has been receiving assistance for fine motor skills and writing, and for his as of yet undiagnosed ADHD. He doesnt qualify as a special education student and would already be behind his peers without the services provided by our AEA. He is just one of countless students who would be directly harmed if this bill passes.Iowa was 1st in the nation for education when I was growing up in the 80s and 90s, we are now 28th. Our public schools were a source of pride for Iowans. We need to further bolster our public schools and our AEAs to bring our public schools back to where they once were at the top of the nation; not put forth legislation designed to privatize and diminish them.Iowans dont want or need this bill. We need our AEAs to continue to be funded and functional so our children can thrive in their education. The governor claims she supports parents choice, we parents are telling you and her we dont want this legislation to move forward.

01-29-2024

Lauren Vanderhorst []

Please do not move this bill forward. Iowans deserve a true comprehensive review of our AEA system with input from ALL stakeholders. Anything less than that is a disservice to the youth, parents, families, educators, and community members in this state. I am particularly concerned about how rural schools will be impacted by this bill. Please listen to the people that you represent. We are speaking loudly and would welcome the opportunity for conversation.

01-29-2024

Jenny Rants []

I am writing this comment as a veteran special education teacher. Please take the time to read these comments......we are all saying the same thing. Slow this Bill down and listen to the people that will be impacted by this. In my experience working with students who require special education services, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact that AEAs can have on enhancing educational outcomes. AEAs serve as vital resources that bridge the gap between local school districts and the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities. One of the key strengths of our Heartland AEA lies in their ability to provide professional development opportunities for educators. As a special education teacher, I understand the importance of staying updated on the latest researchbased practices, interventions, and assistive technologies. AEAs facilitate workshops, training sessions, and collaboration that empower special education teachers to continually improve their instructional practices.Our AEAs play a crucial role in our school districts in providing specialized services and resources. Whether it's access to assistive technologies, specialized curriculum materials, or expert consultation, AEAs are instrumental in ensuring that ALL teachers have the tools and support needed to address the unique learning needs of their students. Our special education students are general education students first, these services go beyond just assistance for special education.

01-29-2024

Megan Hicks []

As a parent, an Iowa schoolbased OT and Iowa tax payer I am opposed to this bill and its ammendment. Please form a group of nonbiased steakholders to review our current system for at least 1 year and collect real data. Yes, changes need to be made but the changes proposed will not benefit anyone. Our rural districts will suffer, our families will suffer, or children will suffer. There is so much left unknown with the proposed bill that leaves all beneficiaries scared and scrambling. Please listen to Iowan's concerns, not just Republicans or Democrats.

01-29-2024

Kelly Crenshaw []

Please vote no to this bill. AEA's are important to all students. Each child, whether in regular education or special education classes, deserves to have the best chance possible to learn. ANA'S help provide this chance. Put children first!

01-29-2024

Carrie Dodd []

Please vote NO on HSB 542 that guts AEAs and takes local control away from districts!! Small, rural school districts don't have access to services that the AEA provides so most families won't be able to get the help they need. There also are very few options in our area to "contract out" the services. The Crisis Teams that we rely on will be cut, as will so many other services that schools, students, teachers, and families so desperately need. Please continue to question this bill and please vote against it. Public education is on the brink in Iowa where we used to be topranked. If we want to make Iowa education great again, the only way to do it is to stop dismantling it and fund it properly.

01-29-2024

Melissa Williams []

I am writing specifically to those of you who support HSB 542/ SSB 3073 as a concerned citizen, parent, and educator, urging you to carefully consider the potential consequences of supporting this bill, that threatens to dismantle the AEA system in Iowa.As a resident of this state, I want to emphasize that the proposed bill is causing significant worry and distress among the people. We have witnessed Governor Kim Reynolds' divisive initiatives in the past, and HSB 542/SSB 3073 stands out as a threat to the very fabric of our public education system.This November marks an election year, and I want to highlight that the people of Iowa are paying close attention. The widespread opposition to HSB 542/SSB 3073 is evident, and your inboxes prove it. We, the caregivers of the children HSB 542/SSB 3073is directly going to impact, will remember those who stand up against it. Your vote on this crucial matter will not go unnoticed.Governor Reynolds' destructive approach to education is concerning, and supporting HSB 542/ SSB 3073 may have implications during the upcoming elections. The people of Iowa are united in their opposition to this bill, and we expect our elected representatives to listen to our concerns and protect the future of our children.I implore you to consider the gravity of this situation and vote against HSB 542/ SSB 3073. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to the wellbeing of Iowa's education system and the trust placed in you by your constituents.Thank you for your attention. I trust you will make the right choice for the children of Iowa by voting against this bill.

01-29-2024

Marc Franke []

Is there a link to a paper from the Governor as to why this change needs to be made?Most public comment I am seeing is how important it is to support the AEA. I'm not for this change without better rationale.

01-29-2024

Carrie Spellmeyer []

Please vote no to HSB 542. I have worked in special education in rural Iowa for 17 years. The AEAs have never once failed me, or my students. Dismantling the AEAs will do nothing but harm our children, our schools and our state. This bill lets people without education experience make important and lasting decisions about education. Those decisions impact real people and real children. They are more than just numbers. Please do what is right for our children and vote NO to this bill.

01-29-2024

Mariah Howard [Northwest AEA]

This bill needs to be opposed as it makes drastic cuts to services and supports and takes away local support for schools in ensuring the schools are providing the most effective student services in their Least Restrictive Environment. As an AEA occupational therapist, I rely on knowledgeable and responsive support from our administrators that regularly spend time in schools. I have and continue to receive education and resources to ensure that I am providing services and support schools in a way that ensures students have access to FAPE and allows students to make adequate progress in their Least Restrictive Environment! Providers schools may be able to choose from after this bill, do not use this educational model which is concerning.

01-29-2024

Libby Burdette []

As a SLP currently working in the schools, I am strongly against HSB 542 and urge you to vote NO. Today, as I sat with my core team, and General Education teachers collaborating and problem solving student needs, it dawned on me the implications of this bill. If this bill passes, the supports that ALL students may need to be successful are in jeopardy. This should not be a political issue where one votes with party lines, but with what is the right thing to do for our students. I am especially concerned with how this bill will affect rural school district and the equity of services across Iowa. This bill will create gaps in services for rural community school districts thus impacting not only our Special Education students, but ALL students.

01-29-2024

Brooke Dornack []

Please vote NO! Do not use grossly misrepresented data to make sweeping changes to a system that serves ALL children in ALL districts in Iowa. Pull the stakeholders together and approach change in an informed and planful manner.

01-29-2024

Mary Heaberlin []

As a registered Republican I have lost every ounce of respect for this governor and how she has gone about this bill. There is no part of this bill that should be accepted. It should be a dead bill. A new bill should be written for our teachers to have a raise that they deserve. Thousands of emails have been sent thousands of voices have been raised if you cannot listen and hear what your constituents want and are asking for and you decide to vote with your party instead of your people then you can be sure that we will vote against you in the next elections. Please vote NO on this bill.

01-29-2024

Jena Hardy []

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HSB 542. This bill proposes significant changes to the structure and funding of Iowa's Area Education Agencies (AEAs), which I believe would be detrimental to the education system in our state.Firstly, it is important to recognize the broad scope of services provided by AEAs. While AEAs are widely known for their support to students with disabilities, their role extends far beyond this. Since their inception, AEAs have been instrumental in supporting all students, including those in general education settings. This wideranging support is not only critical for the wellbeing of our students but also for the overall effectiveness and efficiency of our educational system.The bill's proposal to modify the number of AEAs and alter their funding and administrative structure risks undermining the economyofscale advantages that have been a foundational principle of the AEA system. This statewide system was designed to serve all parts of Iowa equitably, and any changes could disproportionately affect rural areas, where services are already sparse.Moreover, AEAs have continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of families, districts, and schools. They provide vital services like special education support, media and technology, curriculum development, and professional training, all of which are essential for the growth and development of our students and educators. Reducing the reach and effectiveness of AEAs would hinder our ability to offer these crucial services.HSB 542 also overlooks the fact that AEAs have been a key factor in improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities. For instance, in 2022, a significant percentage of students with disabilities in Iowa exited special education services due to their progress, illustrating the effectiveness of AEAs. Reducing or limiting AEA services could reverse these gains.Furthermore, AEAs have a proven track record of efficient use of resources. The assertion that only a third of their services are focused on supporting children with disabilities is misleading. In reality, these services represent a significant portion of their daily operations and impact.In conclusion, HSB 542 poses a threat to the wellbeing and educational success of Iowa's students. The proposed changes could dismantle a system that has been effectively serving our state for over 50 years. I strongly urge you to vote against this bill and support our AEAs in continuing their invaluable work for the betterment of all Iowa students.

01-29-2024

Kris Colwell []

I am asking you to vote NO on this bill. How is the dismantling of the AEA system going to help improve Special Education test scores? If you dont have an answer to this question VOTE NO. How is giving control to the Director of Education over 100 times in the new revised bill giving local control ? If you dont have a clear answer to this question, VOTE NO! How is putting undue hardship on small rural districts to find the specialized services AEAs offer let alone pay for them going to help Special Education test scores? If you cant answer this question, VOTE NO! How is voting for a bill that has overwhelmingly bipartisan opposition from your constituents fulfilling your obligation to help the people that elected you? If you dont have an answer to this question, VOTE NO!

01-29-2024

Kristy Tiedt []

As a mother, Iowa citizen, and voter, I beg you to vote NO to HSB 542. I have read through the bill and amendment. I feel this bill is being significantly rushed without taking the time to hear from valuable stakeholders and spending time digging into data and information to ensure we are making decisions in the best interest of all students. My children are general education students and I have significant concerns on how this impacts my district. I also have significant concerns on how ALL students across the state will be impacted. The decision is clear, vote NO.

01-29-2024

Danyel Reiter []

Opposing this bill is not just advocating for improved education policies, but championing the values of local governance and democracy. Reflect on the longterm repercussions this bill may have on our educational system, and act courageously amidst political pressure. Undermining the AEAs, as proposed by this bill, would severely impact our educational system, disproportionately affecting vulnerable children. Advocate for our children vote against this harmful bill and listen to your constituents for the sake of Iowa's future.

01-29-2024

Heather Cary []

I'm writing to you as a constituent who has concerns about what I've recently read about Iowa's Area Education Agencies (AEAs). In my work as a Consultant with Northwest AEA, I have observed the invaluable services that AEAs provide to students, families, and educators since their establishment in 1974.As you may be aware, the recent statement from Governor Kim Reynolds indicating a comprehensive review and potential closures of AEAs is troubling. In my capacity as a constituent and consultant, I wish to express my deep concerns about the potential repercussions of these changes, particularly in rural areas. Currently, I serve 5 buildings that comprise of elementary, middle school, and high schools (public and parochial). Many of the schools I serve are 20+ miles apart. As a consultant many times I serve as a liaison between schools and families. If I have a question or problem that needs to be solved, I can reach out to my director. When evaluating this system, please consider if these changes are made and all of this is moved to Des Moines, problems wont be resolved as they are now, and families wont have the oneonone care that they have now. I work closely with OTs, PTs, speech/language pathologists, behavior specialists, directors, and so many more to provide the services to help make these students successful. When I was a special education teacher I relied heavily on these services. I knew they were a phone call or email away. I was able to integrate resources from the AEA online library so my students could access gradelevel content. My students graduated by making gains on their IEP goals, many have opened businesses, attended college, have families, and are purchasing homes. As a previous special education teacher, I couldnt have done it without this support! Rural areas, like ours, heavily rely on the specialized services offered by AEAs. The unique challenges faced by these districts necessitate the tailored support that AEAs provide, and any reduction in their services could have severe consequences for our students. It is essential to recognize that AEAs play a vital role in bridging gaps and ensuring that every student, regardless of location, receives a highquality education.I want to draw your attention to the potential impact on employment as well. If AEAs were to close, a pool of specialists would become unemployed, potentially leading to a competitive hiring market that might disadvantage smaller schools, such as ours, in attracting qualified professionals. This could result in challenges for several districts in providing the same level of quality education to all students. Districts also cant afford to provide the level of professional development that Area Education Agencies provide. From the beginning of becoming a teacher until now, AEA is the place where I can obtain all of my mandatory training as well as extended training. This training isnt just online or training that is passed through quickly, it is quality training that we are proud of. It is also a system that warehouses educators' training and keeps track of what has been taken and what needs to be taken. Moreover, funding reductions over the last 15 years, and particularly last year, have already strained the capacity of AEAs to maintain their critical services. The continuous reduction in funding puts us at a tipping point where the quality of services to children may be compromised. It is crucial to understand that further cuts could significantly impact the ability of AEAs to meet the diverse needs of students in our district.While I acknowledge the importance of evaluating educational systems and addressing the needs of students with disabilities, I urge you to consider the unique context of rural districts like ours. I believe it is vital for the voices of Iowa school boards, students, and their families to be heard before any legislative action is taken.I am also a professor at Buena Vista University, I want to be proud to continue to encourage individuals to go into education. With these initiatives being sent to our directors ahead of the bills being passed I am afraid for future generations. Our jobs are being advertised on the Department of Education website ahead of the bill being passed. Please take notice of these actions. I appreciate your dedication to our community and legislature, and I trust that you will carefully consider the potential consequences of changes to Iowa's AEAs. Our students and their educational wellbeing are of utmost importance, and I believe that, through collaborative efforts, we can ensure a positive and equitable future for education in our district. The students I serve arent my children or your children, but they are the children of the future.

01-29-2024

Kelsey Bowers []

This bill isnt what Iowans are asking for. When did we reach this point where the voices of our Governor and an outside consultant outweigh the thousands of voices of your constituents? On what other issues have your inboxes overflowed with few to none in support? Why arent the experts that work closest to this issue at the table negotiating the contents of this bill? How many at that table have served in a public school? How many have met with families to explain that their child has a suspected learning disability? How many have designed interventions to ensure adequate growth and development toward those milestones? How many have tried out dozens of accommodations, modifications, assistive technology devices, and more to test their effectiveness? How many have consulted with experts in their fields to see how integrative services might accelerate growth? How many have drafted an IEP that ensures these interventions remain in place as the child advances grade levels or should they change schools? How many have considered the implications when all of the supports holding up our underfunded schools are stripped away? How many kids will have to fail before we rebuild what this hastily organized bill destroys?I cant think of many things on this earth that matters more than our kids. Id like for our legacy to be one where we left our kids better than we found them. Im confident the results of this bill will have quite the opposite effect.Oppose this bill. Do right by Iowas kids, their futures depend on it.

01-29-2024

Jessica Dagel []

This bill is a solution in search of a problem(that doesnt exist). The AEAs are the model of effective & efficient services to ALL students in Iowa. The test data being reference is skewed by low numbers and also not the goal of IEP teams. We dont teach to testswe teach to their living, learning & working vision so they can be functional members of society. Study all you want but dont pass this awful bill that is designed to destroy an excellent AEA system.

01-29-2024

Kate Evans []

Grant Wood AEA has helped me numerous times. As a science teacher, all the STEM activities and kits, and now as a substitute teacher. I would not be active teaching without AEAs. Please do not get rid of AEAs or eliminate ANY programs or offerings. ALL STUDENTS, TEACHERS, and as whole, COMMUNITIES are better off because of AEAs. Thank you for hearing us, and please do not cut funding!

01-29-2024

Mariah Tousley []

Please oppose this bill. Iowa's AEA system is something to be proud of, and is what attracted my family to move to this state 8 years ago. My two children have both benefitted from AEA supports, both in general education and special education capacities. There is always room for improvement, but this bill will not achieve that desired outcome. This bill will gradually dismantle the supports and services provided by AEAs. It removes local control, and eliminates checks and balances. It puts public money into the hands of the private sector, and will very likely financially benefit outofstate entities. This bill will result in inequities for students and districts just based on location alone. It is not good for districts, teachers, students, or families. Stand strong in service to your constituents and vote no on this bill. This will not be forgotten.

01-29-2024

Alicia Patten []

Please oppose HSB 542 in all forms. Iowa students deserve the best and gutting the AEA system, without any review using questionable data, is reprehensible. The AEA's provide equitable resources for all students across the state, no matter where they live, or what their school can afford. This bill will severely limit access to information for all students and teachers, and most certainly will target rural schools.

01-29-2024

Dominic Giegerich []

The Area Education Agencies weave through the fabric of education in Iowa in a manner that no one can foresee the disastrous effects of removing what is there and replacing it with something else. AEAs have been serving Iowa for almost 50 years and that doesnt make them outdated, it makes them proven. My 29 years of serving the public as a teacher, administrator and coach I have worked in sync with three different AEAs, each having unique strengths and pride themselves in serving all students (which special education students are first and foremost). This bill intends to tear down and replace the AEAs with other, proven, undeveloped services.If approved it will fail, and it will fail miserably for all Iowans.Legislators want solutions, while many do not go to town halls and gatherings supporting the AEAs and places that could give solutions. Its simple refuse to consider this bill and instead allocate time to study what works well, who does it best (among the AEAs) and replicate the good and improve on the rest. Efficiency can always be improved, but an overhaul would strip away all the advantages the AEAs have passed down to schools, groups of schools and with each other. Youd be starting from scratch and 50 years from now a centralized system will not be as efficient as the AEAs covering the state are RIGHT NOW.This bill was not written by Iowans, the question not asked to the majority of Iowans and attacks a celebrated Iowa tradition of education local control. It creates more government, centralizing control under the stripped down Iowa Department of Education which doesnt have the capacity to carry out its duties right now. Hiring 50, 100, 150 more people will not replace the thousand who have the proximate access to serve districts public and private.It eliminates a career path for young professionals to follow and stay in the state of Iowa. This bill will gut a successful system, an option for teachers who want challenges outside of the classroom, the opportunity to affect more students, teachers and schools.They can do that in regions where they live now, rural or urban. Centralizing in Des Moines centralizes population, tearing out at rural access that is given to our smaller schools and midsized cities. This bill has many negative economic factors, the largest pushing our young people to other states.The motivation and the tactics surrounding this bill can not be ignored and should not fall under the tag of politics. There was a day when dissension within a political party happened and a moderate approach was good for all Iowans. Because one party has control does not make it morally right that those elected operate under the assumption their interests drive policy using general party platform planks. This is not leadership where an agenda is pushed through with the above assumption, without taking the time to work with hard working Iowans who would do anything to improve education. The compensation piece really attacks local control and the ability of a districts Board of Directors to operate in a manner that serves the public good. Its not feasible and you can not keep introducing bills that spend money without accounting for it on the other side of the ledger. I have many more years to give to this profession and this state. The fact this bill has gotten as far as it has, and the prospect that it passes in ANY form, makes me look to retire early, move out of state and encourage my 22 and 25 year old children to do the same. If this bill passes my grandchildren will not have an education that resembles what my wife and I were so fortunate to have growing up. Real leadership takes real courage, accountability, combined with common sense.Respectfully,Dominic GiegerichNorth Linn MS/HS Principal

01-29-2024

Abby Weiland []

Please listen to the outpouring of support for the AEA system and vote no on this bill. It is critical for those in positions of power to make decisions based on fact, and to listen to their constituents. As you consider this bill, I encourage you to be learners, be critical consumers, ask questions. When things do not seem to add up, ask questions. When there is a rush in decisionmaking, ask questions. When folks are not willing to cite their sources or consider alternative possibilities, ask questions. I implore you to ask questions of yourselves, of your colleagues, of your leadership. Iowas kids deserve better than what this bill would give them and are depending on you.

01-29-2024

Valerie Giegerich []

I am opposed and appalled at this bill as an AEA Employee, spouse of a principal, taxpayer, and parent. AEA staff and the system work best in PARTNERSHIP with the DE and families. AEA's have the tools, resources, and infrastructure to meet all students needs, all day everyday, we also support teachers and administrators through coaching and quality professional learning. AEA's follow the continuous improvement process which involves examining multiple data sources to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Based on the results they create action plans, implement plans, and evaluate the results. This happens at multiple levels from individual students, to helping large districts be more efficient and effective and everywhere in between. In my role, I have the opportunity to collaborate with DE staff. They are understaffed and do not have the infrastructure, manpower, or communication structures to support these changes. In addition, I am disappointed that jobs have already been posted for these new positions before the legislative process as taken it's course. In addition private companies are already advertising for special education oversite positions. Speaking of oversite, where is the oversite of the department of education, and the governor. Lastly, what is the rush with this bill, best practice would be to slow down, complete and evaluation and propose changes based on multiple data sources and feedback from multiple sources.

01-29-2024

Thomas Paulson []

This bill, and its amendment, are based on outdated, inaccurate and misinterpreted data. Looking closely at the rationale given for gutting the current system I have seen no credible evidence that the AEA has failed Iowa's children. And to say that no reduction of money to provide services for the disabled will occur under this bill ignores the truth that small districts will have to spend more to receive the same level of services they currently receive. And to claim that this is to give the districts the choice to choose how and where they want to spend their money is not the reality of its current structure. No district will be able to choose to spend their money the way they wish without the approval of the soon to be allpowerful head of the Department of Education. I can't believe Republicans (my party) are pushing this. The bureaucracy that this will create will be less efficient and in the end will make things more difficult for the district and its teachers to take care of our kids. By the way, we are already hearing of quality people handing in their resignation letters to the AEA because of this disaster. I hope you will put an end to this and don't even send it to the floor. It deserves to die.

01-29-2024

Drew Bowers []

The AEA system has supported my child through some of the most challenging times of her and our lives. When Layla was born 14 weeks premature, we knew shed have a long road ahead in her development. After several months in the NICU, we werent sure where to turn to support all of her unique needs. Through our transition home, were quickly connected with Central Rivers AEAs support. Without the wonderful folks of early access, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and audiology support, she wouldnt be the thriving little girl she is today. To receive those same services through private providers wouldve been costly. Not to mention, they give her the tools to succeed in a schoolbased environment, something the medical model isnt built for or equipped to handle. Her teachers receive ongoing training from specialists in early childhood, literacy, and math that keep them current with educational research. Furthermore, Layla has access to critical technology and media that I fully doubt her school would be able to provide. Not only does it support my daughter and her needs, but Im certain it benefits her teachers and classmates in ways that ensure all kids benefit and succeed. I am concerned that if AEAs are gutted as HSB 524 calls for, Layla, and countless others like her will not have the bright futures that are currently accessible through the support that AEA is built to provide. The way this bill reads, these supports will no longer be centralized in the Cedar Valley, but will be based out of Des Moines. I cant imagine that will keep our local experts local. The educational experts who serve to support her teachers will be eliminated. The media and technology support she requires to thrive will be cut, and left up to her school to pay for out of their general fund. I hope that you will join me in opposing this harmful legislation.

01-29-2024

Patrick Tisher []

This bill continues to go against what is in the best interest of our educational system and Iowa as a state. As a law enforcement officer, we need more funding to schools, not less. The less we support kids' needs in school, the more likely that I will encounter them on the street. Fund our schools, support our kids, say "No" to this bill.

01-29-2024

Marissa Kolander []

The bill HSB 542 is extremely misguided and motivated only by Governor Reynolds' selfish and politically motivated campaign to systematically underfund and overcommit Iowa's public schools. Iowa's AEAs make a profound positive impact on all students and should be supported and preserved. Please vote NO on HSB 542.

01-29-2024

Tara Peterson []

I believe this is the first step in dismantling public schools and we need to stop it now. Politicians don't know what is best for education. Please let the teachers, AEAs, administration, families, and students be heard and stop this bill from going any further.

01-29-2024

Keith Rau []

Keith RauI am writing to urge you to oppose HSB 542. As an educator in Iowa for 38 years, I definitely benefited by the services provided by our regional AEA. These benefits included: media and instructional materials, many which my district would not have been able to provide, or provide near the quality and quantity of; facilitating state initiatives in curriculum development, as well as many other state mandates; training and classes in implementing technology in the classroom; providing me with the courses I needed to maintain my teaching license and to continue my professional growth as I served students in Iowa. Even in my retirement the AEA has continued to have an impact on my family. We have grandchildren who have received early intervention assistance from their AEA in both hearing and speech therapy, helping to improve their chances for educational success. In addition, we have a daughter who was an elementary teacher in the classroom for over 10 years, during which time she earned her doctorate from UNI. She is currently employed by the AEA as a literacy specialist. In this role, she assists classroom teachers in implementing research based best practices for reading instruction in their classroom. If Im not mistaken, improving reading scores is currently a major goal for education in our state. Why would we gut the very programs that could help us reach that goal?The more I study this legislation, the more concerns I have about the negative impact it will have on parents, students, and schools in Iowa. Here are some of the additional concerns that have strengthened my opposition to this bill:The exclusion of literally all of the affected stakeholders, apparently even legislators, in the discussion of the need for this legislation. What happened to transparency in government?That all AEAs already undergo regular review and are certified by the Department of Education. Where did the concern about lack of oversight of AEA come from?That are we requiring the Department of Education to approve it when local school districts chose to continue to work with the AEA. What happened to local control?That the funding given to districts to purchase or replace many of the services the AEA provide is not going to be adequate to replicate the services they can already easily access through their AEA. How is this an efficient use of resources?That we are creating a new bureaucracy within the Department of Education when we already have an organization in place that is uniquely positioned around the state. AEAs have local knowledge and a working relationship with the districts they serve, and the experts in place to deal with any reforms that may be needed. Again, what happened to local control?The chaos that this is going to cause for school districts and families as they scramble to try find and replace what they will lose if this overhaul is pushed through. This is especially going to be the case in rural districts, such as where I served and continue to live in today.Finally, why? Why the sudden need to shove through these massive changes of an organization that apparently has so much support from schools and the families they serve?For all these reasons, and more, I urge you to oppose this legislation.Thank you for your consideration and your service to Iowa.

01-29-2024

Abbie Keibler []

This bill penalizes Iowas learners by denying them critical services. It puts districts in situations that are not financially feasible. It shifts management of staff to the DE without a plan for how to do so. It will encourage residents to leave to seek better educational options, shift costs to private / out of state companies, and force current tax paying Iowans to move to another state for comparable employment. Vote no.

01-29-2024

Kayla Nagel []

I strongly urge you to vote no to this bill. The passing of this bill will be detrimental for all of Iowas children not to mention thousands of your constituents. The AEA provides so much to each and every school district. Taking resources away from teachers who are already working with so little is irresponsible. Stop this bill before the damage is done.

01-29-2024

Amber Bridge []

Please vote NO to HSB 542. I moved to Iowa 20 years ago. AEAs helped create community that made sense in this state for me. As a science educator, Grant Wood AEA provided me with FOSS curriculum that was delivered to my school fully stocked with all of the materials I needed, as well as provided professional learning to help me become a better and more effective science teacher. When I was done teaching, they picked up the kit and restocked it for another teacher to use at a fraction of the cost of purchasing and restocking the kit. I utilized the community and felt supported as a teacher in a rural school. As a parent who gave birth to a premature baby who had to have surgery on day 2 of life, Grant Wood AEA Early Access helped me to evaluate my baby in my home for no charge and was part of my community. They assured me my daughter was right on track, but if anything came up to contact them and they would be there for me. AEAs provide support to so many, why would you take that away and isolate people in this state?

01-29-2024

Matt Ward []

Hello,As a concerned citizen I am reaching out to you to encourage you to vote no regarding the proposed AEA bill. The reductions proposed as part of the bill will have substantial negative effects for our school systems and students. I do worry for the future of Iowa Students and teachers going forward if significant cuts to the AEA occur. The AEA provides valuable services that I don't think can be replaced or duplicated by other means.The professionals currently in the AEA have the most expertise and knowledge in their areas to continue to provide the best services to our school communities, especially in Rural areas.

01-29-2024

Marie Oleson []

Please vote no to this bill. My 4 month old grandson, who was born almost 3 months premature, has already benefitted from AEA services. I pray the benefits remain so that he has resources available to him throughout his childhood.

01-29-2024

Katie Scholl []

Please do not advance this bill. I have talked to NO ONE who supports this bill. Our AEAs provide vital services and are open to continuous improvement but do not need this drastic gutting. A valuing of local control would not situate all decision making with the DOE. What is needed by districts is known by those who have been working along side of them for the last several decades. This is a time to stand up for the voices of your constituents. Please represent US, the voters.

01-29-2024

Marie Oleson []

01-29-2024

Erica Thorson []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. After reading the hundreds of comments on this thread and talking to those who understand our education system, I can not find one person who supports this bill. I don't care if you are a Democrat, Republican, or undecided, this is not a bill supported by Iowa constituents. This is NOT an Iowa bill. This is a bill that was written with skewed data, lies, and very little true research in order to push an agenda that will only hurt our state's children. Our AEAs not only provide services to our most vulnerable children with special needs, they also provide services to our general education students, talented students, hurting students, parents, teachers, school districts, and administrators. How is this bill going to help "improve test scores" when it is ripping out every support provided by the AEA and needed by our students? I fail to see the reasoning between the concerns that Kim Reynolds brings up, and how this bill would address any of those concerns. Please, don't let this bill and the fallout that would occur be your legacy.

01-29-2024

Tinna Walberg []

I am asking you to please vote no for SSB 3073. Several issues with this bill will ultimately take valuable services away from all children and teachers in the state of Iowa. By spreading the money out, many districts will lack the buying power they have now to get what kids need in places where they already have a lack of resources. Who will districts call when they have a death in the district and need support? A group of students with a crisis? Help with finding a researchbased curriculum that aligns with standards. Help integrating technology into the classroom to keep students engaged. These are just some of the services that will not be available if this bill is passed. The report that this bill is based on was not written in Iowa with absolutely no input from Iowa stakeholders. Shouldn't we be asking Iowans what is working and what needs to be improved? I am fine with some outside input and for improvement but why completely gut the system? Additionally moving the AEAs under the Department of Education is taking decisionmaking about students further away from the students and eliminating a great deal of local control. In working with the DE in the last 25 years it has been my experience that it is difficult for the DE to be responsive to districts and their needs promptly. This would have to change drastically for this to impact the success of kids. I also ask that you consider separating the AEA bill from teacher compensation. They are both extremely important and deserve their own consideration. I also have a concern about the sustainability of our rural districts of the pay increases. I beg that you listen to people of the Iowa and do what is best for our students instead of following a leader blindly that seems to have little understanding of the needs of the students and families in Iowa.

01-29-2024

Tracy Weber [Heartland AEA]

Please vote no to this bill. This bill will hurt all students across the state of Iowa, not to mention put thousands of people out of work. Do not allow Governor Reynolds to run roughshod over the entire state in this manner.

01-29-2024

Michelle Elgin [Special needs parents]

Please vote no on this bill. I have reviewed the full amendment and it does NOT fix the issues with the original bill. I thought we were proud of local control in this state and this definitely is not when schools and AEAs have to get "approval from director of Dept. Education". The amendment says the schools can decide if they want to use the AEA but if they have to ask for permission, they are NOT the ones deciding. This bill would harm rural schools like the one I grew up in and the one my son goes to now! My son has used the AEA since he was 6 months old and he is a senior now. This would be devastating to families and kids like mine. My son deserves and is promised a free appropriate public education. Please do what is right for the students of your state!

01-29-2024

Kandi Palsma []

I urge you please stop this bill and go back to the drawing board. Nothing in the current bill accomplishes what the governor is saying are her priorities. Iowans did not ask for this! And it was especially upsetting to turn on the news and hear the governor say our children on IEPs are FAILING! They most definitely are not! When children no longer need services, they are exited from their IEPs. Also, they are not allowed to op out of testing like other states. AEAs are open to review, reflection and collaboration as that is the work they do with parents, teachers and schools daily! I am especially concerned with all the power going to the department of education, the opposite of local control and choice. I think it would be a good idea to get the bugs worked out on the ESA rollout before we mess around anymore with Iowas schools.

01-29-2024

Michelle Elgin [Special needs parents]

01-29-2024

Tyann Rouw []

I'm not sure where our family would be without the services provided by the AEA. The Central Rivers AEA has assisted our family with the following services/therapies over the years: speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology; Early ACCESS Team that came regularly to our home when our kids were young, to include: early childhood special education teacher, speechlanguage pathologist, school psychologist, school social worker, occupational therapist; Parent Educator Connection, autism support group, all special education teachers and staff in special ed preschool and at River Hills, a special school; the Autism Resource Team, which we used for collaborative consultation; doortodoor transportation, assistive technology, job coach, and work experience coordinator. I'm sure I'm forgetting something. Our twins, both diagnosed with autism, are 22 years old. One works 20 hours per week at a local coffee shop. He's happy, productive, and a contributing member of society. Our other son just graduated last month from a 4year Iowa college. I'm very proud of them. We needed a village, and the AEA provided one. Having AEA services available in all Iowa schools is critical to students and families with disabilities. These people and services make a difference. Get this right, Iowa. Keep the AEA for all!

01-29-2024

Julianne Zahner []

Listen to the people of Iowa. We do not want this bill, and we do not need it. Dismantling the AEAs will do irreparable harm to the children of this state. Vote NO for the children and for all the educators who rely on AEA services.

01-29-2024

Keri Renze [Parent]

Please vote no to SSB 3073! I am extremely concerned about education in out state if this passes. Iowa is already struggling to attract and maintain teachers and without the support of the AEA this will only make things worse, especially in rural districts. Please do your due diligence and slow this down. Perhaps a comprehensive needs assessment should be done on behalf of all students in Iowa to determine where the needs are. A decision of this magnitude needs to be based on sound data, not one test score on a sample of students. Our students and teachers deserve access to the highly qualified professionals at the AEA. Vote no!

01-29-2024

Julie McCarty []

Please vote no. The changes contained in this legislation are reckless. Some of the consequences will include the catastrophic collapse of the professional AEA workforce. This will negatively impact rural school districts the most, but will definitely impact the system statewide. The professional service provision and coordination provided now will be blown to smithereens and will not simply be reconstituted in another location.

01-29-2024

Tina Halverson []

Please do not pass this bill. The AEA infrastructure is already in place; the talent and expertise are already in place; the processes, practices, and partnerships are already in place; the array of services and supports is sound, relevant, and robust; the cost savings are clear; the outcry (outrage) of the constituency is palpable in every corner of the state.If assistance is needed, identify precisely where that assistance is needed, support it, monitor it, and make course corrections. Bring a lamp to illuminate our collective responsibilities, don't light a torch to burn everything to the ground!

01-29-2024

Doris George []

Please put people over politics and listen to your constituents. Slow the process and take the time necessary to conduct a study that includes Iowa stakeholders, not a company from another state who does not have knowledge of our educational system. It is unclear why AEA is being held responsible for students' low test scores (AEA does not provide the instruction) and it is unclear how dismantling the AEA will improve student performance. And is the data being cited even accurate and current? This bill will definitely have a negative impact on rural districts as services will no longer be be efficient, economic and equitable.Please vote NO.

01-29-2024

Stephanie Robinson []

My wonder with this bill is, how is what Governor Reynolds is proposing really fixing the achievement gap? If it is about special education students not being proficient or closing the gap, then shouldnt she do more than rearrange monies and offer services to whom ever applies Please vote NoLets have a comprehensive review and use real data to support decisions if changes are founded

01-29-2024

Emily Eckman []

Vote no. AEA provides crucial services for special needs students that cannot be met any better by local districts. As well, there are critical improvement services that are provided through the AEA that are very effective in keeping Iowa education a leader in the nation. The spill is not the answer.

01-29-2024

Nancy Baker Curtis []

As a public school teacher, school board member, and parent of a disabled child I am a strong supporter of Iowa's Area Education Agencies. I ask that the Education Committee please slow down the process on this bill. Please listen to constituents and their experiences with local Area Education Agencies. Professionally, I use the AEA to complete my district required trainings for my job. I use them to help complete professional development and learning toward my professional goals. In my role as a school board member I have seen the AEAs provide high quality inexpensive training on a widescale for school staff. The AEA specialists work collaboratively with district staff to offer professional training on research based instructional practices that benefit all general educations students. As a parent, my son receives a myriad of AEA services that allow him to integrate with his peers while growing at his own rate. With the support of AEA specialists he has learned to walk and is learning to use a communication device. Do not support HSB 542. Our school district will not be able to replace the 15 full time employees that they receive as a result of the flowthrough funding model and position sharing.

01-29-2024

Sarah Waskow []

I encourage you to slow down and study the implications that any bill that dismantles the AEA will do to our schools. The AEA uses a service model that ensures all students and districts have fair and accessible services, whether they are in a city or rural. Please continue to listen to the stories and wishes of Iowans.

01-29-2024

Jacque Yaneff []

Please vote NO on this amendment! There is nothing good about sacrificing all the necessary resources the AEA staff provides to students and teachers. Think about doing a comprehensive review of the department of education before any other moves are made on this bill. They cannot handle their work as given in a timely manner, and I cant imagine what would happen if all this was placed upon them. Its about the kids, not privatizing education!

01-29-2024

Chris Kleinschmit [Northwest AEA]

I am a proud educator of 30 years. I have been able to teach both general education and special education. I am currently an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher and Consultant with Northwest AEA. I work with children birth to age three in their homes. I also get to work with children age three to five years old. I see families in the best and worst of times. I get to see the magic and challenges of preschool classrooms. But most of all, I get to see children thrive and grow everyday. My work in the AEA is the foundation of a childs educational life. That educational life is more complex than ever before. School staff need the extra support and expertise from AEA because they deserve the support of in their educational career. If we dont support our schools with AEA services, we are invariably hurting the children that need it the most. I ask that you take time to get to know what we do at Northwest AEA. Ask us. Let us share our stories with you. Understand the role we play and help support us as we support children, families, educators and schools. I would like to extend an invitation to talk to me or come with me on my visits. Thank you.

01-29-2024

Angela Dvorak []

Please vote no on this bill. This bill will cause harm to all children, families, and schools in Iowa. Special education, general education, and media services will be reduced if this bill is passed because schools CANNOT replicate these services using their funding alone. Each school district has a cost analysis of the AEA services and they cannot be replicated. Rural districts will be hurt the most by this bill. Many past and current reviews of the AEA system reference this concern because Iowa is a state with a vast majority of rural communities. The AEA provides an economy of scale of these services that is not sustainable if some districts do not opt in and continuous cuts are made. AEAs will not be able to plan for or maintain staff. This bill does not give local control, it actually gives ALL of the control to the government. The Director of Education will have ultimate authority to everything schools can and cannot due with their funds. There are 133 statements in the current bill directing authority away from local control and granting it to this person. This person does not have an education background or degree. This bill was written by an out of state group and their report has glaring errors that indicate they did not do a comprehensive review. The NAEP data points that are referenced are also not meaningful and only represent less than 1% of students with disabilities. Additional data points for student growth and students exiting special education in Iowa would be more relevant to this review. Iowa deserves a collaborative, comprehensive review of the AEAs with representation from ALL of the stakeholders IN IOWA. Over the last three years, the state has cut AEA funding by $76.5 million. We need to support the systems that support our students and we need to fully fund those systems. This bill does not do that. This bill removes necessary services from children, families, and schools. Please consider taking the time this matter deserves and allow for a thoughtful and meaningful review of the AEA system and all of the educational supports and services for Iowas children. Vote NO to this bill and do whats best for Iowa.

01-29-2024

Brenda Barnes Tousley [concerned grandparent]

I am writing to express my concern over SSb 3073/HSB 542 (the AEA bill), as a concerned community member and grandparent of two children who have been supported by the AEA, both through general education and special education services. If you would like to speak to me more about my grandchildrens experiences with the AEA, I would be happy to share more or speak with you personally. I know the governor has released an amendment to the bill, I fear that the changes will not be responsive enough to the input of Iowas stakeholders. It was reported that all AEA directors would be political appointees which, if true, would eliminate all checks and balances. Additionally her office indicated that districts could ask for support for students outside of special education, but that must be approved by the state. I am concerned that takes control away from the local districts and educators and places it in the government's hands. If data is demonstrating a need for improvement, please remember that responsibility does not fall on the shoulders of one single entity. Instead, the education of Iowas students is a collaborative responsibility and requires partnership between the Department of Education, AEAs, schools and districts, parents, and legislators. A comprehensive review of the entire educational system in Iowa, including a close look at programs, resources, training, guidelines, and funding should be conducted over a period of time before determining where and when to implement changes. Without this essential step, changing the current structure and placing all of the blame on AEAs is not likely to have the desired effect. In fact, districts and schools have consistently given high satisfaction ratings to the AEAs across the state. This indicates the breakdown and issues are not because our AEAs are failing. Before moving to Iowa and becoming a grandparent, I worked as a School Psychologist in the school setting. The reputation of Iowas AEAs was ringing in the ears of our professional community even from states away. In fact, the Iowa Department of Education even commends the AEAs on their own website saying As intermediate agencies, AEAs offer the kinds of services that can be most efficiently and economically provided on a regional or cooperative basis among school districts. The Iowa system is widely regarded as one of the foremost regional service systems in the country. The proposal to allow districts to opt out of AEA services would remove the economy of scale advantage that original legislation ensured, and will weaken the ability of AEAs to provide numerous high quality services to districts. This will impact ALL districts, but the largest impacts and inequities will be seen in our rural districts. In addition to this concern, I want to address the current proposal to shift total control to the Department of Education. AEAs are held accountable through regular accreditation processes completed by the Department of Education, and an annual comprehensive documentation audit. Shifting more control the DE will take away local control, and remove the possibility of solutions being developed by those who know their schools and districts needs best. AEAs are controlled by locally elected boards because this offers both accountability and local control. If changes need to be made to improve special education outcomes, please work directly with your school boards, superintendents, teachers, AEAs, and parents to discuss how legislators can work as part of the team to support that improvement. Thank you so much for your time and service. I trust you will listen to the thousands of Iowans voices that have spoken out in opposition of this bill with specific examples of how this legislation will be bad for their students and schools. Please vote in opposition of this bill and any insufficient amendments that are released. At this time it appears the governor is not listening to her constituents, but you have the opportunity to show your constituents the power of democracy.Sincerely,Brenda Tousley

01-29-2024

Megan Reeves []

For the past nine years, I've woked as a SpeechLanguage Pathologist for Great Prairie AEA. In my time working with the AEA, I have frequently changed caseloads, due to our difficulty in being able to retain direct service staff because of the rural nature of our assignments. In the areas I've served, primarily Lucas and Wayne counties, we have incredibly limited resources for outpatient therapies. Most families in our area who receive outpatient services for Occupational Therapy, SpeechLanguage Therapy, and/or Physical Therapy receive services in Knoxville, Pella or Des Moines. This is not an option for all of the students and families we serve, due to a multitude of factors, including insurance coverage, family work schedules and lack of transportation. In addition, for Chariton and Wayne school districts, it is unlikely that they would have the capacity to hire their own staff to cover these needs at a more affordable rate. As an AEA, we have always been able to provide professionals to serve the students in our districts by cooperating across regions and by collaborating closely within our agency. When, as an agency, we have moved therapists from one district to another to support the needs of the area,these changes have caused frustration, as we often form close relationships with the children, families, teachers and administrators of the buildings we serve. It takes time to build those relationships and truly understand the children we're working with to support them effectively. I can only imagine how much more frustration would occur and how distanced support services such as Occupational Therapy, SpeechLanguage Therapy and Physical Therapy would be if outsourced to other clinics/providers rather than using our current system that allows us to collaborate for student needs on a daily basis. Please vote no on this bill and take time to make sure we don't make a mistake for our children.

01-29-2024

Tracy Anderson []

a special education teacher of over 22 years, I am very concerned about this bill. I depend greatly on our AEA in many ways. My consultant is the person I go to for assistance with questions I dont have answers for. She was also instrumental in preparing us to move to the new achieve system and has helped problem solve issues with that system. My work experience coordinator is crucial in assisting my students with being prepared to enter the workforce, placement in job experiences, and career exploration. I currently have three job prep kits in my classroom for my students to practice skills needed to enter work experience. These are checked out from the AA and would be expensive for me to assemble myself. The knowledge and resources I get from our AEA are priceless, and Im a veteran teacher. I cant imagine what it would be like to be a new teacher without those resources! Please vote no!!

01-29-2024

Rita Elser []

Vote No on Wednesday. Although Governor Reynolds said her agenda is not to end AEAs or cut services, the Department of Education sent notice that a support provided to families through local/regional AEAs from the Family Educator Partners Program is to be eliminated as of June 30th. This sounds like a service is being cut. If the impetus for this bill is student achievement, why doesnt the bill address how to use tax payer money to increase educatorss skills who work daily with students in not only in the area of academics but also in social emotional health? If local control is the driving force of this bill then why is wording related to moving control to DE or DE Director mentioned over 100 times? This doesnt sound like schools and parents who know their students best get to make decisions for themselves. Vote No on Wednesday in support of AEAs who work to support ALL the families, students and educators in Iowa.

01-29-2024

Maureen Whited []

As a Republican voter, a parent of children who attended Iowa public schools and a concerned resident of small town Iowa, I urge you to vote No to HSB 542/SSB 3073. I urge you to investigate why the Governor insists on pushing a bill written by people outside of Iowa who don't know Iowa's education system, except on paper. All of the facts are not presented correctly and some have been left out completely. This bill removes control of curriculum, buying power, and funding decisions from local school districts and places it in the hands of an appointed (NOT elected) official at the Iowa Dept. of Education. It reduces services to Iowa families who depend upon it, regardless if they have a special needs child or not. Supposedly, some of those services will be implemented at the DE, who doesn't have the infrastructure or the staff to handle the enormous workload that the AEAs currently handle deftly and professionally.I can see why a comprehensive review of the current AEA system might be desired. Still it amazes me that this bill places the blame for deficient special education test results squarely on the AEAs and none of it at the DE. If the current system needs a comprehensive review, then by all means let's take the time to do that with parent's, student's, educator's, school district administrators and AEA input. Also, teacher compensation needs to be placed in a separate bill. It has no bearing on the AEA issue.

01-29-2024

Jackie Meyer Martin []

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01-29-2024

Madison Larsen []

My name is Madison Larsen, and I am a SpeechLanguage Pathologist at Northwest Area Education Agency. In my role, I help serve students with a range of communication challenges. For my articulation and phonological disorders students, I rely on the expertise of other SLPs to help find treatment approaches, therapy activities, and achievable goals to implement with the students on my caseload. For my more complex students, I rely on the expertise of many AEA staff, such a Literacy Coaches, Specially Designed Instruction coaches, Behavior Best Practice Coaches, Autism Consultants, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Librarians, Media, and so so many more people in order to put a comprehensive, individualized plan into place to best support our students. It truly is a team effort every single day!Please protect our AEAs!HSB 542, even in its most amended form that was released this morning, does not have students at the center. I understand that allowing schools choose how to spend their dollars seems like a positive choice; however, there is absolutely no way that a school can financially obtain all of the resources and highly trained individuals that they would need in order to best serve (and legally serve) their students in the state of Iowa with so, so may rural districts. I fear for the increased number of law suits just waiting to unfold if this bill is to pass from angry parents who children were not serviced appropriately due to the broken system that would unfold.Please protect our AEAs!

01-29-2024

Tom Nixon []

Please vote NO on this bill. It is not clear to me how this in any way will lead to improved student outcomes and unless you come up with a bill that demonstrates that, you should not support this one. These services are vital for many, many families (and voters) in this state. Please LISTEN to the feedback that you are getting and at minimum SLOW this process down to conduct a thorough review AND develop a plan that will get the improvement in student outcomes that the Governor claims to want.Three of my kids received services for speech through Early Access. Without the hard work and dedication of AEA employees, I know they would have not made nearly the amount of incredible academic progress that they have all made so far in their educational journeys.Please vote NO on this bill.

01-29-2024

Kim Ainsworth []

I DO NOT support this bill at all! This is a slap in the face to all educators, students and parents in this state, As a former teacher, the AEA was a wonderful resource for me and my students constantly. In some cases, they were my lifeline when I had some challenging students and needed more support and resources to better serve those kids. Now as a parent, I want my childrens teachers to have those same opportunities I had to help my children and their classmates learn, grow and become the best versions of themselves. Our schools deserve better. Our educators deserve better. Our children deserve better.

01-29-2024

Russ Martin []

Vote No. The idea of changes to AEA did not originate from the people of Iowa, it is being done to the people of Iowa. As an Iowan I am against any changes being proposed to the AEA.More research into this is needed before any responsible action could be taken if any.

01-29-2024

Marlin Jeffers [ISEA Retired]

The Governors plan to reduce property taxes for the citizens of Iowa by dismantling an educational system that many states come to Iowa to try to emulate is misguided. Iowa created the AEAs over 50 years ago to assist all students, schools and families in the areas of Special Education, Educational Services and Technology Media. I experienced the AEAs as a student growing up in Iowa, as a parent when my children used the AEA services in Early Childhood when they were premature twins, and in my long career as a classroom teacher. I utilized services that made me successful as a teacher to assist students to be successful. I then went to work for Northwest AEA for 18 years as an Educational Consultant and then worked in several schools. I worked with hundreds of teachers, administrators, students, paras, other school staff and families. I worked collaboratively with professionals in Special Education and Technology/Media to provide quality services to all. The Governors plan shortchanges the educational system that has been created over time. The checks and balances are in place and have high oversight. To hear the Governor provide data that is vague at best, misleading the public that does not understand educational test scores, and making false statements about a profession I invested in for 35 years is misguided. As a retired educator it is important that we have quality schools for our economic growth and survival as a competitive state. We know it takes many people to take responsibility for test scores. It is not one organization to blame as she has done. It starts at the top with a Governor that listens to professionals in the educational system and gives them the tools and adequate funding to do their jobs. The legislators must pass appropriate legislation that helps students stay in the state and become successful citizens. The citizens who stay in Iowa need to know they can count on a system that was created to assist schools and focuses on student success. The only part of this bill that is acceptable is raising teacher salaries. One item that is not mentioned, is raising salaries for support staff that students see each day such as bus drivers, secretaries, paraeducators, nurses, school lunch, afterschool program supervisors, just to name a few. It is a team to educate these students and if you are a support staff employee many times you are making minimum wage which barely supports themselves or other family members. I urge you to stop SSB 3073 and let the Governor know she needs to put students first and not take services that the AEAs provide while promising to lower property taxes by dismantling a highly established Area Education Agencies.

01-29-2024

Russ Martin []

01-29-2024

Deb Moll []

Please vote no to this proposed legislation. The positive impact AEA resources make on our students and schools cannot be overstated. On a personal level, AEA resources were there for our family when I didnt know where else to turn. AEA should be strengthened, not dismantled.

01-29-2024

Jen Autera []

VOTE NO! There are a lot of parents and children vested in this. The AEA touches lots of lives in a positive way. The families that support the AEA are also tax payers. They also have a vote whether you stay in office or not the next time it comes around. Please think of the lives that will be impacted by this Bill if it goes through. VOTE NO!!

01-29-2024

Jackie Meyer Martin []

This will prohibit the economical sharing of positions between AEAs and school districts, and would terminate current agreements in place to share positions such as social workers, school business officials, and technology staff, effectively erasing operational sharing currently flowing to districts. Rural school in particular (what Iowa is made up of, and PROUD of) won't be able to afford people critical to student success such as speech language pathologists, school psychologist, special education consultant, audiologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing....and SO many more. Students will ultimately suffer. Iowa will suffer. It is our duty to protect, advocate, and provide for our students Iowa Students. VOTE NO.

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01-29-2024

Jeni Henry []

I have worked in schools all of my adult life as first a sign language interpreter and now a para educator. I encourage you to vote no on this bill as it would be detrimental to many children/parents lives. We need all the support we can get for these kids and 9/10 times AEA is the one that gives us the tools and support we/they need. Please vote NO!

01-29-2024

Doug Graham []

Please vote NO for HSB542. This bill affects real people and real children. Please dont dismantle the school support system that districts all over the state have relied upon for fifty years. Governor Reynolds mentions transparency, so why hasn't it been made public which school districts, if any, no longer want to use the AEA services as they are, with no changes? No one that I know supports this bill and it's a shame it might be passed through when, if it went to vote, probably 99% of Iowans would vote NO.HSB 542 doesnt provide Economies of Scale for the school districts in Iowa. A small school district in Iowa could use up all of its funding for legitimate purposes, and then what would they do? Right now if there are additional needs in a district, the AEAs step in to help, and it doesnt cut into the districts budget. What will happen to the rural schools if this bill is passed?Please vote NO

01-29-2024

Andrea Haaland []

Please vote NO to this bill. I add my voice to the thousands of Iowans who continue to express their disagreement with this.Over the last few weeks, I have participated in discussions with colleagues, district specialists, and administrators as we attempt to work out possible scenarios that would allow our schools to financially cover the needs for services, training, and resources we might reasonably expect within a typical school year. We are worried about being able to afford even an approximation of the services we currently enjoy from the AEAs. This bill will present higher costs to our rural districts, while simultaneously offering less access to services. Our schools will lose. Our families will lose. Most importantly, our students will lose. If you have continued concerns that prohibit you from immediately voting "no" to this bill, I would beg you to ask questions, not from your fellow legislators, but from those who have boots on the ground. Reach out to your superintendents. Reach out to your AEA administrators. Reach out to your teachers. We have been here all along, shouting our willingness to work with our legislators and to tell you what we need. Get the facts from the people who have dedicated their lives to this work. They will certainly have more understanding of the effects of this bill than anyone else. Thank you for listening to your constituents, who are the true experts in what their school districts need.

01-29-2024

Brad D []

What is their end game? They deny the children of Iowa a good education, for what, money? To ensure a future easily controlled voter base? Congratulations! They are going to make the state very undesirable to anyone thinking of moving here. This is going to start a ripple effect that could last generations.

01-29-2024

Rebecca Dau []

Please, please, please vote against this bill. The support for AEAs and the services they provide is tremendous. Vote for what is ethical and right, and in the best interest of Iowa students, listen to the needs and wants of Iowans, vote against this bill. Please for once put what is morally right against own agendas. My child has benefited so much for the AEA from services for rural schools. They help with so many other services our schools need!

01-29-2024

Julie Biddle-Zaugg []

I have been in education for 30 years and my own children have benefited from services of the AEA. This is a study bill. Please don't take the word of one out of state company and use it as the basis for a law that impacts all Iowa children and their education. Take time to gather data and input from multiple sources. What is the rush? Study this carefully and then decide.I also have an objection I have not seen addressed. The bill has two main components, which are totally unrelated. One section is about how services should be provided by the AEAs. The other is about pay scale for ALL teachers in public education. Those two topics are not related and belong in two separate bills. I pitty legislators who must vote yes or no on the whole bill, when they may be in favor of one part but not the other. It looks like the author of the bill is trying to "buy" teacher approval of the whole bill, which is surely not the impression our legislators want to make.

01-29-2024

Samantha Sierer []

This bill is not supported by the majority of Iowans and is based on false information. This bill will further burden school districts across the state and also will be more harmful than beneficial to Iowa students. Listen to your constituents and vote NO to this bill.

01-29-2024

Cynthia Steflik []

There was never any need for HSB542 to be written. There are so many "wrongs" in this bill, it is hard to even know where to start. It is appalling that this bill was initially written without any communication between the AEA's and the Governor or Legislators. It is one thing to become aware of a "problem", but to not go to the source and first have a discussion and try to work something out is incredibly unprofessional. To write such an extensive bill to completely wipe out AEA services and have the Dept of Education take total control of their operations is extreme, to say the least. There is complaint of administrators salaries being too big. Has anyone compared these salaries with school district superintendents? Has anyone looked at the credentials/education these administrators hold? Has anyone looked at their years of service? Has anyone looked at the number of employees these administrators oversee? To cut so many positions that are NECESSARY to provide services to the children of Iowa merely shows that the Governor really has no intention of providing equivalent services much less "increased/improved" services. That is impossible. Regional directors are a key to providing services smoothly, effectively and efficiently. They are ESSENTIAL to the professionals that provide special ed services. To expect schools to "make a decision" as to rather they want to go with the AEA with a deadline of June 1 is ridiculous. This puts all of the professionals providing these services in a state of limbo as to rather they will actually have a job this fall. AEA typically sends out contracts in April. This bill expects these professionals to just "wait around" and see what happens. They have no idea rather they will be hired, by whom they will be hired, and for what salary. Where does their IPERS fall into this debacle? Unfortunately this will surely lead to many professionals moving to the private sector (hospitals, etc) or taking out of state jobs. There is already an extreme shortage of SLP's in Iowa and this will only increase with the passage of this bill. Many have already resigning. Expecting school districts to "make a decision" as to rather they want to stay with AEA and then in the same bill telling them this decision then must then be approved by the DOE is crazyso even if the school district wants AEA, they can't be guaranteed they will be able to go thru them. AEA professionals already serve multiple school districts. To reduce the number of regions again will make it impossible to cover this much area, these number of students, not mention travel time to do so. School district budgets are already maxed out. How can they be expected to cover all the services that they will need? Media services has been a critical, moneysaving part of AEA services. To want to eliminate or reduce these services makes no sense. There is so much more in this bill, it is exhausting reviewing it all. PLEASE VOTE NO TO THIS ENTIRE BILL. It never should have been written, much less come this far. VOTE NO!!!

01-29-2024

Marc Groen []

I am writing to express my strong opposition to public bill 542, which would break the Area Education Agencies (AEAs), reduce their effectiveness, and services. Over time, this bill will degrade the special education services provided by AEAs through the privatization of services between outofstate private contractors and limited services.Public bill 542 would have negative consequences for students with disabilities, teachers, families, and communities across Iowa. It would undermine the quality and accessibility of special education, especially for students with disabilities in rural schools. For example, specialty schools like River Hills are run by AEA staff.It would also harm rural school districts budgets. The economy of scale the AEAs offer, save money for our rural schools. Schools will not be able to afford private services with similar teams of professionals to help students with disabilities.I urge you to reject public bill 542 and preserve the longterm integrity and effectiveness of the AEAs. The AEAs are vital for ensuring that all students in Iowa have access to highquality education and opportunities. Please consider the best interests of Iowas kids with disabilities, teachers, families, and rural communities when making your decision.

01-29-2024

Linn M []

I am one of those success stories. When I was in elementary I struggles with sounding out words and with reading comprehension. I recieved special education services throughout elementary and middle school. During my 8th grade year I was exited from special education services. I had a great AEA support team and teachers who helped me to be successful. After graduating from high school I attended college. I graduated from college with honors. I majored in elementary education and special education with a minor in Spanish. I taught school for 14 years before being hired by the AEA. I have worked for the AEA for the past 17 years. When I was first hired I served as a special education consultant. For the past 15 years I have served as an English Learner (EL) consultant. If it hadn't been for the AEA and my teachers I would not have been as successful as I am today. I currently have a grandson recieving support from the AEA and a 1 year old grandaughter with a visual impairtment who may need AEA support in the future. I am a success story! I would like my grandchildren to have their own success stories. Please support our AEAs. Our future generations are counting on us. The decisions we make today will impact them tomorrow.

01-29-2024

Valerie Sitzmann []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. As an educator with 30 years of experience, I cannot imagine teaching without the support and resources provided by Northwest AEA during my teaching career. This bill will have a detrimental impact all schools in Iowa but more so the rural districts, who won't have access to the resources and expertise of the AEA employees.

01-29-2024

Carrie Hester []

I wanted to again advocate for the AEA system as a whole and especially for the students and parents that are going to be impacted in one way or another. I would like to share that I have been praying every morning for the education committee and the governor as you navigate through this process. I know that I am naive, but my hope is that all the decision makers will think of the children, families, and schools that will be impacted and do what is truly right for our state. I taught my own children, as well as my "kids" at school the definition of integrity. Please do what is right; the bill as it stands right now, is not. This shouldn't be about parties, but rather OUR KIDS.I have been reading through the proposed amendments and I can not see anything that proposes to close the achievement gap that the Governor is adamant that needs to be closed. This bill/amendments restructure AEA's in a catastrophic way and will cause irreparable harm to the entire education system.What in this bill helps students? What in this bill helps parents?What in this bill helps schools?Can you answer these questions based on the proposed amendments? Please do not vote for this bill. I beg you to, at the least, slow down and listen to the stakeholders. At this point, my heart is broken and my faith in our education system is lost if this passes as is. Please give me a reason to not feel this way.

01-29-2024

Judy Nadrchal []

As a parent of a child with special needs, I am VERY concerned that my son will not get the support from AEA that he needs to access his free and appropriate public education. This bill takes away many general education services from ALL students at every school, including private schools. It will make it harder for families to access services for students, and for professionals to be able to serve the kids. It takes away professional development to ALL educators in the state of Iowa. It takes away local control and gives all the power to the department of education to make decisions for their students. None of these changes will help students. Please take the time to figure out what is really needed, before making such drastic changes to the AEA.

01-29-2024

Carrie Hester []

01-29-2024

Kathryn Folkerts []

This should be a hard no on this bill. This is a time to do more to help our children and students and this falls far short. Rural communities especially will be affected. Our students have been through so much in the last few years, with the pandemic, school shootings and now you want to pull the rug out from under them? The AEAs do a wonderful job of coordinating services for families. We cant afford to lose it with inexperienced people in charge.

01-29-2024

Megan Schaaf []

As an Iowa educator and parent of students in Iowa schools, I fully oppose this bill. Rural schools will no longer be able to afford to support the needs of their students and the teacher shortage in Iowa Will continue to increase.

01-29-2024

Sarah Remakel-Henkels []

I urge you to vote no to HSB 542. The AEA system provides the needed supports to both rural and urban districts. It provides equitable supports to all students. AEAs work in tandem with schools to develop supports for all students. Moving control centralized to the Department of Education drastically impacts the timeliness of requests of support to district staff, families, and students. The bill (even the newly provided amendment) will not improve special education outcomes, it will drastically hurt the outcomes.

01-29-2024

Melissa Benning []

As elected public officials, you are accountable to those you represent. As I scroll through these public comments and listen to news from across the state, there has been NO ONE in favor of HSB 542. Dont miss this opportunity to represent those who elected you. Have you done your due diligence on this matter? Slow down the process and take the time thats necessary to do a comprehensive review. In this high stakes matter, its the right thing to do for our schools, teachers, and students.

01-29-2024

Jill Kalvig []

I again am writing to you as a politically conservative teacher. I am very scared about the education of our state if the many functions of our regional AEAs, beyond special education, are handed over to the Iowa Department of Education. In my 25 years of teaching, I have taught many, many subject areas in various grade levels in small, rural schools in northeast Iowa. Currently, I am an elementary talented and gifted (TAG) teacher in a small rural school in northeast Iowa.. I am the only elementary TAG teacher in our district. As a lone teacher, I am considered to be on an island as I have no other teacher in the district to bounce ideas off of. I became certified to teach talented and gifted students 10 years into my teaching career. I love the many ways we can challenge our high achieving students. The AEA was imperative to me as I began this new phase of my career. Our Central River AEA hosts TAG networking events at their local offices in Clear Lake and Cedar Falls. These meetings allow me to network with other TAG teachers in rural schools like my own in a much smaller setting where we have a voice. These meetings allow us to discuss and learn ways to reach, challenge, and help our gifted learners. I cannot fathom teaching TAG students without the AEAs, without the brilliant minds of these AEA educational employees and consultants (TAG, science, math, reading and more) who have the time to research ideas, who plan wonderful events for our TAG students to attend, who send out emails to help colleagues in our field, and are there for us as teachers at the drop of a dime. I am so saddened and upset that this most valuable resource will be gone. The AEA buildings that host the many student and educator events of the AEAs are pertinent to making learning better for both our children (students) and educators (adults). The AEA resources that we reserve online and is delivered to our schools are so important to our lower socioeconomic rural communities. Please I beg of you to not hand over the reins of our valuable AEAs to the DOE. These regional offices are extremely important to our small rural areas that are many miles from Des Moines. If the AEAs need restructuring, please take the time to research and get this right. Haste makes waste. Dont make a drastic overhaul of a 50 year system in a matter of a few months. Please defend your teachers and believe what they are saying about the importance of our AEAs.

01-29-2024

Twyla Marlow []

Please vote "no" for the HSB 542 bill. The bill's potential negative consequences for our state's most vulnerable students, including my child, are alarming. Reducing AEA resources would be devastating. Please protect the vital services that support special needs students across Iowa and ensure all children have a fair chance at success. There are countless families in this state whose lives will be negatively impacted by this bill. I urge you to cast your vote in favor of our children's futures. Please vote no.

01-29-2024

Julie King []

There is nothing in this legislation (even in its amended form) that will benefit Iowa's children and families. It is a ruse that this legislation would provide greater local control as EVERY contract a school enters into with and AEA has to be approved by the DE. Given that private contracts are not held to the same scrutiny, it appears that the governor is suggesting that the AEAs somehow need more accountability than they private practitioners. The truth: private agencies do not understand public education. The truth: AEAs employ staff that are more qualified to provide services and consultation to schools. The truth: based on the comments I have read and the feedback I have seen in other formats, any legislator that votes for this bill is not listening to their constituents and has been bullied by the governor and is not operating with honor.

01-29-2024

Kate Peterson []

Vote NO to HSB542, I am a parent of a child with special needs and a paraeducator. Consistency, stability, and structure are the key to success with our students. The AEAs make all of this possible from birth to adulthood. We are pleading for you to say no, slow down, and take the time to really speak with all stakeholders about better ways to reform special education. This is not the way. This will disrupt 70,000 special needs students' education upon implementation. There's no way you can make sure there are no gaps in services with the timeline provided for all of those students. Nothing done with our children, is implemented in this kind of way, so quickly, without consideration for the individuals involved.

01-29-2024

Tiffany Pedersen []

For a bill touting that it is prioritizing student achievement, and then going after the support service agency instead of looking at a comprehensive evaluation involving key stakeholders, the irony is not lost. Best practice tells us in any system, databased problemsolving is needed. Fortunately, the AEAs have several trained in these steps and in reviewing data and supporting systems. So much so the DE has historically charged the AEAs with carrying out these data reviews and providing resources. You see, AEAs as I have often viewed them, serve as a go between needs of local communities and the more compliance based DE. This has meant lots of collaboration, oversight, and changes. When there is a compliance focus from the state, it is usually the AEA we see offering the services, resources, and support in bettering our practices. This is no slight to any other entities. Could there be improvements? Absolutely! This bill does not address that and instead takes away AEAs ability to be responsive.In all of this bill there is not one action directly tied to supporting students. Instead it appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to take more resources away from education (re: kids). There is no longterm plan provided to support the teachers who will face much larger responsibilities with less resources, and less contact with those to collaborate and problemsolve with. Continuing to ask educators to do more with less, and then privatizing the services or changing to feeforservice will continue to push educators and young Iowans out of the state. This bill also lacks the longterm planning in salaries as well. Teacher salaries should be separate and truly discussed.There are so many reasons why this bill is so detrimental to STUDENTS and their COMMUNITIES. We could easily go on, and the breadth of comments already indicate this! Since January 10th, I have spent countless hours pouring over words of those so much more eloquent than myself describing the impact of AEAs and voicing their concerns with the proposals, the lack of data, and transparency. It is hard to be succinct with such a variety of reasons why this is bad for everyone. Adding to the anxiety of also knowing at this point the education and opportunities of thousands of Iowans are in the hands of legislatures and their politics. It is my hope those who are elected to represent these collective voices take heart, this bill is not in the best interest of Iowans, present or future. Please, vote 'no' to HSB 542.

01-29-2024

Jennifer Pearson []

Please vote NO! This bill and the amendment do not improve education for anyone. Please slow it down and really understand the ramifications of this bill. There is no plan for improvement. The only plan is to shift control. What does this improve? Who is it benefiting? How does this improve educational outcomes? Where is the evidence that these changes are beneficial? Where is the data that indicates this changes things for the better?

01-29-2024

Heather Bachman []

I did not read a single comment that is for this bill! We did NOT ask for this! I am a parent of a special needs daughter and this will only hurt us more!! Do more research and get actual facts! Kim said she listened to us, if she did this would all go away!

01-29-2024

Drew Dornack []

Please listen to YOUR constituents. The people who voted for you to be their voice. Looking over this bill it will put Iowa further behind in education. The resources, professional development, crisis intervention is second to none. If you want a review pump the brakes on this bill and get the right people in the room to come to a reasonable resolution. If there is a yes vote on the bill I am not sure that the students/teachers would ever be able to recover from this devastating bill.Please vote no to this bill.

01-29-2024

Tiffany Jund []

Please if you have EVER received services, supports, guidance from Northwest AEA speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, sped consultants, social workers, school psychs, educational consultants, regional directors share your voice! Say NO to HSB 542! IF this bill passes Iowa's educational supports will be DISMANTLED! No more Birth 3 supports for premies, no early access for developmentally delyed children, no speech, no OT no PT ALL FREE SERVICES! Schools will lose special education expertise support, mental health supports, parent resources, crisis support teams, autism support teams ALL FREE for ALL schools and ALL students.Rural schools WILL NOT be able to attract or hire the professionals NEEDED to provide equal services and supports for ALL students! AEA's MATTER! ALL PARTS OF THE AEA'S! Iowans KEEP speaking up!!!! VOTE NO ON HSB 542!!!

01-29-2024

Amy Ball []

Please vote no to this bill. It is harmful to every child, teacher, and administrator in the state of Iowa. I have been in education for 33 years, first as a teacher, and now as an Early ACCESS Educator at GWAEA. The thought of removing AEA services from schools is heartbreaking. The AEA served me, my students, and colleagues so well during my career as a teacher. Now I am fortunate to work with families and the youngest of developmentally delayed children birth to 3 years old. The services we provide are vital to the child, family, and school district.

01-29-2024

Bridget Castelluccio []

The proposed amendment to this bill does not meet the needs of our schools, students, and families and will have great impacts if passed. The AEA system supports educators and students in many ways. The van delivery system brings science materials, books, classroom learning kits, adaptive p.e. items, educational activities for students, robots, print materials, and many other items that would be challenging for school districts to purchase. Small districts and schools, both public and private, depend on tech services to maintain and support for computers and learning management systems which are used for attendance, grading, and student learning. Digital Learning supports educators and students with technology integration and learning platforms. These supports were crucial when many districts needed support for virtual and online learning. The AEAs statewide are supporting House File 2629 requiring computer science instruction grades 112. There is equitable offerings for professional learning, handson workshops, student learning events, and robots to check out for student coding. Counseling, mental health, behavior, school improvement, math, literacy, science, future ready, talented and gifted, online digital resources, media resources and many more services which are available for all public and nonpublic schools. There is so much more. I have benefitted from all of the services as an educator for over 15 years. My adult children benefitted from these services during their years in school. If districts are forced to have to budget and decide which services they use and do not use, then there will be inequity in each and every school district. There will be hard decisions to make about spending this money and it will not be as efficient or economical. Are there areas of growth for the AEA system? Absolutely so let's bring all the stakeholders to the table for a comprehensive review that is done by the people of Iowa. Let's invite students, parents, families, community members, educators, and legislators. Let's have a plan for improvement for academic and social emotional growth for our students. As a parent, educator, and community member, I do not support this bill. I ask that the legislators serving our state listen to the voices being shared with concern for this bill and vote no.

01-29-2024

Tiffany Jund []

01-29-2024

Stephanie Bellamy []

Please vote no!! I continue to read and research the information in this bill and I keep wondering what is the Governors motive and who is this going to benefit? Not families, students, teachers, school districts, or communities. Please do what feels right! Trying to push this bill through without proper conversations and insight about what AEAs do does not feel right. Our children need your support. Vote no!

01-29-2024

Jessica Korf []

I am a concerned citizen speaking out against HSB 542. I have so many concerns and so much frustration as: 1a parent of two children one on an IEP. Who I feel the need to state is first and FOREMOST a general education student he gets an extra layer of support due to a disability, but that is not the biggest piece of who he is. Get that right. I have a second child who has worked through interventions and is supported through AEA resources every day in her classroom. 2 a speechlanguage pathologist at an AEA in my 13th year working with students birth213 someone who was assisted with resources and kindness after my son's teacher was murdered.*Guidestone report: we don't qualify students for IEPs the same as the other states in the report! The student numbers cannot and should not be looked at as the same thing. *NAEP testing information isn't a true measure of student progress that is occurring every day. This small representation of all special education students isn't a true dip stick gauge of student progress. *Special Education instruction is given by special education teachers in the schools, AEA staff help with evaluation and consultation/coaching. Teachers need effective programming, instructional coaches, and classes/training in order for effective teaching and student progress to happen.How can services agreed to on a legal document be followed through with all of the change that is being proposed? We are one of the states with the lowest number of IEP cases being brought to court. Families are happy with services being offered and progress being made. That would change with districts attempting to find therapists to cover. I work for the Heartland AEA and can contact a regional director, administrative assistant or data specialist by phone or email and get assistance the same day, how would this happen with a department that doesn't know me and oversees the entire state? Not only would jobs be lost, students/families may lose service providers they have worked with for a decade. Would all the students be covered in time? Will therapists have a caseload doubled in size leading to therapy being compromised due to group size or having to create mixed groups that aren't a good match? That type of situation isn't sustainable.No school can predict their needs for the following year. You can take a best guess, but one year I had 10 students move in with speech IEP goals I didn't have any prior knowledge of any of these students when I finished the previous school year. I am just one of the AEA providers. If an accident happens, an ELL family moves in, a few students are found to have significant hearing loss or a student needs a communication device...that school needs to have decided by February of the previous school year to have AEA or outside resources. How will schools be able to budget in the first few years of this type of scenario? Schools will be scrambling to find therapists, they will be stretched thin resource wise or trying to figure out what fits in the budget. How is that best for children?My son has an IEP, when he has a rough behavior day, our social worker many times is in the building and is able to assist in helping him get back to baseline and problem solve with staff. What will happen with this bill is teachers will be left without valuable support that they need. Early childhood classrooms with multiple students on behavior plans, speech goals/devices, fine motor needs and gaps in academic skills? They will struggle. The teachers can't do it all and without teams to come in and support, students will fall further behind. I agree that we should take that deep comprehensive look at student scores AND skills they are gaining. Students deserve the best and our best. If you truly listen to the voices being raised here and throughout the state over the past few weeks you will see that the bill/amendment proposed are not matching what is wanted and the facts being thrown around are skewed and cannot be taken at face value without looking deeper.

01-29-2024

Lynzie Reisz []

Please do not allow this to pass and cripple our AEA system. My entire teaching career has been in special education. I began in Nebraska, where the principal handed me a book about writing IEP goals and my school psychologist popped her head in to let me know she served the school. The next time I would see her was in May when she stopped by to congratulate me on surviving the year. From there I was off to Iowa to begin my second year of teaching special education. In my second year of teaching my AEA strategist popped in to introduce herself. I thought I knew how that relationship would go and expected to see her in May, but that was not the case, she spent countless hours coaching and supporting me into the educator I am today. Now over 10 years later she is my regional facilitator, and I am employed at Northwest AEA. I am currently supporting three conditionally licensed teacher and working hard to coach and support them and return the gift I was given in those first years. I take pride in supporting my teachers, new and experienced, in any capacity that they need and cannot imagine a day where Iowa would not prioritize the services we provide to our students, families, and teachers. Please vote no to this bill, give me a reason to be proud of being an Iowan and AEA educator again.

01-29-2024

Megan Kress []

Please vote NO on any AEA bill without bringing educators to the table. As a parent that has utilized AEA services for my children and as a former Special Education Teacher, we need these services for all students to level the playing field across our state. ALL students deserve access to quality services, not just large districts/more populated areas.

01-29-2024

Starr Cindy []

Please vote no on the current AEA bill. It is rushed and has too many problems. Rural districts will lose out the most, that is wrong. AEA staff work hard to help Iowa students, don't eliminate the supports of these supporters of Iowa children before putting in place a better system.

01-29-2024

Amy Pattee []

Although the Governor claims the bill will give local control back to districts, in actuality it is transferred 133 times to the Director of the Department of Education; a single individual who was appointed by the Governor. District administrators and elected school boards are only allowed to spend their funding dollars on educational and media services with the approval of a single individual, the Director of the Department of Education. In cutting the media services tax levy, despite elected school boards voting to have this levy in place, this bill is forcing school districts to choose between spending their remaining levy funds on educational services and supports or educational media and digital resources. Quality instruction for ALL students requires BOTH of these supports and services. Furthermore, the bill states that instead of experienced AEA consultants providing professional learning to teachers, the Department of Education is going to create a teacher learning academy?! For what purpose? The experts and system already exists in AEAs. There is NO DATA that warrants this. This bill is designed to shift power and money, dismantle AEAs and decimate small rural schools. In turn, this will destroy the small communities in which the school district is its largest employer. The payforservice model will eliminate equity and access for ALL students and will only increase the achievement gap. Before ANY BILL is passed, there needs to be a comprehensive review of real data that comes from current, valid sources of information. As this bill is written, there will be an impact on 180 other Iowa codes. It is critical to fully assess the bills impact, direct and indirect consequences and that will take time.PLEASE do not vote based on political party lines, but what is BEST for ALL students and schools and what the MAJORITY of Iowans who elected you are BEGGING you to do PLEASE VOTE NO!

01-29-2024

Anne Delaney []

I respectfully oppose the proposed SSB 3073/HSB 542. All of Iowas AEAs complete regular audits with the Department of Education, with the most recent audit completed in the fall of 2022. If there was a concern with the efficiency or compliance of AEAs, this have been shown in a regular audit. Our rural schools and students will suffer the most. AEAs provide efficient methods of sharing media and educational services that our schools would not be able to afford on their own. If a school chooses to hire outside services, who will train those providers on IEP compliance? This is something that our AEAs are responsible for. If we expect our student performances to improve, who will provide professional development to our teachers? This is also a task the AEAs are responsible for. Please consider our students as a top priority in this situation, the future of their education is at stake. Please vote NO to the proposed SSB 3073/HSB 542 bill.

01-29-2024

Jeanie McElvain []

I urge you to vote NO on HSB542. As a retired teacher who was educated in Iowa, graduated from the University of Iowa, and spent my career in Iowa schools, I attest to the importance of AEAs. I used them for resources to supplement my curriculum, for professional development with the latest information from experts I respected, for print and media services, and for support with special education as well as general education students. Please consider the full impact of the proposed changes to our AEAs. Their services are vital to families, school districts, individual teachers, and all students. The impact of the bill and amendment would be devastating to our states educational system. I fear especially for our smaller districts, but all school budgets are stretched. Do not cause further damage. We must consider the future of our children and the future of our state. Please support the AEAs and kill this bill.

01-29-2024

Molly Bailey []

Please vote no on this bill. Please listen to the parents, families, educators, and people of Iowa who are clearly not in support of this bill and how it would affect the children of our state. Please listen to these many people who are emphatically in support of the AEA. Many of us have witnessed the benefits first hand, with children who have supports in place because of the dedicated work of those in the AEA. Of my 3 children, I have one who has received speech therapy and special education. But I also know that my other 2 kids benefit from the AEA, as does my husband who is a teacher. Iowa schools (and students!) are better because of the AEA and more should be done to support them, not to diminish them. Please get this right.

01-29-2024

Holli Counsell []

Dear subcommittee members,I am writing to you as a concerned constituent, parent, and educator. There continues to be many inaccuracies presented in the amended bill. It provides very limited data and multiple sources of data were not considered. Educational stakeholders were not invited to collaborate during this entire process. A standardized test is only a snapshot in time. It does not take into account other measurements of student progress and success. This bill does not give local school districts control, it only gives control to the Department of Education and the governor. Small rural school districts will especially suffer. Please dont fail our children who are invaluable. Vote NO! If the purpose for learning is to score well on a test, weve lost sight of the real reason for learning. (Author: Jeannie Fulbright).

01-29-2024

Jenna Scott []

I am writing to voice my disappointment in Gov. Reynolds and her proposal to change the funding of the AEAs in Iowa. There are some issues inside the AEAs that need to be looked and at adjusted, along with some oversight, but the proposed changes are not the answer. The AEAs have a special place in my families' hearts, as my daughter used the AEA's services for decades while she was school aged. Olivia was born with developmental delays and needed extensive help. She now is a welladjusted 24 year old who holds a job, lives independently from us, had friends and functions socially as an amazing light for everyone who interacts with her!!!I have attached a video to this email showing what kind of person Olivia is and how the AEA was INSTRUMENTAL in her making those strides to be the person she is today. Please take a moment and watch the video and vote to keep the funding WITH the AEAs. There are thousands of children who will benefit from their services!! Thank you for your time and please contact me with any questions you have or if you want more information!! Jenna Scott408 Blaine St.Dysart. IA 522243194049266I am writing to voice my disappointment in Gov. Reynolds and her proposal to defund the AEAs in Iowa. The AEAs have a special place in my families' hearts, as my daughter used the AEA's services for decades while she was school aged. Olivia was born with developmental delays and needed extensive help. She now is a welladjusted 24 year old who holds a job, lives independently from us, had friends and functions socially as an amazing light for everyone who interacts with her!!!I have attached a video to this email showing what kind of person Olivia is and how the AEA was INSTRUMENTAL in her making those strides to be the person she is today. Please take a moment and watch the video and vote to keep the funding WITH the AEAs. There are thousands of children who will benefit from their services!! Thank you for your time and please contact me with any questions you have or if you want more information!! Jenna Scott408 Blaine St, Dysart, IA 522243194049266https://vimeo.com/878773742/6195e9ed42?share=copy

01-29-2024

Karen Nelson []

I am writing as an Iowa parent of three school age boys, a speechlanguage pathologist, and voter to implore you to vote NO to this bill. It is clear through reading ALL of these comments that Iowans are united in our opposition of this bill as not a single comment has communicated support. Please, please, please listen to your constituents and support ALL Iowa students by voting NO to this bill.

01-29-2024

Sheila Knoploh-Odole []

This Bill is a bad bill. In reading through the comments, I did not see a single person Dem or Repub who is in support of it. We need fully funded schools and fully funded education services for our children, not this bullshit legislation proposed by the privatizers & corporate education investors. Shame on Governor Reynolds for shorting our kids when we have a couple billion surplus. Im sure that will soon disappear into the pockets of corporate donors & the privileged class. Iowa used to be number one for public education in the US, now were in the bottom half. All we receive for our money is corrupt leadership & misguided policy. This bill should be banned instead of books

01-29-2024

Gary Steflik []

The purpose of establishing the Area Education Agencies in Iowa came about as a result of Public Law 94142 in 1975 which provided both special education services and regular education services to ALL children in Iowa, regardless of the size of their districts. Most large school systemswere able to employ these specialists, however, the smaller districts (approximately 75 percent of the state) did not have the budgets to hire these specialists. I was fortunate to be among the thousands of specialists (Psychologists, Speech Pathologists, Audiologists, Social Workers, PhysicalTherapists, Occupational Therapists, Spec. Ed. Consultants, etc, etc, etc.) hired by the AEA's. As a Speech Pathologist in southeast Iowa, I helped improve approximately 3,000 students speech and language skills which helped them be successful special and regular education students during their educational experience. During the course of my 38 years as a Speech Pathologist with the Iowa AEA's. I am very proud of my work with all of these kids and I am just one of these specialists to have had the chance to make a better life for our students!

01-30-2024

Nicole Stribe []

I am a parent who has worked with AEA for at least 14 years in regards to my son who has Fragile X Syndrome. I have also worked in the school district as a SPED Associate. My understanding is there are particular tests scores being looked at to determine how we are doing compared to other states. The testing you are looking at is not used my many. My son uses an alternative assessment but the best assessment of his growth is through his IEP. If you TRULY wanted to have better SPED programs through the state, you need to do more for our teachers and associates . GOOD Teachers are leaving because they are not being supported. We cant get the needed amount of associates because they dont get paid enough to deal with everything they have to deal with. You need good associates to partner with teachers to help teach kids. AEA then partners with them. Im very fearful that this is leading down a scary path starting with the vouchers. We lived in Florida and had a very poor experience for our son in the public school system. They too used a voucher system and they also had a part of teacher pay be based on their students scores. So teachers didnt want SPED kids in their room. It did not promote inclusion and eventually SPED students took their vouchers and went to private SPED schools. This is not a positive step in the right direction. Govenor Reynolds is pushing this for some other reason and people of Iowa will find out.

01-30-2024

Julie Graber []

As a former teacher who utilized services from the AEA & an AEA consultant who provided services to several school districts in two different AEAs, I urge you to not support the AEA bill even with the minor adjustments made. This bill will hurt the students of IA so if the concern is that students are not performing like they should, this bill would make things worse. As a principal, I have heavily leaned on the AEA in all three departments (Ed Services, Media & Special Ed.) The services that the AEA has provided to me, the teachers, paraeducators, children and families have been very beneficial to help with the various needs that we cant provide ourselves. It is already a struggle in districts with the issues that students are coming to us with and with the lack and quality of teachers in the profession so we dont need another hit like this to harm our educational system.

01-30-2024

Stacy Jeffrey-Huisinga [Great Prairie AEA]

When I started my career as a school psychologist 26 years ago, I worked on a core team of 4 that included a social worker, school psychologist, speech pathologist and educational consultant. I saw them all EVERY DAY, within 3 schools between Knoxville and MelcherDallas! It was amazing, we had people power, time to collaborate and we CREATED CHANGE! We still create change, but so many more hours are spent collaborating outside the work day through email. Our core teams now provide 2 core staff and our assignments cover more ground. Our SLPs are spread between many teams and OT, PT and Vision services are spread farther still. This bill will cut services down EVEN MORE. Im just terribly afraid of losing the meaning to my career. This may turn my job into a test kit that flies in and out of a building, without much time to do more. This bill will harm our system more. Please find a way to stop this bill and revamp the plan with our children as the priority!!

01-30-2024

Teresa Schulz []

Our students need our AEA supports working alongside them in their least restrictive environment within the school. They need the in person direct service providers who know them, their family, their teachers, and their administrators. Our teachers need the valued support system of AEA team members in the areas of behavior, OT/PT, speech, and hearing. The AEA professional development teaches strategies to support the learner. We need our media to provide materials for the professional development and so much more. Our AEAs are comprised of many disciplines that intertwine with one another to create a strong foundation of services for our schools at a equitable cost. Not only do the schools need the AEAs, but the AEAs need the schools. AEA personnel are dedicated to serving and advocating for our children and their families. It is especially essential for rural schools that the well established AEA system continue as intact. It will be impossible for them to find replacement services of the same quality, value, and accessibility. There has been such an outpouring of personal stories in support of the AEAs in the current system. Legislators have shared they have received hundreds of emails, all against this bill and in support of the AEAs. The news stories and articles speak of the detrimental impacts of this bill to the students and schools. Parents and educators are speaking at listening forums against this bill. Please listen to them. Put yourself in their shoes. If this bill passes, I fear the damage it will cause will be irreversible. Please, do NOT pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Cheryl Jackson [Parent/retired educator]

It is very apparent there is little (if any) support for this bill, in any form. Bottom line, this will not benefit students, or families, or school districts. Ask yourself who does this benefit??? Who wins? More importantly, who loses? This does not offer thoughtful decisions and improvements but instead rash, misinformed ones. If there is a need to evaluate the current system what is the harm in taking the time to gather ACTUAL data, ACTUAL facts, ACTUAL suggestions from educators, families who use the services, and AEA staff? Please question why local control looks less local than what currently exists? Please question how moving all the power to ONE person with no actual background in either education or Iowa is helping students. Changing AEA services does not support parent choice, especially in less populated areas. It will simply make services less accessible for families who JUST NEED HELP advocating for what their child needs. Its very obvious there is no voter support for this measure. Please do what you were elected to do, REPRESENT your constituents, not rubber stamp whatever is put in front of you by the Governor or even worse an out of state entity with no skin in the game. Please show us you choose kids over politics. Vote no, I promise that Im not the only one watching to see if you listen to the will of the people

01-30-2024

Cheryl Jackson [Parent/retired educator]

01-30-2024

Taylor Malloy []

My daughter will turn 3 in March. She has a rare genetic mutation that causes physical and social developmental delays; shes had five surgeries; and shes been seeing providers with early access since she got out of the NICU. They have been amazing! They support my daughter and my family at home, and now that weve started thinking about her going to preschool, I can see she will get the best care possible as she makes that transition. She has access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, vision, special education, speech therapy, adaptive equipment, and more through our current system. With this bill, so much is being taken away, not just from her but from children and teachers across Iowa. We should be supporting our education, not demolishing it. Please vote no!

01-30-2024

Teresa Schulz []

01-30-2024

Corey L Sebetka [Educator and Parent]

As an Iowa educator for over 27 years, I ask you to vote no to this bill. I personally benefited from the current AEA system as a faith based and public school teacher. As a parent, it was the AEA that ensured my child got what she needed in her 504 Plan when my district tried to do less than required. AEA is more than just special education services. It is vital to ALL of our kids. Iowa needs the AEA to remain a local and nonbiased advocate for our kids!

01-30-2024

Jeanne Heiar []

I am sorry that you have to sit on a committee designed to annihilate the education and care of Iowas children; one fostering bills that pair the dismantling of AEAs, with teacher pay Nefarious! The bills do not support respect for the lives of Iowas children! Do you commence with a comprehensive study in hand? Do you have a firsthand base of knowledge? Have you considered the farreaching ramifications of your intentions? NO!It takes a cohesive community of professionals and services; one that cannot be replicated.If you had knowledge of the multifaceted, seamless, intricate, and timely involvement within a single day, within a single school, within a single classroom, in the life if a single child, you would Support AEAs, NOT dismantle them. If you desire a positive outcome that serves all of Iowa, commission a study of all aspects of AEAs, with all stakeholders at the table from start to finish. Once you are aware, you will change very little. Sometimes you just dont fix what works best! Make informed decisions! Do what is best for our children, NOT what is most politically expedient, or prescribed by people/designers, who know nothing of what makes Iowa a special place to live, grow, and thrive. Vote No, Reject, Oppose, Kill HSB 542 / SSB 3073!!!

01-30-2024

Mary Jo Yotty [retired]

PLEASE don't get rid of the AEAs! The children they assist will not end up receiving state assistance in later years if we can help them find their way NOW! Think about how little money the AEA speech pathologists and audiologists are making! They aren't getting paid enough to eliminate them and the good they bring to our schools far outweighs the money saved. Teachers are already working way over 40 hours a week and cannot find the extra hours in their week to try and make up for the work our AEAs provide. Respectfully,Mary Jo Yotty

01-30-2024

Regina Rogers []

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the amended bill changes to our current AEA system. I am an employee at Grant Wood AEA and before working at Grant Wood I served as a teacher in the Riverside, Lisbon, and West Branch School Districts. From quickly previewing the amended bill, I have major concerns including the removal of local control from these agencies and the dilution of services and supports.The amended bill reads that AEAs will be under the direct control of the director. This impedes our ability to be nimble and adjust to the needs of a district as those needs change throughout the year. One piece of my current work is supporting schools who have been designated as needing additional ESSA support. That information is not known until designations come out in October/November, well after the date that the AEAs are supposed to submit their staffing plan.Additionally, the striking of media and tech services is very alarming. I was just chatting with a former teacher librarian who now works at the University of Iowa last night. She and I both have major concerns about the stripping away of vetted and reliable online digital resources especially in this age of disinformation. As an ELA teacher, I know my students used many of these resources when conducting research.Finally, any changes to educational services will be harmful to all educators in the GWAEA service area. As a teacher, I had the opportunity to attend multiple learning sessions that helped me become a better classroom teacher in addition to becoming a better teacher leader in my buildings. Two districts that I worked in implemented 1:1 technology in the time I worked there and I learned how to best integrate those technologies into my classroom at Grant Wood AEA. That learning was so impactful to me it informed my decision to go and work at Grant Wood AEA and now I have the opportunity to provide learning to hundreds of teachers in our services area. The current structure of the AEA system allows us to be responsive to the needs of educators. A current example of that is right now two of my colleagues and I are offering a workshop for instructional coaches. The workshop filled up very quickly and we were quickly able to open an additional section to meet the needs of those coaches. As you are considering this bill, please, please consider all of the unintended consequences that any changes to our organization might have. Our services and supports blend into schools seamlessly by design and many times go unnoticed or unseen by the general public, but if they are removed they will be missed.

01-30-2024

Honore Pittenger []

Vote no. I challenge you to make the decision to do the comprehensive review. What is being proposed in this amendment will not allow AEA's to function. You continue to state that you are not taking the AEA's away but with this you will be. As Iowa looks ahead, I hope the actions taken on this bill will be to vote NO and shut it down so you do not break a system that was put in place with careful thought. Move forward with careful thought so AEA and the education system can continue working toward every student achieving their fullest potential as special education students are general education students first. Vote no for this bill. It is reckless and it will have a negative impact on education. Stop trying to ram through things that ruin things for our children. If you are unhappy with something then go about it the right way.

01-30-2024

Brian Dunn []

Im writing to express my opposition to the amended bill (HSB 542). The AEAs are essential for our children and schools, and have been making a difference in childrens lives for 50 years. This bill does nothing to address the real issues facing schools or AEAs. It only seeks to privatize support services and move power and control from local governance to state bureaucrats. I has been shown repeatedly that few of the claims made by the Governor hold up when examined in the daylight. AEAs are frequently reviewed and assessed. The data cited has been shown to be unrepresentative of the reality of special ed students. Further, the bill and the administration have not indicated how the proposed changes will improve outcomes. This bill is an unnecessary solution to a problem that doesnt exist. I beg you not to move this bill forward. Please take the time to work with parents, educators, and communities to find solutions that will provide improved outcomes for our children and families.

01-30-2024

Marilyn Anderson []

Please vote NO! Our small, rural schools will be crushed without our AEA's. The impact on Iowa's children would be HUGE. Our schools uses the AEA's services and feel supported by the AEA services. Local control is where we should me. Obviously the Governor has no idea what the AEA's do for rural schools. You can walk into any building (including all the small preschools operating a four year old program) and ask what AEA does for them? The list will be endless! The bill, as written, will give all the control from a Des Moines perspective; this will damage the education for all of the rural schools. I oppose:taking away local control,taking away our current system of support for our schools and their children,someone in Des Moines making decisions about my school when they have never walked through my doors.The money allocated to our AEA's benefits so many families, children, AND schools. You should consider how much the money you are offering AEA's impacts SO many across the state. Taking away parts of the AEA will impact how the remaining parts can operate. The AEA's have established relationships with schools, children, teachers, and families. This cannot happen from someone in Des Moines. Vote NO!

01-30-2024

Martin Lonsdale []

Registered Republican here: please stop Governor Reynolds plan, this is NOT how Iowans work together. You dont need my story, but you do need to know if she gets her way, I will do EVERYTHING in my power to vote each and everyone of you out in the future. Governor Ray I image cant be proud of our party about this.

01-30-2024

Chris Arend []

I am imploring you to vote NO to this amendment! As you can see from the MANY posts here and the MANY emails you have all received, Iowans are opposed to this bill. Are you listening?! Please remember you were elected to represent US, your constituents.not the governor. Please listen to US!! The AEA plays an important role in many aspects of education for ALL students. This bill will hurt schools and educators!! If it is passed, it will be impossible to undo. Vote NO!!!

01-30-2024

Sara Schiller []

As a parent and a sister of those that have directly utilized AEA services, this bill is detrimental to our school staff and the students. My children have benefited from directly from services provided by the AEA and not only special ed services but all services. They were provided resources to assist in their learning that school do not have. They experienced the expertise of educational specialists with workshops from reading to science to STEM. Our state has built and wonderful system that others want to test down and off er out of state private for profit services when we have specialists right here already doing the job. My brother gained confidence as a teenager with special ed services and became a successful adult because of the ARA and their assistance. I am asking that you do your research too and see that I information being provided is skewed. Please vote no!!

01-30-2024

Sara Schiller []

01-30-2024

Patti Greenwood []

As a former teacher, a mother of a teacher and a grandmother to shcoolage children, I have grave concerns about the passing of HSB 542. The AEA in our area provided wonderful services for me as an educator. I depended on the AEA to provide excellent opportunties for conitinuing ed, help with training to better meeti special needs of students, provide print and classroom educational materials, profide science kits and training that schools cannot put together on their own and, and most important, give essential support for students and teachers in ways too many to count. Iowa HAS been a source of educactional pride in previous years but our current governor is doing everything in her power to watch it crash and burn. PLEASE do everthing you can to stop the passage of HSB 542 that will dismantle and destroy the support so desperately needed and deserved for ALL students and staffs. Our kids are watching ...

01-30-2024

Kim Engelstad []

Please listen to your constituentsparents and schools know this is best for Iowa! This will not be a cost saving measure for districts as they will not be able to afford the level of instructional support they are currently receiving from the AEA system. This does not allow for "local control" as services need to be approved by the DoE. The US DoE is not coming after IA because we are a state that "Needs Assistance" (22 other states also received this designation) and the AEA has been working hard to support the DOE with compliance. Vote NO on HSB 542!

01-30-2024

Elisa Meeks []

As an educator, I use the AEA services everyday. From the digital databases to sciences kits there hasnt been day on the last 20 years of teaching that I havent used an AEA service. I have two children who receive special education services and we utilized AEA services for them in their private preschool center. It made a huge difference in their development. If the AEAs were to be disbanded it would severely harm public education. Especially for those living in rural districts.

01-30-2024

LADONNA FLUGUM []

As parents of three children who received services from the AEA and as grandparents of 3 preemie grandchildren who received services from the AEA, we do not support this bill. In our extended family we have also seen the results that come from services that the AEA provides. Public education is important to our family, my husband served on our local school board for 9 years and we have two daughters that are currently working with Iowa public schools. They do not support this bill. We as rural taxpayers need these services to help and protect the children of Iowa public schools!PLEASE vote against this bill that is trying to dismantle the services that our Area Education Agency provides!

01-30-2024

Joe Blazevich []

I am writing in opposition of HSB 542. As a rural administrator, even with the proposed amendments this bill will have negative impacts on the students and staff in my district. In no way does this bill address any of the issues being brought forward by the Governor. Take the time to review options for improving AEA's as opposed to dismantling a viable system. Have engagement from parents, teachers, administrators, and others that will be directly impacted. I believe there is a better way to improve outcomes for Iowa's students.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Cline []

I strongly oppose Bill 542 and its proposed amendment as it poses a threat to the longstanding effectiveness of our Area Education Agencies (AEAs). With 30 years of experience as an educator in Iowa, I have witnessed the invaluable contributions of AEAs to our educational system.As a teacher, I benefited from the additional materials provided through media, and I received crucial support from a special education consultant who regularly coached me in compliance and instruction for my special education students. My children benefited from media resources, and as a grandparent, I've seen the positive impact of Early Access Services for speech on my grandson.Now, as a special education consultant with the Central Rivers AEA, I can daily coach, consult, and collaborate with various stakeholders. The comprehensive services provided by AEAs, including resources through media, creative services, educational services, and coordinated administrative support, are integral to the quality of services I can offer.Removing any part of the AEA system would hinder my ability to effectively provide essential services to administrators, teachers, paraeducators, students, and families. Therefore, I urge reconsideration of Bill 542 and its proposed amendment to preserve the vital role that AEAs play in our educational landscape.

01-30-2024

Shannon Parrish []

Please vote No for HSF 542 and/or SSB3073. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary a "Public Servant: is a government office or employee." The first example provided online states, "the new governor vowed that he would always remember why he was called a public servant and not the people's master." I would just like the Governor and Legislators to stop and review what the public is telling you they want. No one asked for this bill and if they did why are his/her voices not found in the comments to the bill, found online, found in the newspapers, found on newscasts, or found anywhere. Someone point me to these comments or information so I can learn more. People including the legislators were lied to about what this bill was going to have in it. People are lied to on camera on what this bill will do and be about and then something different shows up in the bill and amendment. Why lie to the public? I understand why this type of bill is getting pushed through fast to silence people who have Fact Checked information and know the real data on how Iowa kids are doing and it does not support this decision. If you actually have data to support your decision people will listen and hear it with open minds I do think that. AEAs are open to a review so I am confused why that would not even be considered. Basing a massive decision like this on what was it 266 kids score on one test (reminder in 2022 the data shows Iowa has 1,310 public schools in 328 school districts with 517,444 students), one day that no one even talks about when working in the school districts is disheartening not only for Iowans but to basically blame these 266 kids is in essence what you are doing. These kids represent all types of districts in Iowa whether they are using AEA services or not. That is a pretty small sample size if you ask me. I wonder how many of those students have exited goal areas or even exited special education by now? Wouldn't that be exciting to learn about? Focus and learn about all the celebrations special education kids are exhibiting daily would be great data to consider. I guarantee you would find hundreds if not more stories of kids across Iowa making progress on individual goal(s) and even exits from special education. Switching gears. I also am encouraging legislators to separate or develop a new bill to increase the teacher pay as they deserve it. Please provide your plan for funding that increase every year after. Just providing it this year with no plan to renew I am sorry I am skeptical that funding will continue as many times teacher salary increases each year do not even cover inflation. How will any district find the funds to pay for teacher salary increases, pay for AEA services (if the DE Director approves it) or a private service you keep talking about, or try to purchase AEA staff for their own use? Can these questions be answered? What about parochial school students who receive services either from the public district or AEA they reside in? What is the plan for those families? Would the nonpublic schools continue to have to rely on their local public school districts for access to the educational services they are receiving today? So, again the public schools are taking a hit here. Just lastly as I could go on. Legislators please support your local school districts, local families, local students, and local AEAs where you live. Communities thrive when they have access to the resources they need to live a productive life. Support the dreams and goals of young Iowans no matter if they have special education services or not so they will stay here after graduation and become positive contributing members of our society. I know that is what every individual education plan team tries hard to do for our special education kids and my own three kids deserve a top notch general education setting so please do not take that away from them as we reside and attend a rural school district. Thank you for your time.

01-30-2024

Diane Jackson []

I vote no, this bill is based on misInformation . It needs more study. The governor has been misinformed. Talking about a 2018 fed review and the review is about Department of Education. Study that shows children failing is not based on AEA functions, Administrative costs are only 5 %, less than any managed care or Medicaid companies.

01-30-2024

Diane Jackson []

01-30-2024

Audrey Erickson []

My wonder is if there are concerns about AEA, why are we not looking at how things can be improved versus completely changing all things. A large part of what AEA does is Research, Interview, Observe, Test (RIOT) to help us make decisions and make goals for our students. It appears irresponsible to go about these changes that are being proposed without taking time to RIOT. You have seen the support and immense concern from all over Iowa, so there was obviously a lack of true understanding of what Iowa wants/needs from our governer. I'm sure there was good intention, but there needs to be realization of what harm this will do. Changing to the Dept of Ed is a huge concern in itself. There is already days to a week wait before hearing responses back with questions for them (I understand they are busy!). Now you are wanting all of AEA agencies to have to look to them for any questions/decisions? That alone will hurt the process. Also, the deadline that decisions about what services to agree to needs to be made? How is that feasible for schools to decide which option they choose when the bill isn't even passed? Our students will not be getting appropriate support or therapies that they need to achieve. It seems to be such a careless act being done to our students.

01-30-2024

Diane Hoskinson []

Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the Governor's proposed bill HSB542/SSB3073. PLEASE PLEASE vote NO at this time!!! This Bill will take education back to the 1970s for those in Special Education. The repercussions of this drastic Bill on services to all of Iowas children, educators, and parents will be difficult to recover from. Take time to further analyze and investigate the facts and allow further meetings by including AEAs, parents, and educators to work towards a more amicable path for our children. I have special needs people in my life and I feel deeply that this Bill is not in the best interest of our children.

01-30-2024

Alice Louisa []

As a voting Republican, I am firmly against this bill. My sons received amazing services from the AEA system (two different AEAs,in fact). Gutting a system that works is really shocking to me. We all want kids to do better, but how is gutting a highly regarded system going to do that? In my previous life, I had to interact with the Department of Education from time to time. I won't go into details, but based on those experiences, I'm shocked that we're considering giving that institution more power. Perhaps we should do an audit of the Department of Education before giving it significantly more power?

01-30-2024

Paula Leach []

I am opposed to pushing HSB 542 through. This bill took Iowa by surprise and the governor did not gather enough input from the people it impacts the most. Please do not let this bill go any further. Lets all work together on a new solution so that Iowans have a voice in their education reform.

01-30-2024

Mindy Cairney [REPUBLICAN VOTER]

HSB 542 is a disgrace to the state of Iowa. As a Republican voter, I am disappointed that our leadership has proposed such a bill with absolutely no research or data to support it (and no, your disinformation you are trying to sell to us doesn't count). Iowans have a history of prioritizing education. We cannot cut funding to the AEA system and expect to improve test scores. Iowa's history reflects that.The AEA has a long standing reputation of working as a unit. The employees and educators of the AEA are considered experts in their field and are able to provide topnotch support and service to teachers and school districts because they are a welloiled machine. They are able to tap into the expertise and skills of other departments when needed, unlike a privatized company. You can't dismantle a team and expect better results. Special Education students are general education students first. Iowa educators, with the support of the AEA consultants, design instruction that meets the needs and uniqueness of each learner in the gen ed classroom first. We need these content experts at the AEA to help support our teachers. How long will our teachers be able to do this without any support? Technology removes barriers, opens the walls of the classroom, and collects data to help teachers make instructional decisions. The AEA provides discounted prices, or even free resources, to school districts to leverage technology in ways smaller school districts (and even some large ones) might not otherwise be able to afford. The AEA also manages districtwide infrastructures at a discounted price (even break/fix services). This provides a unique opportunity for smaller school districts to join a coop to lower prices of an otherwise huge expense. But without the AEAs this is all gonebut yet the service is still needed. What will school districts do?It is time to set aside your pride, Governor Reynolds, and admit you were wrong. You didn't understand how ingrained the AEAs were in our education system. You didn't understand all of the services that were provided. You didn't understand how a state could love it's children and teachers more than it loves money. We need to invest in Iowa, our students, and our teachers. Prove to your constituents that you are listening. Prove that you belong in a position to make such big decisions. Iowa won't forget.

01-30-2024

Tracy Jarrett []

Thank you for listening to the people who voted you into office. I believe their voices are loud and clear in saying that what this bill proposes will not benefit children and teachers in Iowa. As a parent of students who received tag services, a teacher who benefited from AEA services such as professional learning, media (print), and digital services, and now a science consultant who serves all 42 public and non public schools in the area of science development. I struggle with the idea of taking away services that benefit ALL learners. I believe in change and change is how we have grown, but change without a solid plan is not a plan at all. You have an opportunity and duty to listen to your constituents and be the voice of the people. I urge you to vote for Iowa schools and vote NO! Thank you again for your time and commitment to our children.

01-30-2024

Lynn Selking []

Please vote no. Instead, bring stakeholders together for reform. This bill and the plan it lays out did not have input from schools or AEA. The schools are the clients. Ask them and then listen to them.

01-30-2024

Elizabeth O'Neill-Rich []

Please stand with the children served by the AEA Representative Wheeler and Representative SteckmanMy name is Liz Rich. And, I am a school psychologist. For the past 25 years I have gratefully served the district of Ottumwa. I graduated from Mt Pleasant high school, graduated from Southeastern Community College, and married a boy from New London. We are from the rural communities. My husband and I both interviewed for jobs in Ottumwa over Christmas in 1998, and then we began work the following fall and have never stopped. When they interviewed us, there was some debate about whether they should hire us. Some people thought it was a mistake to hire us because we would never stay here in this community. Our positions had been open already for a number of years. Surely people who moved from Cedar Falls would not stay in rural Iowa the lowest paying AEA in the state. Some people thought they shouldnt hire us because we were married. What if our marriage didnt last then what. But, here we are. We cancelled all the other interviews and we came. I would be a second generation school psychologist and my husband a first generation college graduate. A first time graduate after his own school failed him and he did not graduate from high school he earned his GED and a scholarship for overcoming obstacles to get to college. We have stayed and we have raised our family here. We have served as stewards to our union. We have served as parents, and community members and as your school psycholgists for 25 years. And we take personally every child who is not making progress because they are all our children. As this bill came to my awareness I started to gasp for breath. The fears eat me day and night What about the mother and the father in the NICU today who is promised that no matter where they live they will receive services in every county of Iowa. Services that will be delivered in the home and will be equal in every county. What about the rural counties and school districts learning to live for the first time as a bilingual community? What about the schools that are wrestling with new curriculums and the laws regarding dyslexia and how best to make the most progress? What about the mother who leaves a voicemail for someone about her worries for her childs suicide ideation and she knows someone will return her call no matter where she lives. What about the cities that are torn apart by crisis, will there be a team to arrive tomorrow? What about the fierce conversations that are able to happen because there is separation between the AEA and the LEA? What about the fierce conversations that can happen because AEAs who have served local areas for a long time have built relationships that have endured. What about the behindthescenes administration and technical work that happens for special education that will have to be delivered somehow? What about the libraries, and the print shop that will help my tired teacher friends get through tomorrow for a little less cost to themselves? What about professional development? I have said for a long time, that when the school is happy with me they call me Liz. When they are unhappy with me they call me the AEA.I stand before you today, Liz Rich as the AEA and thank you. Thank you to the parents who have reached out to stand with the AEAThank you to the teachers who have made clear that they stand with the AEA.Thank you to the retired near and far who have reached out to me to say they stand with the AEA.It has become clear to me that as I gasp for breath that they have thrown me a rope to say we know that the work the AEA does matters, that it provides a service to every child near and far that is equitable. That is is not perfect, but it is among the best systems in the united states in a state that has complex needs. Today they call me Liz and thousands and thousands of tshirts and voices say We stand with you.

01-30-2024

Kerri Schwemm [Parent]

Please provide evidenced based information that indicates that diminished local control; reduced economies of scale; dismantling of a national model; and state wide loss of collective intelligence will actually improve student outcomes? How in the world do you think this will benefit ALL children?

01-30-2024

Faye Allen []

I strongly urge you to oppose this bill. It is imperative that you take the time to learn facts about the services our AEAs provide, understand how they support Iowa districts and students, and learn what actions may improve educational outcomes in this state rather than passing a bill that has little hope of positively impacting students or school districts. Our kids deserve thorough action and discussion related to this matter, not a rushed decision.

01-30-2024

Brenda Dietiker []

Please VOTE NO to HSB 242 for the future of Iowa and most importantly for the success of all Iowa children. This Bill is not Iowa. It was bought and written by a group in another state, without the best interest of Iowa and its success at all. I am a healthcare worker in Iowa and daily we see the importance of the AEA as they work with out families.. Passing this bill will create the largest void in services for children that would be cruel to families. Please vote No.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

Please vote no on HSB 542. I am a parent and grandparent of children who have benefitted from the services of AEA.The dismantling of AEA will negatively effect so many children across the state of Iowa.This bill will put a disproportionate strain on rural schools to be able to continue offering the services that AEA now provides. By voting for this bill you will be voting against children who currently need and use these services. Iowa used to be a state that was noted for its great educational system. Vote to keep AEA in place. Let us start to rebuild our educational system instead of dismantling it.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

01-30-2024

Kaylynne Christenson []

I urge you to consider the input received from educators and families regarding the potential impact on reducing the services AEAs provide and then vote NO! The overwhelming response from the public has been against this bill. The governor's original proposal was a comprehensive review of the AEA system. Before gutting a system which works tirelessly to support the children and educators of our state, please take the time to dig into more accurate data, learn from the people directly impacted, and study the inaccuracies presented by Governor Reynolds. Governor Reynolds blames the AEAs for declining special ed scores without transparent data. Relying on a single test like NAEP oversimplifies assessments, hindering targeted interventions. The bill lacks proposals to address declining scores, removing crucial support networks of speech therapists, consultants, and psychologists.The reality is that students with special education needs are generally education students first. To create the greatest opportunity for growth with all students is to provide support for teachers and improve the collective efficacy of the teachers, para educators, and staff of the schools. Removing or limiting the impact and resources provided by AEAs will create inefficiencies and threaten Iowa's educational system. The unresolved $22 million cut from AEAs and Governor Reynolds' choice not to allocate any of Iowa's $6 billion surplus to education exacerbate challenges. The bill, framed as promoting local control, consolidates power in Des Moines, entrusting special ed decisions to a Director lacking Iowa experience.This legislation impacts real people. The bill's uncertainties may prompt educators to reconsider positions or leave the state, worsening the shortage during a critical time.Governor Reynolds plans an expedited legislative process with hearings this week and a floor vote on Thursday, allowing limited time for review or public input. I urge you to resist urgency, advocate for a comprehensive examination, and reject HSB 542/ssb 3079.Please stand with our children and Iowa's education future. Represent constituents' concerns and safeguard our education system. Your support is crucial, and constituents will appreciate your commitment.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Rich []

Dear Senators Wheeler, Collins and SteckmanPlease stand wtih the children of Iowa by supporting AEAs. My name is Liz Rich. And, I am a school psychologist. For the past 25 years I have gratefully served the district of Ottumwa. I graduated from Mt Pleasant high school, graduated from Southeastern Community College, and married a boy from New London. We are from the rural communities. My husband and I both interviewed for jobs in Ottumwa over Christmas in 1998, and then we began work the following fall and have never stopped. When they interviewed us, there was some debate about whether they should hire us. Some people thought it was a mistake to hire us because we would never stay here in this community. Our positions had been open already for a number of years. Surely people who moved from Cedar Falls would not stay in rural Iowa the lowest paying AEA in the state. Some people thought they shouldnt hire us because we were married. What if our marriage didnt last then what. But, here we are. We cancelled all the other interviews and we came. I would be a second generation school psychologist and my husband a first generation college graduate. A first time graduate after his own school failed him and he did not graduate from high school he earned his GED and a scholarship for overcoming obstacles to get to college. We have stayed and we have raised our family here. We have served as stewards to our union. We have served as parents, and community members and as your school psycholgists for 25 years. And we take personally every child who is not making progress because they are all our children. As this bill came to my awareness I started to gasp for breath. The fears eat me day and night What about the mother and the father in the NICU today who is promised that no matter where they live they will receive services in every county of Iowa. Services that will be delivered in the home and will be equal in every county. What about the rural counties and school districts learning to live for the first time as a bilingual community? What about the schools that are wrestling with new curriculums and the laws regarding dyslexia and how best to make the most progress? What about the mother who leaves a voicemail for someone about her worries for her childs suicide ideation and she knows someone will return her call no matter where she lives. What about the cities that are torn apart by crisis, will there be a team to arrive tomorrow? What about the fierce conversations that are able to happen because there is separation between the AEA and the LEA? What about the fierce conversations that can happen because AEAs who have served local areas for a long time have built relationships that have endured. What about the behindthescenes administration and technical work that happens for special education that will have to be delivered somehow? What about the libraries, and the print shop that will help my tired teacher friends get through tomorrow for a little less cost to themselves? What about professional development? I have said for a long time, that when the school is happy with me they call me Liz. When they are unhappy with me they call me the AEA.I stand before you today, Liz Rich as the AEA and thank you. Thank you to the parents who have reached out to stand with the AEAThank you to the teachers who have made clear that they stand with the AEA.Thank you to the retired near and far who have reached out to me to say they stand with the AEA.It has become clear to me that as I gasp for breath that they have thrown me a rope to say we know that the work the AEA does matters, that it provides a service to every child near and far that is equitable. That is is not perfect, but it is among the best systems in the united states in a state that has complex needs. Today they call me Liz and thousands and thousands of tshirts and voices say We stand with you.

01-30-2024

Janet Felton []

Please use due diligence expected from a legislator. Inform yourself of the massive impact that this bill would have on Iowans for years to come. The activities that AEA carries out prevents need for additional resources later as children, families and teachers are equipped with needed skills and services early. Our state's education system has relied on AEAs for 50 years. Any steps toward changing the current structure should come with lengthy conversations with stakeholders that are aware of all components of AEAs. I ask that you listen to the thousands of Iowans who have reached out to voice concerns and share information.

01-30-2024

Teran Buettell []

Im writing to you in your role as a subcommittee member responsible for making decisions about the AEA Bill. I know youve received hundreds, if not thousands, of messages opposing this bill. You have been given facts addressing the assertions justifying the bill. Youve heard the personal stories of stakeholders from all walks of life. Have you read the Guidehouse report? Ive only just received a copy of it this morning and it has become evident that there are errors contained therein. Im asking that this process be tabled to allow yourselves and stakeholders the opportunity to carefully examine the information being used as a rationale for completely decimating our public education support system. I realize that some of you may fully support privatization of our educational system, but such a decision should not be made lightly and certainly not at the recommendation of companies and organizations that stand to gain financially from such a move. I also understand that some of you are under incredible pressure to vote yes, under threat of sabotage for your upcoming reelection vote in November. I believe that when someone is elected to office, they take upon themselves an oath and obligation to act in the best interest of the public. Our government is set up to have checks and balances. Thats why we dont have a monarch. It is the job of the House and Senate to ask tough questions of the governor and each otherthats the check part. It is also their job to ensure that there is balance in the interests of the differing perspectives and needs in the general population. Decisions should not be made simply to support ones chances of reelection by following party line. I implore you today, to act with the integrity of the office you hold, to ask hard questions, listen to all perspectives, and take time to examine all of the facts, then use critical thinking skills to develop a plan that is right for Iowa. We all want our kids to succeed. We want to close the gap. Lets give this solution the time it deserves to develop one that makes sense. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Sara Stelpflug []

How does this bill intend to improve student achievement? It says the AEAs are at fault for the achievement gap and we no longer need their services. How can the DE possibly support our students and families in the same way that the AEA currently is? How can possibly improve student achievement with less?

01-30-2024

Lindsey Johnson []

Please vote "NO" to this bill! AEA's provide crucial supports and services for ALL children in Iowa. This bill will create significant equity issues across our state, and negatively impact those children who don't have access to quality services and support. Please vote "NO"!

01-30-2024

Kim Knight []

Please consider the longterm effects of this bill. It will hurt the children and families of Iowa and their futures. You have the ability to vote to stop this bill and its ramifications. Please stand up for what is right for your constituents. When people are in need of help we shouldn't cut them off or only give them one source of help. If the AEA's need to be restructured, take time to look at ways to effectively do thatdont just take away huge parts of it thereby limiting the other parts of it. Your children and grandchildren will suffer for this decision if you choose to further this bill. Don't take away one of the best resources that Iowa has! Thank you for your consideration.

01-30-2024

Bryan Reed []

The Governor and others have told us the reason for this bill is to address concerns with special education scores in Iowa. That makes it very simple to measure what this bill will do and if it should move forward. Des Moines Public School has had the option to opt out of AEA services for 50 years which is the option this bill will give to all districts. Iowa has had a 50 research trial to see if this bill will improve special education scores. If an honest look at the Des Moines public data doesn't show improved scores compared to the rest of the state, than this bill should not move forward. If this bill moves forward and the Des Moines data doesn't show improved testing scores, than that means that the public has been lied to and there are other political agendas at play and the Governor and those that vote yes really don't care about special education scores.

01-30-2024

Kristi Allison []

As a parent of an 11 year old with Down Syndrome, I can personally speak to the benefits of the AEA for children and families. She has been receiving AEA services since birth. First in our home and her daycare setting and now at school. Along the way, all the caregivers and teachers in her life have benefited from the expertise her AEA team has provided. Their expertise and guidance has helped us all work together to help her be her very best. I do not understand what this bill is trying to fix or why such drastic measures need to be taken for a system that has and continues to benefit my daughter and my family so much. Please stop and ask yourself how this bill will help my daughter. I have trouble believing that the true reasons our governor is pushing this through so quickly have anything to do with what is best for my daughter and my family.

01-30-2024

Josephine Blazic [Student]

My name is Josephine Blazic from Burlington, Iowa, I am a senior at Burlington Community High School, which is serviced by Great Prairie AEA. I am speaking on behalf of myself as someone who is deaf and am in support of the Iowa Area Education Agencies (AEA). The AEAs are a vital part of the education system in more ways than one. They provide services for Iowa students and families who cant access or afford them and also provide support systems and equipment to students to give them an education they deserve. They provided me with the services I needed from a young age to become a successful student who has signed with a college for soccer and received scholarships for both athletics and academics. I have attached my entire letter for legislators to read and share during session meetings. I am opposed to HSB 542.

Attachment

01-30-2024

Amy Kading []

As a parent of rural public school students, wife of a farmer, and a school psychologist, I am opposed to this bill.This bill will remove local control from our schools as the decision making authority is transferred to the Iowa Department of Education Director. This bill reduces the economy of scale by eliminating operational sharing agreements including mental health services for students. Our students need access to inschool support from school social workers. The AEAs and local schools work collaboratively to provide vital services to our students. The AEAs meet accreditation standards and receive positive feedback from LEAs. Please listen to your constituents, rather than misrepresented data from outofstate sources, and vote no to this bill.

01-30-2024

Dena Ellington []

Please vote NO on this bill. This bill will dismantle the suppoert system that individual teachers and school dsitricts need by all together removing needed services that the AEA provides or by making many of those supports cost prohibitive to the schools. This bill will eliminiate AEA's ability to provide services to districts like crisis counseling supports when life changing events occur in schools such the shooting at Perry, when students due by suicide, or when teachers die unexpectedly. This bill eliminiate the AEA's ability to provide SEBH counseling services in the schools to students who desperately needs these services some of whose parents cannot afford the serviecs privately, cannot get into a provider becasue the wait list is too long, and/or doesn't have the means of trasportation to get the child to these services. This bill strips schools of nearly all media support. Teachers will no longer be able to get library resources such as books, online reading material, and educational instructional videos for students through the AEA lending library. These are only a few of the things that this bill removes from our public schools if it goes through.The Governor says this is about student achievement, but this bill does nothing to actually address how to increase student achievement. It only takes away services that help with achievement. Fewer specialist will be avaliable to help train teachers on math and reading instruction. Fewer specialists to assist schools with student behavior needs so that they can then attend to learning and instruction. Fewer media resources to supply their classrooms with materials needed to quality instruction. Please don't do this to our Iowa schools. Vote NO.

01-30-2024

Shelli Blazic [Parent]

This bill will eviscerate AEAs and professional services that support all children in Iowa. In order to support students with disabilities we must also recognize the differentiated supports necessary to be successful in the general education classroom. This means you cannot only address special education. I vehemently oppose HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Marcy swalley []

Area Education Agencies (AEAs) are indispensable for students as they provide essential support and resources that enhance the overall educational experience. Through AEAs, students gain access to specialized services such as special education programs, counseling, and technology integration, addressing diverse learning needs. These agencies also contribute to the professional development of educators, ensuring that teachers are equipped with the latest teaching methodologies and strategies. Furthermore, AEAs often facilitate collaborative initiatives and partnerships among schools, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and best practices. By offering a range of educational services and promoting collaboration, AEAs play a pivotal role in creating a more inclusive, dynamic, and enriching educational environment for students across various regions.

01-30-2024

Susan Wetrich []

I am asking you to vote no for this education bill HSB 542 that recommends dismantling the AEA system. Please consider taking time to study and diagnose the issues of concern with special education and the AEA as it is intertwined with so many variables. Study the roles of AEA, LEA, administration, funding, special education laws as they all relate to each other in helping students be educated in the special education and general education world. Dismantling one component of a total system makes no sense. Revamping and redefining roles takes time to understand the roles and how to adjust where needed. Please look at all data for progress of special education students. Do not let the data from the governor skew your thinking. Talk to educators and principals and find out how their students are making gains. Understand the special education process.This bill will not make things better for any district or parent. In southeast Iowa there is a supply and demand issue for related service providers (speech pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist), a shortage of special education teachers and associates. In the current system, the AEA has managed this supply and demand issue and provided the services to the school districts. If this system gets broken there is no way individual school districts along with the AEAs can hire and provide the necessary services for the students. This will lead to competition and higher prices for hiring as the demand for speech pathologists, occupational therapists and physical therapists and other special educators can not meet the supply. There will be fewer to serve the needs of the students especially in our huge rural state. The quality of the service for special education students will be less. This is the opposite effect of what we want to happen.Is this the best thing for students? How does this bill help the children in the state of Iowa? How does this bill help the taxpayers in the state of Iowa? I oppose this bill.

01-30-2024

Emily Taylor []

This bill will have horrendous effects on all students across the state, especially in rural areas. This bill strips so many valuable resources, services, and supports from students and teachers. We are supposed to be helping and working toward creating better futures for our Iowa kids. Tell me how this bill does that and supports that work! Vote No!

01-30-2024

Jennifer Lamm [Educator]

Iowa's children are our future. They are our most precious gift. We cannot put our children at risk by rushing this bill. It is time to vote "no". The people of Iowa are speaking out, listen to what they have to say.

01-30-2024

Maureen Mark []

Please vote NO! As a career educator in the state of Iowa, working with Deaf/Hard of Hearing students I can attest to the importance of the system for my learners to be successful learners in their home districts. This proposed bill threatens their education. If passed, a district can opt out of using the AEA services. Where does that leave that child? We have such a shortage of teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing that a district isnt going to be able to find those services somewhere else. In my position alone I travel to 10 districts and cross three counties. We need teachers but we have already heard that new grads arent sure they want to enter into education in Iowa. If changes to our current AEA system need to be made, this is not the answer.

01-30-2024

Angie Green []

How does this bill help kids? Where in this bill does it talk about raising student achievement? If you cant answer that questions, then please vote no and do a comprehensive study to find out more information! Thank you,Angie GreenConcerned parent, grandparent, tax payer, Republican of Wapello County

01-30-2024

Brooke Fischels []

I cannot overstate the value of the AEA to my teaching. Instructional strategies, student supports, classes for relicensure, new technology integration, print and production services, access to grants, cirriculum adoption support, and many other key aspects of my job are impacted by AEA professionals who make sure I'm the best teacher I can be. Quality of instructiona and academic achievement is at grave risk when any deduction in services occurs. I don't think districts ought to be able to opt out of these services. This is how the educational system works together to make our schools a better place.

01-30-2024

Stacy Behmer []

As an educator for nearly 25 years and a voting Republican, I am opposed to HSB 542/SSB 3073. I urge subcommittee members to listen to their constituents and stop this bill.When I started my career in Iowa, I relied on the expertise of consultants as I was focusing on my students. I relied on boxed books to use in my reading class, so that students would have items at their instructional level. I relied on professional learning to improve my craft. These were just a few things I used frequently and took for granted when I moved out of state to teach because these things didnt exist for every teacher and every student in my new state! I returned home and it had gotten even better. Iowa had evolved and now with technology there were consultants to help utilize those tools with research based instructional practices and digital resources to help support learner variability. And again these were for EVERY student and teacher! I also ask you to learn about the efficiency and effectiveness of the services provided and how they support each other. These services can be nimble and customized for individual district, building, teacher or student needs because the AEAs are local and have relationships with those they serve. Please do the right thing, listen to your constituents and support our learners and educators by keeping our AEAs intact.

01-30-2024

Nikki Witt []

I urge you to consider seriously the catastrophic impact this bill will have on the students with special needs and disabilities. You cannot ignore the opposition to this bill far outweighs the support. Do what is right for kids and listen to your people.

01-30-2024

Jesse Tvrdy []

Vote NO for this bill. Let me try to point out a couple reason this is a very poor decision and will hurt Districts. 1. By eliminating the services AEA provide Districts have to find them in their own. They are terribly expensive and many will not be found in rural areas.2. The money the district will get will only cover some of the costs not all by a long shot! They will need part time people in hard to find areas. It will force districts to make collective agreements together to agre employees. This will be be time intensive and finding employees to work across several districts on shared contracts is not desirable for them, they will look else where! Basically districts will have to recreate their own mini AEAs.3. The coat of items ARa buys state wide to give to all districts will be atomically more expensive when districts try to purchase them as single entities, they will not be affordable!4. A district may not need all the services the ARA offers but they have an insurance policy by having the AEA that if the need arising they are there almost immediately. Example a family moved to a rural district with a deaf and blind child and now the district needs multiple specialist supports,5, Currently a District has a concern with a family and an IEP AEAs come in provide family support and work as a mediator to help come to an collective agreement without a state complain and using District money in potential lawyer fees. This happens more than you think and saves districts thousands of dollars!6. Principals and Superintendents have cell phone numbers if AEA staff they can call day or night in need and get immediate help. They will never get that type of support again!7. Families who have a child and at the hospital find out their child is disabled and are deviated will not have an AEA employee show up to tell them it will be okay and they will be there to provide family support speech, OT, PT, and come to their home from birth to school to help!These are just a few reasons this bill makes no sense and should be stopped, Take areas of concern and have AEA and all parties work together to become better dont destroy a system that does so many things that can not be replicated because the Governor throws out a bill with misleading information that once done will takes a decade to rebuild!

01-30-2024

Laura Glenn []

Where is the system of checks and balances in this bill? Who is going to hold the schools accountable? The DoE will not have the person power to respond and provide the expertise like the AEA currently is able to do so.

01-30-2024

Jodie Marlette []

01-30-2024

Lisa Hartman []

Last night at least nine Green Hills AEA staff (and a GHAEA board member) were at our board meeting. AEA leadership shared about the services and support they provide to our district. What they provide us is absolutely critical to the success of our students. What the Governor is proposing, even with her amendments, completely dismantles the efficiently and expertise we get from this group. As each leader shared, I thought about how they know us personally. They know me, they know our admin, they know our teachers, they know our kids, they know our goals, they know our weaknesses and our strengths. They are community members serving alongside us. This is 100% not support we would get if any services were under the direction of the Dept of Education in Des Moines. This is not giving school districts local control. This is taking control away and putting it under a centralized location in Des Moines, by a Director who has 0 educational experience. I have been an educator for 15 years (teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of ed services at an AEA, curriculum director), and have two master's in education and a doctorate in educational leadership. I think that might qualify me to have some expertise on how this will impact kids in Iowa. It will be catastrophic. Should this pass, everyone who bends to the Governor, instead of listening to their constituents, will be held responsible.

01-30-2024

Jodie Marlette []

Please do not support this AEA bill! No changes within the bill actually express how it will help Iowas students, ALL students! Evaluate, take the time to learn about the AEAs, come see what is happening day to day in schools and make the RIGHT choice for Iowas children. This bill is NOT the right choice! Please listen to your constituents! We are speaking loudly and soundly about our stance! Support us, choose to represent those that elected you!

01-30-2024

Cyndy Fabel []

I urge you to Vote NO on this bill. AEA provides valuable services to our children and teachers. As a former preschool educator, I experienced the professional services offered to our young students at no cost to their parents.Speech, hearing, and developmental assessments were so important. I personally benefited from the continuing education offered to teachers. Please vote NO!

01-30-2024

Amber Reed []

Please vote no for this bill. Instead take time to study the AEA and work as a team with ALL parties at the table. This bill does not bring about local control when everything must be approved by the Department of Education. The decisions that are made this legislative session are ones that will be historical. Dismantling a system to address concerns will take resources and services away from all of our children. Stop, and consider what is at stake. Vote no!

01-30-2024

Katie Hash []

This bill hurts Iowas kids. The detriment to rural schools will be irrevocable. Please ask yourselves, what does this data mean? Does special ed designation mean the same thing in Iowa as other states? (No.) What supports do our schools need at this time?if the governors metric of success is achievement scores, where in the bill does this address how that would improve?Am I listening to the pleas of my constituents?

01-30-2024

Amanda Brink []

This bill will dismantle Iowas educational system. All students and educators will be negatively impacted if this bill were to pass. There is not one part of this bill that shows how dismantling the AEA services will increase student achievement. All of Iowa will suffer the educational consequences. Take a year to comprehensively take a look at the AEA system, have all stakeholders at the table, and do whats best for students.

01-30-2024

Julie Williams []

I am writing in opposition to HSB 542. If we truly care about education, then we know we already have a system in place to serve all students equitably in general ed and special ed, plus give them countless resources that will now go away. Reynolds is using one data source to dismantle a system in a very short timeline. We use multiple sources to determine what is best for kids, and it is a shared responsibility with school districts. We are a support, not responsible for teaching and test scores Our AEAs are accredited so there is oversight. To see education change in such a negative way, giving all control to DesMoines instead of locally, and letting private contracting companies to offer forprofit services is a disgrace. Listen to Iowans and taxpayers, not follow party lines...our kids are worth more than that!

01-30-2024

Trevor Brown []

I urge you to consider the pivotal role that AEA's play in shaping the educational landscape of our state and vote No to this bill. Continued support and investment in these agencies are essential to fostering a robust and inclusive educational system that meets the needs of all learners.AEA's serve as vital entities that significantly contribute to the overall development and success of students and educators. They provide essential support and resources for special education programs, ensuring students with diverse learning needs receive tailored assistance. AEA's contribute to the advancement of education through technology integration, fostering a modern and effective learning environment for both students and teachers.These agencies offer invaluable professional development opportunities for educators, enhancing their skills and knowledge to keep pace with evolving teaching methodologies. AEA's actively engage in curriculum assessment and student data analysis, identifying areas for improvement and implementing evidencebased strategies to enhance educational outcomes. Moreover, AEA's play a crucial role in supporting students' mental health and wellbeing by providing training for teachers on socialemotional learning and offering mental health services within schools.In a unique capacity, AEA's act as independent advocates for students, operating as a thirdparty entity outside of schools. This position allows them to prioritize the needs of individual students without requiring additional effort from our schools. They ensure that each student's welfare and educational requirements remain at the forefront, contributing significantly to a studentcentric education system.Furthermore, AEA's positively impact homeschooling families in our community, including my extended family. They provide valuable resources and support for homeschooling children, fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth.I share a personal experience that underscores the broader impact of AEA's. My son, Josiah, required physical therapy for torticollis, and the AEA stepped in to assist my wife and me. They provided not only physical therapy but also guidance on the best ways to help him develop both physically and cognitivelyat no cost to us. This example highlights the holistic and communityfocused nature of AEA's.

01-30-2024

Amanda REDHEAD []

I am a public health nurse and I consistently make referrals to the AEA for children under age 5 with developmental needs. If the AEA is gutted, I will have no where to refer these families to get the help that they need.

01-30-2024

Kristi Allison []

01-30-2024

Carie Masters []

This bill is does not support ALL students, ALL teachers, ALL families and ALL schools. This bill does NOT close the GAP! IOWA NEEDS ALL PARTS OF ITS AEAS. When is IOWA going to put our CHILDREN FIRST?

01-30-2024

Laura Elsinger [N/A]

Please vote no on this bill. The reasons for this request have been presented well in other comments here. The AEA staff have the expertise to provide the highest quality services for challenged students and they put their hearts into their work.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

Vote NO on HSB 542. I am a parent and grandparent of children who used and needed the services of AEA. A NO VOTE is a vote that children in Iowa schools will continue to receive services that benefit their individual education needs. This bill will put added strain on school districts, especially in rural areas to continue to provide what AEA currently is offering. A vote for this bill will be a vote against Iowa children with learning disabilities. Please consider your vote carefully and VOTE NO.

01-30-2024

Denise Sulhoff []

After reading through all the comments I believe they have all said what I want to say! Passing this bill would be a huge mistake and would not be good for our students and financially very costly to school districts.PLEASE VOTE NO!! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE VOTE NO!Thank you for your time

01-30-2024

Joe Rich []

The governor of Iowa, Kim Reynolds, has proposed an overhaul of the state's Area Education Agencies (AEAs). The governor's plan calls for AEAs to focus solely on special education programming rather than the teacher training and other services theyre currently providing to schools.Make no mistake, if you utilize Iowa schools, this will impact you. Moreover, this will disproportionately affect the districts with the lowest tax base (small and rural) and more importantly students with the most significant needs. Let me explain. Aeas money comes from dollars based on a perpupil formula. The AEA then distributes that money through contracted employees to serve districts and student needs within their prospective region on an equitable basis. What does that mean? When small districts cannot afford the services of a fulltime speech pathologist, or itinerant teacher for the hearing impaired (for example) the AEA provides the service splitting one fulltime person among several districts. My AEA currently serves 11 counties. It is no secret that rural school districts already have difficulty with the recruitment of teachers.Moreover, the governor's plan has been criticized for creating topheavy organizations with high administrative expenses. The governor's plan also means that AEAs will no longer provide teacher training and other services to schools, which could hurt students and teachers.In conclusion, the governor's plan to overhaul the state's Area Education Agencies has raised concerns among State Auditor Rob Sand and other critics. The plan could lead to job losses and a reduction in services provided to schools, which could harm students and teachers.

01-30-2024

Amanda Larkin []

I am against the actions of HSB 542. Please consider the following questions. Where does the bill talk about how student achievement will be improved?What in this bill actually improves anything for students?And where is the local control now that the state department is making all the decisions. Many of the claims that have been made regarding test scores of students with disabilities, and the AEA having no oversight have been proven false. The AEAs are accredited every three years by the department of education.There is no way under this bill for students and schools to continue to have the same amount of and quality level of service no matter the size of the school. Additionally, rural area schools will have far less service. There can be no equity of services without a localized regional system that knows the school district and the students.This is too much change too fast. Please take your time to really consider that this is not the right decision before you dismantle the public education system in our state.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

01-30-2024

Kristin Lohse []

I am writing to you regarding proposed legislation affecting Iowa AEAs. Its my understanding this legislation will narrow the AEAs role in supporting a variety of teacher and student programs to solely focus on their special education programs. While I wholeheartedly support programs that serve our special needs students, I have concerns that eliminating the other services provided by the AEA will shortchange the rest of the student population. The services provided by AEA support STEMbased learning opportunities that are valuable for the enrichment of all Iowa students.As an example, last year my daughters 4th grade class at Forest Grove Elementary in Bettendorf, IA created a multimedia presentation and shared it virtually with their parents. From January through May, the students learned about food scarcity through their core curriculum measuring food waste in their cafeteria, making compost bins, reading about the challenges of the Great Depression and more. With the coordination and handson guidance of Mr. Maurer, STEM lead at the Mississippi Bend AEA, the students pulled their observations and conclusions from these lessons into a 25minute group presentation at the end of the year. Their body of work was both impressive and impactful.When I expressed to my daughters teacher how impressed I was with the level of technology and interpersonal skills the kids learned as they created and shared their presentation, she said it would not have been possible without Mr. Maurer. In addition to reinforcing the core math, science, and English curriculum, this project also exposed the students to:An opportunity to speak with a nonprofit leader addressing food issues in Africa, giving the students a humanitarian perspective of this global issue.Planning and handson experience designing and building a compost bin.Teambuilding skills and accountability as the students worked in smaller groups to build their section of the presentation.Using technology to create images, videos, and presentations. As a marketing professional, I recognize these activities as a foundation of valuable skills that students can build on as they progress through their education and into their future careers.Please consider the full implications of limiting the AEAs value to a subset of the student population. Opportunities like the one I described are an influential piece of our students educational experience and an intangible part of what differentiates the Iowa education system from the rest of the nation.

01-30-2024

Amber Earnest []

As a special education and middle school math teacher for 20 years I relied heavily on my AEA staff. As a beginning teacher in a special education classroom with a conditional I would have been lost without AEA support helping me understand how to write a quality IEP, laws regarding special education, teaching strategies for special needs, what to do in unique situations, the list goes on and on. My math consultant provided me with ongoing support as well. From help implementing a new curriculum to professional learning to spending time in my classroom giving guidance and support, ALL of my students benefited from the knowledge and guidance of AEA staff. As the parent of an adopted child with intense behavioral needs, our small, rural school did not have the knowledge or resources to effectively meet his needs. AEA staff stepped in to provide guidance, support, and strategies for him, school staff, and our family. Without these services we would have been forced to send him to a different district away from his siblings and friends. Pushing this bill through in the tone frame proposed by the governor will have unintended consequences for years to come. Voting yes on this bill will have a negative impact on all Iowa students, teachers, and families, especially beginning teachers when there is already a shortage. Please take the time to study what changes need to be made and build up a great system rather than dismantling it.

01-30-2024

Todd Williams []

As a retired public school educator, I know the value of AEA services for all students, staff, and families. As a parent, I know the value of AEA services, too. And, while legislators have been inundated with stories, the real reasons for this proposed legislation cannot be overlooked. 1)Another attempt to profit from tax dollars similar to school vouchers by having private corporations and specific vendors for content and services. 2) De value public education. AEA's do serve accredited nonpublic schools, but the goal is to dismantle the AEA services and pull another leg from the public school table. Public schools educate all students and even the playing field for young Iowans. That is not the goal of this legislation or any that undermines public education as educated Iowans vote. 3)Reduce administrator salaries, which may be more than the Governor makes right now, and have less money being paid into IPERS, another Republican target as it holds tax dollars. There has been a lot of advocacy to repeal this proposed legislation, which surprised legislators, especially the ones who had to google what AEA's do after the Governor shared the plan. And while many public school educators vote Republican, this is the first attempt to repeal services that support all educators in the public schools. Vouchers did not impact every teacher. . . but this does. This may be the first time Republican politics will have had a negative, personal impact on educators and families.

01-30-2024

Janet Austin []

01-30-2024

Melinda Montgomery []

Please STOP and ask yourselves, how does this bill HELP children (it doesn't). Stripping away supports and resources will only hurt Iowa's children, teachers and communities. Instead, work with educators, Superintendents, AEA Chiefs to determine how to effectively support our students instead of dismantling the AEAs. Vote No to this bill!

01-30-2024

Kibben Rumohr []

Please vote no to this bill. Its important we stand up for whats right for ALL students and take time to do this the right way. If this bill goes through it will negatively impact our schools and our children. Please stand up and do whats right for them.

01-30-2024

Alexandria Cain []

As an educator in the state of Iowa, as well as a mother of two children, I DO NOT SUPPORT THIS BILL. This bill is very detrimental to society. As I work in schools, I already see multiple open positions for teachers, associates, and direct service providers in schools. This bill will not only hurt education in Iowa, it will also hurt THE CHILDREN. My teachers, parents, and children are scared of the detrimental result if this bill is passed. PLEASE do not believe the false rhetoric that is being posted by the governor. If this bill is passed, I will be looking at a separate setting of employment which will result in more school shortages.

01-30-2024

Angie DeWaard []

Honorable representatives of the State of Iowa,Good morning! While I am a newlyelected school board representative in the Ames school district, I'm writing to you today as a passionate fulltime employee in the IT industry, concerned mother, and avid school and municipal volunteer. I come from a long line of educators, with my grandfather being a teacher from the 1960s through the 1980s, and my mother teaching briefly before being a special education professor for the last two decades. On the other side, my grandfather was a longtime school board member in rural Iowa. A deep commitment to Iowa's storied educational success runs in my bones.I wanted to cordially write to you to implore you to please consider voting no for the proposed AEA legislation, including the amendment. This process simply has not had time to be vetted thoroughly for such sweeping changes, and is built on data points that are not factually correct. Furthermore, school districts cannot pivot in just a few months to change alreadyapproved budgeting, hire staff, etc. for the upcoming year. Our schools will be left with a dearth of vital services, particularly in the areas of mental health and special education. Our most vulnerable children will be left without proper services; if the concern with the AEA is that the special ed metrics have gone down, this will only further accelerate a downward slide.Additionally, the change with the AEA flowthrough funding hamstrings school districts. This is a $32 million loss to our public schools, in tandem with a small recommended budget increase for the year. This funding is desperately needed, as the timing dovetails with the end of the ESSER funds that have been buoying schools shortterm. Simply google "iowa school teacher positions cut" to see how the current minimal funding has been affecting districts' budgets statewide; this change will gut districts both big and small. At a time when there is a huge shortage of teachers, a shortage which will grow in coming years (per informational flyer by School Administrators of Iowa), cutting funding to schools drives our teachers out of the state of Iowa. They will be taking their tax dollars and certifications to other parts of the country. Our relative teacher vacancy and underqualification per 10,000 students are among the worst 3/4 in the nation. We simply can no longer afford to underfund our schools, and specifically cutting funding will only further ignite the problem. While a less educated future workforce may certainly be more pliant, their contributions to the workforce and our state economy will be proportionately less advanced.Rather than putting more decisions at the local level, this proposed amendment centralizes the funds and decisions at the Iowa Department of Education level, who will make decisions at a high level rather than in a tailored way that works for each unique district's varied needs. We have wonderful staff at the Iowa DoE, but a onesizefitsall technique will not work when our largest district is over 32,000 students but our smallest is 97 students. Giving one body the ultimate decisionmaking power on AEA contracting takes away the personal voice and touch of the locally elected boards and hired administrative staff.In addition to hampering the educational needs of our youngest population, our rural and smaller schools often use some of their AEA funding for such important things as cybersecurity. I found it surprising personally when I discovered that schools are the #1 target of cyber attacks, as criminals can use the children's identity for years undetected before the child goes to apply for anything using their credit. This exposes both our future state population and our industries and corporations.I understand that this is a difficult decision that has many nuances! I implore you to please talk to the school districts in your territory both the smallest and largest. I am sure they will be able to provide scope and will appreciate the chance to dialogue about their situations.Thanks so much for your time and consideration,Angie DeWaard

01-30-2024

Linda Boshart []

I am writing to express my opposition to this bill. It will have detrimental impacts to the children and families of Iowa. It will be particularly hard on small school districts who will not have sufficient funds to provide special education services to meet the needs in their district. The negative ramifications and unintended consequences will be far reaching. Much of the information presented to support this bill is flawed. Please vote no on this bill.

01-30-2024

Shauna Smith [Marshalltown Community Schools ]

Educational leaders with high integrity in the state of Iowa have publicly spoken out against this bill. The students of Iowa are not Republican or Democrats. They truly need the support of the AEAs and this bill will dismantle their support. I have been a part of the accreditation process with the Iowa Department of Education and I know firsthand that our AEAs are willing to continuously grow, much like our schools are always lifelong learners. The words Governor Reynolds has used to describe the services the AEA provides for students with disabilities has been incredibly hard for educators and parents. I can't emphasize enough that we work together as a team to support students. The knowledge and guidance the AEA provides is essential to our schools. There has to be alternatives to this bill. Please have the courage to take a stand to our Governor and vote this down.

01-30-2024

Kaitlyn Beck []

As a parent who has had children need the extra support the AEA offers, I cant help but question who this bill would benefit. It surely would not be the children nor would it benefit the special education teachers or any teacher for that matter. We are lacking teachers so badly already in Iowa, voting yes to this bill would only make the shortage worse. Please vote NO to this bill to allow ALL children to receive the help they need and to allow ALL teachers to continue providing incredible support.

01-30-2024

Angie Gansen []

As a parent and 25 year veteran educator, I am dumbfounded at the attack on education this session. But my comments are directed to the AEA bill. Theres nothing in this bill to indicate that a plan, a solid plan is in place to be implemented for the 2425 school year to improve the instruction and ultimate success for Iowas most vulnerable students on individual education plans. The only thing that is evident is is stripping, highly qualified, experienced leadership. All to be shifted to not highly qualified, not experienced, nonexistent department. Removing the foundation of any structure or system will result in an immediate collapse. I implore each, and every one of you to listen and act accordingly to the constituents, who have put their vote, faith, lives, communities, and their children, in your hands. Education agencies are the lifelines for students, parents, teachers administrators, schools, districts, and communities, both private and public. This bill needs to stop and whatever improvements need to be made should be done through those who have devoted their entire life to the growth of all children from birth to 21, in small, medium and large communities. NOT made to spite them. Is this the legacy for Iowa education that will implore young people to enter the profession? For families, to remain in rural, Iowa or to attract to Iowa? For current teachers to have faith that they are valued and worthy when you destroy the very foundation rich in those that came before them. Everyone in the AEA has been beside them through good and bad and connect on a level that no flybynight replacements could ever replicate. Listen to the voices of thousands of those in the fields not the ONE sitting in the office.

01-30-2024

Kelly Behmer []

As a public educator and a parent, I am disheartened by this bill. AEAs give districts so much help. So much, in fact, that they cannot all be counted. Schools would be at a major disadvantage and students would not have as many opportunities without the AEAs. We should want more people to live in Iowa, but dismantling the education system little by little, isn't helping at all. In fact, we should be adding more to AEAs to support students and parents, certainly not taking away. If there is a problem with the AEAs, then taking the time to restructure would be more beneficial. Let's put kids first, not last.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Ferguson []

I work for AEA and. I know from my 10 years In education it takes a village to provide birth to 21 services. The AEAs are a huge part of that village from day 1. We work collaborative with parents, school districts ect to meet the needs of all involved. If this bill is passed you take away the one place that's been with parents since birth. Iowa is mainly rural districts and they may not have access to providers if it wasn't for AEA. Parents already have to drive to obtain out patient services or only get to see a therapist 1x a month due to lack of private services in their area. Also most private providers aren't aware of special ed rules and regulations and criteria for out patient services are different than in school services. If we pass this bill then we're taking away supports needed for all. My position allows me to ve shared between 2 districts that are in need of my services that they may not be able to access on their own without the AEA. I've heard that even in Des Moines while they aren't a part of the AEA they still utilize some of the related service staff from AEA as they may not need them full time. So in that regard the AEA allows them to share those staff members with other districts.

01-30-2024

Cheryl Vickstrom []

I am opposed to this bill. AEA should remain as it is. Teachers and students benefit from its services and if these changes are made I believe some students will be left behind. Teachers also need its resources.

01-30-2024

Valarie Berge []

Please vote no to this bill as it is written. Should base teacher pay increase yes! Should/could AEA's be restructured and some items eliminated yes. But the bill as it is written will be disastrous for schools and teachers. Teachers and schools use a lot of services that AEAs provide. The cost of doing those same things on their own would be a LOT higher. Schools and teachers can't afford to do them on their own. Please do not push this through. Take time, ask questions, see what can be reduced without dismantling things. Where will these professionals go there are not jobs for many of them. If they don't have a teaching license then they will be seeking jobs out of state. That will be good for neighboring states, but certainly not for Iowa. How about the materials that schools use, where will they go? Will students and teachers still have access to them or will they be sold at a reduced cost. This is not a good thing for the state as it is written now!NO NO NO NO!!!!

01-30-2024

Anita Palmer [Iowa resident]

Vote NO for HSB 542 and the amendment as it stands today. Area Education Agencies provide VALUABLE services for the education of all children in the state of Iowa. ALL students are general education students which means the student is supported with many of the same resources and then add additional resources according to a students specifics needs.Professional Development for teachers provides improved learning for all a students.Media and technology are provided at a significant cost break.Over 1000 jobs would be lost.

01-30-2024

Casey Zimmeht []

Please vote no on this public disservice bill. These services benefit our families, our communities and OUR KIDS! The services spread so far and wide, that this bill will destroy the system as we know it.

01-30-2024

Jean Schilling [Central Springs Community School District]

Please vote NO or SLOW DOWN this process. AEA's serve critical special education services to ALL schools Public and PRIVATE. AEA's provide regional coordination of Career and Tech Ed Federal grants to provide the supplies and equipment to our Career and tech ed classrooms and teachers. AEA's provide specialty tools and media products that are shared among so many districts at HUGE cost savings, especially to RURAL districts. AEA's are uniquely positioned to provide the mental health resources our faculty, staff and students so desperately need.

01-30-2024

Lesa Long []

I do not support this bill as it will have a negative impact on all students. As a veteran special educator, I'm appalled that this is being proposed. As a grandparent, I'm truly scared for the future of education in Iowa.Please do your own research on all of the services that AEA provides for all students and teachers.

01-30-2024

Sarah Fink []

As I scan the public comments located here, I fail to find one that is in favor of this bill. Wonder why that is? It doesn't take much to see that there are countless detrimental implications of this bill for the students ALL students of Iowa. I don't see how anyone can tout the idea of "local control" when seemingly all the control will be funneled thru one person in Des Moines. She will never have the relationships w/ teachers & administrators that our local AEA consultants have. Relationships build the foundation of all great working partnerships. I work in a district that will NOT be able to afford the vast selection of media resources that get delivered directly to our doorsteps each week, let alone the online digital resources that are negotiated at a statewide level to provide the lowest cost possible & equity of access for the smallest of smalls to the biggest of bigs. Each digital resource has many accessibility features that will benefit students on IEPS, making information & content accessible to them. Please vote NO on this bill.

01-30-2024

Ashley Bartenhagen []

For the sake of ALL children in the state of Iowa, PLEASE VOTE NO TO THIS BILL! This bill will be detrimental to students, teachers, and school districts as a whole. Please put our children FIRST!

01-30-2024

Bradley O []

In our current political climate Ds and Rs cant even agree on what day it is but are in lock step on how awful this bill is. This bill does nothing to make this state better and all it is serving to do is cut services meant to support the most vulnerable of our society. Please stand up for those who arent able to have a voice and stand up for those that have given their professional lives to help these children.

01-30-2024

Crystal Klahsen [Rural serving SLP]

Dear Legislators, Thank you for coming to the table with open ears. I admit, I needed a massive refresher on how our Iowa House and Iowa Senate worked when I attended several meetings last week at the Capital. It was all out of my knowledge base. I fear this bill may be something that all our Legislators need additional information, observations,conversations and opportunities to learn the how and the why our AEAs are utilized as the currently operate. I encourage you to be brave, slow the consideration of this bill down. I fear this bill will impact our rural districts the most ans ultimately the children,families and educators I serve. This bill is one that has had significant bipartisan resistance. I believe it is because sometimes you cannot put a dollar amount on doing what is best for children in Iowa.

01-30-2024

Amanda Reese []

This is a bill that will negatively impact students in Iowa, and not just special ed students, although they're likely to be impacted the most. But, gen ed students will be impacted as well, particularly in our rural communities. Please, vote no on this bill.

01-30-2024

Cindy Lefeber []

Please take the time to study and think about what will happen to the children and parents/ families of Iowa if this bill is passed! This proposed bill will take away our rights as parents, communities, school boards and individuals to seek the best education for all students in Iowa. It will also take away so many jobs in Iowa and will negatively impact our economy. Please stop this bill and take the time to really study what you are doing. There really is no way that services and supports can be provided through the proposed bill in a timely and efficient way.

01-30-2024

Jean Coen []

As a mother & also as a form student of Iowa schools, I have for a long time struggled with understanding why lawmakers are determined to undermine a system that had been working for generations at supplying a public education that was looked up to across the country. This further demonstration of wanting to strip opportunity away from the less privileged is a sham. We are not a theocracy. We are a democracy that is simply supposed to function as a system by the people for the people. I strongly encourage my representative for Des Moines County to vote no on the poorly thought out, destructive bill. We need AEA and we deserve Special Education programs. My youngest daughter who suffered from cognitive deficits from complications at birth was truly helped by this system that assured her equal access to an education that taught her at a level she was able to actually learn at. Stop failing our children and stop legislating towards this agenda of dismantling our public school system.

01-30-2024

Flannery Beals []

Please vote NO! I recently read an article from the Iowa Standard that was written by Jon Dunwell (R), whom I respect and admire for his dedication to supporting our children in a way that is not rash or reckless and for his due diligence to his constituents. He posed the following COMMON SENSE questions that I implore you to consider before this bill leaves the subcommittee: "1. We need to begin with the rural in mind. How does this help my rural districts? If larger districts leave an AEA, will it reduce services to the smaller districts?" (Yes.) 2. "What specifically are the positive outcomes/benefits the proposed plan will bring to our students and staff? How will it raise test scores? Will it provide more boots on the ground, better quality of services, or easier access to services?" (There is no evidence to substantiate the proposed legislation will enhance our education system or improve the alleged and inflated educational deficiencies.) 3. "What are the benefits to placing the AEAs directly underneath the Department of Education? Why is this accountability better than the existing accreditation standards? Will the regionality of the AEAs be lost?" (Read the second question twice.) 4. "What are the specific services that will no longer be available from the AEAs? Why shouldnt they be offered by the AEAs?" (I am wondering the same. This bill has been delivered in such way that it suggests school districts will have the autonomy to spend the money the way they want. That could not be farther from the truth; schools can only provide the services that are approved by the DoE. This amended piece alone makes this bill a moot point.) Throughout this process, I know the governor has made several completely untrue statements or at least statements that were made with the intent to deceive. However, there is one thing she said that is true in every respect Iowans are passionate about our kids. This passion has been demonstrated in all of the legislative forums, on social media, and most importantly, in your inbox. I know the governor created this bill as surreptitiously as one could, so we cannot and will not put any blame or responsibility on you in terms of its creation. We can and will, however, put responsibility on you if you support this bill, even though it is undoubtedly the most unpopular bill Iowa has ever seen and it will inevitably lead to inequity we cannot even fathom. In closing, I am hoping you have the courage to do the right thing, I am hoping you ask yourself if this bill will truly support students and their educators and, most of all, I am hoping you do your own research and factcheck what you are being told by the governor instead of taking it at face value, do you remember when this whole bill was predicated on the misleading statement that the AEAs were exclusively designed to support students with disabilities? Please be brave for our students, their families and the educators who beg for support to ensure their success.

01-30-2024

Michelle Hicks []

Please do NOT let Governor Reynolds BULLY you into dismantling AEAs. She has proven time and time again that she does NOT care about how her ideas negatively impact Iowas children!!Large districts may be able to hire some of the services the AEA currently provides but there is no way rural schools will be able replace the resources they currently receive from the AEA!!!And why the rush?!? Something this impactful should be studied!If passed as proposed, by July 1 all districts will be responsible for figuring out how to replace most of the resources provided by the AEA and would leave hundreds of people across the state without jobs. It is truly scary for the people of Iowa!PLEASE stand up for Iowa teachers and kids! Please speak up AGAINST this insanity!!! Vote NO

01-30-2024

Kristen Krambeer []

I urge you to please refrain from proceeding forward with HSB 542 without proper due diligence. As a disability advocate who has seen firsthand the support given to students, caregivers, and school districts from the AEA, I am aware of the vital support they provide to districts across the state beyond the budget numbers you are using to make your decision. I am asking for the subcommittee to consider the following options prior to making a decision: Take one year to compile a thorough review of each AEA and the impact to the stakeholders they serve. Talk with the families who receive the services, school staff, and disability providers. As legislators your priority should be to the people you serve. Individuals diagnosed with a disability are the largest minority group in the state. If you truly want to do what is best for your constituents, beyond the budget, then you should be able to sit down and have conversations before you cut services. If you haven't been in the disability or education field, you can't make sweeping changes without acknowledging that you don't know what you don't know. That would be like a businessman walking onto a farm in January and deciding to sell half the farmland because he didn't see the point of all the land when crops couldn't be grown in the off season. Acknowledge that we can be better, but we didn't get to our current situation without poor decisions along the way. We used to be a state that prided ourselves on education but stopped making education a priority. This has created an environment where we stopped paying teacher and support staff a fair wage and resulted in a mass exodus of qualified educators. Yes, changes are being made, but that doesn't change the ripple effect of previous actions. In addition, we have expected individuals with disabilities to meet education standards without understanding that each student in special education is unique and may not reach unattainable milestones set by a state education system that does not understand them or their needs. This is not the fault of the AEA. That would be like a farmer blaming the seed company for the lack of rain. Sit in an IEP meeting or multiple IEPs. IEPs are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA is a federal law providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Each year the student, caregivers, education staff, AEAs, advocates, and any other person chosen by the caregiver to attend, meet to review and update the students IEP. Per federal law, this is a legally binding document and ensures the student has the service and supports needed to be successful in the school system. Those supports come from school staff and AEA staff, who are highly trained to provide disability services. Caregivers, Educators and AEA staff spend countless hours each year working as a team to plan the best course of education support for their student. If you want oversight, you must first understand the process and support needed for our most vulnerable population. I have many additional thoughts on HSB542, but the overarching theme would be, should legislators make sweeping changes based on their own feelings, emotions, and budget spreadsheets without having a true understanding of the people, the system, and hard facts to back up their position? Would you cut off a hand because it has a painful wart? Or would you seek medical attention from a trained professional and have the wart removed and keep your hand? Please don't cut off the hand of support to the AEAs till you fully understand the impact it will have on our students, educators, and families across Iowa.

01-30-2024

Dana McIntire [GPAEA]

As an Illinois resident who CHOOSES to work in your great state of Iowa (and there are a lot of us), we bring jobs, business, and money to your state so please hear us out too. We come to your state because this AEA system far exceeds any other system I have ever worked for. The collaboration, professional development, guidance, support, administration, it is all necessary to make schools run and students succeed. Lets please remember, all students are general education students first, and this bill hurts ALL students. It takes away resources, support, learning, professional development, people who have committed their life to working with students and schools to support childhood development and education. Please do not let this bill go any further without seeking the advice of the ones of us actually in the schools, doing the work, and making an impact on our students. As an SLP, I DO work directly with students and this bill could push me to have go somewhere else. Please stop this bill where it is now.

01-30-2024

Laura Horn []

As a parent, my firstborn used the speech services of the AEA throughout elementary school. Those services were vital to get him caught up with his peers after multiple ear infections and hearing loss led to speech issues in his developmental years. Without the AEA speech services, it would have taken him much longer to catch up (if he ever would have).As an educator, I have used the AEA services more times than I can count or list here. I have always taught in smaller school districts, who will be burdened with the proposed changes to the AEA this bill brings.Ultimately, I'm horrified by how quickly this is being shoved through. We are looking at a loss of countless services that have 50 or more years of data to show how effective and important they are. There are multiple AEAs who serve a wide variety of districts, all with differing needs. Please vote NO. The homework and research hasn't been done with this bill, not to the extent that is ethical. There hasn't been enough time.I know you have been inundated with comments, emails, phone calls, etc. I thank you for listening, and I hope you realize that the sheer volume of correspondence shows just how important AEAs are to this state. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Fred Patin [Parent of Student that received AEA services]

I am a concerned parent and advocate for the Area Education Agency (AEA) in Iowa. I am deeply troubled by the potential consequences of the proposed Senate Study Bill 3073/House Study Bill 542 and feel compelled to express my strong opposition to it.One of the primary concerns I wish to highlight is the significant loss of jobs for thousands of AEA employees that could result from the enactment of this bill. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in providing essential support and resources to our schools, particularly in rural areas where access to specialized services may be limited. The potential impact on their employment is a matter of great concern, not just for them but also for the students and families who depend on their expertise.Furthermore, I am troubled by the bill's apparent oversight in addressing access and resources for rural buildings. Every student, regardless of their geographical location, deserves equal access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) as mandated by the foundational principle of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Restricting access in rural areas not only goes against the principles of inclusivity and fairness but also undermines the educational opportunities for students in these regions.My personal experience with AEA has been overwhelmingly positive. AEA provided my youngest son with exceptional services and support throughout his kindergarten and firstgrade years. The progress he made under AEA's guidance was remarkable, allowing him to graduate out of services as he achieved a high level of functioning. AEA not only supported my son but also provided our family with clear expectations and invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of education for a child with special needs.The provision in the proposed bill that allocates funds to schools for contracting with private service providers raises concerns about potential bias based on financial considerations. AEAs are known for making unbiased decisions and providing services based on individual student needs, rather than financial motivations. This provision could compromise the quality and impartiality of services provided to students with special needs.Moreover, recent statements on social media, including a Facebook post by the Governor's office, stating that AEAs are failing students, are both factually inaccurate and damaging to the reputation of AEAs. Such misinformation creates a negative and slanderous image, which could influence schools to reconsider their association with AEAs despite their proven track record of excellence in providing specialized education services.In conclusion, I urge you to consider the broader implications of SSB 3073/HSB 542 on students with special needs in Iowa. AEAs have been instrumental in providing vital services to families like mine, and any measures that might jeopardize their ability to continue this important work should be approached with great caution.Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will carefully consider the potential impact on students with special needs and the vital role that AEAs play in ensuring their success.

01-30-2024

Hannah Rumohr []

Please vote no on this bill! Consider the outpouring of opposition to this bill and take the wellbeing of Iowas children into consideration. Those who are unable to use their voice depend on us to advocate for them. This will impact every single student and set Iowa as a whole back significantly.

01-30-2024

Holly Lindberg []

This bill would be detrimental to many students, families and employees in our state. As a homeschooling parent in our district my family benefits from the resources offered through the AEA and we have utilized them. I oppose this bill.

01-30-2024

Audrey Mensen []

Please listen to the people who elected you to be our voice and VOTE NO. This bill will hurt all students and districts. I urge you to listen to the people doing the work and have an understanding of the ins and outs of the system. Slow this down and take the necessary time to get all of the necessary information before making such a drastic change to a system that works.

01-30-2024

Jayne Parsons []

Please honor the wishes of those that choose you to represent us and do not allow this bill to move forward. I am a recently retired special education teacher from a smaller district who had the opportunity to use and benefit from AEA services for 36 years. I understand the difference they make and how vital services are for all students please take a reasonable approach study with all stakeholders any changes or improvements that can be made overtime. It makes no sense to destroy a functioning and needed system for no plan in a few short months. Thank you

01-30-2024

Jayne Parsons []

01-30-2024

Jayne Parsons []

01-30-2024

Molly Klocke []

This has received a lot of attention from the media and on social networks.I have many concerns about this bill. One that I would like toexpress is that being from a nonmetro part of the state I think it causes concerns.Many of the people that currently work with the AEAs actually live in our smaller communities. I am afraid if the restructuring of the AEA system includes more centralization the resources won't be as responsive to the needs of students.It would be taking good jobs away from all parts of the state and moving them to the cities. I am afraid the employees will not want to live and work in the smaller communities. They will just want to do this work remote and the students will not get the education that they deserve.

01-30-2024

Lisa Yoder []

As a "bootsontheground" provider for the AEA I oppose this bill for many reasons. I have already sent letters to the Ed committee and my local legislators, so I will keep this brief and simply ask, "Are you listening to the citizens of the state of Iowa when you vote on this bill?"

01-30-2024

Kelly Gravett []

As a parent of three school age children, a public educator, and concerned Iowa citizen. I strongly oppose this bill that is dismantling the Iowa AEA. This will be devastating to Iowa children, families, and schools, especially in rural areas. Is this the end goal? To ruin our educational system in Iowa? I am a proud educator and I can honestly say my students and I use services, both special education and others DAILY within our school day. There is a better solution.

01-30-2024

Jessica Roman []

This bill as it stands will have catastrophic effects on our students and schools, especially those in rural areas. There are no pediatricians, pediatric specialty clinics (OT, PT, SLP, behavior therapies) in any of the rural counties where I work. Families are driving 4590 minutes to access pediatric medical care, and depend on the local, easily accessible AEA services. AEA providers from Early ACCESS through high school work with schools and families as a team to provide a seamless continuum of services when needed, and also through the transitions out of special education when warranted. This bill is like taking a sledgehammer to every wall of the house because someone saw a puddle on the kitchen floor. In this case, the puddle is test scores (NAEP) from roughly 250 students; Iowa has 75,000 students in special education. Thats 0.3%. When else would we consider dismantling a system that has provided equitable services for decades over one data source that represents less than a percentage point of an entire population? VOTE NO.

01-30-2024

Jeff Nance [Trinity Lutheran School]

I am writing to strongly encourage you to vote no on the new bill that would eliminate the Area Education Agencies (AEA) in our state. This bill would be detrimental to the state of education. As an educator of over 30 years in public schools (Chariton, South O'Brien, PCM, Central City, Davenport West, Olin, and WACO) and Nonpublic (Dyersville Beckman, and currently at Trinity Lutheran in Cedar Rapids), I cannot possibly count the number of times I have relied on the expert knowledge from the AEA staff. This year alone I have been helped by an AEA Math Consultant, School Improvement Consultant, Social Studies Consultant, and Computer Science Consultant. They have helped with strategies to adopt ad new math curriculum, and given advice on interventions related to general education students. The adoption of adding Computer Science to our standards has been guided by an AEA consultant in what we need to do and how to rewrite our technology plan to meet these new standards. Honestly, I could go on and on of the tremendous impacts the AEA has had on both students and adults. Their impact reaches further than just when students are in school. Their compassion and dedication to the children they serve indescribable to what they do for kids. I have become a better educator and leader due to the training I have received from the AEA. I have used the AEA in all my continuing education classes. I am able to take what I learn at these trainings and implement them into my daily practices as a leader which benefits all students and staff members. I firmly believe Governor Reynolds has brought politics into education on this issue. It appears her main goal is to completely destroy the education system in favor of privatization and radical ideas. She blatantly did not tell the whole picture about the purpose of the AEAs simply so she could press her agenda. The people of Iowa have spoken out against her plan. As a leader and legislator, it is your responsibility to listen to and represent the people based on all the information. This bill is not supported with any substantial data and the people of Iowa have spoken loudly in their disagreement with this piece of legislature. I ask that you please make sure you are fully informed of the impact this bill would have on the education system. The future of Iowa's children is on the line here. The impacts the AEAs have had on students far outweighs any false negative connotations that our governor is spreading throughout the state. While I fully understand leadership means making difficult decisions, those decisions should be made for the greater good of the people. That is why I ask you to be a leader in this situation and say no to this destructive piece of legislation. There appears to be a lack of data to support these drastic changes. Basing these decisions without the input of the people of Iowa is reckless and downright negligent. Sincerely,Yours in Education.

01-30-2024

Kristin Stanford []

Please vote no to this bill. The way in which the governor is rushing to push this bill through, without allowing the voices of parents, AEA staff and school staff to be heard and a true analysis done is disturbing. Governor Reynolds has paid an outside agency to suggest gutting the AEA supports and giving all oversight to the Department of Ed. This deal smells bad and will hurt our children.

01-30-2024

Deanna Etherington []

Please vote no on this bill for all of the reasons mentioned in these comments and more that we cant even begin to foresee or understand at this time. This bill will impact ALL Iowa students negatively. I have personally benefitted from several AEA services as a student, parent and educator. I had a wonderful, world class education growing up in a small rural community. My children have the same in a suburban community. When I was in school, Iowa was rated number 1 in education and I was proud of that so much so that I became an educator. Please do not remove or drastically alter ANY of the critical supports that AEAs provide to ALL students, especially those with special needs, without a comprehensive study by the highly qualified people who LIVE in this state, including impacted educators and parents. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully signed.

01-30-2024

David Castelluccio []

I am heavily opposed to this bill. The governor is basing her arguments on misinformation and distorted facts to create a solution in search of a problem. My family has benefited greatly through the multiple services provided by the AEA's. From talented and gifted summer programs for our kids, to licensure courses for my spouse to retain her teaching license, and to technical assistance during the pandemic, among others. The farreaching impacts of these changes to our educational system have not been discussed nearly enough. Teachers absolutely rely on the support of the AEA's from science/math/reading kits, digital and technical training to assist/enhance their curriculum, counseling and training in dealing with behavior issues in the classroom, new teacher onboarding and support, etc...... Taking away any, or all, of these supports will make their jobs even more difficult and stressful (if that is possible). This political stunt by our governor needs to be rebuked due to its enormously detrimental impact on the citizens of our state.

01-30-2024

Jeff Nance [Trinity Lutheran School]

I am writing to strongly encourage you to vote no on the new bill that would eliminate the Area Education Agencies (AEA) in our state. This bill would be detrimental to the state of education. As an educator of over 30 years in public schools (Chariton, South O'Brien, PCM, Central City, Davenport West, Olin, and WACO) and Nonpublic (Dyersville Beckman, and currently at Trinity Lutheran in Cedar Rapids), I cannot possibly count the number of times I have relied on the expert knowledge from the AEA staff. This year alone I have been helped by an AEA Math Consultant, School Improvement Consultant, Social Studies Consultant, and Computer Science Consultant. They have helped with strategies to adopt ad new math curriculum, and given advice on interventions related to general education students. The adoption of adding Computer Science to our standards has been guided by an AEA consultant in what we need to do and how to rewrite our technology plan to meet these new standards. Honestly, I could go on and on of the tremendous impacts the AEA has had on both students and adults. Their impact reaches further than just when students are in school. Their compassion and dedication to the children they serve indescribable to what they do for kids. I have become a better educator and leader due to the training I have received from the AEA. I have used the AEA in all my continuing education classes. I am able to take what I learn at these trainings and implement them into my daily practices as a leader which benefits all students and staff members. I firmly believe Governor Reynolds has brought politics into education on this issue. It appears her main goal is to completely destroy the education system in favor of privatization and radical ideas. She blatantly did not tell the whole picture about the purpose of the AEAs simply so she could press her agenda. The people of Iowa have spoken out against her plan. As a leader and legislator, it is your responsibility to listen to and represent the people based on all the information. This bill is not supported with any substantial data and the people of Iowa have spoken loudly in their disagreement with this piece of legislature. I ask that you please make sure you are fully informed of the impact this bill would have on the education system. The future of Iowa's children is on the line here. The impacts the AEAs have had on students far outweighs any false negative connotations that our governor is spreading throughout the state. While I fully understand leadership means making difficult decisions, those decisions should be made for the greater good of the people. That is why I ask you to be a leader in this situation and say no to this destructive piece of legislation. There appears to be a lack of data to support these drastic changes. Basing these decisions without the input of the people of Iowa is reckless and downright negligent. Sincerely,Yours in Education.

01-30-2024

Kathy Goedeken []

Please vote "No" to HSB 542. I work as a teacher librarian at two elementary schools in Cedar Rapids, and I am a parent of two children who attend public schools in Cedar Rapids. As a teacher librarian and parent, I have used many resources provided by Grant Wood AEA over the past 18 years. I am currently enrolled in an Elementary Computer Science Course taught by the Grant Wood AEA Digital Learning Consultants. I have attended fullday workshops offered by Grant Wood AEA Digital Learning Consultants for teacher librarians. Digital Learning Consultants have visited me at my schools to help me implement computer science and learn about coding robots. Without these opportunities provided by Grant Wood AEA, I would have received very little training or support to learn how to teach the computer science requirements that were passed by Iowa legislatures several years ago for K12 students. Their services are invaluable to my professional growth and the lessons that I am able to teach my students. I have also checked out professional journals and coding robots from Grant Wood AEA. Their online resources are necessary for my students. Without them, my students would not have access to online encyclopedias, ebooks, audiobooks and much more. If these AEA resources are taken away, it will create a huge inequity and disservice to all schools.

01-30-2024

Lindsay Witt []

Please, please vote NO to this limiting bill. As the parent of a special needs child I cannot express enough how much the AEA has helped my son. We had multiple modalities of therapists come to our home to work with him starting at 1 year old. In 3 year old preschool the AEA provided a special tricycle so that he could play the same as his peers. He's currently THRIVING and loving school because he's doing so well. As a parent it's heartbreaking to not have the tools to help your child and the AEA is the bridge that is needed! Cutting the AEA's resources is not the answer. Please vote NO to this limiting bill.

01-30-2024

Grant Gaumer []

I strongly oppose this bill. Both of my girls benefited greatly from the AEA. You can quit attacking public education anytime now. Theres half a million children that rely on public education in our state and were tired of these cuts. We will see more negative impacts in future years because of these cuts. Our school districts will not be able to match the same services the AEA offers because of your property tax relief bill limiting tax levies.

01-30-2024

Angie DeWaard []

Good morning,I wanted to additionally comment and mention that it would be highly advantageous to have the involvement of urban and rural superintendents, school board members, and teachers (particularly special education) in a formal and impartial review of the AEA and its services. This review can be performed in a way that utilizes realworld data on how the school districts use AEA services. It would also be helpful to come up with a cost/benefit calculator that measured current costs to the state/schools for comprehensive AEA services vs projected costs to move to a contracted, feeperservice model. This would give a far more objective, common sense basis (utilizing realworld data) for any changes. Thank you for your time!

01-30-2024

Tom Nixon []

Please vote NO on this bill.Absolutely nothing in this bill is designed to improve student outcomes and if it is, neither the Governor nor any of its proponents have demonstrated this to voters. No one is asking for this. I have yet to see a single School Superintendent in favor of it. To the best of my knowledge, no school districts are advocating for this. If improving student outcomes is something that we all agree on, then the Governor should craft a bill that shows Iowans how she's going to do it. The fig leaf of offering more 'local control' while simultaneously consolidating more power and creating more bureaucracy in Des Moines benefits somebody but not students.These services are vital to families all across this state.Please vote NO on this bill.

01-30-2024

William Pattee []

In addition to undoing a majority of the essential services AEAs provide to schools and all students, one of the most concerning things about this bill is the transfer of decisionmaking authority away from local boards to the Director of the DE. If a school thought it was in the best interest of students to engage with the AEA for Media/Digital Resources or other services, it must obtain approval from the Director of the Department of Ed, which could simply be denied. It also lacks funding for school districts that do choose to engage the AEA for whats left of Media Services (if allowed by the Director). Under this proposal, school districts must reduce their tax ley to account for the removal of Media Services, otherwise the Department of Management will do it. In essence, this is a decrease of funding for public schools. It will force districts to choose between spending remaining dollars on core content, education instructional services or media/digital resources. To be effective, teachers should have access to all three! This is going to widen the resource gap between urban and rural schools, leaving students in smaller school districts at a disadvantage. This legislation also prohibits the economical sharing of positions between AEAs and school districts and would terminate existing agreements (for positions like such as social workers, school business officials, teacher librarians and technology staff). Again, this is going to leave small, medium and rural school districts, who already struggle to fill positions at a distinct disadvantage. This bill should not be allowed to advance any further.

01-30-2024

Megan Walsh [Hillcrest Academy]

Please vote NO to this bill! I am a firstyear 6thgrade math and social studies teacher at Hillcrest Academy, a rural private school outside Kalona. In the last 8 weeks of classes, I have met with my firstyear induction coach from the Grant Wood AEA six times. I have met with my math consultant twice, and she helps me fill in learning gaps and deficits for students (we are currently planning instruction for students who require additional support by law through their 504 plans, which are often drafted and supported by the AEA). All 26 of my students have used digital library resources provided by Grant Wood to conduct social studies research. The 6thgrade team has met with a Special Education consultant to discuss strategies to support a student who is in the midst of a mental health crisis. Eliminating these resources would be doing all of the students at our school a MASSIVE disservice as we do not have the resources or the funding to use these resources or to create them within our school. Representatives Dawn Driscoll and Heather Hora from Washington County visited our 6thgrade classrooms on December 7, 2023, and gave us the impression that they were extremely supportive of the work that we have done in our school to allow families access to alternative and highquality 612 education. Without resources from the AEA, I believe that all schools in our area, including ours, would not have the funds or the resources to even come close to meeting the needs of our students, as well as providing opportunities to have a quality education. Please consider the negative implications of this bill, as it has the power to destroy rural education for public and private institutions. Vote NO!

Attachment

01-30-2024

Julie Long []

Please vote NO on this bill. I have seen up close, the positive differences AEA services and their professionals can make on students lives. These services advocate and support those with learning and physical disabilities. We should be supporting these services, not trying to dismantle them. Shame on those who would want to.

01-30-2024

Sydney Brandel []

I urge you to oppose HSB542 which proposing drastic changes to Iowa's educational structure and jeopardizes numerous support for our children in public and nonpublic schools. It will single handily destroy the foundation of our educational structure in the state. It threatens local control by removing Board governance, it aims to privatize education through paid contracts for special education services, removes critical supports from students and schools through Media and Instruction, and demands increased workloads for our schools (private and public alike). Our teachers, kids, and communities will suffer This proposed bill has detrimental consequences.

01-30-2024

Melody Cordes []

HSB542 I am asking you to vote no on HSB 542. We need the AEA to help with the extra services in our school districts. Please do what is best to help educate our children. I am against HSB542. Melody Cordes

01-30-2024

Jessica Judkins []

I am writing to express my concern over HSB 542. As a former special education teacher, the services and resources the AEA provided to students in my classroom were priceless. Without them, my students would not have been as successful. As a parent, two of my children were automatic qualifiers for IFSPs based on their prematurity. We had a qualified teacher from our AEA coming to our home regularly to assist us with tracking development, providing resources in the community, and assisting us with developmentally appropriate learning activities to facilitate their development. Because of the valuable resources we received, our children were able to be discontinued from services at their 3rd birthday and have been meeting developmental milestones/grade level expectations ever since.As the spouse of an AEA employee, I am devastated at the recent social media posts of our governor placing sole blame on AEA staff for discrepancies in standardized testing data as it relates to special education students. From my observations, AEA staff are some of the best, most educated, and most experienced experts we have in this state regarding education. These people provide supports to some of the most challenging students Iowa has to offer. They need MORE support, not dismantling and consistently underfunding an agency that has been widely regarded as the best in the nation. IOWANS WANT AEAs.

01-30-2024

Piper Wood []

I add my voice to the chorus of Iowans teachers, parents, public school alumni across the state urging you to vote against this bill. As a constituent living in rural Iowa, I know that our schools, our teachers, and most importantly, our children, will be directly harmed by this bill. When I was growing up, my family chose to stay in Iowa because it was a place where I could get a quality public education. Without AEA services, and without access to a well funded public school, I would have never been a college graduate. I know that so many Iowans share a similar story of how teachers and AEA services have changed their lives, and I want to get our state back to its roots as a leader in education, but the provisions of this bill would take us miles away from that goal. I am urging you, protect the futures of our children and vote against these immense budget cuts. Sincerely, Piper Wood Decorah, Iowa resident

01-30-2024

Kassidy Brandel []

This bill will distroy the education structure in Iowa. A state once sought after from its educational standpoints, the passing of this bill would put us at the bottom. Taking away valuable resources from our Iowa students. Resources that are not seen everyday, however are the backbone to supporting the educational services provided to students. Vote NO to this bill!

01-30-2024

Julie Rau []

Please continue to block this legislation. This is surely a way to remove local control for AEA services. If the department of Ed is the decider of what the AEA can or cannot provide for their local schools, there will be No question what Director Snow will decide. She is under the power of the governor. And we know that Snow is a PROPONENT of private schools. This legislation is one more step to disband public schools. Also its disingenuous to continue to go AGAINST what the public wants for THEIR LOCAL SCHHOLS. Please vote against this.

01-30-2024

Eileen Lewis []

Before you vote, spend time seeing what AEA does everyday. Check with the teachers, administrators, parents and children they work with. You are supposed to represent the communities you serve. So talk to your constituents. Dont blindly follow the people who destroyed the education systems in other states. That dont know how our state works. Are changes needed, probably, but why make changes without investigation. How about will this bill help the schools who cant afford to pay for the services the AEA gives them? This will destroy the education the smaller communities provide. Does the governor know that there are other school districts besides Des Moines?? Schools that have less than 1000 students? Schools that will cease to exist without the assistance of AEA?Please, please vote no or delay until you can investigate this matter.

01-30-2024

Caden Helle []

Please vote No to HSB542 and SSB3073. Iowas students need all AEA services. This bill would eliminate many supports and services all Iowas children need. Not to mention the hundreds of jobs people would be losing.

01-30-2024

Abby Lynn []

I urge you to pause on HSB 542 and seek a true in state comprehensive review of AEA and DE structure. Moving forward with this bill as written will be detrimental to our students and schools in Iowa. Pleas ask yourself, how this bill will help students before moving forward with your vote.

01-30-2024

Catelin Drey []

Please commit to voting no on this bill. Early childhood services are vital to the success of students later in their academic career. Students and teachers need the services that the AEA provides, especially in rural parts of our state. This bill will continue to strip public money from public services, privatizing services that are working for the majority of the intended beneficiaries.

01-30-2024

Lisa Metheny []

Please vote No! I have 7 children, 6 have had IEPs. My oldest had an issue with his eyes. Without AEAs fighting to get his books on tape we may not have even graduated. He also had anger issues that were resolved before entering kindergarten because of early access. He not only graduated with honors but went to college. My second son had speech services and was excited before kindergarten. He also was in TAG math that AEA helps support. He graduated from Iowa State and is full time in the Iowa National Guard. My third son was so far behind in reading and math. His speech was also behind. He is now caught up and AEA has helped create supports to have him succeeding with a 504 plan. My 4th son needed IEP for speech and behavior. I couldnt understand anything he said in1st grade still. He threw chairs when he was angry at school. He was majorly behind in reading. He now is above grade level and no longer needs an IEP. He is now manifesting from being in a tag program. My fifth son was testing at a 9 month level one month before turning 3. He had three words I could understand, he couldnt walk across a room. He is no longer on an IEP. Testing above grade level. In gymnastics. My youngest daughter did not respond to sound at all and AEA came in around her 1st birthday. They helped us navigate drs. And helped us with sign language. She now can respond to sound. And her speech is caught up. AEA helped us problem solved and get her all of the help she needed. I fully expect her to enter school and do fantastic. Without AEA the supports our family has needed my job as a parent would have been so much harder and I know my kids would have struggled more and we would not see the success we have. Please vote no to the whole bill!

01-30-2024

Jaci Jarmes [Christian, Mom, Educator, Rural Iowan, Voter]

The children and youth of Iowa deserve our very best. They deserve their elected officials to do the right thing for them. This proposed legislation has not been given the time necessary to make such high stakes decisions. As an Iowan, I implore you, take a year (or 2) and do a comprehensive review of ALL of the systems that impact our student's success. Bring the IDE, the AEA, Superintendents, Parents, Teachers, Students, and Legislators together and make decisions based off of multiple data points and perspectives. Our children and youth are worth it.

01-30-2024

Sam Crenshaw []

Please remove this bill. It will irreparably damage learning for those who do not fit any specific molds, including people who are dyslexic, deaf, and blind. I have friends in all three groups, my nieces are deaf, my dear friends are dyslexic, and several of my coworkers are blind. None of them would able to learn to adequately enter the job force without AEAs.

01-30-2024

Karen Springer []

As a retired Special educator in public education across three states, North Dakota, Iowa and Hawaii, I urge you all to vote a big NO to the bill as written. So many students with special needs have benefited from services provided by our AEAs. I have seen many, many Iowa students with special needs make significant educational gains and learn so many important life skills through the combined efforts of public schools and the area education agencies. When I hear our governor insist we need to do better for our students with special needs it means nothing. Seeing is believing and I have seen the current system work time and time again. Again vote NO!

01-30-2024

Jonathon Struve []

I urge you to vote no for any draconian cuts or reorganization of the AEA system in Iowa for a number of reasons. School districts depend on the education agencies for many educational supports, from talented and gifted programs, supplemental materials for curriculum, and specialists for a variety of student needs. What makes the AEA system work well is that districts pool resources, and that means that small schools can have access to services that they would never be able to provide if they had to contract privately. There has been little to no thought about what the new model would look like, and so one of the primary issues I have with this is it looks like the intent is not to get better services, but actually to cut them entirely.One of the arguments that has been put forth is that making it so districts don't have to funnel funds through the AEAs is that it would give the districts greater "freedom" and "flexibility." However, by threatening the jobs of those educational experts currently contracted for the state and forcing them to move into an independent field, in a market where there are FEW experts in these fields, they are not going to stay in Iowa and wait around for the dust to settle. They are going to leave. And we'll have a "market" made up of no one who will be there for the students and no one for the districts to rely on. And, since we want to talk about the free market so much, what happens in basic economics when there is little of a particular commodity and high demand? The price goes up. Right now, districts cooperate to share resources. This model would require that districts compete for those resources. All this will do is limit access and erode the quality of our educational system even further. The governor cites a "needs improvement" marker from 2018 as a reason for dismantling the entire system. I'm sorry, but what plan has been hashed out in six years? Why wasn't it a priority then? The fact is that there is NO plan in place. The only thing that I see as the benefit is the money that could be cut from education.School districts don't want the AEAs dismantled. Even the pet private schools I'm now against my will paying for in my taxes by and large have some contracts with AEAs to provide educational resources to students. The ONLY people who want it are government people. That should be a major red herring. If the professionals in the field don't want the change, why do government officials think they know better? I'm going to tell you, they don't. In her speeches, Governor Reynolds has relied on a blinding array of buzzwords and empty rhetoric, talking of "efficiencies" and "flexibility," but if you actually CUT the funding, and CUT the programs, you're just passing the buck and the burden on school districts to do these contracts themselves, and the cost is going to go UP, not down. My dad was a county supervisor for a long time, and it was a state mantra, whenever they were looking for "efficiency," what they did was move things from the state to the local level taking highways out of state maintenance and making them county roads, asking counties to handle mental health costs. It doesn't make the programs cheaper, it doesn't improve them. All it does is make the state not have to pay for it anymore and then look the other way. I'm afraid that I don't believe that this bill is in the best interests of education. I think rather the governor's motivation here is to cut funding to the AEAs to help her realize her vision for cutting the state income tax. And, I'm sorry, but doing that on the backs of students who need assistance, by eliminating educational experts who can provide services school districts cannot afford on their own to provide, and by saying that we don't need to have a program to support GIFTED students in our state, which is entirely in the purview of the AEAs, the message seems to me to be that this is against what people in education want, it's against what people who access these services want, and it's only FOR people who have no real interest in education whatsoever.Now, I would say that I'm not opposed to improving the services we offer in this state. I'm not opposed to actually supporting school districts and educational experts so that we actually deliver results as the governor states. However, the draconian ideas laid out in this bill and in her initial proposal simply do not do this.

01-30-2024

Tetesa Meierotto []

Please vote no. It doesnt appear that there was a needs assessment or input from the stakeholders. This will do more harm to Iowa education as programs continue to be cut, and the quality of education in Iowa has declined. This does a disservice to the residence of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Jocelyn Riggert [Cherokee Community School Board]

I am incredibly alarmed at the speed with which this bill is advancing. Any bill with such farreaching consequences deserves enough time for a thorough evaluation that includes facts driven by data, as well as input from a broad spectrum of leaders in education, and those directly affected by such a bill. Every education leader I have heard from has expressed grave concerns about this bill.Following are a few specific concerns for our district in rural Northwest Iowa. Navigating the added district responsibilities and proposed deadlines is entirely unrealistic. The ability for schools, particularly rural school districts like mine, to find and contract with specialists such as those the AEA provides would be nearly impossible. Additional resources provided by the AEA give our students access to an array of materials that would be cost prohibitive for our school to acquire on its own.When our district has a need, we are able to connect with the AEA the same day. Within the week, they are onsite providing the resources our students need. When we attempt to connect with the Department of Education, we are lucky if we hear back within the week. Seeking resolution takes weeks, if not months. The thought of moving the AEA into that same framework is frankly tragic, as the result will be hurting students.I urge you to please bring these concerns into the conversation for HSB 542 and ultimately to vote NO on its passage.

01-30-2024

David Taylor [Western Illinois University ]

AEA's are necessary to our students, parents and teachers. In order for our children to be successful we must continue to give them all the tools they need to accomplish their goals. I oppose this bill. Focus on the real issues, this is not something to tamper with. The impact would be devistating to our children and we will see the effects years from now and regret it

01-30-2024

Jesse Tvrdy []

I needed to repost my comment as it had a couple of errors I needed to correct.Vote NO for this bill. Let me try to point out a couple of reasons this is a very poor decision and will hurt Districts. 1. By eliminating the services AEA provides, Districts have to find them on their own. They are terribly expensive, and many will not be found in rural areas.2. The district's money will only cover some of the costs, not all by a long shot! They will need parttime people in hardtofind areas. It will force districts to make collective agreements together to agree on employees. This will be time intensive, and finding employees to work across several districts on shared contracts is not desirable for them; they will look elsewhere! Basically, districts will have to recreate their own mini AEAs. 3. The cost of items the AEA buys statewide to give to all districts will be atomically more expensive when districts try to purchase them as single entities; they will not be affordable! 4. A district may not need all the services the AEA offers, but they have an insurance policy by having the AEA that they are there almost immediately if the need arises. For example, a family moved to a rural district with a deaf and blind child, and now the district needs multiple specialist supports. 5. Currently, a District has a concern with a family, and an IEP AEAs provide family support and works as a mediator to help come to a collective agreement without a state complaint and using District money in potential lawyer fees. This happens more than you think and saves districts thousands of dollars! 6. Principals and Superintendents have cell phone numbers if AEA staff can call day or night in need and get immediate help. They will never get that type of support again! 7. Families who have a child and at the hospital find out their child is disabled and are deviated will not have an AEA employee show up to tell them it will be okay, and they will be there to provide family support speech, OT, PT, and come to their home from birth to school to help! These are just a few reasons this bill makes no sense and should be stopped. Take areas of concern and have AEA and all parties work together to become better. Don't destroy a system that does so many things that can not be replicated because the Governor throws out a bill with misleading information that will take a decade to rebuild once done!

01-30-2024

Scot Hughes []

This rushed and misguided legislation will only add to the continued deterioration of public education services in Iowa. This bill attempts to fix problems that do not exist, while creating additional problems by reducing funding for media services and other assistance provided by AEAs. It is yet another of the continual efforts to reform public education by taking away state funding and directing it toward private businesses.If the Governor feels there are savings and improvements to be had in the AEAs, then a study should be instituted to uncover those improvements and savings. But this study should include all stakeholders parents, teachers, schools, and other Iowa residents and should take a serious, careful approach to its responsibilities, rather than a topdown mandate rushed through the Statehouse at record speed.AEAs provide important, desperately needed services to students and school districts across Iowa, and are especially key to the success of smaller, rural districts. Changing or slashing AEAs without careful consideration of the results is foolish and shortsighted. I urge more study before voting on this measure.

01-30-2024

Jessica Judkins []

As a former special education teacher, the services and resources the AEA provided to students in my classroom were priceless. Without them, my students would not have been as successful. As a parent, two of my children were automatic qualifiers for IFSPs based on their prematurity. We had a qualified teacher from our AEA coming to our home regularly to assist us with tracking development, providing resources in the community, and assisting us with developmentally appropriate learning activities to facilitate their development. Because of the valuable resources we received, our children were able to be discontinued from services at their 3rd birthday and have been meeting developmental milestones/grade level expectations ever since. As the spouse of a dedicated AEA employee, the governors recent social media post was a slap in the face to all of the AEA employees who work tirelessly to help students with special needs in Iowa. Listen to your constituentsIOWANS WANT AEAs.

01-30-2024

Steve Dunn []

I oppose HSB 542, which would make major changes to Area Education Agencies that have provided valuable services to Iowans for many years.My sevenyearold grandson would not have had speech therapy services provided by the local AEA. It really made a difference for him.My oldest daughter would not have had her substitute teacher authority without the local AEA.AEA staff are in her school building on a daily basis. They help special education teachers and general education teachers make plans for students who are diagnosed (and those who have not yet been diagnosed) as autistic or adhd. Private entities that do that kind of work are backlogged and expensive.In short, this proposed legislation is an attempt to fix a "problem" that does not exist. Yes, AEAs' services have expanded over the years. But so have the needs of public schools as the state's population and demographics have changed markedly over the years. I see this every week when I read with students in the Des Moines Public Schools.I sincerely hope you will vote "no" when your education subcommittee meets Wednesday.Sincerely,Steve DunnDes Moines

01-30-2024

Julie Reed []

I oppose this bill as written. I am an Iowa educator of 32 years. Tying teacher salaries to dismantling the AEA makes no sense. Dismantling the AEA without due diligence and a clear plan as to how the critical components that AEAs provide for districts makes no sense. Please rethink and listen to your constituents. Vote no.

01-30-2024

Wendy Parker []

I strongly urge you to vote no on this bill. As a 30 plus year educator in Iowa and a former Special Education Director for an AEA and Cedar Rapids I assure you that this bill will have a negative impact on not only students with IEPs , but all students. Special Education is in crisis in Iowa, not because of the AEA system, but due to many factors. It is imperative that you take the time to study why this crisis is occurring and what changes will actually make improvements to the system. This bill does nothing to impact the staffing shortages that are decimating special education services right now, it does nothing to support districts to provide effective services to students with challenging behaviors, it takes away funding for vital media services and districts will have to fund a replacement for this out of existing funds, it sends a working system into chaos because the timeline is simply too aggressive. The loss of local control for districts is mind numbing. Local district tax dollars purchased the media materials and facilities that this bill now gives to the state so they can have total control over it, even allowing them to sell what they receive and place those dollars into the general fund. The DE Director has the authority to approve staffing for the AEA and approve how districts spend the general education dollars from the AEA if they choose to keep them. Districts will need to advocate for services with the DE instead of the AEA and I do not see this being nearly as responsive for districts as their AEA partnerships. Please take the time to study shy special education is struggling, determine the root cause, do a thorough evaluation of the entire system, build a plan and get feedback on that plan, and then create an implementation plan that makes sense and will not harm students.

01-30-2024

Stacy Albus []

As a lifelong Iowan who has utilized AEA services myself and now for my son, PLEASE VOTE NO on this bill. The support the AEA's provide is lifechanging for parents and educators. Parents do not know what "options" they need to educate their child. Without AEA my child would have gone undiagnosed as his medical providers would not listen to me. The staff at AEA are experts in their related fields, they collaborate with one another for the best interest of children and families. Before the start of each school year, AEA staff meets with his teachers to help them understand his specific need to access the educational material. AEA support staff's involvement is almost immediate once a request has been generated.

01-30-2024

Sandy Webb [Retired]

Please vote NO to this bill. AEA's are vital to our education system. If you wish to make improvements, please evaluate first and go from there. My grandchildren who are in different school systems across the state all have used the services of AEA personnel. Vote NO!

01-30-2024

Debra Roberts []

Please vote NO! This whole plan on AEA is wrong and will hurt Iowa students beyond measure. Our AEAs offer services and resources in an economy of scale so that no school district is without vital services because they cannot afford them or those services are unavailable in their area.AEAs leverage economies of scale and deliver programs more efficiently than individual school districts could alone by providing services regionally. This helps save taxpayer dollars while still providing highquality services.AEAs help ensure equity among Iowa schools so they have access to what they need to succeed.What about bloated administration costs? AEAs follow the Iowa Code, which does not allow them to spend more than 5% of their total expenditures on administrative compensation. The percentage of administrative total spending in all of Iowas nine AEAs for all administrators is lower than the 5% limit.AEAs offer ALL of Iowas schools the ability to access specialists, equipment, and resources, ensuring equity among large and small schools in urban and rural areas.Large school districts may be able to share more resources or have the opportunity to purchase, rent, or contract equipment and agencies. Small school districts, which make up most of the schools in Iowa, will not have these options.AEAs serve as hubs for innovation and collaboration, bringing educators, community partners, and businesses together to develop and implement new initiatives that benefit students.Gutting Iowas AEA services will mean unequal access to stateoftheart learning opportunities for students.Classroom teachers, education support professionals, and administrators must fill in for the services removed from our AEAs specifically in rural areas where contracting out is not an option. That means school employee workloads increase exponentially.

01-30-2024

Ann Meiners []

Vote NO to HSB 542 and listen to the many Iowans who oppose gutting AEAs. Teachers' salary increases should be a separate bill. Iowa AEAs are essential to the overall successful student experience and the best way to provide quality professional help (counselors, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social workers, extended learning, etc.) is to share the resources in school districts through the AEAs. It is also important that these services are available in earlyaccess (BEFORE getting to school) and this bill would cut that completely. Listen to Iowans VOTE NO.

01-30-2024

Angie Ettleman []

I absolutely do not support this bill. Rural schools and the Department of Education are ill equipped to advocate for the needs of of our most vulnerable children. The AEA is a much needed organization, especially in rural Iowa. Like the PBMs are limiting access to healthcare, this bill will limit access to appropriate education for our children with special needs.

01-30-2024

Lynn Hodgeman [Retired GPAEA]

Please, please, please vote NO on this bill/amendment that will cause irreparable damage to Iowas's education system. It will impact every child in the state let alone educators, parents, districts. PLUS thousands of jobs will be lost by AEA staff who are dedicated to the education system in Iowa. How can you do that? Slow down. Look at the issues. Listen to the stakeholders. Read every one of these letters and all the others you have received. Vote NO.

01-30-2024

Kay Michaelson []

Please listen to your constituents and those Iowans across the state who are resoundingly asking you to vote no on the House and Senate bills. There is wisdom here that needs to be tapped in to when considering such a change to our childrens educational delivery. These strong opinions are what should drive your decision making and the process you utilize in the future to explore new legislation. Go to those directly involved with the AEA. Therein will lie the solutions if a problem is even found.

01-30-2024

Mitchell Holtzman []

This should be a nobrainer for anyone that cares about educating the leaders of the future. The AEA services are a benefit to so many students, and society as a whole. The only people in favor of this bill are those that get their support from uneducated voters.

01-30-2024

Keely Ruby []

This bill does not address the needs of all students. It does not address the education of ANY child. Books, audio books, ebooks,science kits, STEM&VR kits, Science supply kits, Math Kits, History & Culture kits, Literacy kits, Story Apron kits, Family and Consumer Science kits, Music kits, Geography kits, Professional books,Book of the Month Reading Level and Interest Level section, boxed book sets,Professional Curriculum kits, Iowa History kits, Print shop services, Technology services, Assistive Technology kits, OT/PT Equipment, and Van/Mail Delivery will all be GONE!!!

01-30-2024

Michelle Townsend []

As an Iowan raised by a SpEd professional, I am incredibly disheartened to see this bill. Iowas fall from the education standard to among the lowest in the nation is not the fault of public schools or AEAs, but is caused by a consistent failure of our governor and the GOP legislators doing her bidding to adequately support schools and the AEAs. Her thinly veiled attacks against our teachers, students (especially the most vulnerable), and education professionals have done nothing to bolster educational outcomes or improve the services provided by the AEAs. Underfunding and increased bureaucracy are not going to increase test scores. Depriving Iowans of access to meaningful services provided by knowledgeable professionals will not create positive educational outcomes. There has been an outcry against this bill simply because it is wrong it does nothing to solve problems or address inadequacies. Stop this malicious attack and put together a comprehensive review plan, with folks who understand the AEAs and their relationship to all schoolaged children, in order to evaluate what needs to be changed. The governor is neither an education expert nor a friend to Iowans who receive services from or provide services through our AEAs. Vote no.

01-30-2024

John Dawson []

Subject: Urgent: Please Vote "No" to Bill 542To Whom It May Concern,I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 542 and to urge you to vote "no." As a member of the Republican Party, I am deeply concerned about the lack of transparency and public engagement in the consideration of this bill. I was not invited to any town hall meetings to discuss its implications, and I believe that the voices of the community are not being adequately heard.One of the most troubling aspects of Bill 542 is its potential to eliminate the Area Education Agencies (AEA) in Iowa. I have personally witnessed the vital role that AEA plays in supporting children with disabilities in our schools. In elementary schools, I have seen how teachers struggle to handle students with disabilities, often resorting to isolating them in restrictive environments for exhibiting outbursts. It is evident that many teachers are not adequately trained to address these complex challenges. My own experience living with my grandson during his elementary years highlighted these issues until the AEA intervened and provided crucial support. Thanks to the AEA's involvement, my grandson received an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and made significant progress. Now, as he prepares to have his IEP reviewed, I can confidently say that none of this progress would have been possible without the collaboration between the AEA and our school.Today, my grandson is a freshman on the honor roll, and I attribute much of his success to the invaluable support provided by the AEA. Therefore, I strongly believe that it is imperative to reject Bill 542. If this bill is passed, it will undoubtedly set back the progress of our education system in Iowa by decades, and the consequences will be detrimental to our students and their families.I implore you to consider the real impact that this bill will have on our community and to stand with us by voting "no" on Bill 542. It is crucial that our elected officials prioritize the wellbeing and education of our children over political agendas.Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.Sincerely,John DawsonJohnpdawsonjryahoo.com

01-30-2024

Patricia Fondren []

As a Special Education Teacher I ask that you vote, "NO" on this. They provide so much to the education system. Without all they do the quality of our services would go way down. Iowa would be going backward instead of forward.

01-30-2024

Brent Antisdel []

Stop gutting our public education system! Your selffulfilling prophecy of defunding our public schools only to see them fail is appalling. Then you have the audacity to blame them for it. Give the future generation a chance please.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Geraghty [AHSTW School District]

VOTE NO. I am a substitute teacher and the Mother of a student who has used these services in the past. He needed their help and we were so grateful. I do not see a benefit in the changes you are making; actually I see nothing but negative outcomes. Please do not destroy a system that has worked for a long time. Please do not give power to the wrong authorities. I'm disappointed this is even under review. DO BETTER for our kids and teachers and listen to your voters. Vote NO. You're going to degrade our education system, something Iowans have always been proud of. Thank you for your time.

01-30-2024

Savannah Nelson []

Please vote no on HSB 542 and SSB 3073. The amendment did not change the intent of the original bill. It does not provide direction to improve services for any student. Take more time before making a decision by asking or talking to all stakeholders groups and ask more questions!

01-30-2024

Donita Christensen []

Please vote no on HSB 542. This bill will cause harm to all children, families, and schools in Iowa. The AEA uses a service model that ensures ALL students and districts have fair and accessible services, whether they are in a city or a small town. It diminishes local voice which is what I thought Iowa stood for as State and gives it to the Department of Education. I ask that you join me in opposing this legislation in its current form. The governor promised a study and evaluation of the AEA system, but HSB 542 removes the possibility for any improvement because it eliminates large segments of the system entirely. This bill needs full public transparency and engagement from parents, students, teachers, administrators, and others who will be directly impacted.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Lorence []

I respectfully ask you to vote NO on the amended HSB 542. The amendment is no better than the original bill and will be devastating to education in Iowa. This bill will cause irrevocable damage to our schools and our children. I implore you to listen to your constituents and all of the people of Iowa and NOT to our governor. Do your due diligence take the time to gather facts and information with a group of IOWANS parents, teachers, AEA staff, superintendents not people from outofstate who know nothing about education in Iowa to make informed, intelligent decisions. Please do NOT allow this bill to advance!

01-30-2024

Angie Maher []

I am writing to express my opposition to this bill as written. I urge you to take the necessary time needed to conduct a thoughtful and comprehensive review and examine how this legislation will actually help students. I am asking you to vote no to this bill.

01-30-2024

Nancy Veldhuizen [NA]

I am strongly opposed to HBS 542. Hurriedly dismantling an organization that has been a staple in Iowa and that has supported Iowa students, families, and schools for 50 years does not make any sense. As stated on the DE website, As intermediate agencies, AEAs offer the kinds of services that can be most efficiently and economically provided on a regional or cooperative basis among school districts. The Iowa system is widely regarded as one of the foremost regional service systems in the country. This does not sound like a system that needs to be gutted. If there are concerns with the AEA, please compile a bipartisan committee who can talk to all stakeholders and review reliable, accurate data in order to make educated recommendations.

01-30-2024

Kristen Mead []

Vote no on HSB 542! This bill does not support students, teachers or staff and will damage our school system for generations to come. If anything more money and resources in our AEAs is what needs to happen. I do not support this bill!

01-30-2024

Amanda Wilcox []

Please oppose the Govenors AEA bill which gives unprecedented power to the Department of Education. How does this fill achievement gaps? How does this help kids? It doesnt. It takes away local support and control and funnels it to Des Moines. Please please slow this process and involve all stakeholders.

01-30-2024

Mary Jo Nordheim []

I urge you to take some time and research what the impact to our children and districts would be should this bill pass, especially to our small, rural districts. This is too important to our children to be pushed through so fast without further study and understanding.

01-30-2024

Larry Chaplin []

I write in opposition to HSB 542. I will be brief. The people of Iowa obviously do not support this bill, Public Education in Iowa has been a low priority for this Governor. Please let the Area Education Agencys do their very impotant work.

01-30-2024

Jeanelle Stokes [Parent, Grandparent, tax payer]

I am a parent of children who gained immensely from the help of AEA. Our son received early childhood intervention starting at 6 weeks of age. They helped with occupational therapy, speech, walking, all types of learning. They taught him sign language at 18 months, which helped him to comprehend words and also helped with frustration and behaviors. Do you understand what it would be like to not be able to talk and let others know what you need or want??? AEA KNEW HOW TO HELP!! He does now speak and still relies on sign language some.AEA not only helped us, but his teachers. I am not sure we would have made it without the help and guidance from AEA. Our son gained so much, it was invaluable to him and us as parents. We also had another son that received speech through the AEA and we have had grandchildren who have had help through the AEA and we have a grandchild right now that is receiving services. WE HAVE ALWAYS FELT BLESSED TO LIVE IN IOWA as they have a great educational system for ALL CHILDREN!!! Please dont change that!!! Our teachers have so many more pressures and stresses in todays schools. I dont understand why we would take their resources, their help and guidance from them. Our administrators and school board members have so many others jobs, they dont need to now research and seek out where they will find these services. Without funding for these, they cant afford it!!! AEA CUTSWhat is the governors ultimate purpose here? What is her real goal? I dont believe were hearing how this is going to help and what goals shes actually trying to achieve down the road. Lets have some truth!What is she really trying to do? Who is going to monitor all of these different agencies that schools pick to know that theyre doing what they should do. And why and how do you think theyre going to do a better job for our children? The AEA does so much to help advocate for the student, parents, and also for the schools. They help mediate between parents and schools. And when there is a tragedy such as in Perry, they show up and they help our students and teachers to deal with the tragedy that just happened. I dont know that you know everything that the AEA does and maybe Governor Reynolds you should look into all that they do for our schools. And I dont believe the money that you allot them is ever going to be enough to give them what AEA gives them now.Why????Why cut funds for are children? They are, our future!! Where are these funds going?? Is that more important than our children??How can this to a good thing?In the cities, schools may be able to find companies to provide these services..what about our rural communities??? There are not resources to be found. We also need directors in our rural areas to live and know the needs of our students. We do not need all the directors located in Des Moines Iowa where they only understand the big schools.Is cutting taxes more important than our children?I also know they provide help with at risk children. Are we just giving up on them?Please rethink this decision!!! This should not be taken lightly.

01-30-2024

Larry Chaplin []

01-30-2024

Brandon Stone []

This bill does not have the support from the people of Iowa as evidenced by the amount of people who continue to show up in opposition of the original draft and the current amended draft. This bill is not what Iowans want. Completely changing a system that operates as the state government has told it to operate for 50 years is not the answer. The governor promised a review and instead had an out of state company review state data and compare it to states that do not match Iowas population nor the way Iowa Entitles students. There is a lot to be done with education in this state. None of which is removing services to our public and private schools.

01-30-2024

Steve Hollan []

PLEASE vote NO for the bill that is trying to cut AEA support to our students, teachers and communities.Being in a rural community, schools and parents will be hurt BIG time by this. Services will have to be received in a larger community, thus taking students out of the classroom/school. Then we get into another issue, attendance & truancy because they are absent from school to receive services that are no longer provide by the AEA.So you can see this creates a problem that was never considered when looking to make this decision.Well, I can hear you saying they can get appointments before school or after school... Well that doesn't work that way for all students and families. One a small fraction of appointments are available before school and after school hours.What about the families that live 12 hours away from clinics that can provide them services needed? So look at the impact this is going to have of their education and the amount of school missed.SO now not only is the students missing school, but will be considered truant because of all the days or half days missed because of seeking services that they can not longer get from the AEA. AND the school get "punished" by the state for low attendance rates, because of student(s) having to travel off campus for support no longer provided by the AEA.Many other examples, this is just one of them....Thanks for listening,Steve Hollan

01-30-2024

Larry Chaplin [Retired]

01-30-2024

Chelsey Markle []

I would like to express my concern that this proposed legislation threatens the vital role that Iowa's Area Education Agencies (AEAs) have played in our public and private accredited schools. Iowa's AEAs have been instrumental in providing fair, equal, and costeffective services to schools across the state. They offer crucial support in areas such as special education, literacy and math instruction, and media/technology services. By providing these services, Iowa's AEAs enable schools and early childhood educators to access resources that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive or difficult to obtain independently. If the scope of services offered by Iowa's AEAs is limited, it will have a detrimental impact on all students and educators. Furthermore, the passage of this legislation would undermine local control over education and infringe upon the rights of parents.

01-30-2024

Jasmine Young []

Please vote no on this bill. As an employee of the AEA and an advocate for students and parents who have to navigate the special education system, AEA services are important for all students. Iowa will not be able to provide a Free and Appropriate Public Education for all students. We will be neglecting the most vulnerable in our state.

01-30-2024

Jennifer McKinney []

Please vote NO to this bill because I am from a small school district in Iowa. I teach computer programming and math. I am the only high school math teacher and many of them already teach in isolation. The AEA helps us to network and provide training and support. We are already struggling to fill our school needs please do not take the support we have in place. They offer services to small districts that we would not be able to fill on our own. If we want to continue to have families in rural areas we need to have schools that provide for their needs.

01-30-2024

Sue Slavens []

As a retired Iowa school district employee from Pleasant Valley, a parent of three grown children who graduated from Pleasant Valley schools and Iowa public universities, and a grandparent of five children, I am very concerned about the proposed changes to AEAs in Iowa, and I oppose the reforms currently proposed in SSB3073/HSB542.I implore you to slow this process down, do a study and collect data about the severe changes in this Bill to AEAs in Iowa.First as a parent, I saw my three children benefit from the Talented and Gifted program at their school supported by the AEA for educators, and they also attended College for Kids summer enrichment programs, again supported by the AEA. My children enjoyed and reaped immense benefits from these programs.Some people dont understand exactly what AEA professionals do to help ALL students achieve. As a retired Secretary in the Guidance Office for 25 years, I saw first hand the positive impact AEA professionals had with, not only our special education students and students with disabilities, but the services also provided for general education students and teachers. School staff, teachers and parents alike relied on AEA professionals expertise to help with the ultimate goal of supporting students achievement, and, therefore, be successful in school.Sadly, we had students pass away while I was at my job. Our local AEA crisis team came to our building right away to help and support all students and staff to deal with this grief. They came for days and helped all in our school through a very difficult time. I cant imagine what we would have done without these caring AEA professionals working locally and being close at hand.I witnessed countless student success stories over my 25 years, from school psychologists working and helping one on one with struggling students and families, social workers making home visits to help families with their students attendance issues, audiologists helping hearing impaired students get the devices they needed in the classroom so the teachers voice went directly into the students hearing device, speech pathologists having individual sessions working hard with students on their speech issues, consultants making sure all paperwork, rules and laws were followed for all special ed students, and all the countless meetings these professionals had with parents, teachers and the school principal to make sure all student issues were being addressed.Part of my job as Guidance Office Secretary, also, was to make sure the special education students files were in a locked fireproof filing cabinet and all procedures were followed according to Department of Education protocol for anyone accessing these files. We had DE teams visit our school every few years to make sure everything I did, all AEA professionals and staff were doing was in compliance with the rules and law.Teachers receive immense educational support from the AEA including instruction and assessment services in math, language arts and reading, digital and audio books to supplement our school library and improving teaching instruction by providing professional development.Administrators at AEAs oversee and do all this with hundreds of employees for schools across Iowa. AEAs provide individual districts a centralized, equitable resource for services that those districts dont have to deal with finding. AEAs currently recruit, hire, employ, evaluate, supervise, payroll, and disperse these positions to schools.The belief that individual school districts across the state of Iowa, especially the many rural districts, can successfully hire or even get access to specialized professionals, including OTs, PTs, SLPs, consultants, audiologists, school psychologists, and social workers is unrealistic. Maybe it looks good on paper for districts to not pay as much into the AEA, but what a burden this would be to hire their own staff, and also, how much it would cost to contract services and get them delivered in a timely manner.I ask you to take time to understand what all the complex services that AEAs provide. Consider carefully what the consequences of this proposed legislation will do to our students and education system in Iowa. Now with mental health issues on the rise, we need AEAs more than ever.It is also my opinion that the Department of Education in Des Moines doesnt have the capacity to be effective in running these services, even with the proposed additional 139 employees as the bill states. A Des Moines centralized services location will decrease the efficiency of AEAs to provide needed services to schools and to conduct oversight.I think this is too big a change, too fast for all concerned. Thank you for reading my thoughts and allowing me input into the proposed changes to AEAs.Sue Slavens

01-30-2024

Cassy Townsley []

As a parent of four children in the public school system and two of them that have IEPs, I urge you to reject HSB 542. We have greatly benefited from the Early Access Services, ongoing services and trainings that our kid's teachers have received to better help our kids learn because of behaviors/trauma or Speech/Reading/Learning disabilities. The AEA's also provide so many services that are for the general education student. Cutting so much of the AEA's funding and putting a lot of power under one person in the State Department of Ed does not at all align with what the acronym IEP (Individualized Education Plan) states. I think most people are open to conducting a plan to look at the AEA's and see how they could possibly run more efficiently financially, but that should be done in a longer period of time with not drastic cuts. Furthermore, what does this type of drastic cutting communicate to future Special education/General education teachers? Speech Pathologists in school at University of Northern Iowa's wellknown program that brings people from all over the country. There is already a shortage of Special Education teachers in Iowa and this will drive them away as well. Please reject this bill for students and families across the state of Iowa, whom you represent.

01-30-2024

Sarah Howell [teacher, parent]

Please vote NO on HSB 542. I have been a public educator in Iowa for 17 years, and I have seen nothing but good work from our AEAs. I teach in a rural school district where my kids go to school, and I believe we would lose so much important support if this bill becomes law. I am concerned that this change is way too much change way too fast, and we need to slow down before we negatively impact our state's students and teachers. Why we would want to take support away from our students and public schools is beyond me. If anything, we need more support than we're getting, not less.

01-30-2024

Colleen Miller []

I am writing to you in opposition to HSB 542, the AEA bill. This bill will have a destructive influence on our schools, and particularly our special education system. There is nothing in the bill that could not be achieved with the system we already have. This bill is not best for students.

01-30-2024

Pat Berrie []

I oppose HSB542 and the proposed amendment. The AEAs provide invaluable services to all Iowa students. The relationships established by the AEA personnel with teachers, parents and administrators give confidence, expertise and dependable service to their stakeholders year after year. Reliable data collected from the stakeholders over a period of time is necessary to determine what changes, if any, need to be made.Please vote NO on this ill conceived bill and amendment.

01-30-2024

Alan Marshall [Local School Board Member]

The Governor's amendment to HSB 542 and SSB 3073 does little to change the concerns raised by public, and nonpublic schools and their patrons. The local decisionmaking authority is being transferred to the Director of the Department of Education, giving the Iowa Department of Education complete authority over AEA staffing, contracts, salaries, and reorganizations, reducing the Chief Administrator positions and replacing them with an Executive Director. The proposed amendment also prohibits the sharing of positions between AEAs and school districts, which would end agreements in place, erasing operational sharing currently going to districts. The bill also eliminates $32 million of funding from local districts and nonpublics for AEA Media Services, the bill does not provide the public or nonpublic schools with any funds to purchase these services. The services that AEAs have expanded beyond special education to public and nonpublic schools have saved districts funds and been vital to providing muchneeded services.Several areas in the bill lack clarity. I hope that legislators would want to learn from past practice and not rush a large piece of legislation to a vote, otherwise, our students and education in general will suffer in the aftermath of this proposed legislation, making it difficult for legislators to adequately review while reviewing other legislation this session. I would ask that you get to the root of any legislative concerns; is it really special education student performance, how many Iowa students even take the special education testing that was noted? Are the AEAs well run or is the main concern that AEA Chiefs salaries are too large? I hope that all legislators look closely at this proposed legislation, which is a statewide concern, and consider how it will affect students in your respective legislative areas. Very rapid changes could negatively impact schools and kids.

01-30-2024

Brynlee Fritz []

I am a freshman in high school and I see how my teachers is the AEA recourses each day. Just recently we are using spectroscopes in Science class, which will not be possible if this bill is voted through. Please vote NO.

01-30-2024

Mary Abn Gaudette []

I am a retired teacher and I strongly encourage you to vote NO on this bill. AEAs have dont so much for all students for many years. This bill would harm all students. Consult those who work in schools before making any changes!!

01-30-2024

Jennifer Stanerson [Mount Vernon Community School District]

I am reaching out to you with concern regarding HSB542/SS3073. I understand that the bill is still under revision, but I do have some concerns to share with you and fellow legislators. Our AEAs support school districts across Iowa in more ways than most people realize. I imagine you have received multiple messages the past few weeks from educators, school administrators, AEA employees, and families across Iowa sharing the important work the AEAs do. I appreciate your investment of time in reading my message as well as the many others you have received.I am an educator in Mount Vernon, Iowa and have recently reentered the workforce after choosing to stay home and raise our 3 kids. I spent several years as a substitute teacher in our local school district and have been teaching fulltime for the last 6 years as a teacher librarian.I am especially concerned that the AEAs are being considered for reorganization with little or no input from stakeholders. From the onset this bill has been troubling because it appears to have originated from an outside source unfamiliar with our state AEAs and the services they provide. Even after reassurance from state officials that a thorough review would occur and input from a broad audience of stakeholders would be sought out, I still see critical pieces of the AEA system at risk of being eliminated or restricted by requiring districts to pay for them. A few years ago the state passed requirements for all schools across Iowa to incorporate Computer Science learning into the K12 curriculum. This initiative has been well supported by our state AEAs and as a direct result, Iowa was recently recognized as one of the Top 10 states for Computer Science education. We would not have achieved this level of excellence statewide without the dedication of our AEAs. I have had the opportunity to contribute to the Computer Science efforts in 2 different school districts in the past several years. At both schools our curriculum work was directly supported by Digital Learning Consultants from Grant Wood AEA. The following are examples of how those individuals have provided incredible and critical support:Grant Wood AEA facilitated meetings with teachers and administrators from multiple districts across the region, helping us identify where we were already incorporated computer science standards in student learning and encouraged us to work collaboratively among districts in attendanceGrant Wood AEA led more individualized meetings with our district to help unpack the standards to ensure our CS leaders understood the skills addressed across the curriculum; our consultants further assisted us in documenting where each standard is met across our entire district through a standards audit; they also provided a wealth of curated resources to support our work in this areaGrant Wood AEA digital learning consultants provide our middle school direct support in planning and implementing our Computer Science Week for our students. Our digital learning consultant meets with us in advance to help plan our learning activities, they provide access to a variety of robots and other learning materials, and they meet with us following the week's activities to review and reflect on how we can improve and further build the learning experience.Our AEAs have collaborated with Computer Science education leaders from UNI and across the state to apply for grants and special funding to support the education and certification of teachers in the area of Computer Science. I myself have just applied, along with many other teachers, to participate in this certification through UNI with direct support from our Grant Wood AEA. Who will continue to provide this meaningful support of professional learning if we eliminate our Digital Learning Team?Without this specialized support from our AEA's Digital Learning Team, our district would definitely have to devote more time, energy, and funding to achieve the same level of excellence for our students. These are finite resources and in order to achieve this, we would have to rob other areas of our students' academics. Additionally, smaller districts and those that have smaller operating budgets would be at a severe disadvantage if we were required to pay for these services. This is a matter of equity across the state. All students deserve to have uninhibited access to excellent computer science curriculum and learning, no matter the zip code. Support from our state AEAs helps ensure this for all students across our state.I hope in sharing this information it is evident how the work of AEAs is critical to the daytoday operation and success of our school districts across Iowa. I completely understand the need for oversight and accountability for our government operated institutions, including the AEAs, but I think there's a better way to go about improving these services. I don't believe we should throw away all of the systems of support that our school districts rely on without careful and intentional process improvement and cost/benefit analysis. Additionally, stakeholders from multiple perspectives across the state should be included in these discussions.Thank you for your time and consideration of my message. I appreciate the time, hard work, and energy you dedicate to our state and its citizens.

01-30-2024

Claire Pittman []

I ask that you please oppose HSB 542. The proposed budget cuts (media services), loss of economy of scale, and drastic changes in oversight, will hurt Iowa's students and rural communities. In response to the federal assignment of needs assistance in regards to special education, I provide the following information: These outcomes are a shared responsibility of the AEAs, the school districts and the Iowa Department of Education. To isolate the AEAs as the sole reason as to why the state has been identified, is to miss 2/3 of the key players. Also, the compliance indicators are based on the states timely and accurate statereported data, timely state complaint decisions and timely due process hearing decisions, all of which are managed by the Iowa Department of Education, not AEAs. If any institution needs a review, it should be the Department of Education.

01-30-2024

Jane Koehn []

Please vote NO for this bill. Instead of dismantling the AEA that serves all our students and teachers , How about being proud of the services they provide for our communities. I will certainly be watcyhow well you listen to the people that you are supposed to represent. Looks like it is time for several of you to go. My vote does count and I will be using it to make changes.

01-30-2024

Stacey Ward []

I'm respectfully writing to the members of the subcommittee today that are reviewing the proposed bills HS 542/SSB 3073. I am a special needs mother and advocate for my 17year old son named Tim who has profound nonverbal autism and attends River Hills School in Cedar Falls. I am concerned how this piece of legislation would impact the Central Rivers Area Education Agency and in turn, River Hills as a facility. With this proposed bill, there are critical changes outlined which would impact the structure and funding of AEAs. I'm concerned these changes would affect key services such as Media, Professional Learning and School Improvement. These services are crucial when shaping a comprehensive education plan for River Hills students. Furthermore, what happens to the dedicated staff including teachers, education assistants and support staff who go above and beyond for our children? Would their positions be cut or eliminated entirely? Also, what are your plans regarding the facility of River Hills with the adoption of these bills? River Hills' unique environment sets students up for success outside the walls of the classroom. I have seen firsthand the value of AEA services for River Hills. They have provided the school invaluable resources and equipment deemed essential for continued learning and development for 'different ability' children. Like any parent, we want the best possible education and support for our children. For our circumstances, the AEA has impacted Tim's learning through speech, physical and occupational therapies provided to him from unique educational trained specialists. I'm not sure what life would be like now if it weren't for the AEA's Early ACCESS Services for children under age 3. We had access to this program and were able to begin the early accommodations that were necessary for Tim's future growth and development. Since the age of 5, Tim has also benefited academically from the curriculum supports in the areas of literacy, math and science. Topnotch school age Special Education Consultants through the AEA have helped shape his IEP (Individualized Education Plan) at an early age to set him up for success. Tim requires special supports for his learning and services such as library and digital resources provided by the AEA have made it possible for him and all Iowa children to have equal opportunities for an exceptional education. Now as a child on the verge of adulthood, the AEA will make it possible for Tim to become successful in his community by providing him with a job coach. Without the AEA, it is difficult for myself to see a path for my son to become successful in the workplace and become a productive citizen. Now, I ask that you think long and hard about the overall impact these bills will have. AEA's have met the challenges since 1975 when it comes to student learning and development, inspiring educators and propelling districts and schools to maximize learning outcomes for students, families, educators, schools and school districts. Thank you!

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01-30-2024

Deverie Kiedaisch []

As a retired teacher, I know how much the AEAs contribute to the education of Iowa's children. The services provided for children with disabilities equalize services to children in small and large districts. They provide constantly updated classes for teachers so that our students have access to current research and practices, allowing teachers to continually improve their teaching. The AEAs provide resources to all students that the local district may not be able to provide. The psychological services that are fairly provided across the state help many students from those with mental health issues to talented and gifted students to students with academic challenges. It is important that these resources are provided relatively close to where the students live so that they are received in a timely and efficient manner and by entities that are well trained, proven, and can give assistance that covers many fields at once.

01-30-2024

Kory Brandel []

My biggest concern here is the smaller community school districts that are hurting the way it is and now your wanting to cut funds to the AEA thats one of the few things that keep the smaller schools up and running lets be SMART about this and back education because without it what do we have nothing. Lead the herd dont follow! Wake up IOWA!

01-30-2024

Janelle Darst []

This bill is not good for Iowans, not good for Iowa's children, not good for Iowa's schools and not good for Iowa tax payers! I think an overlooked piece is that districts spend pennies on the dollar for printing services they can access through AEAs. Our state printing services can't even offer the same pricing. That is a substantial benefit that I hope will be considered. Same for food service, transportation, equipment, etc. at school districts. Those budgets will need to be increased since they will not be able to access the bulk purchasing prices.I don't see how this is a benefit to taxpayers to make school districts pay more for these services.As Mr. Reichman responded to me when asked what the rush was, "What is the rush? Because we only have 4 months and we have deadlines to make. If we dont FIX the failing AEAs then the Federal Government will step in."I asked, "IF (a big IF) one part is failing, why are you dismantling ALL of the other parts that support our districts?"He didn't respond. Vote. No.

01-30-2024

Jessica Anderson []

There is so much to say about this (ammended) bill but it has all already been said. How many of you have constituents who have contacted you to explain/plead/beg to you how bad this bill is for our kids and our schools? You who want to vote for this are relying on flawed data that you simply do not understand to dismantle a system that has worked on our state for 50 years! Nothing you propose here fixes the alleged problem. ENGAGE with our very knowledgeable experts and come together to reach a better understanding of where the challenges lie and address the specific issues. As a life long Iowan, as a former school board member and as a mom of children that have received ARA services ACROSS THE SPECTRUM and have been MORE than satisfied, add MY voice to the choir of others telling you to vote this down. Its wrong for our kids and our schools and our state. Once this is done, it cant simply be put back.

01-30-2024

Denise Powers []

Please leave the AEA the way it is. Until you have a child with special needs, you have no idea how important it is. My son got the speech therapy and the education to have a socalled much needed normal life. With the help of AEA, my son was able to graduate with honors and with the special help from AEA. Dont deprive other students of this necessary help! Give these kids a fighting chance, and let the educators have AEA help them as they are educated to do so so I ask you once again please dont change AEA leave it the way it is!!! Please!!!

01-30-2024

Jo Porter []

The proposed dismantling of some services provided by the AEAs is concerning. Many of our school districts are in rural areas without trained, experienced mental health, crises and grief support counselors. The governor and several legislators recognized the need for mental health services for children and pledged to solve that issue. Eliminating those services by AEA staff is not helping to provide the care needed in rural districts. It is difficult for a parent to miss work to transport a child to a community where counseling is available. Local control, between the school district and the AEA, will determine the educational needs of the students in need and deliver those services. Why have a third party middleman involved? The proposal is a HUGE MISTAKE for the students and their families.

01-30-2024

Molly Masat []

OPPOSE HSB 542! Please listen to the outpouring of opposition, do the RIGHT thing, and stand with your constituents by stopping this bill before it goes any further and does catastrophic and irreversible damage to the education system in Iowa!

01-30-2024

Jodi Muller [Retired AEA Speech-Language Pathologiswt]

This bill will HURT ALL students. AEA's support children from birth to the age of 21. All parts of the AEA are needed to make this work. I retired last May after 34 years of working with 2 AEA's. I was proud of the work I did and proud to work with a great organization that ALWAYS had STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT as the top priority. If funding is cut, small schools, private schools, private preschools, etc... will suffer.This bill is moving too fast to be productive. If changes need to be made, data needs to support that change. We are asking our legislators to work together to come up with a plan that helps kids. This is not a political issue and the governor should not be "bullying" legislators to support a bill that is not supported by the majority.Please stand up for students and educators and vote NO to this bill.

01-30-2024

Leslie Dickinson []

I am writing in opposition to the bill. Please listen to your constituents as no one is in favor of taking away the AEAs and all they offer to our children in Iowa. The AEAs offer so much for our children and their teachers. All schools will suffer.

01-30-2024

Alana Walker []

Speaking as both a parent and an educator, please do not vote for the AEA to be dismantled!! The AEA in its current state is so beneficial and crucial for Iowa's students and educators!! If reform is needed, please get the input of those who are daily 'in the trenches' and can give true insight about what changes might be helpful and what would be detracting from student success.

01-30-2024

Abby Herriman []

I am writing to express my concern with HSB 542, a bill that, in my view, poses a serious threat to education in our rural communities. As a concerned citizen, I urge you to vote against this legislation to safeguard the wellbeing and future of our schools. HSB 225, If enacted, appears to lack the necessary considerations for the unique challenges faced by rural education institutions. The potential consequences of this bill may lead to detrimental effects on the quality of education, teacher retention, and overall community wellbeing. I implore you to carefully consider the longterm ramifications of HSB 542 on our rural schools and vote against its passage. Its is crucial to prioritize sustainable and equitable policies that support the diverse needs of all our communities.

01-30-2024

James Craig []

I encourage our Representatives to split up SSB 3073.The most significant investment ever in teacher pay should not be dependent on the AEA portion of the bill to pass. It is also an overreach for the Dept. of Education to be given authority to require and prescribe curriculum when schools have success with instruction, assessment and intervention that are working for their students.The AEA portion of the bill has numerous flaws:* The Guidestone report compares Iowa to Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Educational services for students in these states are not the same, and the resulting comparison is skewed.* The NAEP reference is based on less than 0.3% of Iowa students with IEPs who took the test in 2019. Other states have an optout for NAEP; Iowa does not. This data point is too insignificant to justify a rehaul of our AEAs. The reference to ISASP leads us to ask why would need special education at all if there werent discrepancies between students with IEPs and their peers?* The Iowa Department of Education (DE) struggles to fill the positions they have because of tumultuous turnover. While there are great people who work at the DE, the Department struggles to roll out initiatives and operate with transparency. The DE is illprepared to handle a transition of this magnitude and certainly shouldnt be expected to do it in the next few months.The AEA portion of the bill should be studied further with the AEAs in the room. Teacher pay should be passed without controversy and independent of other bills. The Science of Reading is a good curricular program, but there are others working for students also. Split up SSB 3073 and lets really do whats best for our kids.

01-30-2024

Tiffany D []

As a school social worker I work closely with the AEA to collaborate on student behaviors to help them be successful. As a mother of a student who relies on AEA for speech therapy, this would be devastating for him not to receive these services. This would affect all of his education. He is only in kindergarten right now so he would suffer developmentally for years. He is too young to engage in virtual services due to his age. Stop this bill!!!

01-30-2024

Melissa Stringer []

Dig deeper on this. Ask yourself, is this really whats best for ALL students?As a citizen of the state of Iowa. I urge you to vote no on this bill. There are far too many unanswered questions that are detrimental to the future of our children and their education. Get the facts! I ask that you stand up and do what is right for ALL of the state of Iowa not just a single individual or a small group, ALL! Our children rely on you and need you to vote NO!

01-30-2024

Bert Miller [Retired Teacher / Librarian 30+ years in Iowa Schools]

I devoted over 30 years of my life to teaching students in a small rural school district in Iowa. The AEA was invaluable. I have taught in two other states, Idaho and Colorado, and I can say without reservation the best thing about teaching in Iowa, versus other states, is the great AEA network in Iowa. The AEA's serve all stakeholders, students, teachers, administrators and parents but I feel the AEA is especially valuable to the smaller rural school districts that usually do not have the funding for, and access to, materials and expertise more readily available in larger metros. Please reconsider plans to cut AEA services that would be a tragedy for the schools and students of Iowa.

01-30-2024

McKenna Thompson []

I oppose HSB 542, please vote no. As a rural mom, a care provider for children, a sister of an educator (special education), and a daughter of a welltrained, extremely skilled AEA Consultant, I am scared to see what will become of our school systems and ultimately our kids! The invaluable services provided by the AEA cannot be replaced. They bring excellent care, skilled collaboration, and a wealth of knowledge to the Iowa School system. The AEA services are far beyond special education. I am worried for ALL students (and future students). There are shortages and gaps in education already, this will cause more chaos and more burnout. Who is this benefiting? These students are Iowas future, lets support them and reconsider the proposed bill (and its amendment).

01-30-2024

Alison Whitaker []

Lifelong Republican here. I'm dismayed to hear of the dismantling of the AEAs as I have many friends who work for them and have used their services for their own families. They provide a net benefit for our state that I am glad to pay for as a tax payer. Gov Reynolds stands to lose a lot of support for her proposal, even if it's amended. I haven't spoken with any person or either party who thinks it's a good idea.

01-30-2024

Jeannie McCrea [CWA Union Retiree]

To Whom it may concern,I used to work for the AEA in late 1970s. I found out all the good they do for kids. Why anyone would want to vote to dismantle the AEA's is beyond me. Please vote no on the Bills: HSB 542/SSB 3073. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Jere Vyverberg [Retired]

The emails opposed to this far outweigh (Ive not seen any in favor of it) any positives. I have emailed several. Rather saying the same as all others, I will just say this Bill hurt kids. The reasons are outlined in the comments but, again, it hurt kids. How can anyone support a Bill they know will harm students, teachers, parents, administrators, and communities. the DOE is ill equipped to monitor the changes. Again, it hurts kids. Please remember that. It does not save money and, in fact, will cost schools millions they do not have due to the lack of funding.

01-30-2024

Sarah Shelquist []

Governor Reynolds has 'jumped the shark' with her AEA/Education Bill. It is clear to any Iowan who is paying attention that actual facts, inspirational personal stories, and Iowa's core values are not enough for Governor Reynolds to stray from her intent to privatize education in the State of Iowa, as dictated by corporate interests outside of our state. She is working towards full control of taxpayer money under the guise of 'school choice'. It is 100% clear that this is not what Iowans want or need. We want strong educational systems of support to provide localized and equitable services to Iowa's communities, schools, and families. Where is Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow? According to sources inside the Department of Education she is not providing the leadership needed to oversee the current Department of Education structure, how are Iowans to trust she has the capacity to oversee new departments and employees while ensuring that high quality services are being provided to the most vulnerable Iowans? Where is the comprehensive review of the AEAs AND Iowa's Special Education Programming?(Remember, AEAs only see a small percentage of the funding for special education. School Districts already have control of the bulk of educational funding allotted to serve their students.)The benefit of this bill is that it will allow Iowan's to see who stands on the side of corporate interests from outside of the state of Iowa and who stands WITH Iowans. Vote NO to stand on the side of fellow Iowans. Keep Iowa's jobs AND taxpayer money IN Iowa to serve and support Iowa's schools and students. It's what is best for Iowa businesses, communities, and families.

01-30-2024

Rhonda Sheeley [None]

I strongly OPPOSE this bill. AEAs are a crucial support for Iowa districts, especially the medium/small rural entities. The professional development for teachers is exceptional. Providing cutting edge materials and resources that would be cost prohibitive for individual districts is key to educating students for the future workforce. The Special Education support has been outstanding parents and students need the expertise and advocacy. This bill takes away local control from regional boards and puts it in Des Moines far from the clients. AEAs have always been responsive to districts and have had the flexibility to address expressed needs from teachers. Nationwide the AEAs have been exemplary and the envy of neighboring states. The AEAs have provided the state of Iowa with educational Return on Investment that will disappear under these rules. Fragmentation and isolation will be the result and Iowa kids will suffer. Use input from districts, teachers, consumers and families to craft improvements in a thoughtful and inclusive manner instead. There is no evidence any of the elements that currently are in this bill would improve education in Iowa. Vote NO.

01-30-2024

Kay Michaelson []

I urge the House and the Senate to listen to their constituents and all the citizens of Iowa and vote no on this bill. There is much wisdom in the comments coming in to you and I ask you to lean into these individuals and all the stakeholders of Iowa's AEAs in evaluating and recommending any changes for the future rather than what this bill is offering. Take the time to do the right thing in this process and seek out those who know the workings of the AEA best and listen to what works and doesn't work for them. This bill comes across as a solution to a problem that doesn't exist in the experiences of those who actually work and are serviced by our AEAs. Tax payer money can be better spent by carefully and thoughtfully working hand in hand with Iowa citizens who are invested in these agencies.

01-30-2024

Chris P []

The Area Education Agencies (AEAs) of Iowa have been providing services and support critical to children and educators for 50 years and the proposed bill HSB 542/SSB 3073 would greatly diminish their capacity to ensure special needs services. A comprehensive review of the agencies was promised last year; however, this bill is being expedited at an alarming rate, highlighting the fact that governor Reynolds had a preplanned agenda and has no intention of fulfilling the will of the people of Iowa. Posting job openings before reviewing the bill, slashing AEA budgets by tens of millions of dollars and then blaming them for underperforming, stating that school districts would be provided the choice of their providers while adding the caveat that they need to have the approval of the department of education, only meeting with lawmakers of a single party, and tying this all to increased teacher pay ensuring those that vote against it are cast as antieducation is all part of the plan. Thousands of Iowans have voiced their concerns around this bill and those voices have fallen upon the deaf ears of lawmakers that are choosing their political agendas over whats best for the children of Iowa. I wish there was something that could be said to sway the minds of those lawmakers that are choosing to fall in line; however, weve seen this story before and despite being faced with overwhelming data and public support, these metrics will be ignored and this bill will pass and lead to the further decline of the Iowa educational system.

01-30-2024

Kathie Farris [AAUW of Iowa]

A retired teacher of both regular and special ed students, I have everything good to say about the AEA staff I have worked with in Iowa. Terrific teachers worked with deaf and blind students. Others worked to make sure my students could perform at their best performance with extra help. AEA staff helped both parents and staff to adjust material so kids could succeed. Thats what it is all about. Let the professionals do their jobs with money they need.

01-30-2024

Terry Frederick []

Please protect our AEA's and all of the students, faculty and families they serve. I have a friend who relies on their services to help her little boy go to school to develop into his best self. Which is what we want for all of our children, don't we?I don't understand how we as a state allow one person to decide the fate of so many vulnerable people, and how the rest of "her party" blindly follow her lead without thinking this through and listening to the people they were elected to serve. This is not Public Service in action, it is Self Service. Read these comments. Not one is in favor. The State ended FY 2023 with General Fund receipts exceeding expenditures by $1.83 billion. We need to use this to fund our education system and increase teacher pay, not tear it apart.

01-30-2024

Jaimee Sump []

Vote no! Iowa needs AEAs, they are essential to helping so many students in several ways. This will heavily hurt our rural communities, for our children to be successful we must give them the tools to succeed.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Toering Peters []

Please vote no on this bill. It is not supported by evidence, and it will hurt education in the state of Iowa. Our state is already struggling to find teachers to fill open positions, and stripping our school districts of the AEA support will make it even more difficult. The AEA resources allow schools and teachers to benefit from shared resources. They are controlled by local boards, who know best what the school districts in their area need. The idea that these services will be provided more efficiently by forprofit enterprises is untrue, and most rural districts will not be able to afford them even if the services are available in their location. Vote no.

01-30-2024

Audrey Selking []

Please choose to keep the AEA and other educational outreach programs!! I transferred into Iowa schools in 5th grade and the class was already behind compared to where I was at. Iowa CANNOT afford to regress any further. AEAs and other supplemental programs are essential to maintaining and improving the Iowa school system. Please do not gut these valuable programs!!!! It would be a catastrophic mistake!!!

01-30-2024

Diane Kearns []

I am writing asking for a no vote on this legislation. The Governor proposed this legislation which will have a devastating effect on school districts and in particular rural schools. AEA digital resources offer personalization that helps put struggling students on the same playing field as their peers. Iowa's AEA staff partner with districts and families to improve learning outcomes for students. One of the main services of AEA's is special education services. There is a wide array of assistive technology that can help students as well as audiology, occupational and physical therapy, speech language therapy, social workers, school psychologists, and behavioral health support and special instructors. If this bill is passed many services would be cut. Vote no on this bill.

01-30-2024

Sherri Bowen-Nissen []

As a retired special education teacher of 30+ years in rural Iowa, I strongly oppose this bill. Many days in my career were supported by services through the AEA. These services included speech, hearing, OT, PT, consultation, behavioral intervention, psychology, autism, professional development, media, assistive technology, IEP support, programming, CRISIS intervention, etc. The list of services are many and I am certain I have missed some. This bill would destroy education in rural Iowa. These services are provided directly in the school setting and would be a huge burden to parents, students, and educators to go elsewhere. The local services are at our fingertips and those providers are there in an instant when needed. These AEA employees are not just educators, they become like family to those they serve. Many times they put their own families on hold to address others needs. Please reconsider and not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Tammy Dougherty []

I have been a huge fan of our governor but this is making me 2nd guess my loyalty. I'm devasted for the schools and teachers, as well as the kids who will suffer greatly if this bill passes. Not only will major resources be taken away from our schools, but the time the already overworked and underpaid teachers will need to use to make up for this huge loss is incomprehensible. Please vote NO! Read ALL of these amazing comments and how the AEA is critical in so many facets, and vote NO.

01-30-2024

Kelli Albert []

As a parent, I am truly appalled that the bill has gotten this far. My oldest son is a bright 2nd Grader who excels in his curriculum, but struggles with reading. The educational resources provided to his reading specialists have proven over and over again to be invaluable and we can see it in his testing results. Voting yes to this bill not only eliminates these supports to teachers, but to our children as well. Our schools should not have to fight for these partnerships, nor should they be placed in a position where they must choose how to spend the little money they are given. Redirecting AEA funding to schools will NOT allow our school systems to shop for themselves, it will only limit the amount of support they can receive. This bill is a loselose for schoolage children, current educators, and parents. It's absolutely tragic to know that a state that once was among the highest rated for its education is sinking to the bottom tier and now our political leadership intends to bury it even further. Help our kids get ahead vote NO to HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Mary S []

Please vote "NO" to the bill to dismantle AEA's. It is your job to LISTEN to the people of your district and not strictly to the Governor. She has presented many nonfactual statistics to push her agenda. Please do your own research and find out the truth. AEA's are required to meet high standards ask the AEA's how they have scored in recent evaluations. It does not make sense for each school district to hire and fund many different professionals for the wide variety of student needs. AEA's have these professionals under one umbrella and they work together to help the individual. Some students need a variety of services and some just individual assistance. And the wait list at the private providers is extensive. Do you know the frustration of needing to see many different medical professionals and trying to get timely appointments with each one? It can be months before all tests and results are in and there is much time wasted before a diagnosis is made. AEA's do it ALL and we need to keep them for the benefit of ALL students and teachers.

01-30-2024

Cindy Garza []

Please save the AEA!If we have to do a review fine! Just have everyone at the table! We dont need someone from out of state with an old report dictating how Iowa needs to educate its children!!Stop the power grab!!

01-30-2024

Shannon Schreiber []

As a teacher for 13 years and a parent of five children, I am deeply saddened and upset by this bill. Ive worked with the AEA as a teacher for professional development and have learned from the specialists who serve the AEA. As a parent, Ive thankfully had access to their services for my own children. This bill isnt good for families, it isnt good for students, and it wont provide the many needed services that we are fortunate to receive through the outstanding AEAs in our state. This bill will not provide the many services needed in rural Iowa areas, nor will it distribute funds equitably. Please vote NO to this bill and show Iowans that you care about students and families!

01-30-2024

Kim Folkers [AAUW]

I attended a town hall meeting in Waverly two weeks ago where many AEA professionals, local families, school officials, and concerned citizens shared their dismay at this bill. The families and school officials spoke very specifically to the important benefits and services they receive from the AEA. The AEA professionals detailed the vital work they do, and how highly rated the Central Rivers AEA was in its VERY recent review by the Dept. of Education. The review gave accolades for their work and the positive impact they have on the lives of young people and their families. I have continued to read as much as I can on this bill and find it to be illadvised, politicized, and written by outofstate lobbyists who know nothing about our state and our needs. Therefored I urge legislators to VOTE NO on this bill. Communicate to Governor Reynolds that it is not appropriate to engage in political posturing about such an important issue.

01-30-2024

Jill Weigel []

AEAs support all Iowa school districts, buildings, families, and students. The structure and system that we have set up in Iowa is unique and successful. AEAs coown student data along with school districts and the state department. Over the past many years, funding has been cut to AEAs as well as school districts. Despite this, AEAs continue to provide services in a professional and equitable manner. Without AEAs, students will lose. Our most vulnerable students will have teachers trying to support them without AEA professional learning, without AEA coaching around best practices in the classroom, and without AEA materials and technology assistance. If you want to further decimate Iowas school system then move forward with this shortsighted bill. It clearly is not in the best interest of Iowas children. Who does this benefit?

01-30-2024

Jeffrey Reihle []

What about the comprehensive review that the Governor wanted last December? And remember the $22 million cut from AEAs last spring. Iowa was first listed "needs improvement" back in 2018 AEAs have worked with the Dept of Education to implement a plan; it is working and improving test scores, so give it a chance. With the national shortage of special ed teachers we cannot afford to chase any off. This bill has scared all the AEA special ed teachers threat of job loss will do that. You can't blame any of them if they decide to move to another state this summer, and our teacher shortage will be worse.

01-30-2024

Kurt Mielke [Retired]

I strongly oppose the proposal to completely overhaul the relationship between AEAs and public schools. Our community schools can use all the help they can get meeting the needs of their students. Before retirement I worked with the AEA at a State Training School and at public schools in Van Buren County. The staff and services AEA provided were and are necessary.

01-30-2024

Kim Korschgen []

As a Republican voter, I do not support this bill. Please vote NO. All of our schools use the resources of AEA including the small private school my children attend. This would negatively impact so many students and the resources that our teachers desperately need. Again, please vote no for this bill HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Diane Sheets []

Please vote NO on this bill. As a retired PreK teacher I have seen first hand how the AEA consultants, therapists,and social workers have helped the young children in my care. The consultants can be a first line of contact for staff and parents who may be struggling with finding the correct path to help their child succeed. Dismantling the services provided by AEA would have a negative impact on the educational services in our state.

01-30-2024

Gabriel Wylder []

HSB 542 is harmful to education for all communities in Iowa. Our AEAs provide valuable resources to our school districts and have assisted the in development of MTSS within individual district and building teams, training of a new IEP system within the state (that is not as user friendly as the legacy system), assisting in the school improvement process (including literacy instruction), ad much more. Consider some additional benefits that our AEAs provide:Our AEAs offer services and resources in an economy of scale so that no school district is without vital services because they cannot afford them or those services are unavailable in their area.AEAs leverage economies of scale and deliver programs more efficiently than individual school districts could alone by providing services regionally. This helps save taxpayer dollars while still providing highquality services.AEAs help ensure equity among Iowa schools so they have access to what they need to succeed.What about bloated administration costs? AEAs follow the Iowa Code, which does not allow them to spend more than 5% of their total expenditures on administrative compensation. The percentage of administrative total spending in all of Iowas nine AEAs for all administrators is lower than the 5% limit.AEAs offer ALL of Iowas schools the ability to access specialists, equipment, and resources, ensuring equity among large and small schools in urban and rural areas.Large school districts may be able to share more resources or have the opportunity to purchase, rent, or contract equipment and agencies. Small school districts, which make up most of the schools in Iowa, will not have these options.AEAs serve as hubs for innovation and collaboration, bringing educators, community partners, and businesses together to develop and implement new initiatives that benefit students.Gutting Iowas AEA services will mean unequal access to stateoftheart learning opportunities for students.Classroom teachers, education support professionals, and administrators must fill in for the services removed from our AEAs specifically in rural areas where contracting out is not an option. That means school employee workloads increase exponentially.I urge you to take action and stand against the dismantling of Iowa's AEAs.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Hassman []

In this era we live in, our students and our teachers and future teachers need to have the support They deserve, and that comes from our current AEA's. This is a MUST, NOT a choice. Do not take away our AEA'. if any adjustment is needed it's to send them more support. this bill is a mistake and will affect our future generations

01-30-2024

Mary S []

Please vote "NO" to the bill to dismantle AEA's. It is your job to LISTEN to the people of your district and not strictly to the Governor. She has presented many nonfactual statistics to push her agenda. Please do your own research and find out the truth. AEA's are required to meet high standards ask the AEA's how they have scored in recent evaluations. It does not make sense for each school district to hire and fund many different professionals for the wide variety of student needs. AEA's have these professionals under one umbrella and they work together to help the individual in a Very Timely Manner. Some students need a variety of services and some just individual assistance. And the wait list at the private providers is extensive. Do you know the frustration of needing to see many different medical professionals and trying to get timely appointments with each one? It can be months before all tests and results are in and there is much time wasted before a diagnosis is made and a plan put together to get the needed help. AEA's do it ALL, in a timely manner, and we need to keep them for the benefit of ALL students and teachers.

01-30-2024

Elaine Kresse []

I remember the pride we had when AEA's were opened. Knowing how AEA's helped in Perry, IA this January, I suggest we celebrate their work. You have more needed work to be done that changing something that isn't broken and that the governor clearly needs an education concerning.Please vote "No" on the the bill.

01-30-2024

Melinda Partlow []

Please vote no on the AEA bill. Since the creation of AEAs, they have existed to provide fair, equal, costeffective services across the state in the areas of special education, education services (such as literacy and math instruction), and media/technology. The AEA provides vital service each and every day to students, parents, and educators. The AEAs support ALL of Iowa students. This bill needs full public transparency and engagement from parents, students, teachers, administrators, and others that will be directly impacted.

01-30-2024

T Daniel []

We are generally in agreement with Republican initiatives in the state of Iowa, but Gov Reynolds move to diminish the role of AEAs makes no sense.We are writing in support of the professional women and men of the AEA who work hard to provide a wide array of services to students in every Iowa school.If adjustments to the AEA need to be made, then do so in a collaborative manner. Don't rip the whole thing apart for the sake of doing so.Let's work together to support the AEAs and all they do to help Iowa students, families, and schools be the best they can.

01-30-2024

Parker Hansen []

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed amendments to the Area Education Agencies (AEA) system as outlined in SSB3073/HSB542. This matter is of utmost importance, not just to me, but to all who value the integrity and effectiveness of our education system, especially in rural areas.The AEAs have been instrumental in ensuring equitable access to essential educational services, particularly in special education. The proposed changes threaten to destabilize this delicate balance, potentially causing irreparable harm to our most vulnerable students. The strength and success of our rural schools, which lean heavily on the support of AEAs, are at stake.I wish to address the notion of AEAs lacking accountability. The reality is that these agencies operate under strict accreditation and auditing processes, ensuring their adherence to high standards of efficiency and responsiveness to district needs. Furthermore, the evolution of AEAs services is a direct response to legislative directives and changing educational requirements, not a deviation from their mission.The current funding structure under the AEAs is a model of efficient resource utilization, especially crucial in the area of special education. Dismantling or significantly altering this framework risks introducing redundancy and inefficiency, leading to reduced service quality. Smaller districts, in particular, may find themselves unable to provide equitable services, disproportionately affecting students with disabilities.Local administration of education programs is critical for responsiveness and effectiveness. The AEAs embody this principle, offering customized services that centralized state governance cannot effectively replicate.As the Subcommittee deliberates on this issue, I urge you to consider the farreaching implications of these proposed changes. The decision should prioritize the educational needs and futures of all students, with an awareness of the unique challenges faced by rural districts.

01-30-2024

Nonalee Gardner []

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HSB 542/SSB 3073. I am a former educational audiologist who worked for Grant Wood Area Education Agency for 22 years. In addition, I am a lifelong Iowan and a parent of two children, one of whom received special education services from the AEA. The AEA team and local school district developed an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) to assist my son (on the autism spectrum) develop problemsolving and executive functioning skills to succeed in school. It was during his spring semester of 10th grade that the COVID pandemic started, which disrupted the education for all Iowans for at least the 20192020 and 20202021 school years. Despite the educational disruption from the pandemic, my son graduated high school in May of 2022 with a GPA of 3.97. I credit his success, in part, to the roles that both his school team and the AEA played.In my role as an educational audiologist, I have seen firsthand the positive impact of hearing screening for all ages of children (receiving general education and/or special education services.) In addition, I also worked collaboratively with multidisciplinary IEP teams for students with special needs, which often included teachers of the deaf/hard of hearing, signlanguage interpreters, teachers of the visually impaired, orientation and mobility specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, school psychologists, school social workers, special education consultants, speech language pathologists, paraeducator support and FEP/PEP (family and parent educational partner) staff. As seen from the list of possible IEP participants referenced, sometimes it takes a large group of people to determine all the needs and individualized goals for a child with a disability. Our goal when working with children in need of an IEP, is to look at their needs and develop goals to help them catch up with their peers, so they can be exited from an IEP. The metrics that the governor has used to support her proposal was obtained from a very small percentage of students that are on an IEP. The way these scores were manipulated to fit her mission was incorrect as it doesnt consider the scores of ALL the children on an IEP as well as the students who have been successfully exited from an IEP because the gap between their deficits and their peers was closed.The AEA system was founded on the principle of providing equitable services for all the school districts, rural and urban, not just the larger school districts. If this legislation to restructure the AEAs passes, thousands of children and the ability of their school districts to provide optimal educational instruction and services to those children will suffer. Iowans do not want the services of the AEAs to change! The AEAs are not broken. We do not want the oversight of the AEAs to shift to individuals without the educational background and knowledge to be qualified in the position of Director of Education for the state of Iowa. Please take a moment to discard this legislation and take the time to complete a comprehensive review of the AEA system, speak with the people of Iowa, and the AEAs to determine if any beneficial adjustments need to be made for improvements.

01-30-2024

Bill Sitzmann []

Please listen to all Iowans opposing this bill, HSB542. It seems to be a very rushed approach where the administrators, teachers and parents have had no say. Based on all of the comments I've read, no one is in favor of it. A comprehensive study should be done prior to any changes. Please vote NO.

01-30-2024

Teri Hockenson []

Please say a big, No when voting on this bill that totally dismantles the AEA. It is not in the best interest of our students and families in our state that continually brags about the Iowa Education System to lure people and companies to move to Iowa. Instead, bring all of the stakeholders to the table to conduct a quality comprehensive review; which is what the governor originally proposed. As this bill is written, schools will be hard pressed to be able to afford the services their students need to become the best person they can be and a contributing member of society. Listen to the professionals that have been and are a part of the Iowa education system, not professionals that are from another state and have not taken the time to really understand how the AEA works and benefits students and their families in the State of Iowa currently receive. The AEA is especially important to the rural communities, which make up a good portion of the States school districts. Listen to the people and vote, NO!

01-30-2024

Jayne Wilson []

As a person who has worked with children and families in Southwest Iowa as a DHS Social Worker and Juvenile Court Officer for over 35 years, I have huge concerns with this bill and its impact on the children and families in our rural communities. Services and resources in our rural communities are already few and far between. The AEA helps to fill these gaps offering quality services to children and families through professional and dedicated employees who reside in their communities. Listen to the stories that the families and the employees of the AEA have to tell and you will see that the AEA has a huge impact in our rural communities and the future of our children.

01-30-2024

Natalie Hall []

Do not support this bill. There is no reason for it. Unless you are deliberately attacking public schools, which seems to be the case. Taking away supports & services for school children and staff? That's incredibly low..

01-30-2024

Julie Thompson []

Please vote NO to this bill in ANY form!! Our current AEAs are vital to the success of our education system in Iowa! This is just another instance of Kim Reynolds showing Iowans how little she knows about education in Iowa and what the PEOPLE want! Stop fleecing our public education funds and bragging about a state surplus!! Do what is right for our children, educators and the future of this state!!

01-30-2024

Kathy Beck []

Please do not vote in favor of this bill. The AEAs as they exist now are extremely effective. We cannot continue to slash funds and expect that we will not see a decline in services and results. I have a hard time believing you have received any positive comments regarding this bill. Please consider what the people of Iowa want. Elections have consequences and we can certainly see that now.

01-30-2024

Polly Antonelli []

01-30-2024

Jane Hout [Citizen]

Please vote NO against this destructive and discriminatory bill the govenor has proposed. It will destroy services for any special needs child and cripple schools,especially rural schools, and make special needs kids second class citizens and condemn them to be less than they could be without AEA interventions.As a parent who was a single mom of a disabled child with cerebral palsy, my child recieved invaluable early childhood services from the AEA, including assessments, coordination, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. I would not have been able to afford those services on my own and was not working as I was my sons caregiver.My daughter also recieved ADHD assessment and help scheduling a doctors assessment through the AEA.MY nephew with lower IQ and numerous mental health challenges, recieved AEA services all throughout his schoolage years, most importantly his IEP coordination.When I had my own inhome child care, the AEA came to my home to work with a child, with mild cerebral palsy and seizure issues, on early childhood services. I have also worked as an aide on a couple elementaries and have seen first hand the benefits of AEA interventions with help in reading and speech. I fail to see any benefit from this bill other than for the out of state entity who received money for writing it and the govenor who has made it part of her political agenda.WE WILL NOT LET OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM BE DESTROYED BY PRIVITIZATION FROM GREEDY PARTISAN HACKS!!

01-30-2024

Cherie Dargan [League of Women Voters of Black Hawk-Bremer Counties]

There are numerous red flags in the bill.Removing local control, and the comment that local decision making is transferred from the local level to the Director of the Iowa Dept of Ed or simply eliminated 133 times. This goes directly against the Iowa constitution, which allows cities and counties to govern themselves. The Director of Ed has authority over budgets, staff, salaries, contracts, etc. which seems excessive and impractical. How does one person in Des Moines know the needs of children in Cedar Falls? The optics are not good and seem to imply that it's all about the money. However, the problems don't stop there. It bypasses open meetings structure for public input into AEA budgets. Iowa taxpayers are footing the bill. They deserve a seat at the table.It is also problematic to read that the Dept. of Ed has total control of tax levy remains.So, even though elected boards approved the levy rate, now the Dept. of Ed. comes in and reduces it, to account for removing media services.The bill removes local control of curriculum, citing the requirement for using the science of reading program. The bill does not allow for sharing positions between AEAs and school districts and removes funding for media services.The bill sets deadlines that aren't realistic among numerous other problems.As a retired teacher, I am appalled this bill is even being considered. Legislators are removing local control from their own constituents. Parents, teachers, administrators and AEA staff should be up in arms. I cannot support this wholesale grab of power and money. Local school districts and AEAs now support our students, teachers, schools, and families. The system is working. This bill breaks education, creates chaos, and serves no good purpose. Strike it down! "Do no harm" seems like a sensible direction, but it cannot be emphasized enough that local control is built into our constitution for a good reason.The League of Women Voters of Black HawkBremer County do not support this bill.Cherie Dargan, President, LWVBHB

01-30-2024

Chad Gould []

It would be in the Admistrations best interest to gather more data and get the input of the professionals. The AEA has and is willing to work with the DE but they were never been asked to be in the conversation what is best for the students and districts. Hundreds of highly educated individuals educators will have no respect for working for the DE and we lose them as well. It is quite sad how Gov. Reynolds has brought this bill out. Iowans need to follow the money to understand why she is doing this to our kids and districts. This isnt her idea as it came essentially out of nowhere.

01-30-2024

Peggy Wheatley []

I am in total opposition to this bill. If there are issues that need fixed with AEAs, please take the time to complete. Study instead of rushing through a bill that is not in the best interests students and schools. This is another attack on public education. Please vote NO!

01-30-2024

Abby Harvey []

Please vote NO. As a public school teacher I have used the AEA for the numerous programs they provide. This bill passing will hurt rural schools like mine and I will not be able to utilize the resources the NWAEA math team has provided for me and my classroom.

01-30-2024

Abby Bowden [Fremont-Mills Community School District]

Governor Reynolds,I am a preschool teacher in a very small, rural, and poverty stricken community and I rely heavily on the AEA services to help provide the best environment for my littles as well as supplement some positions/resources our district is unable to fill/provide. Without the AEAs supports and services I am afraid that our school wont be able to supplement these valuable resources and we will see a significant decline in our students and teachers. We love our kids, families, and believe deeply in a strong and meaningful education, but struggling to find teachers and with less supports and resources will only increase problems, not fix them. These kids NEED and DESERVE an education that meets their needs, and teachers NEED and DESERVE the resources to give these kids what they need. You would be doing a disservice to your families, kids, teachers, schools, and communities by taking away ANY part of the AEA. A good Education is the foundation to future success. Lets keep our AEA resources and supports and continue to brighten futures!

01-30-2024

Jami Demuth []

As a parent, I have worked with the AEA Family Educator Partnership which provides advocates for families whose students require educational accommodations due to a disability. These services will be cut if the proposed legislation is passed. The FEP services have been instrumental in providing support to parents and families who are not aware of the process to request educational accommodations. They have been instrumental to the state of Iowa in ensuring that the Federal mandates under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are implemented in all Iowa schools and that all students receive an appropriate, public education. Without the FEP, students with disabilities and their families, especially those in underserved populations, will not receive the educational services they deserve. I fought for several years with my child's school district to get a 504 for my child. The FEP was integral in providing me with information about my student's rights under IDEA as well as providing me information about the types of accommodations that would best help my child. The proposed legislation to cut these educational services is a disservice to all Iowa students.

01-30-2024

John Schafer []

The Iowa legislature did a great thing in 2017 with IA SF274 which requires CS instruction at a variety of checkpoints through the K12 pathway in Iowa. The nine AEAs in Iowa were VITAL in helping school districts prepare for the fall 2022 and fall 2023 mandates that were part of that bill. This past fall, Iowa moved into the top 10 (in fact, to #7) in national rankings of Computer Science Education in K12 education when ranked on a state by state basis. This ranking is ABSOLUTELY in part to the hard work that the digital learning teams at the state's AEAs have done, and continue to do, in preparing teachers at all levels of the K12 pathway to be qualified as CS teachers. They helped exposed teachers to age appropriate resources and teacher appropriate PD. The teachers in the state would not have been and COULD not have been ready without the assistance of the digital learning team. And this is but one example of the many great things that the hardworking employees in Iowa's AEAs do to better the students and teachers in our state for, frankly, a bargain price. Please let's stop hiding the real impact of HSB 542. This bill would absolutely gut the ability of the state's AEAs to continue to advance the education of our students across a whole variety of discplines including Computer Science. The future success of the contents of 274 is in real jeaopardy with HSB 542 and will cause us to lose that top 10 ranking of which so many of us are proud.

01-30-2024

Pam Zimmerman [retired teacher]

How sad it is, that I feel it doesn't make a difference what the public response is Minds are made up. For some reason the governing body of Iowa is slowing chipping away and eroding our public schools. It does no good to review the role the AEA's play in our children's education. That has been established. If you vote for this amendment you are not representing the people, more specifically the children of Iowa. You are voting for whatever your agenda is And we wonder, why people don't vote?!? Because we feel our lawmakers are not listening.

01-30-2024

Jean McMaken [AAUW_Ames Branch]

Iowa's Area Education AgenciesTHIS IS BAD LEGISLATION; IT WILL SERIOUSLY HARM PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOOLS AND IOWA'S FAMILIESAEA Bill Amendment SummaryDespite an announcement by Governor Reynolds on January 1 8 that she had listened to Iowans voicing concerns about her original piece of legislation to radically alter the state's AreaEducation Agencies and impose new financial burdens on public and nonpublic schools, a newly released amendment makes few significant changes in response.In summary, the amendments to the original bill:Diminish Local Control Local decisionmaking authority is transferred from the local level to the Director of the Iowa Department of Education (DE), another agency, or is simply eliminated 133 times in this bill. This includes instances when the bill allows the district to direct the use of its funds to partner with the AEA for services. Additionally, there are eight transfers of decisionmaking power away from the State Board of Education to the Iowa Department of Education Director. Provides the Iowa Department of Education Director complete authority over AEA staffing, contracts, salaries and reorganizations, reduces the Chief Administrator positions and replaces them with an Executive Director with a special education background. All requests by a school district to enter into a fee for service agreement with an AEA must be approved by the Iowa Department of Education Director. Bypasses the open meetings structure for public input into AEA budget setting and puts the Iowa Department of Education Director in charge of budget approval. Gives the Department of Management power over total tax levy remains. (Note: If a school district does not reduce the tax rate to account for the removal of media services, the Department of Management will do so.) This provision will allow the Department ofManagement to arbitrarily reduce a district's levy after an elected board approved the levy rate which will establish precedent for overturning locally controlled decisions by locally elected board members. Requires the use of the Science of Reading programming. (Currently, curriculum decisionmaking is made at the district level.) While the bill allows districts to decide how to use special education and education services funding, the Iowa Department of Education ultimately makes the decision on whether districts can contract with the AEA for those services.Reduce Economies of Scale Prohibits the economical sharing of positions between AEAs and school districts, and would terminate current agreements in place to share positions such as social workers, school business officials, and technology staff, effectively erasing operational sharing currently flowing to districts. Eliminates $32 million of funding from local school districts and accredited nonpublic school budgets for Iowa AEA Media Services, and thereby removes access to cooperative purchasing currently in place across the state. While these services would be available on a "fee for service" basis only, the bill does not provide the districts or nonpublic schools with funds to purchase those services.Create Unrealistic Timelines for DecisionMaking e Sets the date for a decision for Special Education agreement with AEA to Feb. 1 of the prior school year (for future years), and by June 1, 2024.Lack Clarity in Several Areas Creates "fee for service" structure for AEA Special Education, Educational Services (including professional development services) and Media Services, with all services approved by the Iowa Department of Education Director. As referenced above, local school districts would receive no funding for Media Services. Allows districts to seek "fee for service" requests from different AEAs although the amendment does not make clear the logistical feasibility of honoring those requests.Continue to Create Challenges for Special Education Support The mechanism for nonpublic students to receive special education services remains unclear. Nonpublic schools will have to rely on their local public school districts for access to the educational services they are receiving today.Additional Items of Note: Retains a provision for AEAs to provide online learning for students to meet "offer and teach" requirements and allows AEA professional learning to count for licensure credit. Leaves the original teacher compensation language the same despite concerns about the financial unsustainability for local school district budgets.

01-30-2024

Pamela Vogel [Retired School Superintendent]

It is essential that we in Iowa understand what we have. We have a strong and connected system that works. The AEAs have worked to support all schools with staff, educational materials, and professional development. The AEAs and the schools in Iowa do not focus solely on students with special needs, but on all children.If Iowa loses this system, these strong supports that have been so carefully woven together will be gone. We will lose many of the current professionals employed by the AEAs. Schools who are already having difficulty with budgets will be forced to reallocate their purchasing power. We will have inconsistencies in services from one part of the state to another. This will result in some children being served and others who will not.The Iowa Department of Education is supposed to be our schools first line of educational support and innovation. If the governor is questioning the quality of our states education, shouldnt the Department be her first area of attention? Since the Iowa Department of Education, the governor, and her appointed directors have not been able to meet past demands, how can we be assured that this top down approach will meet increased future expectations? In past years, the Iowa DE has not shown itself to lead much of anything and I speak from experience, having served on several state education committees, where the DE did not provide quality leadership, as they demonstrated a complete lack of understanding of the needs of the school districts and how to best support them. I have no faith or trust that this will be any different.

01-30-2024

Donna Sennert []

I have worked for the AEA and have been a classroom teacher utilizing AEA services, both Special Education and Ed/Media. In the small schools in NW Iowa, these services are irreplaceable. Please reconsider this bill, deep dive into the AEA structure more closely and then submit a realistic one next year.

01-30-2024

Lesley Stucker []

I am a retired Physical Therapist and dedicated 22years of service to Heartland AEA. I saw firsthand the difference we made being in homes and schools immediately when concerns arose such as how do we transfer Johnny to the bathroom. Since I am retired I am NOT trying to save my job which has been stated by some legislators. I am asking all of you to vote NO! Please set up a task force with all affected parties at the table and dig deeper into the data, possible causes, possible solutions, and please VISIT schools and homes to watch the teamwork and collaboration that occurs between school personnel, parents and AEA. To push this bill through on the advice of an out of state agency without due diligence is a tragedy. I trust all of you want what is best for OUR children. Thankyou for doing the right thing.

01-30-2024

Alice DeWaard []

Please, please, please vote no to this bill. Our Special Ed classes are already struggling without proper funding, and the SPED teachers don't get paid enough as it is.Students of all backgrounds and intellects are struggling enough as it is, they rely on our current Mental Health services. My teachers are struggling and my classes are so big I can barely focus. At my school we are severely understaffed and are cutting class after class because no teacher wants to be hired into this kind of environment. Our schools need this money, please vote no to the bill. Put Iowa's children first.

01-30-2024

Sue Avitt [Des Moines Area Community College]

I taught special education for many years. The AEA's were key in providing for the needs of different students. Durning my years of teaching I had students with significant and multiple disabilities. In order to use best practices, given individual students needs, the AEA was right there with resources. Please vote NO on HSB 542 and SSB 3073. These bills are not in the best interests of anyone involved. Thank you

01-30-2024

Heather Applegate []

Please vote no on HSB 542. This bill will be catastrophic on education in ways that arent even predictable right now. Improvements can be made in any organization, but to push this bill through with do due diligence, will hurt Iowa students.

01-30-2024

Heather Applegate []

01-30-2024

Cindy Hornby [Parent/Grandparent/Voter]

As a parent whose children greatly benefited from the services of the AEA, I implore you to NOT pass this bill! As a grandparent, I plead with you to keep the AEA in tact. As a voter, I cannot believe any legislator cannot see what the governor is trying to do.

01-30-2024

Bernitta Goettsch []

VOTE NO. I am a grandmother of a child who has used these services in the past. He needed their help and we were so grateful. I do not see a benefit in the changes you are making; actually I see nothing but negative outcomes. Please do not destroy a system that has worked for a long time. Please do not give power to the wrong authorities. I'm disappointed this is even under review. DO BETTER for our kids and teachers and listen to your voters. Vote NO. You're going to degrade our education system, something Iowans have always been proud of. Thank you for your time!!

01-30-2024

Shelley Peters []

Like thousands of your constituants, I am writing to encourage you to vote NO on the proposed education bill HSB 542/SSB 3073. There is no reason to push this proposed bill through without a thorough study. I would urge you to look at additional data other than just the data presented by the governor for special education achievement. The NAEP tests that the governor references uses a random selection of students in the state for a snapshot of progress. The NAEP test was given to approximately 266 SpEd students in the state which is .003% of the total SpEd students in the state. I am sure we can all agree that judging and dismantling an entire system of support because of testing on .003% of a group of students is ridiculous and not a fair sampling of data at all. TEACHER COMPENSATION: While I appreciate the governor recognizing that Iowa educators deserve more compensation, I would ask that you separate this from this bill and not attach it to such a distructive bill. I would further ask you to explore how to reward veteren teachers with the same level of compensation. Again, I urge you to do the right thing for the education system in Iowa and vote NO on HSB 542/SSB 3073 until the full impact of the proposed changes can be studied.

01-30-2024

Tanya Bodenstedt []

Please vote "no" for this bill. Let's do the comprehensive review that the Governor mentioned and then move forward based on those findings. This is too big and implications are far reaching, it deserves the due diligence.My daughter benefited from Early ACCESS as an infant. She was born 7 weeks premature and was assigned a caseworker while we were still in the NICU. She visited our home to monitor Harper's development, provide advice and guidance as well as introduce us to toys and everyday items we could use to help Harper continue to meet milestones. This support was invaluable. My daughter is now 12 and thriving in public schools where she was identified as Gifted & Talented in the first grade and therefore still benefits from AEA services. My son is dyslexic, with a slight speech delay, and his IEP provides access to a Speech Language Pathologist who meets with him once a week at his school. He also receives other Special Education services to support his continued growth in both reading and writing. This support is also invaluable to our family as it provides access to specialists who otherwise are 1) difficult to find; 2) have long wait lists for new patients; 3) very expensive and not always covered by insurance. Let's please slow down, gather the proper data and here from all stakeholders.

01-30-2024

Jean McMaken []

NO Do not pass this billIt hurts Iowa's public schools.It removes resources that Iowa public schools, teachers and families depend on.It removes LOCAL CONTROL a right that has been prized for generations.It will cost the state more to pay private contractors, and quality and types of services will be greatly diminished.Why reinvent something that has worked quite well for Iowans for decades?Children not old enough for school will lose services.

01-30-2024

Mary Lutz []

Please vote no on HSB 542. Iowa has outstanding schools and educators which rely on the supports of the AEA system. Any changes to the AEA will have profound damaging effects to the education of all Iowa students now and for generations to come.

01-30-2024

Bonnie Boothroy []

Please DO NOT pass HSB 542 out of subcommittee. I have attended two open forums in my community regarding this bill, and speakers are overwhelmingly opposed. A system as comprehensive as this requires more extensive input and deliberation before drastic changes are made. There is no urgency. The AEA regional service delivery model is focused on SUPPORT and SERVICE to students and schools. The role of the Department of Education is REGULATORY. This is as it should be based on proximity and expertise. If the DE has uncovered any service delivery deficiencies, they can be addressed within the system. Destroying the system is not the answer. By not passing this bill out of subcommittee, you can ensure that this critical component of Iowas education system gets the full consideration it deserves.

01-30-2024

Shelley Peters []

Like thousands of your constituents, I am writing to encourage you to vote NO on the proposed education bill HSB 542/SSB 3073. There is no reason to push this proposed bill through without a thorough study. I would urge you to look at additional data other than just the data presented by the governor for special education achievement. The NAEP tests that the governor references uses a random selection of students in the state for a snapshot of progress. The NAEP test was given to approximately 266 SpEd students in the state which is .003% of the total SpEd students in the state. I am sure we can all agree that judging and dismantling an entire system of support because of testing on .003% of a group of students is ridiculous and not a fair sampling of data at all. TEACHER COMPENSATION: While I appreciate the governor recognizing that Iowa educators deserve more compensation, I would ask that you separate this from this bill and not attach it to such a destructive bill. I would further ask you to explore how to reward veteran teachers with the same level of compensation. Again, I urge you to do the right thing for the education system in Iowa and vote NO on HSB 542/SSB 3073 until the full impact of the proposed changes can be studied.

01-30-2024

Robin Murphy []

I am a special education teacher. Without the AEA, we would not have students be evaluated for services and receive speech, occupational, or physical therapy services. The AEA also provides different lessons and materials for us if we need them. They also offer many classes for us to continue to grow as educators. Without the AEA, schools would suffer and it would be impossible to do my job as a special education teacher. We need them.

01-30-2024

Matt Burke []

Please vote no on this legislation. All of our children deserve a chance at receiving an Iowa education. Eliminating the AEAs will create educational gaps throughout the State and there will be children who do not receive the educational services they need for life especially at the elementary school level. Government service costs should always be reviewed but this legislation seems to go to far in trying to save on taxes.

01-30-2024

Vicky Brenner [Retired Educator]

Vote no on this bill. It is evident to Iowans this is another bait & switch to privatize public services which will cost school districts more. Our AEAs provide extremely valuable & efficient services, especially to our rural areas.

01-30-2024

Mollie Zimmerman Burke []

Please do not support this bill. Iowa students deserve access to the services and resources the AEAs provide. Passing this disadvantages all Iowa students and teachers, but is especially harmful to students with different learning needs, including disabilities covered by the ADA.

01-30-2024

JoElle Jensen []

I support the AEA model. Making a change as proposed by this legislation will negatively impact the education of all Iowa children. It will place great burdens on communities, counties and school districts alike. I have utilized many services provided by the AEAs. I have obtained a substitute authorization license, obtained renewal teacher education credits, attended inservices, used the media center. I have lived in Ottumwa, Bettendorf, Cedar Falls and now Clear Lake. My once nonverbal autistic son benefited immensely from the hard work of all providers: speech, OT, Teachers who had the AEA as their employer or for support. With this support and a great deal of work, he obtained a bachelors degree in Manufacturing Technology at UNI. Legislators Please work with our Governor to devise a plan. This bill is NOT the plan.

01-30-2024

Russell Rohlfing []

How will this process be paid for. There will be a lot of costs for the transition and staffing to make a move from the AEA. How can the Governor be pushing for tax cuts but then incur these costs? How much time will the Governor allow for the transition to take place? The AEA provides all kinds of services the small school districts could not afford but now will have to find the money to make these hires and find the other services. All of these operations cost money and time. The amount of money "saved" by reducing the AEA's operation will be dwarfed by the start up costs this drastic of a change will cost. This doesn't even count the bloat that will go on at the Department of Education as we have seen there are already 30 new positions posted for this change. So much for making government smaller.IF the Governor is true to her word that the local districts should have a say in this process, the Superintendent of Indianola and the Superintendent of Hudson both have written letters to slow down this process to make sure everything is reviewed because once you make this change, to go back will be about impossible. This change will have drastic impact in the state of Iowa. We can not let a consulting firm from Virginia make decisions for Iowans. At least slow this down to really figure what the true impact will be and not a polished talking points. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Gronowski []

As a parent of a special needs child in a general education classroom, I urge you to say NO this this bill. The AEA has been a life saver to our family since our son came home from the NICU. Since he started preschool, they have partnered with our family, teachers and schools to help our son transition to school and thrive in the classroom. Restructuring the AEA would remove the local control the Governor says she wants to provide and will create huge disparities in services between schools and districts. Giving so much power to the state seems not only clunky, but just frightening, and I fear for my sons education going forward if this bill moves forward. Please listen to the people of Iowa and vote No.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Santiago []

I would like to add my voice to the overwhelming amount of public feedback stating that the governors proposed changes to the AEA are ill considered and not supportive of the idea of local control. Please do not rush this bill through as it is not in the best interest of children, educators, parents, or the economy.

01-30-2024

Doug Rumohr []

I have many concerns about this bill, I feel as a parent,tax payer, and long time resident of Iowa this bill will most definitely cause much more harm to our children and community than good! I am all for tightening the belt on wasteful spending but to take away vital services and resources for our children and parents is absolutely ignorant! This makes as much sense as the privatization of the police and fire departments! It will not work! The contract entities will not/ can not be held to the same standards nor will they have the vested interest in the people of the community they serve simply due to the fact that they do not live,work,grocery shop and otherwise conduct there daily business within the community in which they serve! I find it completely irrational that such a proposition is even being considered!!..Sounds to me like there are too many chiefs making decisions and not enough of the rational boots on the ground,the true fighters for children and families being heard. I stand with the A.E.A and what's best for the future generation of both our children and there families here in Iowa!!! As a voter I regretfully feel that I like many of "us" have chosen the wrong person/people to represent "us" and our true beliefs.

01-30-2024

Kathy Utterback []

Please tell me how this bill helps students and their families, and how does it support public schools and their communities. And where did the information come from that supports these changes superintendents, educators, families, community members? Where do you go from here, what ripple effects will there be to students families and communities? I cannot support this bill!!

01-30-2024

Katie Heubner []

I am writing to ask you to vote no on this legislation. As a parent of a child that has received services from the AEA, I cannot understand why we would rush through a bill that would dismantle an organization that has done so much good. A bill that was not written by Iowans but that would drastically change how Iowans receive service. The AEA functions independently of any political party, but this bill will give a political party control to deny services to schools and students at will. Public schools, private schools and homeschools alike benefit from the services of the AEA. When all of these groups are against this bill it HAS to mean something. Please vote no.

01-30-2024

Roberta Hass []

Thank you committee members that are taking the time to read my comments. I am presently a school board member of the MFL MarMac School District, retired teacher from this district and a parent and grandparent. I have been overwhelmingly sad that such a bill even in the revised form is something that you are thinking of changing from the present form. AEA's have been a partner to our rural districts in ways that have helped us sustain needed services that we would not be able to access or have in our individual districts. As a retired educator I know the value of all the services that are delivered by our AEA's. 1. Our science program that is very hands on is delivered and replenished sharing with other districs the kits that we use. It is an amazing way to learn science and we as a district will not be able to afford or maintain these kits. 2. The Professional Development that is lead by AEA staff is very invaluable to all teachers in rural areas bringing to us expertise that we would not be able to access easily otherwise. Gathiering staff from other districts to share strategies and ideas and helping us to do better for our students. 3. The media lending is so important to our students to have great books to read, manipulatives to learn with, and tech support at our fingertips to answer all of our questions. 4. From the Central offices, I know, that productions is used to make binder copies and other documents that we need for operations at that level. Not all districts can have its own productions which creates effiencies for rural districts that are not big enough to have the equipment or the manpower to support this. 5. Students will suffer! Kids will not get the services that they have been getting. It just isn't feasible to find the qualified people that will be hired to do the job. Whether it be for special education, speech, talented & gifted, emotional needs, hearing challenges, etc. 6. There are so many more partnerships that the AEA share with our local rural districts, please find the time to ask those that are at the AEA's how important the work they do for students in Iowa is.Please reconsider this bill, study the AEA's in a way that has the stakeholders involved to make the best choice for change for our students. They are the most important issue here and the future of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Ashley Laudick [Iowa Dpeech Language and Hearing Association ]

As President of the Iowa SpeechLanguage and Hearing Association (ISHA) we want to STRONGLY oppose this billSuch sweeping changes in our education system requires THOROUGH RESEARCH and input from teachers, administrators, support personnel, SLPs, Audiologists, parents, students, and community members about these drastic changes.There is no study, let alone multiple sources of data, to support the need for such a change. As SLPs and Audiologists, we seek multiple sources of data to determine how to support a students. Our elected officials should be seeking multiple sources of information before dismantling a system that is not broken. Such sources should include input from the consumers of AEA services. Our elected officials have a duty to listen and represent the needs of the communities they serve, not vote in ways to further their own or others political agendas. Every legislator in Iowa should know how the districts they represent utilize AEA services. If they do not, we have a duty to inform them.Here is a brief list of what is at risk for all students in Iowa, including students with communication disabilities, and schoolbased SLPs and Audiologists if this bill is rammed through the legislative process. Quality Mental Health Training for Public School Employees, SLPs and Audiologists Serving over 400,000 Iowa Children. The impact of mental health conditions on children with communication disabilities has been evident for years with multiple sources verifying these needs. We have seen over and over again the damage that can occur when the mental health of students and those who serve those students are ignored. There is no current feasible way to meet these needs at the district level. School Crisis Response Services and Support. Around 100 Heartland AEA staff have engaged in support services to Perry Schools and surrounding districts since the horrible events of January 4th. This includes crisis support over the weekend at the Perry Public Library. This response also included supporting the SLPs and Audiologists who know and work with students and staff in Perry. They are there not only to support their colleagues, but to prepare them to engage in their daily work with students with communication disabilities in this community so that we can continue to support the whole child. OnTime Training on Issues of Critical Importance. AEAs provide support on critical matters such as artificial intelligence and speechlanguage services in the schools, the science of reading and the role of the SLP, socialemotional instruction and supports for all students, bullying and harassment, multitiered intervention system of supports (MTSS) so that all students have access to quality instruction. This includes Iowa Core standards such as Speaking/Listening skills in the least restrictive environment, evidenced based professional development specific to communication disorders, inclusion and much more. All free and easily accessible to school SLPs and Audiologists through he AEA. Again, there is currently no way to meet these needs at the district level and our students will suffer Specialized Supports for Unique Student Needs. Governor Reynolds public messaging on this matter has been crafted to communicate that services to students wont be disrupted and that local schools will now directly receive funds and decide how to spend them. To ISHA's knowledge, there is NO EVIDENCE to support these claims. It is in fact likely that the ability of every district, despite their size, to acquire quality speech and language pathologist services or other specialized support services for children ages 021 years will be negatively impacted. In a future where every school district, regardless of size and budget is left on an island to figure it out locally, equitable quality service will be at risk.ISHA is dedicated to quality public services for children with communication disabilities. While we recognize there ARE problems to overcome, we need to work within the AEA system and not dismantle it. Vote NO on this bill.

01-30-2024

Lisa Rude []

As a spouse of an educator, a parent of children in a rural public school, Im really struggling to see what this bill does to address Governor Reynolds claims. Ive heard her claims of giving parents control of their childrens education. First with the vouchers. Now this. I would like to openly state how backwards the steps to that end are. Rural schools make up the overwhelming majority of Iowas public education system. Asking rural districts to shop for services that the AEA ALREADY PROVIDES is a waste of everyones time. There are processes that already exist to review the AEA and the services they offer. Are we really interested in burning it all down over politics? There are thousands of lives that will be directly and indirectly impacted. Lets spend legislative sessions working on worthwhile problems, instead of inventing new ones.

01-30-2024

Mark Nelson []

Please vote NO on Bill HSB 542. My daughterinlaw works for AEA. I'm concerned about the young children (infant to 3 years) and families that may not have her support if this bill goes forward. I have spoke with her many times about the work that she does with young children. In many cases, the families situation doesn't allow the child to get the developmental support he or she needs to properly grow during that time in their life. This bill, if passed will place a great deal of children on a path that will affect them the rest of their lives. Please continue to take care of our children by saying NO to HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Mark Schmedinghoff []

This bill is a disaster for Iowa students. Iowa parents and educators did not want these draconian cuts to the AEAs. This does not need to be modified or amended it needs to be rejected, and the governor needs to find other ways to pay for her corporate tax giveaways.

01-30-2024

Shannon Monson []

I have an incredibly hard time understanding why a bill that is being opposed by every public educator I know is being sold as the best thing for our students. Please listen to and value the opinions of the educated individuals who work day in and day out with our students! As a mom of a now thriving adult who was a recipient of AEA services all through middle school, high school and beyond, I and my family value the AEA. Please oppose HF 542.

01-30-2024

Laurie Smith []

I have worked as an Occupational Therapist for over 22 years, 18 of them serving children birth 21 years of age, in Nebraska and Iowa. I can honestly say the AEA system is the best system I have worked for! Are there changes that could be made? Absolutely. What do all good LEADERS do? They bring people in their system to the table and work together to make things better. NOTHING in this bill will make ANYthing better for the children, families, educators, or schools. Stand up for your constituents who are imploring you to vote NO. Fight for a comprehensive overview of the AEA system, WITH the AEA partners. Learn the FACTS. Step up as the leaders we voted you to be. Listen to the people.VOTE NO!

01-30-2024

Kristin Hansen []

Please vote no for this bill. The amended bill does not give control to the local district, and puts it all in the hands of a director. The director can deny requests to use AEA and has the final say in everything a district chooses. Slow this process down, look at the factual and CONVERGENT data, not just one source that is such a minimal sample of our state. Listen to the people of your state voicing loudly not to do this to our students. It will be detrimental to all, especially the rural districts who wont be able to pay a contract therapist $150200 an hour. The quality of providers will also suffer as the therapists if hired through contract companies will be medical providers without educational expertise. So do what is in the best interest of students. Vote No. Dont let Reynolds scare tactics stop you from doing what is right for the state by voting no.

01-30-2024

Susan Pecinovsky [Iowa ASCD]

Consider the following question, "What confidence do you have in the ability of the Iowa Department of Education to implement with integrity this systemic reform?" History would indicate that we should proceed with caution. Please take the time to plan for this systemic reform! The children of Iowa deserve your very best!

01-30-2024

Micah Minor []

We have a saying in school that ALL kids are general education students FIRST and SOME kids require special education in addition to that. Take away the supports to gen Ed students and their classrooms and you take it away from special education students, too. Whats GOOD for students in special education is ALSO GOOD for students in gen Ed. This is a system so intertwined that it cannot be cut apart some elements funded and others not. If there are improvements to be made, lets make them SLOWLY and with public voice and real data to support the changes. This bill is a machete hacking away at the school system (private AND public) and provides no alternative services to replace whats taken away. What is going on, Iowa? THIS MAKES NO SENSE.

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Levai-baird []

Please vote no on this Bill. The Association of Educational Associations provides invaluable resources to educators and students alike. As both a parent and teacher, I can attest to their essential role in the success of our schools.

01-30-2024

Micah Minor []

01-30-2024

Shelley Payne []

I am emailing to ask you to be VERY thoughtful about the AEA bill before voting on it. This bill takes away local control. Iowa has always been a state that values local control. We should value this because as a person that works in schools I see how different each building is and what their needs are at each building, district, and region of IOWA.Please do not be bullied into voting for something that increases bureaucracy in education. We DO NOT need bureaucracy in education, we need action, support, and resources.AEA staff are in buildings DAILY building strong relationships with teachers, principals, parents and students. We are all working to increase student achievement, we want them to be successful productive IOWANS.This bill has strong language to take away district choice to use AEA services unless the DE approves that.It has taken the AEA 50 years to become an efficient educational resource, how long will it take the Dept of Ed to build up services to Iowa Schools? Or will they even try????AEA staff are highly qualified service providers. We value education for all and work towards making each student being the best they can be.Did the Department of Education have a plan for school shootings? The AEA had a team on site within 40 minutes to aid them and had a plan. The AEA is insightful and plans ahead.PLEASE SLOW THIS DOWN and bring all parties together to make decisions, not just destroy something that is HIGHLY beneficial for ALL IOWA students.A quote from Education WeeklyA Closer Look at NAEP Declines: What a Leading Ed. Researcher Finds SurprisingAs for good news, there were certainly some systems that seem to have weathered the pandemic better than others. At the state level, Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, and Iowa stand out as places where scores fell less on average across grades and subject areas than others.The Special Education litigation rates among all statesIowa has the 3rd smallest amount of Litigation cases in the United States. We are doing SOMETHING right here.With 1.83 BILLION dollars in the general fund year end 2023, we clearly have enough money to fund education instead of continuing to take money from education.

01-30-2024

Peggy Kolpek []

Please vote NO to this bill! Review the system, analyze the data from that review, then propose any changes that might be necessary. Do not gut a system that provides so many necessary services to all of Iowa because one woman, with her own agenda, says you should.

01-30-2024

Mary Lou Howell [Iowa Citizen]

Systemic change like HSB 542 requires planning based on a thorough diagnosis, implementation with integrity and constant monitoring, and evaluation of the impact. Please take time to do just that so that the results we get will be THE best or the students of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Danielle Martens []

Please vote NO to this bill. Iowa AEAs provide substantial support to our school districts and families in Iowa. As an educator and parent, please support our AEAs. It is a good system, and one that keeps costs affordable. Without the AEA, many of our rural school districts will be forced to contract with services outside of Iowa, resulting in expensive virtual services. We learned during COVID that virtual learning is NOT an adequate substitute for in person learning! In addition to hurting our schools and removing in person supports for educators, this will outsource jobs to private companies in other states. Why do we want to send our education dollars outside our own state borders? Let's pay and employ the excellent professionals and educators right here in our own state!

01-30-2024

Martin Wymore []

I oppose the steps that the Iowa House and Senate are taking to change the AEA systems. The services provided by the AEA system is a complicated network that has been established and refined over decades. The Iowa House and Senate are only spending a few weeks to somewhat study and reform the system is a very flawed process and format. The actions that you are discussing will greatly reduce the Iowa education system quality. Studying the system and supports is good, if done right. Developing a good process to study the systems will be critically important. Historically the state has done this at different times with different state services. I would urge you to create a process that is filled with the appropriate stakeholders schools, AEA staff, funding sources, and users. Roughly at least 1 year of time is needed for this independent review. The current process that you appear to be following will not adequately review these complicated systems. The Iowa Legislature cannot review all the issues around this in a few weeks or months. I fail to see why the state does not have 1 year to properly review and study an issue as important as this. As a life long Iowan for more than half a century, K12 education has always been really important to Republicans and Democrats. I hope that is still an item of critical importance to the Republican leadership, but your decision on this will clearly indicate whether this is a true statement. The current process that you are following here will abruptly change or destroy systems, that will not be fixable anytime soon. I hope that you are listening to the needs of Iowans and critically thinking about how to enhance our educational systems. I have heard many statements however that suggest that decisions are being made without the right facts and inputs. I am always surprised too that politics supersedes the critical importance of enhancing and improving K12 systems. Martin Wymore509 Richard LaneMarshalltown, Iowa

01-30-2024

Anita Christensen []

I am opposed to HSB 542. The AEAs provide an invaluable service to our schools. At the speed this is moving, no one can possibly understand the ramifications to our schools. Please be brave and reject this bill.

01-30-2024

Brett Trenkamp []

I am writing to express my concerns about HSB542. I have been in education for 20 years, and this bill is not how we do better for children. First off, as representatives for the people of Iowa, please listen to your constituents and their first hand experiences with AEAs. Then do better and represent the voices of the people. Lets take a step back and do the comprehensive review that the Governor has referenced. Lets pinpoint the areas of concern within the state of Iowas education system and determine what needs to be done for the betterment of our learners. Then we can address those deficit areas with research based solutions, collaborate with parents, educators, and the DE to take the most beneficial steps to improving the education system in Iowa. Education System '' is not solely defined by services of the AEA. Take more time to get more data and research to help make an informed decision. You were elected to help support Iowas, so please do your part by listening to your constituents.

01-30-2024

Chiara Burke []

Please vote NO on this legislation. I have worked with many students that would have had little chance to receive the education and assistance they needed to become productive members of society without the assistance and support that our schools received from the AEA. Every child deserves to receive any and every opportunity to learn and be supported at the level that they are at. Without the support of the AEA's, many students will lose the opportunity to receive critical services that will impact the rest of their lives.

01-30-2024

Cynthia Galm []

The AEA is vital to the educational development of our communities. I oppose HSB 542 and request you listen to the thousands of your constituents who are providing you with valuable information on the workings and benefits of the AEA.

01-30-2024

Brett Hakeman []

Please vote no on this AEA bill. My two young children attend a rural school district, which will feel a heavy impact of this bill. When you realize a year from now that you've made a terrible mistake, it will be too late and the damage will be done. Stand up for your constituents and vote NO.

01-30-2024

Andie Olson []

PLEASE save our AEA's! As an educator for 28 years, they are a valuable resource that is leaned on day in and day out to help everyone! If we lose our AEA's, our families are going to suffer in Iowa!

01-30-2024

Lora Hight []

Please vote NO on HSB 542 and listen to the voices of Iowans who do not want AEA services to be dismantled. Let's take the time to complete a systematic study with all stakeholders present. Iowa children depend on you to do the right thing. Thank You.

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Long [Danville CSD]

Dear Legislators,I wanted to first thank you on your attention to the outcry of thousands upon thousands of the taxpaying citizens of Iowa. We understand that you have much on your plate at this time of year and it is hard to find time to hear the intricacies and possible positive and negative consequences of every bill. It was positive to see that more money would be funneled back directly back into the schools rather than just a percentage of it as previously stated. Additionally, it was nice to see that some of the positions that support teachers and students would not be cut such as the instructional services positions. Special education students are general education students first, so if their core classroom instruction is not effective, their growth will be stunted. There are still many great concerns with this bill that have not be addressed yet. One of those concerns is for the abundance of rural districts throughout Iowa that will suffer. AEA's could easily find it hard to maintain employees if larger districts are willing to pay them more than AEA's and smaller districts can afford. Services will quickly become inequitable across the state depending on demographics.Also, I have grave concerns about the state department taking on more responsibilities and being able to complete them in a timely manner. Who will oversee them? When you take away local control, we are at the mercy of those working in Des Moines. When you are three hours away from Des Moines, it does make a difference. Having a local AEA nearby meant we had more of a voice about our needs and a easy contact to reach out to if problems arose in a timely fashion. With these jobs being farmed our your small, rural districts fear we will be forgotten and swept under the rug. This has been the trend to date in regard to the department of education. It is hard to get in contact with them to get answers and we are usually their last concern. My fear is that the control shifting from local to the state is that our students will suffer just because of our size and location. The responsibilites they take on will greatly impact our district. How will they be held accountable to for serving districts equitably? Finally, I wish that the base teacher salary increase was outlined in a separate bill. These two items have nothing to do with each other. It almost feels as if we are being held hostage. If we don't agree to do what the governor would like us to do regarding the AEA's, then she would not consider increasing the required base salary raise. It just feels wrong and has no teacher or student's best interest at heart.My request is that while you have so many things to hear, you take the time to listen critically to citizens across Iowa to here how this bill will truly impact schools. Pay close attention to those voices who work in schools in and every day. They are the experts on the topic.Sincerely,Elizabeth LongK12 Instructional CoachDanville Community School Districtelizabeth.longdanvillecsd.org

01-30-2024

Katie Petersen []

Please reject this bill as it stands. Iowans can make AEAs better without slashing them to pieces and losing all of the great supports in schools. Iowa educators rely heavily on AEA supports. Dismantling AEAs as outlined in this bill will create unnecessary stress for teachers and school districts. There HAS to be a more thoughtful approach!!!

01-30-2024

Melissa Neil []

Please vote NO!!!!. We need the AEA in it's entirety. We can not afford to lose services for our children, schools, teachers and parents! Iowa families need the support of the AEA. Stand up and fight this Bill! Iowa children are depending on it! Vote No!!

01-30-2024

Julie Rastetter []

As a retired employee of an AEA I can speak to the overwhelming benefits that the AEAs provide to students, teachers, administrators and parents., I saw firsthand so many times how my job impacted the learning and strengthened the academic process.Please step back and vote NO, send a message to Governor Kim how wrong this is!

01-30-2024

Brian Sexton []

The amendments to this bill are a start, but not near enough to justify passing it. As an educator with 12 years experience (2 subbing and 10 in the classroom) the services the AEA provides are too valuable to lose. Also the statistics about our Special Education performance that Governor Reynolds has used to justify this bill do not tell the full story. It mentions nothing on FAST bridge testing, MAP data, transcripts, etc. In addition our AEA's and special education teachers work diligently to help our students to gain the skills to exit Special Education and that hasn't been taken into consideration.

01-30-2024

Brandy Parsons []

I oppose this Bill and you should too! It is time to think about our children in Iowa and their education. Stop thinking about what side you are on! These are children and they deserve the best education we can give them. The AEA is a vital part to that success!

01-30-2024

Corey Rogers []

Please consider the wide ranging effects of this bill and vote no. House File 2629 includes requirements for Iowa public and accredited non public districts to provide computer science instruction for students. The AEAs across Iowa currently support districts with meeting these Future Ready requirements through Education & Media Services.The 2023 Iowa State of Computer Science report stated that on average there are 4,621 open computing jobs in our state with an average salary of $91,730. Ensuring Iowas workforce is Future Ready includes helping students, educators, and families understand how computer science impacts our daily lives and Iowas economy. The AEAs have collaborated with the computer science consultant at the Iowa DE, district leaders and educators, members of the Iowa STEM team, and community partners to ensure our schools have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high quality computer science instruction for all students. Supports include facilitating the creation of district K12 CS implementation plans, virtual and face to face professional development for PreK12 teachers and administrators, coteaching and in classroom coaching of computer science integration into core content, and providing physical computing and robot lending libraries all delivered by a statewide computer science team to ensure equitable services across the state. Our collective efforts to help districts meet the requirements of HS 2629 have led to Iowa being named the 7th best state for computer science education in the nation.I implore you to slow down this process to fully investigate how the proposed changes will impact Iowas students, teachers, families, communities and economy. (See attachment for links to supporting documents and resources.)

Attachment

01-30-2024

Stacy Oberman []

Please vote NO!!! According to Procedural Safeguards for Parents, services should be appropriate to childs need, least restrictive AND should include parent participation. A fee for service model is not appropriate and will not be least restrictive. Please, please including parent participation when making this decision. Please read the stories families have shared and see how the AEA has helped their child. Thank you!!

01-30-2024

Lisa Berger []

I urge you to vote no for HSB 542. When I was a new special education teacher I relied heavily on the support provided to me from my AEA core team. They ensured that I had the support and knowledge that I needed to perform my job with integrity. As a more seasoned special education teacher, this reliance on support did not dwindle. I received trainings and professional development that allowed me to grow as a teacher. My AEA staff were willing to have tough conversations with me, or offer me a perspective I had not considered. They also provided an immense amount of guidance when writing IEPs. This directly impacted our students and families in a positive way.

01-30-2024

Tiffany DeBow [Citizen]

This bill, written with input from an out of state vendor, has not had enough time to be reviewed & considered by the Iowans who live here, know our values & will be affected by these changes. Individual districts, who may not have full time or consistent needs, do not have the same negotiating power on their own as they do when their needs are pooled together at the AEA to make the work more lucrative and give the AEA bargaining power & leverage. Small, rural schools will be most hurt by this bill if the larger schools were to remove their contribution of the funds & use them in the private sector. Something the rural communities don't have access to & with a reduced need, they will not be as desirable to hire for. Not to mention the additional amount they will have to pay in order to have someone from the urban centers drive to the rural district for services. They will charge for their travel. The AEAs support all our students, through professional development for teachers, media & technology services that save the districts money and things like science kits that save teachers time & money sourcing materials & putting things together. Lastly, how many children have had better futures because the AEA is available to parents who have a baby that either will or has the potential for development delays & learning difficulties. From just being born premature to complicated medical cases, the AEAs provide families who may have just gotten the shock of their lives, with support to guide them on this new path, and early interventions to help their child achieve even more of their potential. We have more power & savings together than each district on their own. This is Iowa. We are supposed to be known for community, coming together & supporting each other. Not every man for himself. This bill hurts Iowa families. This bill is not Iowa.

01-30-2024

Mandy Arkfeld []

As a registered Republican, long time Iowa resident, and parent of three children in Iowa's public schools, I implore you to vote NO to this bill. This bill will essentially dismantle Iowa's current AEA system and Iowa's children (and future taxpayers and leaders) will suffer. I have talked to many, MANY Iowans about this bill and have not met one (NOT ONE) that is in favor of this bill. The outpouring of support for our AEA system has been unprecedented. You cannot deny or ignore this fact. If you, as our legislators, have been voted into office to represent constituents, how in good conscience can you vote YES to a bill that is not supported by the public? Reading the endless scroll of public comments on this page alone should tell you that the people of Iowa are NOT in favor of this bill. The data that the Governor has been sharing on Facebook is misleading, shortsided, and wrong. Stating that the AEA system is "failing" our students with disabilities is grossly inaccurate, and it shows just how little the Governor understands public education. AEAs do not act alone. AEA staff stand with public school staff in a partnership for students with disabilities. When there are successes, AEA and public school staff celebrate together! When there is need for intervention/service, AEA and public school staff work together to find solutions. Removing AEA's support/service from Iowa's public schools will result in catastrophic outcomes for our future, particularly in the small rural school districts that Iowa prides itself upon. I implore you, vote NO to this bill. It is wrong for families. It is wrong for teachers. It is wrong for Iowa.

01-30-2024

Liz Berns []

I personally dont have a child who uses AEA, but I know sooooo many people who do. I am strongly against these AEA changes and I beg you to read these comments to understand how valuable the AEA is to the state of Iowa and all the local communities in my area. I work at a hair salon and this has been a big hot topic of talk. Absolutely nobody agrees with this passing. I have friends and clients who will lose their jobs. I have friends and clients who will lose the help that their children desperately need. Please reconsider passing this bill for the good of the Iowa People. If this were a public vote, I guarantee it would fail miserably.

01-30-2024

Tammy Gehling []

As a School Psychologist with advanced training in brain injuries, mental health topics, and academics, I am completely opposed to the passage of this bill. Words cannot express the degree of concern I have for the future of our children if this bill passes. AEAs are there to fulfill a variety of services our districts need and desire. It takes away our local control and negates the will of the people. This bill will have devastating impacts on our children for generations to come. I certainly would not want my name attached to its passage.

01-30-2024

Ali McCue []

I write today to voice my strong opposition to this bill. This bill does not support Iowa students, both with and without disabilities. This bill makes it harder for all schools to provide a quality education for all students. It strips schools of support, almost overnight. This bill is based on bad data: on less that a half of a percent of special education students. Our AEA colleagues would tell you that is not sufficient data for such an important decision. Please vote no.

01-30-2024

Lance Beresford []

I am expressing my deep concerns about the proposed HSB 542 bill currently under consideration. Having taken the time to thoroughly read the bill, I am troubled by the potential ramifications it may have on crucial services, particularly for special needs students.A myriad of questions demand answers before this bill proceeds. While I acknowledge I am not a lawmaker and may not be fully versed in the legislative process, it appears the bill lacks adequate provisions for essential services and risks dismantling an agency that has proven effective in achieving its objectives.Impact on Special Needs Students:Special needs students face demands that are inherently unequal to their peers. Comparing mainstream test scores to those of students with special needs results in an unfair disparity. A comprehensive examination of processes for serving special needs children is crucial, and the voices of students, families, and professionals affected should not be ignored.Continuity of Services:How will the bill not impact the children currently receiving services? While assurances have been given that students and schools will continue to receive services, it appears deceptive without clear details. Budgetary decisions by school officials, potentially uninformed about the specific demands, will jeopardize the availability of essential services.Coverage in Rural and Metro Districts:With a rising number of special needs cases, to include mental health cases, the bill's potential to reduce coverage in both rural and metro districts is alarming. An already overextended social worker, therapist, or consultant will be stretched further, resulting in delays in attending to students in need. This scenario is unacceptable and could leave many students without timely support.I urge you to reconsider the accelerated demand to pass this bill and thoroughly evaluate its potential impact on our education system, especially for those who depend on essential services. The wellbeing and development of our children are at stake, and I implore you to vote against this bill.Thank you for your attention to this critical matter, and I trust you will make decisions in the best interest of the constituents you serve.

01-30-2024

Cindy Thompson []

Please use your position as an elected official to hear the voices of your constituents and do what is best for the children of Iowa, which is not acting quickly in passing this bill. This bill does not include local input, does not give local control to school districts, and will not support local providers. The Governor herself mentioned a comprehensive review of the current system, so lets take the time to gather more information. The AEAs are not solely responsible for the education system of Iowa. High stakes decisions should be rooted in research and provide a well planned out solution. Please, vote no to this bill as written. Then lets take time to pinpoint Iowas educational deficits and collaborate with parents, educators, and the DE to find high quality solutions. I have spent 30 years working as a paraprofessional and appreciate the supports provided by our AEA.

01-30-2024

Andrea Thompson []

Please protect our AEA partners in education. As a family that has benefited from speech services and the homeschool assistance program with the AEA it breaks my heart thinking other families might be denied these services and support. Our current system of statewide AEAs reduces duplication in programming and services with local input via its governance structure. Even the Iowa Department of Education website states "AEAs offer the kinds of services that can be most efficiently and economically provided on a regional or cooperative basis among school districts. The Iowa system is widely regarded as one of the foremost regional service systems in the country."I'm very skeptical that any private companies or individual service providers would be able to step in and offer the level of effective, comprehensive services that the AEA currently provides in our rural district. Privatization is only an advantage when there are alternative choices with a reputation for providing better services. Please prioritize students and families, we need our AEA partners in education.

01-30-2024

Miranda Johnson []

Please vote no to this bill. I have witnessed the huge impact that AEAs have on teachers, families, and students. I have felt the positive impacts as a teacher and as a sibling to someone with a disability. We need our AEAs. Our students need our AEAs!

01-30-2024

Shannon Guyer []

Please vote NO to this bill. As stated in these comments, Iowas AEAs are a vital part to our educational system in this State. This bill rushes through changes and deletions to services with limited knowledge of or solutions for meeting the needs that will be left in its wake. The changes in this bill have not been evaluated, nor were fair processes or due diligence followed in its creation. A thorough review of the AEAs, with input from all stakeholders, never occurred. This bill has far reaching implications on Iowas children, which will eventually impact our civil and financial wellbeing. PLEASE serve Iowa Citizens, and not political agendas, and vote NO!

01-30-2024

Kirsten Brooks []

My name is Kirsten Brooks, and I guess you could say I'm an Iowa transplant. I have been living and voting in Iowa City since 2015, and for the past five years I have had the privilege of working with students and teachers in the West Liberty Community School District through the Mississippi Bend Area Education Agency. Though I work day to day with one primary student, I havegotten to know many of the students, particularly those in the ELL and the Dual Language programs, and those receiving Special Education services. I have gotten to witness the progress that not only the learner I work with directly has made since fifth grade, but have watched that entire class grow up. I have watched them develop new language and academic skills through curriculum support, new technology skills through digital learning and technology resources provided to their district, experience unique and exciting opportunities through the Gifted and Talented program, and use digital and media resources in every gen ed class. All of these services and resources are supported by the MBAEA, and all would be cut under the Governor's proposed bill. Every student would be affected.While my heart aches for the students, teachers, and families, particularly in rural districts, who would be left without access to many services and resources, I am absolutely appalled at how this bill is being presented as a way of saving money and increasing local control, when in fact it does NEITHER. By turning so many services over to districts to arrange individually, it destroys existing economies of scale and leaves districts with smaller budgets unable to afford resources they currently have access to. In the absence of the AEA system providing Iowa educators and specialists with jobs that serve Iowa students, through which both groups in turn contribute to Iowa's economy, private providers based in other states or even countries will flood in and you can bet the profits they generate will not be directed back into Iowa.Furthermore, even leaving the likelihood of external private providers aside, this bill does nothing to further local control of services providedit transfers authority and administration to the state level at the Iowa Department of Education, and in severalcases, decisionmaking power will rest solely with the Director of the Department of Education. This is a far cry from the claim that is being made to parents and voters that the aim is to put local districts in control of these services. This is, rather, its oppositecentralizing power and increasing bureaucratic oversight.Please kill this bill outright. Improvements to the existing AEA system certainly can be made!but they must be made through a comprehensive review involving all the parties involved. We mustn't settle for anything less. Thank you!

01-30-2024

Ann Dauderman []

Please vote NO. For many families schools and AEA are the only they get the services they need. Stop taking away from the agencies and services that help Iowa provide quality public education to everyone.

01-30-2024

Amy Ripp []

I am urging you to listen to the public outcry and vote no on HSB 542. Schools. Teachers, students and families utilize all components of the AEA systems. One part cannot work without the other. The decision you are making will have a lasting affect on our state.

01-30-2024

Kristi Hicks []

I recently came across the Governor's Facebook post that stated "The AEA system is failing our students with disabilities", and I couldn't help but be deeply affected by the sentiments shared. It felt like a gut punch, a cheap shot that cut to the core of my commitment to education.Allow me a moment to share why this is so personal for me. I have devoted my life to education, earning three degrees that symbolize my dedication to my career and the learning journey in education. As a teacher and administrator, I've spent my years advocating for the students of Iowa. But, let me be clear I am not an anomaly or anything special. There are thousands of professionals working for AEAs just like me, all wanting what's best for ALL kids.We engage in constant study, research, guidance, coaching, and continued learning for the children in Iowa. We are not failing our students. We are an integral part of a system that collaborates with our school partners and the Iowa Department of Education. Many would attest that our kids with IEPs are not failing when it comes to the individual goals designed for each child.If accusations are going to be thrown out by the leader of the state, it's crucial that accurate data supports these claims. HSB 542/SSB 3073 is NOT supportive of our children. If you do not support this bill and advocate for the children of Iowa, you will have thousands of Iowans and beyond standing for you and with you.

01-30-2024

Diane Duncan-Goldsmith []

Please Vote No HSB 542 and SSB 3073Governor Reynolds introduction of legislation designed to upend and dismantle Iowas Area Education Agencies seems to be another way for her to disrupt and ultimately destroy Iowas public education system. Under Reynolds leadership, Iowas education system has fallen from a ranking of #3 to #24. Her AEA plan seems to be ever changing, since apparently she did not believe there was any reason for indepth studies or discussions with any AEA stakeholder to actually learn how AEAs currently operate and understand the many services provided to school districts, regardless of size, throughout Iowa.Under her plan, local control would be a thing of the past. Instead power and control of services would be taken away from local schools and local AEAs and given to the Department of Education director. Presently, between the Iowa Department of Education, the Iowa State Board of Education and each AEAs local Board of Directors, every mechanism is in place which already provides current and timely oversight of Iowas AEAs. There has been no explanation as to why this change is needed.The proposed plan removes the economyofscale advantages which come with having a statewide system in place equitably serving all parts of Iowa. This was one of the founding principles legislators considered when AEAs were created. Exactly how would Iowas many small rural districts be able to afford or even find enough specialists to support the many services AEA staff professionals provide for special education students? These services and professionals are easily available through the AEAs. The AEAs were always designed to be economically efficient, provide better equity of services and be more effective in responding to constituent local boards, administrators, teachers and childrens needs. Why would AEAs need the explicit approval of the Iowa Department of Education director in order to offer only certain services, such as employing a child welfare liaison or employing a dietitian to support schools' nutrition programs? As a retired registered dietitian nutritionist and retired director of nutrition services for Iowa City Community School District, I can affirm small, rural districts need the expertise of dietitians in order to follow the nutrition guidelines specified for USDA school nutrition programs.The Governor raised concerns about salaries paid to AEA administrators, even though these salaries fall within the 5% AEA budget rules. In contrast, salaries of several of the Governors staff members went well beyond the 3% increase given at the start of the new fiscal year. Total salary increases ranged from 6% 15%.Legislators need to put both these bills on hold until an indepth review and analysis, which is not based on some outside consultant, can actually be done. Governor Reynolds and Republican legislators need to listen to the thousands and thousands of Iowans who oppose Governor Reynolds AEA proposed legislation.

01-30-2024

Michelle Neyens []

Please vote no on HSB 542. AEA services are needed to support teachers and families. Without these services, there could be detrimental outcomes for many families and school districts. AEA has been a vital instrument in supporting teachers, students and families after the recent Perry shootings. Please don't let teachers and families down and vote no.

01-30-2024

Ryan Collins []

I am writing in strong OPPOSITION to HSB 542. This bill will inflict severe consequences on the behavioral and emotional wellbeing of students, their families, and the communities that rely on these critical services.Two of the littleknown services provided by the AEAs are Emergency Reunification Response and Crisis Emergency Support. As a first responder, I have collaborated with the local AEA in development of crisis response plans. Discontinuing such vital services, or even disempowering local facilitators, creates undue barriers and jeopardizes the safety and wellbeing of students, their families, and the communities in times of need. Furthermore, the lack of immediate intervention through these services may further exacerbate the severity of a crises, resulting in lasting consequences for the affected individuals. I strongly urge the committee to vote NO on HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Megan Kuhlmann []

Please vote NO! Rural Iowa schools and families count on the endless services the AEA provides to our students, families, and schools. As a parent of a child with an IEP and a teacher in a rural Iowa school, I can't imagine what local schools and families will do without these services! If changes need to be made to the AEA's they need to be made in the right way and the facts need to be checked and rechecked. You don't just wipe out a system and give control to someone else without collaboration and conversations. This bill is not the answer!

01-30-2024

Barbara Puffinbarger []

Please vote NO for dismantling the AEA.The Department of Education shouldn't be in charge when the director has no educational background or education. She couldn't teach. Please bring educators to the table to make a bill that is what is best for education

01-30-2024

Laura Ramaekers []

Im writing to you as a parent of two young children, as well as a practicing school psychologist to urge you to stop this bill. I too want our students with disabilities to achieve at high levels, and succeed! However, reducing support that our schools rely on, removing local control by consolidating supervision of AEAs under the governors appointed director of the department of education, and taking control away from districts to determine what services and supports they can receive from whatever is left of the AEA system will only hurt the current generation of students, as well as hurt our Iowa kids for generations to come. I ask you to listen to the Iowa educational experts about what is working and what we can improve. Now is not the time to be Iowa nice. Now is the time for courage to stand up for what the students, parents, educators, school board members, and the community is telling you loud and clear. Vote No on this bill!

01-30-2024

LEONARD STRUTTMANN [Leonard Struttmann]

Please vote NO on any bill that reduces support for Iowa's AEAs. The AEAs are vital resources for all educators and students in this state, but are particularly needed in our rural school districts. Please vote NO and help keep our state's education system from deteriorating even further. Leonard Struttmann

01-30-2024

Meghan Rich []

Please do not pass this terrible bill based on skewed information! Our AEAs provide so many services to ALL of our kids. Do not cave to intimidation tactics but do what is right for our kids! Stop cutting down our public education. We need schools, teacher and education staff who feels supported, not beat down every day by our government officials who are supposed to REPRESENT us! The people do not want this bill and it is blatantly obvious!

01-30-2024

Heather Main []

I am asking you to please do what is best for Iowa's children and vote "no" to this bill. I am unsure how this bill is in the interest of any children, general education or special education. This bill will impact our rural schools and communities the hardest. If you truly believe reform is needed, I encourage you to please, take the time to review data that accurately measures what the concerns are and go from there. Please stand up and support what many Iowan's are telling you that this bill is not what is best for our children.

01-30-2024

Christian Fasselius []

Any proposed change to the provision of special education services in Iowa requires additional, transparent study to understand the causes for any achievement gap, and craft reforms aimed at reducing those gaps.The Governors office promises improved outcomes, but has done nothing and the report upon which the bill is based provides zero analysis to explain how and why these changes will do so. There has been no publicly available analysis of why outcomes lag, if at all, and how these changes will remedy those causes.The bill should be scrapped, and a study commenced to understand outcomes, causation, and determine most efficient remedies. Anything less places our kids in jeopardy and turns their future developmental outcomes into no more than hope.

01-30-2024

Amanda Sanderman []

I am asking you to oppose HSB542. The AEA system is a huge benefit to each and every student both general education and special education. Smaller, rural schools depend on the services provided not only by the direct service providers such as occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, and physical therapists, but also rely on the resources provided by content specialists, school improvement specialists, and media resources. Our Iowa students deserve the services provided by our local AEAs. Please oppose the bill, with the amendment and support our Iowa students and educators.

01-30-2024

Katie Wells []

It has become evident over the past several weeks how passionate we all are about our children and education in Iowa. This bill is moving so quickly, and there are so many questions about what services will be available, how schools will access and pay for these services, and how this will affect Iowa students, teachers, and families. Please vote no to HSB 542. We need to ensure we are doing what is best for our children.

01-30-2024

Madeline Grothus []

Please vote NO! This bill will create such burden and hardship for our schools. Rural schools will be at a disadvantage trying to maintain level of service and providing federally mandated services. Bigger schools wont have the infrastructure to support the additional programs and people. I time, well see a budget crisis. People will leave the state seeking other employment. This will become a bigger issue than just for public education. It will impact our States economy. We need the AEAs to continue to be partners in education. Give them a seat at the table to be painful and purposeful for the future.

01-30-2024

Rebecca McDowell [Community]

I am opposed to this bill to limit the funding, personnel, duties, power, and responsibilities to the Iowa AEAs. PLEASE take a year and study this matter!! Get the input of the dedicated staff of our AEAs.

01-30-2024

Jody Albertson []

What is left to say? Iowa clearly doesn't want the changes proposed in this legislation. It will have a devastating impact on an educational system that has been a source of pride for us for a very long time. This proposal will create a governmental bureaucracy that is less effective, less economical, and far less equitable. Please vote against HSB542.

01-30-2024

Alex Glade []

As a parent, community member, and educator I am opposed to this legislation. Implementing this bill would harm students and make the already difficult job of educators harder while creating a gap between what wealthy/poor communities are able to provide for their students and the varying access urban/suburban/rural school districts would have to provide services for students and teachers. I am hopeful our elected officials will act in the best interest of our children and adhere to the wide spread opposition to this legislation from constituents on both sides of the aisle.

01-30-2024

Michelle Marshall [GPAEA]

As a life long learner and educator for 32 years, it is important that we, the adults in our students' lives, do what is BEST. What problem is this bill fixing? How will this bill help get better outcomes for our Iowa children? Our children are counting on you to make sound, well thoughtout decisions that are based on nothing but objective, sound data that will bring them a better future.

01-30-2024

Penny Clarahan []

Please vote NO to this bill! We need to slow this process down, and bring all the Iowa stakeholders together in a thoughtful process to study the AEAs, instead of making a decision so suddenly that will negatively impact students and schools. How does this bill intend to improve student achievement? How does this bill help the state of Iowa?

01-30-2024

Mick Starcevich [Retired]

I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed cuts to the Area Education Agencies (AEAs) in our community. As a concerned parent and former school administrator who has personally witnessed the invaluable support and services provided by the AEAs, I believe it is crucial to shed light on the adverse consequences that may arise if these cuts are implemented.My daughter, Michelle, was born in Waterloo and faced numerous challenges right from birth, including club feet, developmental issues, and significant cognitive challenges. It is only because of the proactive and immediate assistance provided by the AEA that Michelle received the necessary support to thrive and grow until she aged out of the agencys services at 22 years old.We experienced the need to relocate frequently due to our careers in the education sector. Despite moving to different areas in the state, each AEA we encountered seamlessly picked up where the previous one left off, ensuring that Michelle's services and support remained of consistent quality. From Waterloo (Central Rivers AEA), to Danville (Great Prairie AEA), Harris Lake Park (Prairie Lakes AEA), Cherokee (Northwest AEA), and finally to College Community School District (Grant Wood AEA). At each location, the Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) supported by the AEAs were instrumental in Michelle's development, particularly in terms of gaining social skills and receiving speech therapy. The services provided by the AEAs were not just exceptional but also interconnected, catering to the diverse and specific needs of my child.My grave concern with a proposal to change AEA services lies in the practicality and feasibility of attempting to line up all the services currently provided by the AEAs. It is unrealistic to expect parents to shoulder the responsibility of identifying and coordinating these services, which the AEAs consistently and automatically offer. Moreover, this would not only prove to be a cumbersome task for working parents but also run the risk of lacking the seamlessness and cohesion that the AEAs currently provide. The current structure not only supports children like my daughter, who received special education services, but also Michelles general education peers who also benefited from resources, interventions and guidance provided by AEA staff.I urge the legislators to reconsider the proposed changes to the AEAs. These agencies play a fundamental role in providing support that is essential for the growth and development of all children including those with special needs. Reducing the scope of services provided by the AEAs would be detrimental to the wellbeing and future prospects of countless children and their families.Our children's education and wellbeing should remain a top priority, and fasttracking changes to a system as fundamental as the AEAs is shortsighted and would fail an entire generation of children.Sincerely,Mick StarcevichYears as Teacher: 6Years as Assistant Principal: 4Years as a Principal: 2Years as a Superintendent: 23Years as President of Kirkwood Community College: 1550 years in education

01-30-2024

Pam Childers []

Please vote NO. The AEAs provide essential services for ALL students, not just special needs children. Districts and children deserve access to books and online resources regardless of district size. At the very least you should study this further before destroying nationally recognized structures.

01-30-2024

Tasha Fritz []

To our elected officials Please listen to the constituents that have voted you in. We chose you and believe in the power of democracy. We chose you to be the voice that represents us, our kids and the future of Iowa. Slow down and please vote NO.

01-30-2024

Tara McGrath []

I urge you to slow this process down and study the AEA and the impact it has on students, teachers, and school districts. I have yet to see or talk to anyone who is in favor of this bill. This bill is going to destroy our education system. Schools and teachers are not going to get the support they need. What happens then?? The possibility of the school closing, small towns dying, and people moving out of state. This is not good for anyone in the state. Who exactly is benefiting from this bill?

01-30-2024

Kathleen Stuart []

I am an Early ACCESS Service Coordinator and Early Childhood Teacher through Keystone AEA, former classroom teacher and parent of two children who were supported by Keystone AEA. I can assure you that the AEAs as they are now are an essential key to the success of our education system in Iowa. In addition to being extremely concerned about the reduction of services that AEAs provide to all students under the current proposal, I am also extremely concerned with the proposed removal of the chief administrators from the AEAs and giving control to the Director of Department of Education. This shift of control would take away 113 decisions that impact the schools that are served by AEAs and currently are made locally and instead the decision making power is given to one person who is potentially hundreds of miles away. Additionally, at least 7 decisions that are currently made by Board of Education will shift to the Director of the department of education. One person should not have this much control over the education of our children. Decisions that affect school districts and learners should be kept local and guided by experienced school administrators, like our current AEA administrators.I implore you to stop this bill and keep the current AEA system in place. While I agree in every system there will always be room for change, and the AEA System is not an exception and may benefit from a review and possibly some restructuring. However, the change should be steered by stakeholders and not government officials and out of state research firms. The AEA system is working for all students and Governor Reynolds proposed changes to the AEA system is not in the best interest of our children, families, teachers or the future of Iowa

01-30-2024

Chad Fritz []

Please vote no to the AEA bill. The support and services the AEAs provide are irreplaceable at this rapid pace. This bill will change the landscape of Iowas education system for generations in a negative way. As a father of three children in public school, I urge you to put a stop to the Governor's bill.

01-30-2024

Jennie Knudtson []

Iowas Area Education Agencies exist to provide important and equitable resources and services to our students at a cost much lower than what school districts can access and afford on their own. HSB 542 will eliminate the AEAs as they currently are and will negatively impact Iowas students. We need all parts of our AEAs. The Governors plan will decimate AEAs and will make resources and services even harder to attain, especially for rural districts. The Governor states that this change is needed because of low Special Education scores. How will this plan improve these scores? What data supports this? She has also cited that local control will be taken back. How does moving control from districts and local AEA offices to Des Moines accomplish that? Please consider the implications this will have on ALL of Iowas districts and especially the small rural ones that you serve. Please vote no on HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Dana Harskamp []

I am writing to you as an educator with over 20 years of experience who has both taught special education and led a building as a principal. I relied on AEA support on a daily basis to provide the highest quality education for ALL my students. It is your job as a representative to listen to your constituents. Public outcry is loud and clear. Regardless of party lines, Iowans are not in favor of this bill. You need to get the facts from those who serve in the field as educators. This bill will set Iowas education system back and will remove necessary support for students and schools. Iowas children are depending on you. Do not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Meredith Hughes-Stiles [MBAEA]

As a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) with the Mississippi Bend AEA, here are the supports and services I will no longer have access to as a direct special education provider: Loss of mentoring/induction support available from the AEA for new SLPs Professional development, including books and materials recommended for continuing education specific to my department to remain at the top of our field with regards to evidence based research and practices (EBP). Online resources utilized throughout my daily schedule with students that have been instantly and freely available such as Pear Deck, Pebble Go, and BookFlix. Free access to research articles for my profession through EbscoHost to help me stay up on research myself or verify EBP with regards to literacy and language to support teachers and students as needed in general education. Partnerships with community programs like local childrens museums to host playgroups where parents can meet with a multidisciplinary team of professionals to gain knowledge and modeling of family guided routines based interventions (FGRBI). Access to experts in Assistive Technology for trialing Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices for children with complex communication needs. Creation and construction of multiple core boards, and additional AAC materials, including print, binding, and lamination. Access to English Language Learner (ELL) consultants during initial Child Find procedures, and similarly how to best support these students so that they make access the curriculum and communication supports. Lack of challenging behavioral and Autism teams for additional resources, support, and most recent best practice, neurodiversity affirming strategies. I urge you to reconsider and gain further insight into how AEAs support special education through a variety of general education materials, support, and availability to Gen. Ed staff.

01-30-2024

Jamie Israel []

Please vote NO to this proposal. The AEA system was created to provide equitable services and resources for Iowa students and this bill decimates the intent behind supporting Iowa children, families, students, teachers, and school districts. Based on conversations, emails, facts and biases, the amendment to this bill is riddled with inaccuracies. Iowans do not support this. Please allow our AEAs to continue to operate as structured to best serve Iowa!

01-30-2024

Beth Dedic []

Please slow down, ask questions, check facts, listen to the voices. This will hurt students and families and potentially harm smaller districts. AEAs serve ALL kids in public and nonpublic schools as well as the birth5 kids and home schooled students. Ask where the money is going Im guessing not to students and schools. Do your due diligence!!

01-30-2024

Debra Barry [Teacher ]

Please Vote no on this bill! This is a solution to a problem we dont have! Governor Reynolds is not listening to parents or educators! This bill does more harm than good! Students and schools will suffer if this bill passes! If parents are in control of their educational decisions and the governor truly values schools local control she would cut the red tape that this bill will quadruple for schools to just keep their same resources!

01-30-2024

Patrick Judkins []

I would like to voice my opposition HSB 542. As a life long educator, I am appalled by the proposed changes to our education system. HSB 542 would have a significantly negative impact to all students in Iowa, and it is important for lawmakers to consider the ramifications of it, not just this coming school year, but generations to follow. I would like to voice the important roll that AEA's play in our state's education system. AEA's are invaluable due to their flexibility and responsiveness to any situation put forth by parents, teachers, principals, schools, or school districts. There is not a private company that can match the time from initial request, to actual delivery of what is promised like the AEA. That is evident by the support from across the state. Students are not a dollar sign to us as they will be for private companies. These are our neighbors and friends. At the core of every AEA is a customer service mindset. I urge everyone representing the constituents of Iowa to take the same approach in listening and learning about the value of AEA's. All educators have the mindset of doing great things for kids everyday. My hope is you will listen and do the same.

01-30-2024

Jessica Parks []

I urge you to vote no to this bill. This will not have a positive impact on our education system. Spend more time evaluating and gaining a clearer understanding of how crucial the AEA system is for Iowa children.

01-30-2024

Terri L Johnson []

I am the director of an early care and education center in the second poorest county in the state. I am against this bill as it will hurt so many! We utilize many services provided by Great Prairie AEA. Early Access interventionists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, etc. provide services to our young children. Families cannot afford to pay for these services. Our staff attend professional development from the Early Childhood Consultants. The EC consultants have helped us create a developmentally appropriate program. ALL of the AEA services are vital! As a Republican voter, I urge you to vote no!

01-30-2024

Kaye Siders []

I am respectfully asking that HSB 542 be reconsidered. It is disconcerting to me as a voter that so many people have reached out to request this not be considered and yet, here we are. As an educator who utilized the AEA for services in reading, math, behavior, autism, professional development, para training for my para, coaching and modeling in my classroom, I am incredibly distraught at the thought all of these needed supports that made me a better educator will be eliminated. In my field have met no one who supports this dismantling of supports. In addition I have yet to hear how this plan will actually improve special education test scores and close the learning gap? Is there any data that has been studied to show how this plan will work at improving scores?In addition, why does the amendment take even more control away from local districts? Districts will need to get DE approval to work with AEA? What happens to all students and their ability to access FAPE should this proposal pass? If we eliminate so many supports it will be increasingly difficult to ensure FAPE. One last thought, the data studied was very limited and does not represent special education in Iowa as a whole. Have you studied IEP goals from students? Those are the biggest representation of student achievement for special education? I personally have seen many students do so well they are staffed out of special education, having consistently met IEP goals. This s the point of an IEP. Students are more than test scores. Please do not dismantle the AEAs. This will harm, not help, all students. To end, the AEAs have never said changes dont need to be made, but to bring in a sledgehammer and completely obliterate all of the benefits the AEAs provide is unforgivable. Thank you for reading.

01-30-2024

Heather Haas []

PLEASE VOTE NO!!!!I as I sit here and reflect on the impact the AEA had on assisting my sons IEP team build capacity and their skills to help him thrive in school. His team had no idea how to help nor respond to behavior students restoratively and trauma informed. It took 4 years for the school based team to buy in to the response strategies that my son needed and that was solely because of the AEA specialists that provided the learning and help that my sons team needed. The AEA provided the check to balance the system that was failing my son with his IEP and needs. Plus they now have the skills for the next kiddo like mine who comes through their doors. However, I also reflect on my 17 years in special Education and know that my abilities and knowledge have been boosted by those that have walked beside me developing plans for our students we serve. I have had the pleasure of educating and working with many different students and developing plans to their complex needs and needs. I couldn't have done it without my AEA colleagues as well as supports like materials and device trials I don't have access too. I don't know what to think anymore. I love my job! But man this will make it harder and harder to serve my stakeholders well!! We need to keep AEAs they are crucial as a check for IEPs and processes but a balance in supporting so much for ALL students not just those with IEPs!!! They help ALL students access their classroom communities.It is my hope that you take a good long look and really, really think through what this catastrophic bill this is!

01-30-2024

Geoffrey Shapiro []

Our kids deserve the best education we can give them. Gutting an essential service like AEA is putting politics before our kids. I have yet to see any justification for these changes. This bill removes many of the educational services for behavior and special education children. When Iowa is seeing a 1B tax excess we can't prioritize tax cuts over investing in our future generations. Please don't give us more reasons to leave the state of Iowa. With remote work now available, the barrier to moving away from states that chose politics over the people will leave this state with many fewer high paying tax payers and can start a tax decifit downward spiral. We moved here in large part for the schools. We will leave for the same reasons.Thank you.

01-30-2024

Debbie Bertelson []

Please vote NO to cutting back on our AEA services to our public schools. They are such an asset to our rural schools and our children need these services!! The progress these kids make when they need these services is outstanding! We need to keep our AEA and all the services they provide. Maybe one should sit back and observe what they want to take away from our kids! Walk in the shoes of ones that need these services and maybe you will have a different perspective on things! Please vote NO!

01-30-2024

Audrey McCarthy [Riceville Community Schools]

I serve on the board of directors at Riceville Community School. We are small and rural. We are able to provide our students with dynamic services only by teaming up with our AEA. We have shared positions with other rural schools that provide special ed services and technology. Our AEA helps with our continuing education access at an affordable price. We get the best service because they are local and know what our area needs. I don't believe that the DE can be responsive to the small, rural schools. Please do not vote for this bill..our kids our depending on the survival of the AEA! Thank you.

01-30-2024

Sarah Wait []

As a teacher of English Learners (ELs) in Iowa, I am very disappointed in the contents of this bill. Our EL Consultants our invaluable to the success of our students, in school and beyond. We rely on their expertise to help us make sense of new policies from the Departmentof Ed, provide training and networking opportunities, and find resources for us, our students, and mainstream teachers who have ELs in their classrooms. I can't imagine being a new EL teacher who's the only one in their district or a district receiving ELs for the first time without having the support of the AEA. The work of our AEAs reaches far beyond what most people realize and improves the education of all of Iowa's students.

01-30-2024

Debbie Bertelson []

01-30-2024

Bethany Harp []

The AEA is an asset to education. As an educator, I have taken advantage of many of the services the AEA has to offer: behavior supports, help writing IEPs, print shop, the resource library, academic support, and many more. I have the privilege to see the impact the AEA makes on students and their learning from speech services, behavior supports/plans, OT, PT, and others. I have grown as an educator and learned many teaching strategies and techniques from various AEA staff. Without the AEA, I wouldnt be as strong as a teacher or have the knowledge I need to serve all students. The supports and services the AEA has to offer are invaluable and cannot be replaced to the standard they are now. I oppose this bill.

01-30-2024

Beth Zieser []

Reasons to oppose, or stop, this bill: 5. AEAs are open to a review and collaboration with stakeholders to make changes, 4. Fixes for the Governors articulated priorities (special education performance/lack of progress, local control) do not exist in this bill. 3. It defunds essential services to schools and families, 2. Schools and families will have to work harder, drive farther, and pay more to get the expert care and consultation that they currently have within their hometown through AEA services. 1. Its detrimental to Iowa, our communities, our schools, our families, our children, and our future as a state.Additionally they provide continuing Ed to educators that is not only phenomenal but affordable. 6 credits plus the cost of the license hits hard. AEAs provide classes and education that are easier to manage. Additionally they know our districts and our students so its personalized support.

01-30-2024

Kelsey Lode []

I strongly oppose this bill due to its potential harm to Iowa's teachers and learners, particularly in rural districts. The proposed changes jeopardize future success for Iowa's public education system, which has been a national model for equitable educational services for decades. Allowing private entities into public education raises concerns about prioritizing profit over student needs. I urge you to vote AGAINST the bill and suggest addressing teacher pay raises separately while taking a thoughtful, yearlong approach to solving any perceived issues within the AEAs.

01-30-2024

Ashlee Higgins []

As an educator, mother of school aged children and lifelong, smalltown, rural Iowan I beg of you to please vote no on this bill. In small, rural districts we have no access to outside options. They are either miles and miles away or there is a huge long waiting list. And for our young Iowans, sometimes they dont have the time to wait before they fall farther behind and windows close. Doesnt it make sense to have these offerings centralized? This bill will make way more work for our already stretched thin administrators. People will flock to bigger cities or bigger districts where more options are available therefore dismantling small town Iowa. Here the schools are the lifeline of the community. Without them, communities die. Part of why my husband always wanted to come home to raise our kids and stay in Iowa is its small town, rural charm. This bill will have farther reaching implications than just some changes in schools. Again I ask you to carefully, carefully consider what is at stake here. Take time to converse with stakeholders those of us in the trenches in education. We will tell you the AEA has done so much good for our schools and our students.

01-30-2024

Amanda Stefanik []

I employ you to vote no to this bill as it will not improve the special education system just disrupt and decrease services. The AEA's are vital to the support and implementation of special education services that our children with disabilities are entitled to. This bill would cause services to become inequitable to our most vulnerable population. If changes need to be made to the special education system it needs to be done with appropriate data and with looking at the system as a whole which includes the AEA's but also includes the schools and funding provided. Please vote no to this bill that hurts the special education system and find a meaningful way to help.

01-30-2024

Kelly Ashworth []

Please vote NO! This bill destroys public education and will not maintain the States effort in educating students with disabilities and providing them with FAPE. It will create inequities and open the door to lawsuits because districts will not be able to follow IEPs.

01-30-2024

Nicole Ferriss []

Please vote NO to this bill! This bill would harm and directly impact so many very educated, talented, and respected people and students! The need for the AEA has proven and continues to prove their importance and the impact they make on those they serve. As a mental health provider, I admire and respect all they do and the services they provide! Do better Iowa and support what is important and warranted and that is this exceptional agency that has changed and changes the lives of so many!

01-30-2024

Tracy Petersen [GWAEA]

Please vote no to HSB542. Area Education Agencies are vital partners with school districts, educators, families, and students which need to be fairly funded. I have worked for GWAEA for 37 years as a speech language pathologist and am proud of the thousands of students that I have helped communicate more effectively. AEAs are the system in Iowa to ensure equity. The size and geographic location of your school should not impact the availability or quality of the services that children receive. Thank you for your consideration.

01-30-2024

Kris Manteufel [Prairie Lakes AEA ]

Please Please consider not passing this legislation, especially as it's currently written!! I am a School Social Worker who has worked with the AEA for 10 years and feel that work has incredible and irreplaceable value! Moving local control and funding away from districts and AEAs will hurt Iowa's kids! We work collaboratively, efficiently and effectively! Please slow this process down and seek stakeholders' input before moving forward! Thank you for your service, time and efforts!

01-30-2024

Joseph Behmer []

I am an educator and a parent of a child who received the amazing support of the Early Access program. The AEA support we received for our son in addition to the support they offer teachers and schools are critical to sustained success of our schools. Communities need strong AEAs. Vote no to Governor Reynolds plan!

01-30-2024

Delaine Petersen [The Arc of Iowa]

For 50 years AEAs have provided supports to students with disabilities, recruited trained and connected professionals to those students and made services across Iowa in districts large and small. The governor is blatantly showing disregard for all the successes and is working to dismantle a system, that might need some improvement, but that has provided opportunities for all students to move to a higher potential. This bill is detrimental to students, families, teachers and the community. Do NOT support this bill

01-30-2024

Amanda Devereaux []

Please vote no on this bill. My child has been in special education since she started school and we are happy with her AEA services as they are. We do not want any changes, it is hard enough to parent a disabled child without having to worry about this. Putting something like this through with so little public support would be the definition of not listening to the people of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Joe Rich [School counselor]

So many people on here have already explained why this bill will hurt kids and hamper the ability of school districts to provide quality support to students. I can't add much more than has already been expressed. Without even reading the bill, you should see some big red flags. The first one being the speed at which the governor is attempting to push this through. If this was a good bill there would be no harm in taking time to examine it and debate instead of using high pressure tactics to sell this before people have time to look under the hood. The second red flag is that private companies are already swarming to fill the gaps that will be left after these cuts. They see that there will definitely be gaps in service and they can definitely turn a profit at the expense of school districts. I do believe that there is room to restructure the AEA. I believe that restructuring it the right way would be beneficial and may be overdue. But do it with proper consideration. Get input from school districts and parents. Understand the impact of services before making extreme cuts. Slow down. If you think this is a good idea today, it will still be a good idea tomorrow. But acting this quickly and radically can't be undone, and the feedback you're receiving should tell you how critical these services are.

01-30-2024

Kayla Marbach []

As a parent of a special needs child, I am absolutely opposed to HSB 542. My son utilized services PT, OT, Teacher for the Visually Impaired, media, and so much more. I am from a rural community where these services are not readily available. If not for these services, my son would not have received an all encompassing team to meet his needs. I fear the future for all Iowa children and their education if the services the AEA provides are diminished in the slightest.

01-30-2024

Erin Lepird []

I am writing to urgently request your vote AGAINST HSB 542/SSB 3073. The citizens of Iowa deserve a wellplanned, comprehensive review that includes ALL stakeholders before making irreversible decisions.The concerns raised by teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, and parents across the state must be heeded. Their collective outcry is a clear sign that more consideration is needed.I urge you to prioritize a thorough and inclusive review process, listening to those closest to the work. Please vote NO on HSB 542/SSB 3073 to ensure a more thoughtful and collaborative approach to any proposed changes. The wellbeing of our education system and, by extension, the future success of our students, hinges on your thoughtful consideration of all perspectives.

01-30-2024

Kelly Baxter []

The impact this will leave on the State of Iowa and its education system is unfathomable. The amount of students it will impact is unimaginable. The only way our children thrive is if our teachers have the support of the AEA to help ensure their success.

01-30-2024

Stacy Morley []

This bill has eaten away at the educator morale. I work in special education and AEA has provided supports beyond what theyre asked. Do you know how long the wait is for our students to receive services for medical evaluations or getting counseling and outside speech, OT, and PT? Families are waiting a year or more for some of these!! How is this going to help our schools?! It is insulting to make a blanket statement that our AEAs are failing students. Like teachers, they keep doing more work with less. Look at the data related to students IEPs!! The politicians arent looking at the growth of students with disabilities. The only messages this bill is sending:1. AEAs are holding back teacher pay.2. The politicians know better than the actual educators and parents of children with disabilities.3. The DE should have more control over local districts. This will NOT help our teacher shortage. This is making many teachers question their work as we feel our government is out to sabotage our schools. Please vote NO!!

01-30-2024

Jamie Gavle []

It is the job of our legislatures to represent their constituents. It is apparent that Iowas parents, educators, school boards, AEA staff, and other citizens of the state are NOT in favor of this bill. I ask you to vote NO for this current bill and to take the time to properly identify Iowas deficits in its education system. Then, use this data to find research based solutions, while collaborating with those that know our learners the best: parents, educators, school districts, etc. The AEA is not solely responsible for Iowas failing education system. This bill should also separate the issue of the AEA and the issue of increasing teacher pay. These are two important issues that deserve their own attention. You were elected to help support Iowas, so please do your part by listening to your constituents.

01-30-2024

Jamie Gavle []

01-30-2024

Mary Fasse-Shaw [Retired Educator ]

Please vote no on HSB 542. Vote no and do not let it out of committee. As a retired high school educator, I can attest to the benefits of all aspects of the AEAs. This bill is ill conceived and does not help the children of our state, nor our educators, nor our school districts, especially our rural districts which would not have the money to continue using the media and general services that are offered currently. How does a bill written from an outside non schoolrelated agency costing one million dollars benefit the children of Iowa? It doesnt. This bill actually takes local control away. The AEAs were started by Governor Ray and bipartisan legislators. Governor Ray isnt just turning over in his grave, he is spinning. Governor Ray, who was truly a kind and decent human being, would be appalled. This bill needs to be killed in committee. Listen to the people of Iowa. Vote no!

01-30-2024

Charmaine Carney []

As a retired teacher and parent, I have had many opportunities to utilize and interact with the AEAs. The loss of their services would be devastating for teachers, parents, and, most of all, the students. Please do not pass this bill. Dont mess with something that in my opinion isnt broken.

01-30-2024

Annie Novak Clough []

Please vote NO! I have worked in Des Moines Public (an Independent School district that STILL used the AEA for related services that are potentially being discontinued) for 15 years and now at Heartland AEA for the last 4. Here are the things our communities risk losing WHEN (not if....when....) AEA's change and become controlled by the Department of Education and possibly discontinued. There are subcomittees meeting tomorrow; please email your republican (especially) constituents ASAP. Local agencies are not able to support mental health; I have spent probably 20% of most work weeks helping my challenging behavior students access mental health supports like hospitals, clinics, and doctors' appointments because there is literally no one else to help. My AEA colleagues all do the same. I am a challenging behavior consultant that serves our students that are really having a hard time and have been told by mutliple clinicians, parents, and agencies in and out of state that our students are getting exceptional services here and we are making it possible for them to succeed behaviorally and academically. Local districts can't afford to support hiring professionals in all these areas individually with the credentials and experience my colleagues and I have. Professional Development is inadequate when provided by individuals in isolation and the AEA allows teachers to learn important skills (especially behavioral skills as educators are fleeing from the profession) and have access to qualified professionals that help develop IEP's, support students to stay in general education classes as much as possible, and learn.

01-30-2024

Maddie W []

PLEASE consider slowing down with this bill. Being from a rural community and teaching in one as well, I know this will hurt all schools. I have had the privilege to utilize so many AEA supports, and I am truly scared to picture what our school may be like without. This is not only going to hurt the teachers in the school but most importantly the students are going to be severely impacted. The students benefit so much from the AEA. Students are being taught by teachers who have had the opportunity to learn new skills through the AEA and they have access to materials they may not have if it werent for the AEA. Again, please reconsider supporting this bill and help get this process slowed down.

01-30-2024

Linda Biermann Hoobin []

As a retired educator, I respectfully ask you to vote NO to 542. No amendments to this bill will be in the best interest of students in the state of Iowa. The only solution is to throw out the entire bill. Teacher compensation is an issue on its own and should not be connected to the destruction of the AEA system. Please listen to families, not to big business or special interest groups. Stand up for the future of Iowa, our students.

01-30-2024

Meghan Dolan []

Please vote NO! Simply putchildren are the future. As adults, it is our responsibility to ensure that they have the best resources in order to thrive. AEAs provide that! Given the current state of education in this country, it seems abundantly clear that schools need more not less. Do the right thing and vote NO!

01-30-2024

Amanda Jensen []

Governor Reynolds ran on supporting & improving childrens mental health. This legislation would limit training and access to quality mental health training for public school employees. Additionally, it would limit the AEAs role in school crisis response services and supports, which we just saw the massive need for with the horrific tragedy in Perry. Please listen to Iowans and kill this bill!

01-30-2024

Jennifer Fairbanks []

Please, please, please vote no on this bill!!! I am a special education teacher and if it wasn't for our AEA and ALL of their services, I would not be able to meet the needs of the students I work with, especially with their lending library. Their lending library saves school district thousands of dollars that would be misspent due to not knowing if something would work for a student. For instance, I have a student that needed a specific chair that needed to help the student sit and support their back. The Physical Therapist checked out 3 chairs for me to try with the student. Each chair costs hundreds for dollars. One of the chairs worked perfectly, but without the lending library I would have asked the school to purchase chairs that would not work for the student. This is the same with speaking devices for nonverbal students, we have to find one that works for the student. You can't just say here is the one you are going to use, it all depends on the abilities for the student. Lending libraries are not just for special education students, they are also for general education students. Sensory items for a student who has a sensory deficit that needs certain sensory items to fill that deficit. General education students can have a sensory deficit, along with special education students. It takes many, many items to try with a student to find what works best for them. Again this will cost a lot by buying all these items to try to find what works best. A couple of the items could be comprehension vests, sensory mats, and body socks.As a teacher I also benefited greatly by the staff at my AEA. They all have helped me with how to fill out paperwork, finding different apps and websites to use with students, what steps I need to take to get students help, counseling, having parents contact the family educator partnership, early childhood/early access, and the classes. My AEA special education consultant has helped me as a general education teacher and as a special education teacher. They are filled with so much knowledge that we all rely on our AEA for materials and knowledge. Please save all the aspects of our AEA. Any part cut will fail all of our children, present and future.

01-30-2024

Kari Miller []

Please do the right thing and do not pass this bill. The magnitude of the loss is profound, more than the AEAs and its employees. If we are truly wanting to do whats best for all Iowan children to thrive in schools, this is bill is in direct opposition to that effort. Please listen to your constituents and do not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Eric Haaland []

I am a parent of four and husband to a 13yr special needs educator, who now works for the AEA as a special education consultant. Two of our children have graduated high school and two are still in the public grade school. One of our children benefited from AEA speech services during elementary; over about a 5month period he worked with an AEA SLP, and was exited after reaching proficiency. I additionally know how important the AEA media services were to my wife during her time teaching in the classroom; she was able to borrow current, targeted teaching curriculum for making individualized lessons for her students. It has also been extremely helpful for my wife to receive affordable, relevant, job focused training opportunities through the AEA.These same AEA services that our family has received will benefit others and would continue to benefit our schools.Iowas AEAs helps Iowans. It helps our students. It supports and educates our teachers. And the AEA provides essential expertise, services and supports to our schools.I appeal to you to vote No to bill HSB 542.Sincerely,Eric Haaland

01-30-2024

Sherri Imoehl []

Please vote no on this bill. This will very negatively impact our students, teachers, districts, and communities. Please slow this process down and take time to thoughtfully and carefully study the AEA system. Its an effective and efficient system that can only get better if given time to study it. The adverse impacts of this bill will be felt for generations.

01-30-2024

Trudy Coleman [N/A]

Please listen to Iowa's citizens and vote NO on this bill. Numerous individuals have listed the important services offered by the AEAs (not just special education),so I will not repeat those. However, I will reiterate that ALL of the services are vital to providing a quality education for our youth. I am a retired high school English teacher. I served on numerous committees for our AEA, and I used countless resources that it provided. Please do not deprive our students, educators, and families of these crucial services. PLEASE VOTE NO!

01-30-2024

Kelly Gallagher []

Please make an educated decision on this bill. This will not be best for the students of Iowa. You may believe in local control and choice in spending, but all the money in the world cannot buy services that don't exist. Students will not receive supports they are legally required to, resulting in larger gaps in needs and lawsuits. All students deserve the "freedom to flourish."

01-30-2024

Jess Stimmel []

As a parent, former teacher, and now a special education consultant I know how important AEAs are to our students, teachers, and families. It would be such a disservice for all if this bill would pass especially for Iowa children.

01-30-2024

Victoria Girard []

Protect our AEAs! I have been a proud AEA staff for 19 years and one of the BEST benefits of working for this organization is that I know ALL of the students I serve, regardless of income or circumstance, receive quality services to access their education and reach their potential.

01-30-2024

Jon Backstrom []

This bill is a power grab from out of state antipublic school parties and endorsed by an equally power hungry, antipublic school governor. Vote no, the AEA's do great work as is. I work in a school but not directly for the district (therapist). I see how much the kids rely on these services. Republicans please stand for what u profess, local control of our education and stop being afraid of Reynolds.

01-30-2024

Isabelle Rohlfing []

As someone who is currently employed in the mental health field and works with children who benefit from services provided to them by the AEA, I am appalled by this bill. I urge our representatives to listen to the people of Iowa who have all been telling you to vote no to this bill in these comments. This bill will only harm children, especially special education children who attend rural school districts that will not be able to afford and provide quality services if this bill passes. This bill is entirely illogical and shows a lack of understanding of all the services that the AEAs provide. It seems that Governor Reynolds and supporters of this bill do not comprehend the negative effects this bill would create and that they have no desire to do their research. I find it hypocritical that Governor Reynolds is so prolife but actively proposes a bill that only harms children and families. I am currently ashamed to be an Iowan.

01-30-2024

Jean Conover []

As a retired sped teacher I can confirm that the AEA is vital to the success of all students and school staff. Test scores shouldnt be a reason to dismantle AEA. Instruction mode are more important for success. The AEAs provide the retraining of teachers instruction methods.

01-30-2024

Lindsey Cleme []

As a parent of young children in rural Iowa, my kids' daycare and preschool rely on media services, learning kits, books, and curriculum support materials. Their teachers also rely on the AEA to provide supports for students and professional development. AEAs are essential to all students in Iowa's success both general education and special education students. Our students are more than test scores. Please protect our AEAs.

01-30-2024

Adrienne Kennedy []

Please vote NO to this bill and help us protect Iowa's AEAs. The AEAs are so involved with the schools and provide so much more support to administrators, teachers, staff, students, and families that many are not even aware of. All schools will affected by this bill, but not as much as the rural schools that rely on the AEA for so many things. Please help us protect our schools, our students, our families, and our state!

01-30-2024

Molly Vander Linden []

I had an IEP meeting today for my 17 yr old student. Three AEA professionals were at the table. Sitting at this meeting I thought about how they have had huge roles in supporting this student, huge roles in supporting me. I thought about a year from now, at his meeting as a senior, what that would look like if this passes how empty the room would be. You say services for students with special needs wont change. You say schools will get a choice to contract with what we think will be better services. But things WILL change because who is going to want to stay and be a witness to the destruction of public education and student support? I dont even think I would want to.Please, please, please vote no. This isnt right.

01-30-2024

Nancy Lindgren [Green Hills AEA]

I am writing in opposition to the current HSB542/SSB 3073. As a lifelong republican, a female farmer, and a taxpayer in the State of Iowa residing in a small rural school district, I find this bill very disturbing and I cannot see how this "pencils out" for small rural school districts to make sure that ALL students receive a fair and equal education in the State of Iowa. The AEA provides services that small rural schools districts cannot afford to provide without breaking their budget. There is no way that a small rural school can provide a speechlanguage pathologist, school psychologist, literacy and math consultants as well as teachers of low incident disabilities like the teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, in addition the print and media materials that are sent to the schools each week and used by our overworked educators! I believe that the data that Governor Reynolds has been promoting has been proven to be inaccurate at best and has been shown to not reflect what is actually happening in the State of Iowa. If the AEAs are restructured in the way that Governor Reynolds is proposing local controls ends and the control is given to Des Moines, which is TWO HOURS from where my rural district is located. How will the people in Des Moines make it to my district if there is a Crisis, like the tragedy that recently happened in Perry? I feel that the Department of Education has been stripped to bare bones as it is, I am unclear how they will be able to be effective partners with over 300 public and accredited non public schools in the state.AEA's save Iowa School Districts and Iowa tax payers millions of dollars. The AEAs provide an economy of scale to the smaller rural district in Iowa and allow, in addition to help them, provide quality education to ALL students.Please listen to the people of Iowa who have reached out to you! Do NOT hurt Iowa students! DO NOT pass this bill and leave the AEAs intact to continue to provide their excellent support of our school districts.

01-30-2024

Deb Gilmore []

I am a special education teacher. I have worked in my district for 26 years and I fully support leaving the AEA as it is. I use the support of my AEA for more than just OT, PT, SLP, and other support staff. Through my years I have benefited from countless PD to support my learning in order to support my students. I used the AEA media service to print and make communication books for nonverbal students. I use Bookflix on a daily basis so my students can participate in self selected reading. These are all services that benefit all students and school staff. My AEA has also supported us to collaborate with teachers from other districts. Im afraid if we lose these supports it is going to cost districts a lot more and they may end up not paying for them, then All Students and school staff will lose out on these programs.

01-30-2024

Mike Hicks []

Please vote no for this bill. As a husband and father to special education educators I know the benefits that the AEAs provide. If the goal is to improve the education of all kids in Iowa, then this bill is going the wrong direction. It would be devastating to gut the AEAs due to the false information that the governor keeps putting out. This bill will be a huge hit to all schools and especially the rural small schools. I ask that everyone take another year to research and come up with another plan.

01-30-2024

Melissa Hesner []

I am against this bill. It is based on misinformation and the proposed amendments do not address my concerns. Get the facts before making decisions that will be detrimental to all schools, teachers, families,

01-30-2024

Wayne Bauman []

As a retired educator/elementary counselor I have seen first hand the many services that the AEA's provide to students and school districts in Iowa. This bill should not be approved. The current approach to AEAs has been to cut funding each year and to expect better results. Miraculously, the AEAs have stepped up and cost effectively offered services that individual districts could not offer on their own. The highly trained personnel are not available in every community/region around the state which will cause disparity and equity of opportunity issues for the students. If there are specific issues to address, then focus on those rather than starting from scratch and assume that things will be OK. It seems counterintuitive that on one hand, the state has pushed vouchers in order to give parents a choice yet in this case, very little opportunity for input was asked for before this plan was announced and Jon openings were posted. Hopefully, we will keep the very good system of in place and work to improve it if necessary.

01-30-2024

Robert Bassler []

Hello!My name is Robert Bassler and I am 68 years old. This is the first time in my life that I have been moved to write to my representative for help so I hope you understand how important this issue is to me.I grew up in a family of 12. One of my younger brothers, Dave, had a terrible stutter as a child. He attended a small rural school in Iowa where he received Speech and Language services provided by the local AEA. Because of this, I know firsthand what a huge impact those services had on his life. Learning to overcome his speech impediment changed his life!It is my understanding that Governor Reynolds plans to close all the AEAs in the state. I implore you to please vote against this legislation! Our children need and deserve the chance to continue to receive these services.Our very own grandson had speech issues as a toddler. He was referred to our local AEA who immediately sent a SLP to his home evaluate him. The SLP tested him and, thankfully, determined that he did not need ongoing services but instead provided our son and his wife with vocal exercises they could do with him to help improve his speech. The guidance provided by this SLP was life changing for my grandson and I am thankful to report that he speaks normally today because of it.In our case, we were lucky because our grandson didnt have a serious speech impediment but thousands of students do! The AEA provides the structure that enables those children to get services that will help them for the rest of their lives! Please dont take that away!We all know that, if left up to the individual schools especially the rural schools who are struggling financially these services will be greatly reduced and the children will be the helpless victims whose lives will suffer!But you have the ability to save our AEAs and thus allow our children (our future) to continue to receive these life changing and essential services/resources. I implore you to take a stand on this issue and help the children in our state get the help they so desperately need and deserve. I am counting on you to do the right thing and vote against closing IOWA AEAs!As you know, SLP services are just one branch of services provided by AEAs. There are so many other important services these agencies provide to our state! Please vote to protect our state's Area Education Agencies and all the important services they provide!If you would like to speak to me personally about this, please feel free to call me at 5633206112 or email me at rjcbazzyahoo.com. Thank you for your serious consideration of this important request!

01-30-2024

Kara Veach [GPAEA]

Simply put. . . this bill will hurt teachers and students in our state. For example, under this bill, access to needed professional development will be significantly delayed (at best) due to the suggested approval process from the Iowa Department of Ed. If the goal of the bill is to increase local control of services, HOW does this process increase local control?HOW does this bill help teachers and students close achievement gaps you might ask? It doesn't. What has been proven to close achievement gaps? High quality professional development paired with ongoing implementation support provided by Iowa's AEA system. The AEA serves as the "boots on the ground" and is equipped to provide daily/weekly support to teachers and students within Iowa's school districts including the rural districts, which are seemingly being overlooked by this bill. Please vote no.

01-30-2024

Diana Scavo []

Please listen to the people of our state in opposition to this bill. The AEAs offer services that are essential to so many students and teachers. No students would benefit from passing this bill. VOTE NO!

01-30-2024

Jessica Klahsen []

Please listen to the outcry by Iowans that are against this bill. This unnecessary attack on a system impacts more than just the AEAs. Vote AGAINST the disruption of necessary and stable supports to students families, teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators and districts as a whole. Iowans are better than this.

01-30-2024

Sue Bartel-Kelso []

Slow down! Lets take some time to do a comprehensive overview of the system, which includes educators, administrators and AEA staff having a seat at the table. If there are specific problems, lets address them but lets not burn the whole house down just because you need a new kitchen floor. This bill as written does not fix anything, but creates more problems, both seen and unseen. I strongly oppose HSB 542 / SSB 3073 and implore you to vote NO! Iowans do not want this bill.

01-30-2024

Terese Husnik [Retired Taxpayer]

I strongly support the Iowa AEAs and have personally witnessed the positive impact they have on students, teachers, and families! I strongly oppose bill HSB 542! Please vote NO and continue to support the efforts of the AEAs!

01-30-2024

Gina Kutilek []

As a private school teacher and parent of a young child, I urge you to kill this bill before it gets any further. The AEA helps every educator and school district in the state, and I have benefited from it through trainings, guest speakers in my classroom, special education services and education, and incredible resources like VR glasses to bring kids into historical settings and free use of Peardeck, which allows for interactive learning and checks for understanding. Vote NO

01-30-2024

Andi Edmister []

PLEASE VOTE NO to this bill!!! Instead, please meet with the stakeholders in education (families, students, teachers, support staff, administrators) and hear from them on what needs exist within the education system and how that impacts students. Take the time to understand a complex system of education and special education systems to best support recommendations on how to further improve the school systems.

01-30-2024

Bronson Dullin []

I do not believe in this bill nor do I think it would be beneficial for public education. For the extent of her career, my wife has worked for the AEA and has been focused on promoting positive outcomes for all of the students, educators, and school communities she serves. If this bill passes, my wife's services will be cut, which would be an enormous disservice to students and public education as a whole.In addition to this bill negatively impacting my family and public education, I also wanted to share how beneficial AEA services were to me when I grew up. I attended public school in rural Iowa for my entire educational career, and reading and writing did not come very easily to me. My teachers, with great support from AEA employees, collaborated regularly to ensure I got what I needed to succeed in school and in life. If not for the professional learning, coaching, and collaboration opportunities offered by the AEA to my school, I do not know where I would be today. This is why I am deeply saddened by the proposal of House Study Bill 542 it makes me worry for the thousands of kids like me who will be deeply affected by the dismantling of Iowa's AEA system.I am rooting for the AEAs and for public education in Iowa. Have a nice day!

01-30-2024

Kim Burrack []

Please reject House Study Bill 542. Area Education Agencies are vital to Iowa's school district staff, students, and families. I directly benefitted from the services of an AEA as a parent, teacher, and school administrator. This bill does not support Iowa's schools or student achievement.

01-30-2024

Mark Schneider []

I applaud Governor Reynolds for being concerned about the achievement of students with IEPs. However, the effort to reorganize the AEAs is misguided. State law requires the Iowa Department of Education to evaluate each AEA through an accreditation process. A DE team visits each AEA to evaluate the AEA's attainment of the state standards. After the AEA evaluation, the DE issues an accreditation report. If the AEA is not meeting the standards, the Iowa Department of Education can take action against the AEA. If Governor Reynolds truly believes the AEAs are not meeting state standards, her ire should be directed toward the Iowa Department of Education and its Director, who are responsible for holding the AEAs accountable to the standards. Since the Director is appointed by the Governor, she could easily terminate the Director and appoint a new one who ensures AEAs will meet the standards in the future.

01-30-2024

Brea Baxter []

For our Iowa children, I urge you to vote no for this bill. Iowa AEAs provide invaluable resources for all children across our state. As our elected officials, please listen to your constituents by slowing down and voting no.

01-30-2024

Ronda Reid []

The facts are the facts in this situation and there is no way to change what is reality.These facts Include: All the reasons given in both the original and amended bill have been fact checked and data has been provided with the real facts. The amendment really made no changes, use word smithing to make it appear there was movement. There are contradiction in statements made in the amendment so what is the truth and what is just words? The Department of Education does not have the ability to be feet on the ground or assist throughout the state on a daily basis. The bill was written by a for profit company who nothing about the state or the education system. Services of the AEA's al who were just reviewed and received high marks are vital in the day to day partnerships in schools. AEA's and stakeholders are willing to have discussion to work on continued improvement with all involved. There is no plan by the DOE to replace what is working, especially in just a few months. There is bipartisan support across political lines in the public. There is overwhelming outcries to stop this process from through out the state by the citizens of the government of the people, by and people and for the people. Local control is being lost despite the words we are building more big government in Des Moines. MOST IMPORTANT ALL STUDENTS WILL SUFFER WITH THIS BILL.We may never know the real reasons behind what the Governor has proposed, there is speculation, but to be honest if the right choices are made for the children of the state it will not matter. Take the politic out of this please and listen to those that have elected you and support the children of this state. Do not let your position be part of the legacy of failure that our student will suffer if this bill passes.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Schulte []

This bill is so disheartening to all educators and families. All three of my children have received AEA services and are successful in the classroom. I can guarantee if it wasnt for AEA, my kids would be struggling. Iowa used to be first in the nation in education. This bill further demonstrates the attack on education within our state. If this bill passes, you will lose teachers. Families will not necessarily chose private education, but they will leave the state. Is that what you really want?

01-30-2024

Brian Bruening []

The AEA is a vital part of our rural community. They provide education for both students and teachers, as well a economic boost for our little town. AEA support allows our rural schools to have state of the art technology that our students need to understand to be successful that would be a huge loss. AEAs allow our small rural school provide the same high level of education that students in large communities enjoy. Destroying AEAs would have a resounding negative impact on rural schools and small towns.

01-30-2024

Theresa Lane []

I'm a nurse who works in a pediatric office. Unfortunately, the pediatric practices do c children who are not meeting their developmental milestones. Children as young as two years of age will be referred to AEA. It has been shown that if these kids can get help soon enough, they can be on the same playing field as other classmates when they attend kindergarten. The AEA services are very needed and many of these services could not be handled by other entities. I ask that you vote against changes to the AEA.

01-30-2024

Kailyn Wasielewski []

As a speechlanguage pathologist with the AEA, I have a very important role in direct special education services. However, I could not do my job without the additional services offered by the AEA. As a speechlanguage pathologist, I work with students to address different aspects of communication, such as speech sounds, understanding of language, expressing language, participation in the classroom, and so much more. However, I could not be as successful as I am, or provide students with the interventions and services they need and deserve without the help of the AEA members considered in the "nondirect services" that are impacted by this proposal. With the help of the media/tech services, I have access to evidencebased interventions and activities that allow me to provide toptier services that every student deserves. I have access to the creation of materials that I need to ensure success and meet the needs of all of my students, which I would not have without access to the media/tech services. With the help of educational services, I have been able to meet the needs of all of my students. The various consultants have so much knowledge about how to ensure the success of our learners, including how they learn and how it might be different from how other students learn, how to keep students engaged and facilitate learning and so many other things that are in their realm of expertise that I would not know of otherwise. The professional development sessions help not only educators but also people who provide direct special education services, to continue learning and building their knowledge. Without this option, we risk neglecting student needs by not knowing and understanding the latest research, how to ensure success in learners with complex needs, what to do in situations that we don't have a lot of knowledge in, and other pieces vital to student success. Members of the AEA care so much about students and will do anything to ensure their success. Yes, I work directly with special education. However, I could not do it without the behindthescenes work that the educational and media/tech services do. I do not think that students will be as successful without the expertise of an Autism/Special Education/Reading/Etc consultant, without the evidencebased materials provided by the Media Center, and without the continuing education seminars so that educators can continue building their knowledge base with an everchanging world and system, and the list goes on. As a member of the community and as a person who works in special education, I ask you to please take a deeper look into the services the AEA provides and the necessity of each role of the AEA in student's needs and consider the negative implications that House Study Bill 542 and Senate Study Bill 3073, specifically addressing the AEAs, has on the success of all learners.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Lane []

Please protect our AEAs. Our schools, students and teachers need them especially in our rural communities! Take the time to evaluate the AEA services and determine where improvements can be made before dismantling a system that IS working! Fully understand the devastating impact this bill will have to our educators, students, schools, and communities in Iowa!

01-30-2024

Morgan Weigel []

As someone who has dedicated their career to promoting positive outcomes for children and educators in Iowa, I am in strong opposition to House Study Bill 542. In my work as a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Consultant with the AEA, I spend my time training and coaching building and district leadership teams in the implementation of an evidencebased, tiered framework for supporting students' behavioral, academic, social, emotional, and mental health. The proposed bill suggests that AEAs should focus solely on special education. The work that I do supports not only students who receive special education services and supports, but ALL students. It prevents the need for more intensive behavior support for many students because of our proactive, preventative approach. I previously worked as a School Psychologist, and my primary focus was special education; however, what I learned over time is that changing the whole system by focusing first and foremost on universal instruction is what is required to meet ALL students' behavioral needs. An overwhelming majority of the school districts within our AEA choose to utilize the services my team members and I provide because they understand the undeniable outcomes associated with creating positive, predictable, equitable, and safe learning environments in their buildings, for both students and staff alike. If House Study Bill 542 passes asis and the educational services we provide get cut, it will be truly detrimental to these students, educators, and school communities, especially those in our rural districts, as they may not have the resources available to replicate this kind of training, coaching, and support. In the wake of the absolute tragedy that occurred in Perry, we need now more than ever to focus on prevention, as well as on helping all students feel welcome and safe at school. Please protect our AEAs!

01-30-2024

Mindy Collins []

Please vote HSB 542 down. Protect our Area Education Agencies and listen to what Iowans are saying. This bill brings no effective solutions to better the services currently in place. This bill removes local seamless and timely services while creating barriers and inefficiencies in delivery. Please encourage a comprehensive review of the AEAs to gain a better understanding of the work being done and services being used. Speak to all stakeholders who utilize services and hear their stories. Go out and experience the great work being done in Iowa schools. You then can make an informed decision on how to proceed. Once you do these things you will have a clear understanding of why this bill has caused your email inboxes to be flooded and your legislative forums to be packed with opposition. Please take time to comprehend the devastating consequences this will have on all the people of Iowa for so many years to come.Thank you.

01-30-2024

Kayla Lueth []

This is a blunt attempt at further privatizing public education. This plan wasnt even written by Iowans! It was developed by an out of state consulting firm. Weve already routed public dollars to private schools through the school voucher program a majority of vouchers (TWO THIRDS) of which were used for students who already accessed private education. Now this is a direct attempt to further dismantle public education. The next step will be to criticize the public education system after being drastically underfunded for years and AEA support being slashed. Is this bill really about special education test scores? What in this bill addresses improving student outcomes? How is this timeframe even feasible? How is shifting control to the DE going to benefit students? Never mind the fact that this department within the DE hasnt even been created or accredited yet. This is an attempt to widen the gap between the have and the havenots. Furthermore, this legislation will harm rural schools significantly more than large districts that have a larger budget. All school districts have access to many highquality services and opportunities from AEAs. No school district lacks vital services because they cannot afford them or those services are unavailable in their area. AEAs supply them. Changing this service means unequal access for schools across the state. Every child is entitled to equal access to robust learning experiences regardless of their ZIP code.Iowa needs strong public schools and a strong AEA system. This bill, if passed, will negatively affect the education of generations of Iowa students. No one wants this. Iowans didnt draft this bill, nor have I spoken to or seen a single individual that supports it. VOTE NO.

01-30-2024

Hillory Jaco []

I want to voice the strongest opposition possible to HSB 542. These proposed changes would be harmful to students and families, harmful to educators, and expensive for school districts.This is especially true for students and families in smaller, commonly rural districts, which rely on the AEAs for the equitable and affordable provision of special education, general education, and media services.Neither the Department of Education, nor the private sector, nor anyone else is prepared to replicate much less improve on the AEAs services.Not one piece of this legislation offers anything specific that will improve outcomes for students in Iowa.The AEAs require their current shared funding and services model to remain intact, in order to continue to provide equitable services for all Iowans.Reject this legislation immediately. Stand up for what is right for kids, families, educators and all Iowa citizens.

01-30-2024

Carol Haupert []

I taught in an Iowa public school for 13 years. The AEAs provided critical services to the students and staff of my district. (Due to shortages of trained personnel and insufficient PK12 funding) Assistance with special education services and delivery and providing critical assistance in trauma situations such as the murder of Nohema Graber in Fairfield and the recent deaths in Perry are but two examples of current critical services that many Iowa districts will simply not have access to if this legislation is passed. Please protect our AEAs!

01-30-2024

Hilary Kastner []

Please vote NO to this bill! Our public schools have been through so many challenges and this will only be another huge hurdle for them to overcome. I have 3 boys in our Iowa schools and they need access to vital resources that AEAs provide.. including classroom book sets, and access to library materials and digital resources. This is becoming more clear as our oldest son enters high school. Our schools deserve cyber security support provided by the AEA, along with the ever necessary extra support for new teachers and building administrators. Please vote NO so Iowa kids may have the best of the best services available.

01-30-2024

Lora Kester [Lewis Central Community School Diistrict]

This bill is wrong! My strong opinion forms for 2 reasons. 1st, Governor Reynolds is acting like a dictator using false and misleading data. It is clear that there is a large segment of the population against this. Republicans are not representing their constituents (me)! Second, I have used the AEA as both a parent and educator. This will plummet our system to the bottom of the nation. Just like it has for mental health. Please let me trust the system again and vote no!

01-30-2024

Kim Baldwin []

As the parent of a special needs student I am scared of what our educational system will look like without our local AEA. I struggled to get what my daughter needed in school for multiple years. Finally I got the help of a Family Education Partner (FEP) from our local AEA. This person was able to finally get our school to start an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) assessment. I had requested this for over a year, being told "we have to see if she qualifies". When my daughter was suspended from school the AEA was able to show how my daughter struggled in school. We went to the Department of Education to get assistance and got nothing. If it weren't for our AEA FEP person I don't know where my daughter would be right now. I just learned that the FEP program is being eliminated, this is such a gut punch to families. This program through the AEA is the bridge families need to get the help they need and can't get at the school level. The AEA system provides so many valuable things to our families, teachers and school districts. Why are we taking such a vital part of our educational system back 50 years. Our state has never been a "fee for service" educational system why are we doing this now when our schools are already struggling. Please vote NO to this bill and show that IOWA cares more about our kids education.

01-30-2024

Ben Lueth []

I urge you to vote NO on this bill as it does not serve any purpose except to further strip away the support and resources for the Iowa Education System. This bill wasnt even written by Iowans, it was written by an outofstate consulting company with no experience with the Iowa AEA system and how it helps all students. How can this bill be a benefit to Iowans if weve had no say in what it is? This bill will take away services from rural and small schools who will not have the resources to replace them, leading to worse outcomes for all. This bill consolidates power into the DoE, therefore NOT giving better control at the local level like the Governor would like everyone to believe. This bill is being pushed through at lightspeed without taking any time to do a study or even consider the short and long term consequences of everything it proposes to do. It WILL lead to poorer outcomes for all students, it WILL take resources from the small and rural schools, and it WILL lead to the further degradation of Iowas once great public education system. I urge you to VOTE NO on this bill and keep Iowas schools the best they can be.

01-30-2024

Aimee Hospodarsky []

As a parent and an educator, I stand firmly with others opposed to this bill. AEAs ensure that all students, regardless of location or background, have access to quality educational experiences and resources. This applies to urban, rural and schools in between AEAs serve them all. While there is room for improvement within any system, this bill is the equivalent of throwing out the baby with the bathwater. Furthermore, the haste with which this bill seems to be moving, coupled with the seeming lack of response to the overwhelming opposition, is deeply concerning. Please listen, slow down, and enlist Iowa stakeholders to study options.

01-30-2024

Theresa Walton []

I am a parent of a child that has benefited from AEA services. It is very concerning what this bill would do to those services. The kids will be greatly impacted in a negative way. This bill will also make it much harder for schools to provide the services that our children need. Please listen to the people who have been impacted and utilize AEA services. Please do NOT pass this bill. Our kids deserve better.

01-30-2024

Marie Conklin []

The way our government works is you represent us. The opposition for this bill is loud and clear, so why is this even still a possibility. This will hurt students. To say their services will not be interrupted is not possible while each district tries to figure out how to move forward. The reasons why, don't line up and this appears to be overreach. Our rural districts will crumble with this bill. If you truly care about kids, you will take the time to really look at the system and allow for necessary changes to be made. Not throw out an entire system without a viable replacement. Our schools and students need the person who is there with them, walking with them to figure out how to provide top notch services for our students, not a person who lives in Des Moines and might be available through only a screen or phone. This bill makes no sense in terms of serving students and makes a lot of sense is you are trying to get more control and money. You do not make the decisions for our students, you are there to represent the people and the people have been very loud and clear about this bill. I am not asking you to stop this bill, I am telling you to do so because you were elected represent our voice, not what do what the governor tells you to do.Vote against HSB542

01-30-2024

Kelly Hetzel []

Honorable legislators, please consider the people you represent, and Iowa as a whole, and reject HSB 542. AEAs help ALL students, in a variety of ways (media services, printing services, access to OT/Speech/Mental/Behavioral health specialists) as well as providing essential services for students with academic special education needs. The passage of this bill will hurt the students who need the help the most by removing access to services to our most vulnerable children benefit from. The amendments that have been made to this bill do not address the problems with it, and HSB 542 needs to be dismissed/rejected

01-30-2024

Brea Baxter []

01-30-2024

Pat Stenzel []

I am adding my request to vote no for this bill. There are several concerns and reasons to oppose this course of action. However, two negative main themes are apparent to me. 1. Teachers are being used. If the bill fails, they do not get a raise. If it passes, they lose the level of teaming and support they get now from the 3 divisions of the AEAs currently present in their districts. They have been put in a no win situation. 2. The decision to put this bill forward is based on SOME data readily available on the internet, that has been cited, but to my knowledge, has not been thoroughly analyzed or investigated. There has been no information provided on how Iowas data collection compares to other states, other factors we should be considering when looking at data, such as the level and type of disability of the students tested, or if appropriate accommodations were put in place when testing occurred. To me, a thorough job should be done gathering information, before proposing a change of this magnitude. Instead, it feels as if the citizens of Iowa paid for a very expensive smear campaign. I hope we are all Iowans first and the will of its citizens will be the deciding factor in what happens here. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Marie Conklin []

Marie Conklin The way our government works is you represent us. The opposition for this bill is loud and clear, so why is this even still a possibility. This will hurt students. To say their services will not be interrupted is not possible while each district tries to figure out how to move forward. The reasons why, don't line up and this appears to be overreach. Our rural districts will crumble with this bill. If you truly care about kids, you will take the time to really look at the system and allow for necessary changes to be made. Not throw out an entire system without a viable replacement. Our schools and students need the person who is there with them, walking with them to figure out how to provide top notch services for our students, not a person who lives in Des Moines and might be available through only a screen or phone. This bill makes no sense in terms of serving students and makes a lot of sense is you are trying to get more control and money. You do not make the decisions for our students, you are there to represent the people and the people have been very loud and clear about this bill. I am not asking you to stop this bill, I am telling you to do so because you were elected represent our voice, not what do what the governor tells you to do.Vote against HSB542

01-30-2024

Keith Halverson []

Please PROTECT OUR AEAs. This bill will destroy educational opportunities for thousands of Iowa students. There is no data, or even examples, of how this bill will help students. It removes all local control and places it in a nonexistent system. This bill is 100% harm, with nothing of benefit to anyone. Please do not let out of state interests punish Iowa students.

01-30-2024

Kate Mitchell [Norwalk community school district ]

Please vote no. As a teacher in the Norwalk community school district and a citizen and parent in the Ankeny school district this decision will have a major impact on my life, my family, my students, and their families. The AEA is a crucial, unbiased organization rooted in research and best practice that provides our schools with support for our students in all realms of learning. There was a time when Iowa schools were admired for our high quality and cutting edge education. The unseen heroes that helped create that high quality were the area education agencies. Our public schools have taken hit after hit the past few years with lack of funding, lack of support for teachers and staff, and lack of support for students of all diversities. All of those things were underhanded attempts at gutting public education. But with this threat to area education agencies, the threat is no longer underhanded. The attack on AEAs is a clear and blatant attempt to destroy public education. Our children deserve better. Please do right by our children and our schools. Don't touch our area education agencies.

01-30-2024

Janet Freihoefer []

Please vote no on this bill or at the very least slow down and learn what the AEAs do for schools and the children and families they serve. As a teacher for 36 years, I have relied on AEAs for professional development, student services, school improvement plans, resources to enhance student learning and so much more. We need our AEAs now more than ever to provide support in this changing world.

01-30-2024

Lori Wiley []

Iowa AEAs provide not only beneficial but CRUCIAL services for students, their families, teachers, and school districts. Of the approximately 49 areas of support, this bill puts 35 of those at risk, which would greatly impact the success of our educational system in Iowa. These cuts are not about just cutting the fat ; they cut the heart out of a system that has provided expertise, support, and care for ALL of our schools in Iowa. As a 31year veteran teacher, I along with the entire school district benefited from the many trainings offered to keep us uptodate on compliance issues as well as new teaching, behavioral, social, and emotional techniques to meet the increasingly changing and demanding needs of todays students. One of the biggest supports was the AEAs ability to assess students for learning differences or behavioral, social, or emotional struggles. That assessment was key in developing plans to assist students, families, teachers, and the district in general. I worked with teams from the AEA to devise the best possible course of action for countless students. As a parent of a child with autism, I and my whole family were very lucky to work with an early childhood AEA team to help assess our son and his needs and then implement a plan from the time he was 2 years old. That early intervention was crucial, but so was their ongoing support, knowledge, and expertise all through his years in public education. By adopting the measures proposed in this bill, you will cripple not only schools both public and private in their efforts to successfully educate ALL Iowa students but deprive their families access to equitable services. Thats not what IOWANS no matter what political party theyre from do!

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01-30-2024

Christine Kane []

Please vote no! As someone who works in public education, AEA does absolutely incredible things for our students and staff! I had a parent filled with joy because their child is going to start working with an AEA employee at my building! This parent said that they had an older child who worked with the AEA for speech, and now the child does not need those services because they were so good at their job! The AEA reports and supports to crises across Iowa! They provide books and safe research material for students, they help with speech and IEPs, and offer classes to teachers and support in new curriculum! They do incredible things for our students, staff, and community. Don't take those resources away from us!

01-30-2024

Sharon Carr []

Please slow this process down and demand a comprehensive review of the services provided by each AEA before considering HSB 542. Evaluate the latest, pertinent, and precise data, procedures, and information obtained from various sources. Conduct interviews with individuals at AEAs and school districts who have firsthand knowledge of the AEA services, and make observations of the current processes and structures in operation at the student level.

01-30-2024

Brandi Fadiga []

I have been an AEA employee for 15 years now across three different agencies in the state of Iowa. I have been lucky enough to walk the difficult journey with hundreds of thousands of families who have needed our services and support. Some of these families do not have other private services and supports that they can rely on. How are we to expect timely services for our learners if our direct service providers are contracted out privately?? I collaborate with many private therapists within my local area and they do NOT have the capacity to see more children than they are already seeing. Waitlists for services are around six months, which is substantial given that children that we serve in Early Access are under the age of three. The AEA allows for timely services which is essential for not only the students, but those who are helping them to learn and grow. The real world does not have a pause button. Our schools, families, children, etc. need our services NOW. They do not have back up plans. And they will not be able to hire and implement a completely new model within the time frame designated by the Governor.

01-30-2024

Greg Wiley []

As a parent to a special needs student who graduated from an Iowa school, I was acutely aware of the help we received from our local AEA. It made a real difference in the outcome for our son. Cutting funding, duties, etc. for the AEA would hurt the special needs students of Iowa who now how rely upon them.

01-30-2024

Maureen McGarry []

I urge lawmakers to vote NO to HSB 542. Iowa can do better than this. As a parent and AEA employee, I have seen how valuable AEA services can be. I also believe this bill will impact rural school districts negatively and shift local control away. Take more time to study this issue. It is important to get this right for our children and their future.

01-30-2024

Debra Brokaw []

Please express your opposition to this bill. The AEAs exhibit an unwavering dedication to the education, wellbeing, and overall success of every child. The success of a child is the very force that motivates all educators. In my role as a school counselor, I considered myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside AEA educators who possessed advanced degrees in their profession and consistently went above and beyond to support my work as a school counselor. I greatly relied on the training they provided in evidencebased practices and the most current research, along with their indispensable assistance in media and digital services. Their steadfast support was invaluable as I implemented interventions for children, all children, regardless of whether or not they had Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). This is the domain in which the dedicated staff of my schoolbased AEA primarily dedicated their time assisting us in establishing a comprehensive system of interventions. These interventions were designed to support all children in the areas of academics, behavior, and attendance. The level of expertise, professionalism, and support that the AEA provided to me, is precisely why I decided to to work for them. My goal in working for the AEA is to support educators within their systems (districts) to help them reach and impact all students. I implore you to invest the necessary time to gather all relevant information, engage in discussions with numerous educators and parents alike, and take a stand against this bill.

01-30-2024

Mindy Reimer []

I am writing to express my apprehensions regarding the recently amended HSB542. While we all recognize the necessity for reform to enhance special education outcomes, the revised solution falls short. It is marked by hastily established timelines, a significant transfer of local decisionmaking authority, and the introduction of a feeforservice model. These elements raise considerable concerns that demand your attention.The urgency associated with the recently amended HSB542 is concerning, especially given its potential impact on Iowa's educational system. Rapid decisionmaking often leads to unintended consequences, and the current timeline does not permit a thorough examination of diverse perspectives or effective implementation of the proposed changes. We all agree on the paramount importance of prioritizing the wellbeing of Iowa students in any reform initiative. I urge you to slow down the process, extending the timeline for a comprehensive study of all aspects of AEA services, including Special Education, Media, and Educational Services. This extended timeframe will ensure a wellinformed and viable resolution.Furthermore, the amended HSB542 suggests a paramount shift of all authority for local decisionmaking to the Director of the Department of Education, deviating significantly from our founding principles of local governance. Local communities possess an understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by their schools, and a centralized decisionmaking approach will inadequately meet and address those needs. It is crucial to safeguard the autonomy of local control held by our education authorities.My concerns persist with the recent amendments as HSB542 proposes the adoption of a feeforservice model for special education and educational services. Additionally, the removal of previously allocated media funds and the burden placed on schools to figure out how to pay for media services may exacerbate existing inequities among districts and schools. Those with fewer resources will struggle to meet financial demands, negatively impacting services crucial for learner outcomes.After examining the revised HSB542, my most pressing concern is the absence of a clear and comprehensive strategy to improve special education outcomes. While the bill expresses the intention to control, reduce, and reform AEAs services, it falls short in addressing the challenges confronted by special education programs. I urge you to actively engage with constituents, educators, special education professionals, policymakers, and AEA professionals to devise a solution that genuinely addresses these concerns.I honor your commitment to addressing educational challenges in our state. However, this bill is a misguided approach to reform. I implore you to carefully evaluate its potential consequences and collaborate to develop a solution that genuinely enhances the quality of education, especially for students with special needs. Your integrity and leadership are needed, and I will fully support any opposition to this bill. Thank you for your service.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Reese []

I just learned about the proposed amendment to House Study Bill 542, and Im quite frankly almost sick to my stomach over how bad it is. I have heard that legislators have received feedback from a lot of people overwhelmingly not in favor of the bill, yet the proposed amendment does not do much to remedy the tragedy that this bill is. It removes too much control from schools and school boards and gives too much to the DE, specifically the director of the DE. How can one person know what is best for all schools across the state? It would make it hard for schools to access services, if they even can access them, and restricts funding for them to be able to access the services. I have not spoken with a single teacher, school administrator, school board member, parent, grandparent, or community member in favor of these changes. I do not begin to imagine I know what your job is like (although I do appreciate you doing it). I would imagine you do not have an understanding of my job and the support I provide to schools, support schools have told me over the years that they greatly appreciate and have told me even more so lately that they continue to appreciate and dont want to be without. In an effort to help you maybe understand, here was my last week working as an AEA special education consultant in local schools:Collaborated with 11 special education teachersParticipated in professional learning offered by an AEA reading consultantCollaborated with multiple general education teachers about their students who also have special education needs but are in their classrooms the majority of the dayCollaborated with multiple general education teachers about students not on IEPsPlanned an upcoming meeting with an AEA occupational therapist (OT) and multiple school staffAttended 3 IEP meetingsCollected data in preparation for upcoming reevaluations of students IEP servicesActed a sounding board for 3 school administratorsPlanned with a parent and school to support the transfer of 2 students with IEPs who are changing foster homesDiscussed with a school administrator and an AEA administrator how the AEA can best support the district while their special education director is out on leave (Note: Its also their superintendent, and the AEA is already helping with that role)Helped two teachers with IEP paperworkBegan drafting four reevaluation reports for studentsYou may notice that there are quite a few things I did with school staff but also with AEA staff. I have had multiple school staff ask if they will be able to have my support next year. I shrug, telling them that I dont know whats to come in the world of special education with the AEA but add that I dont do my job in a bubble. AEA staff work as a team supporting each other in supporting schools. Do we do it perfectly? Maybe not, but tearing apart the AEAs is not the answer. There were reasons the system was created 50 years ago. It is highly unlikely too many school staff or legislators even know schools prior to the creation of the AEAs. If legislators want to make changes to the AEAs, I hope you would consider involving us in the discussion.

01-30-2024

Kandace Wittry-Kern [Central Rivers AEA]

I am in a unique position to advocate for our AEAs both as a former recipient of AEA services AND a current employee of Central Rivers AEA.When I was two years old, I fell off a bunk bed and suffered a stroke as a result of my injuries. With limited medical capability at the time, doctors were not optimistic about my chances for recovery. Despite this dire prediction, I eventually returned home to my family from the hospital. Unfortunately, the lasting effects from the stroke were very significant. Among many challenges, the right side of my body was paralyzed and I was unable to talk. I had difficulty walking without an assistive device and could no longer lift my right arm or hold items with my right hand. My parents were at a loss regarding what to expect for my future or how to help me do basic everyday activities like getting dressed, using silverware, walking up and down stairs, or even communicating my basic wants and needs! Then in 1974, a program called Getting Ready was established in our area. (This was a precursor to what we know as Early Access, a program within the AEAs serving children and families birth to 5 years of age.) This was a godsend for my family. A team of highly educated professionals came to our house on a regular basis. After assessing my struggles and determining family priorities, a plan was put in place to help me overcome my physical challenges and master skills I would need for a lifetime. Through the dedication of this team, which included Early Childhood teachers, Speech and Language Pathologists, and Physical and Occupational Therapists, I not only met their expectations, I thrived and exceeded all my goals. I learned to walk independently using an orthotic device, I found my voice, and learned how to adapt to using one hand in a two handed world. When I entered school, the AEA continued to follow my progress by giving me access to tools that would enable me to participate in the classroom just like my peers. Through the hard work and dedication of my play friends and AEA staff, I had gained valuable foundational skills that have carried me through life. While I still have physical limitations and face challenges every day, I have resilience and tenacity to handle these challenges head on. And I credit the Early Access and AEA teams for believing in and challenging me to be the best version of myself, instead of expecting very little from a child with a disability. In fact, I was so inspired by what they did for me over 50 years ago that I became an occupational therapist myself.I have been a proud employee of Central Rivers AEA for 18 years. Think of this as a success story for the AEA systems. It has been my desire to give back to those that inspired me by paying it forward. Through my life experience, I have valuable insights and skills that can help students, families and teachers gain knowledge and skills needed to help all students meet their educational needs. My mission has been and still is to inspire, encourage, educate, and advocate for students, families, and teachers within the districts I serve. Whether it is through my direct work within the AEA system, or living my best life as a productive member of society who happens to have a disability, I wish to instill those valuable skills I learned and be a positive influence on those around me. With the proposed changes to our AEA system, I am afraid that there will be many students, families and teachers that will not receive the services they need and students may fall through the cracks. I respectfully ask that you please consider the impact this change will have on the future of our students and support our AEAs!With Respect,Kandy WittryKern

01-30-2024

Ashley Forret []

I am a parent of a child who uses AEA services. The AEA and their services are important to my childs success. All of the case workers work together for my child. Having all the specialist under one roof, working together for the childs goal is what our children need! We need AEAs. Please vote no!

01-30-2024

Kaylan Hobbs []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. I support Iowas AEAs and the work they do for Iowas schools and ALL students. The services and resources are too valuable to have this system dismantled. Take the time to study our AEAs and make educated decisions about these changes. Please listen to your constituents and VOTE NO.

01-30-2024

Brian Weiner []

As a father to two children who receive early access services through the AEAs, I ask you to vote NO on HSB 542 to ensure that the AEAs are able to remain functioning and providing these valuable services. From hearing screenings to physical therapy to home visits, AEAs are much more than just special education.

01-30-2024

Barbra Wheeler []

I adamantly oppose this bill in all forms. This bill is a savage attack on the teachers, children and families in our state. From the very inception of what was the Governor's proposal, Terrace Hill has put out disinformation. There is not a person who thinks reviews are a bad thing. What is bad and immoral is when an agenda is put ahead of what is right with skewed facts. I am so grateful for those of you who have listened and shared comments. To those of you who act in favor of the needs of children and teachers in Iowa by supporting all that the AEAs do, I am grateful. This will not be forgotten.For those of you that are not listening, now is the time. I implore you to challenge how this process began and how suddenly AEAs are failing when 3 months ago she was bragging about AEAs services being foremost. Seek true data and statistics. If this bill passes, the citizens of Iowa who en masse have raised their voices in opposition will not, cannot, have faith in our elected officials. This, as well, will not be forgotten

01-30-2024

Jo Pearson []

Based on Governor Reynolds' proposed approach this month to revamping the AEAs, I suspect that she, like me, did not know much about them prior to her Condition of the State address; I won't be surprised to learn this is true of legislators as well. I trust you've gotten great input from your constituents since she first announced her proposed changes and that you are learning how vital the AEAs are to students and to education in our state! Governor Reynolds has suggested that Iowa doesn't need nine AEAs, that Iowa "is a small state." I hope you will look at the data about how many students are supported by EACH of the NINE AEAs. They are not "small" numbers. As you all profess to want the best for Iowa students, I must suggest that being a "small state" doesn't mean we should short change our students. Just the opposite! Large school districts may be able to share more resources or purchase, rent, or contract equipment and agencies among the buildings. Small school districts, which make up most of the schools in Iowa, may not have these options. AEAs help level the playing field for all our schools and students.Finally, you've talked about the AEAs having gotten topheavy. But this is not so as I hope you have discovered! AEAs follow the IA Code, which does not allow them to spend more than 5% of their total expenditures on administrative compensation. The percentage of administrative total spending in all of Iowas nine AEAs for all administrators is lower than the 5% limit.Please protect Iowa's AEAs and the wonderful services they provide to students, schools, and parents in every single one of Iowa's 99 counties!

01-30-2024

Kristin Morales []

Please vote NO to HSB 542. The AEA is designed to provide equitable, efficient, and effective services. This bill as written will compromise the quality and efficiency of services by the AEA. Additionally, the bill removes services such as media and does not provide districts the ability to financially support these services. Students have a right to a better education than what this bill is proposing.

01-30-2024

Ashley Tuttle [Mosaic]

As a parent who has a child that utilizes AEA resources, I know firsthand how important these services are. Who fills in if AEAs are changed? Classroom teachers, education support professionals, and administrators must fill in for the services removed from those provided by our AEAs specifically in rural areas where contracting out is not an option. Our publicschool systems already don't receive enough funding to keep teacher to student ratios at an optimal number and be able to provide enough paraprofessionals to assist students who need the extra support. Besides the metro area of Des Moines and the quad cities areas, the rest of Iowa is rural communities. They won't be able to fund all of the services shared by the AEA and in turn, our students will be missing out on vital services that give them a fighting chance to learn, grow and succeed. Please vote no to this bill.

01-30-2024

Betty Stiefel []

I worked for Grant Wood AEA for 38 years as a speech/language pathologist (SLPs). I'd like to tell one story that illustrates the power of AEAs.It's impossible for SLPs to stay current re: the best assessment and treatment for the wide variety of students whom we meet. GWAEA created several teams for us to call on when we need current information about rare situations. One such team is for Assistive and Augmentative Communication.One Early Access student with cerebral palsy was unable to speak. The AAC team provided information about a strategically organized book of pictures. The student learned how to point to pictures in order to share her thoughts. Her parents weren't sold on the idea until one night their daughter pointed to a picture of underwear. She was making a joke. Bathroom humor is fun for little ones. This student would never have been able to share a joke, let alone many other thoughts , without the aid of Grant Wood's AAC team.If special education services become piecemeal across the state, it will become much more difficult to form powerful teams such as this one.Please consider leaving the AEAs intact. And the strategically organized book of pictures? That came from Grant Wood's media division. Those pictures gave this student a voice.Betty StiefelVictor IA

01-30-2024

Doug Mraz []

Please do not support this bill. The AEA's were created to provide equitable services for all children across Iowa. They have done this reliably for 50 years despite having their budgets reduced. If enacted, it will harm students, impact schools, and reduce, not improve the services schools have access to. I cannot tell you how many people I know who have utilized the services the AEA's provide. Please vote do not let this bill go any further and save our AEA system.

01-30-2024

Shannon Harken []

Since 1991, I have been a proud educator in this great state. I ask you to save our AEA infrastructure and services that were created to ensure equitable support services for all Iowas districts, educators, families and students. If there are questions regarding efficiency and effectiveness, let us engage in a collaborative effort between the State, AEAs and districts to study and design the improvements that truly match our needs. The impact of this legislation is great to leave it to others to propose changes that were not based on a deep understanding of all of the AEA services and facts. Please vote NO to the bill and lets start working together for the future of our educational system for all Iowans.

01-30-2024

Sarah Mullin [Grant Wood AEA ]

Please take more time to review this bill and work with the AEA to collect more data and understand our services. This bill will affect equity of services for all students not just special education. AEAs provide expertise, resources professionalism, and cost savings to all of our schools.

01-30-2024

Ellen Bassler []

Hello!My name is Ellen Bassler. I am 66 years old and this is the first time in my life that I have been moved to write to one of my representatives asking for your help so I hope you understand how important this issue is to me!I have worked in Education in one form or another for over 20 years. Ive worked in a variety of schools and with a wide age range of students so I have seen and talked to countless students who have been helped via the services provided by their Iowa AEA.Two students, in particular, come to mind one was born with a serious hearing impairment and the other had a terrible stutter. These two students were teased mercilessly because they were different. But, with the help of Speech/Language Pathologists (SLP) services provided by their Iowa AEA, both of them were able to greatly improve their speaking skills which affected every aspect of their lives. One went on to be a star basketball player. Both attended college one went to a trade school and became a welder. The other went to college and became a teacher. Both are contributing members of society to this day. I cant help but wonder how vastly different their lives would have been had the AEA not provided these services. Both have told me repeatedly how grateful they are that their AEA was there to help.It is my understanding that Governor Reynolds plans to close all the AEAs in the state. I implore you to please vote against this legislation! Our children need and deserve the chance to continue to receive these services.Our very own grandson had speech issues as a toddler. He was referred to our local AEA who immediately sent a SLP to his home evaluate him. The SLP tested him and, thankfully, determined that he did not need ongoing services but instead provided our son and his wife with vocal exercises they could do with him to help improve his speech. The guidance provided by this SLP was life changing for my grandson and I am thankful to report that he speaks normally today because of it.In our case, we were lucky because our grandson didnt have a serious speech impediment but thousands of students do! The AEA provides the structure that enables those children to get services that will help them for the rest of their lives! Please dont take that away!We all know that, if left up to the individual schools especially the rural schools who are struggling financially these services will be greatly reduced and the children will be the helpless victims whose lives will suffer!But you have the ability to save our AEAs and thus allow our children (our future) to continue to receive these life changing and essential services/resources. I implore you to take a stand on this issue and help the children in our state get the help they so desperately need and deserve. I am counting on you to do the right thing and vote against closing IOWA AEAs!As you know, SLP services are just one branch of services provided by AEAs. There are so many other important services these agencies provide to our state! Please protect Iowas AEAs!If you would like to speak to me personally about this, please feel free to call me at 5633700374 or email me at ebassler2002yahoo.com. Thank you for your serious consideration of this important request!

01-30-2024

Mitchel Dierickx [DCSD]

I am a public educator who teaches at Madison Elementary School in Davenport. Our AEAs provide essential speech, literature, math, and special educational services to our students. Our students will suffer and be put further behind in their academics and social emotional growth without AEA support. As educators we recieve trainings, mentoring, and assistance from the AEA. We as educators cannot do our jobs effectively without them. As Iowans, we elect our public servants to stand up for our thoughts and majority of our ideas in government. Please listen to us when we say, save the AEA. There are better ways to save money for our state. Education is vital to our students and we cannot do this without the AEA. Please vote no.

01-30-2024

Angela Martin [Council Bluffs and West Des Moines]

I have been in education for almost 25 years and of that 25 I cannot recall a year that we didnt heavily rely on the collaborative relationship with our AEA. Our AEAs are an extraordinary resource and Im not sure how we expect schools and teachers to keep building capacity when demeaning the work that districts and AEAs have built over the years. Please vote no. This is not good for our students, families, teachers, districts, or communities. Our AEAs are a vital piece of school teams.

01-30-2024

Sarah LeClair-Jones [Central Rivers AEA]

As you study HSB 542, please consider the needs of countless Iowa children who benefit from Area Education Agency (AEA) services. They must be our priority and they often cannot speak for themselves. We cannot diminish the services and supports that our students and school districts need. The future of education in Iowa is at risk, and generations of Iowans will be affected by this decision. The adults of the future must be welleducated and prepared for the working world, and it all begins with children served by our AEAs. The AEA system is not broken. Please protect AEAs at this critical time!

01-30-2024

Rebecca Brandau []

I am urging you to please vote NO to HSB 542. Governor Reynolds has not demonstrated there is a problem to be fixed with the AEAs nor that the proposed solution will fix this alleged problem. She has engaged in a blatant misuse of data and a broad misunderstanding of the services the AEAs provide and how they impact all students, including those with disabilities. She has not shown an understanding of special education services. (For example, when students receiving special education services are performing similarly to typical peers and no longer have unique needs, those students are dismissed from special education. Therefore, students in special education should not be expected to score similarly to typical peers.) Contradicting the Governor's statements, the AEAs have been praised for their efficient regional support model. Iowans, including myself, have remained in Iowa because of our robust education system, including the AEAs. This bill is not good for our children, and its not good for Iowa.It is time to call this bill what it is: a consolidation of power. The revised bill repeatedly notes that schools can have the services they ask for from the AEA with permission from the Department of Education. This takes power away from local districts and regions and places it with one department, overseen by one individual who has no experience with education in Iowa. This goes against the principles of democracy and the very concept of local and parent control.The AEAs are not a system that should be scrapped in favor of governmental oversight. If there are true concerns about education in Iowa, a current and comprehensive review of the AEAs and the Department of Education should occur. This should include members of both political parties and stakeholders. A multitude of data sources should be considered. A review of the funding cuts to public education should occur. We need to analyze how to improve education in an efficient and effective way. For example, many schools currently cannot fill all the educator positions they have open. It is particularly difficult to fill special education positions. Iowa should be investing more in teacher training and retention across the state. The state of Iowa needs to start supporting what they claim to value and stop chasing expensive reforms without quality data or public backing.

01-30-2024

Lyndi Flugum-Collins []

Vote no on this bill. The solution to improving outcomes for students is better pay and working conditions to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers (including smaller class sizes), not dismantling or radically altering parts of their support system without thorough consideration. Centralizing control with the DE Director is not going to grant more local control, no matter how the supporters try to spin it. The onus for so many things will fall back into the hands of the already overworked district teachers and administrators. AEAs provide vital support for the work districts are legally required to do. Districts will be forced to make difficult budget decisions that will negatively impact students. The current system may not be perfect, but the radical overhaul being proposed will not fix any of the concerns the supporters claim it will. There are better, datainformed ways to improve student success.

01-30-2024

Beth Walker [Iowa Speech and Hearing Association]

I strongly urge you to reject SSB 3073 and HSB 542 because of the detrimental impact it would have on children with communication disorders. I am a dually certified speechlanguage pathologist and audiologist. SLP and audiologists make up part of what we call related services in special ed. The scope of practice for schoolbased SLPs includes assessment and individualized intervention in speech, language, and literacy. Educational audiologists facilitate learning and communication access through hearing screenings and diagnosis, fitting and management of hearing assistive technology, and student advocacy. While clinical audiologists in hospitals or private practice (who could potentially provide contractual related services) have some of the same foundational knowledge as educational audiologists, they do not have the same expertise related to least restrictive environments for teaching and learning, classroom acoustics, how to formulate IEP goals, and recommendation appropriate accommodations for 504 plans. The AEA system excels at providing services to families, because audiologists, SLPs, and other professionals work as a multidisciplinary team. If school districts contract out related services, we will lose that important multidisciplinary approach that makes Iowa special ed services so exceptional. We will see a reduction in access to services for children with disabilities, especially in rural areas. As evidence of this, my research team published a paper a few years ago that looked at how educational audiology in Iowa facilitates early identification of hearing loss. We found that when educational audiologists in Iowa provide diagnostic hearing tests to newborns at the regional AEA centers, this results in babies getting identified with hearing loss earlier, families having to travel shorter distances, and families receiving better quality audiological care. Prairie Lakes AEA, for example, has 4 educational audiologists who cover part of the northwest corner of the state. Without the services that our educational audiologists in Prairie Lakes provide, a family with a baby who is suspected of having hearing loss would have to travel to Des Moines, which is almost three hours away, to receive the necessary testing. There are no other pediatric audiologists any closer than that Iowa, besides the AEAs. And we know that when early identification is delayed, we see greater achievement gaps for children with hearing loss compared to their peers. When were working with children on IEPs, we look at their needs and develop goals to help them catch up with their peers, so they can be exited from an IEP. The data that the governor used to support her proposal were obtained from a very small percentage of students who are on an IEP. The way these data have been presented is highly misleading, as it doesnt consider the scores of ALL the children in the state on an IEP as well as the students who have been successfully exited from an IEP because the gap between their deficits and their peers was closed. We cannot conclude that special education services in Iowa are subpar if we are only looking at a small part of the whole picture.

01-30-2024

Kelly Gerhardt []

Please slow down this bill! Where is the data showing dismantling the AEAs will help special education students? There is no such data. The AEAs provide so many necessary services and resources to all students in Iowa. Taking these services away is NOT the way to help special education students or any students. The school districts will not be able to fund the same services that they currently receive from the AEAs with this bill and the reduction of funds for districts.I have worked as a paraeducator and have a daughter who is a teacher, we both have seen the great benefits students and schools receive from the AEAs! The AEAs have specialized staff that care about the students and teachers! This is invaluable and so appreciated. If there are improvements that need to be made, please take the time to look, do a study, involve parents, teachers, principals, superintendents and AEA personnel. The AEAs are a very effective agency that can easily add policies, procedures, or supports if that is what a study shows is needed and they are already set up to deliver supports and services effectively to all schools. Our children deserve the best we can give them. Taking local control away and dismantling the very agency that is giving such wonderful support to students, teachers and schools is not the answer! This bill gives no plan as to how to help the students. Please do what is right for the children of Iowa, they deserve the best, this bill is not the way!Please take teacher salary out of this bill, and vote No!

01-30-2024

Sarah Fugleberg []

Please oppose HSB542. AEAs play a crucial role in providing the necessary resources, training, and support to school districts and educators, which, in turn, benefits all students, including those in general education and special education. I urge you to consider the farreaching consequences on the quality of education in Iowa, especially for the students in rural school districts that would not have equitable access to service providers and resources needed without the AEAs.

01-30-2024

Gary Carr []

Please do not allow Kim Reynolds to BULLY you into voting for HSB 542. This bill would literally destroy public education in Iowa. Do any of you know the REAL reason that Kim Reynolds SUDDENLY wants to push this bill through AS SOON AS POSSIBLE to dismantle the AEAs? This illadvised cut in services will only make things worse for Special Education and all students in Iowa. I urge you to slow down this process and figure out the BEST way to help all students!

01-30-2024

Jennifer Crumley []

Why is this governor and her legislation led by other Republicans so completely against our kids. Why is this administration so against our kids. Vote NO! We need AEAs in place and untouched. Choose our kids over power!

01-30-2024

Cheryl Case []

Please vote NO on this bill to dismantle the AEA based on mistruths and inaccurate interpretation of data. The future of our rural schools is at stake. No where in this bill does it say how services and support will be improved. It only removes local control from elected board members and leaders who live in the communities they serve and moves control to the the director of the Dept of Ed.

01-30-2024

Christie Cuttell [Prairie Lakes AEA]

The recent amendment to the Governor's bill is not helpful nor hopeful. This bill does not address student achievement or financial savings. Please consider going about change in a fiscally responsible, well thought out and researched manner. Our children, our disabled children, attending our schools are at risk. Allowing the Media/Printing services to be eliminated will be devastating to the students at the very least. Furthermore, the issue of teacher's salaries is a separate issue of restructuring the AEAs. These two very important issues deserve to be handled in two separate bills. To the elected officials meant to represent a resounding OBJECTION to this bill and its amendment, please do what you were elected to and protect Iowans. There needs to be time committed to making a change to move our children FORWARD in their educations and in their lives.Thank you for your time,Christie M. Cuttell, LISWAEA School Social Worker

01-30-2024

Susannah Maddock [Teacher]

Why, if students are underperforming, would we ever defund the AEAs? They are the solution, not the problem. AEA staff work tirelessly to support students, teachers and families in Iowa. They are a unique and special resource not available in many states. Getting rid of media, professional development services, and consulting for schools is absolutely the wrong thing for Iowas children and families. Invest wisely and you will see a huge return. Pull the AEAs and education will fall apart from lack of support.

01-30-2024

Michele Pettit []

I agree with the hundreds of comments here, thousands of emails you have received, and hundreds of caring Iowans speaking out all across the state vote no to this destructive and unnecessary bill. This is what we say to children at school "Be brave. Make your own decisions, don't make bad choices because of a bully. Do the right thing and your teachers and families will be proud of you." This is good advice for everyone, including elected representatives.

01-30-2024

Carrie Manternach []

As an instructional leader and practitioner, I strive every day to impact the lives of the teachers I work with, and the students they teach. New teachers, veteran teachers, general education students, and students with IEPs, all drive the work that I do each and every day. It may be a PLC that I attend, a lesson that I model or observe, an IEP goal that I help write and monitor or a professional learning session that I deliver that makes the difference in someones educational journey. The advocacy that has been shown for Iowas Area Education Agencies has been amazing and I implore you to push back against the bills and amendments that are dismantling the incredible work that occurs to support education in the state of Iowa.

01-30-2024

DeAnna Graham []

Please demand that this process is slowed down. Why is there such a rush to get HSB 542 passed?Education for children in Iowa is too important to make hasty, irrational changes. If these changes are made as currently written, it will be impossible to undo and Iowans will live with the impact of this sessions decisions for generations. The Iowa AEA structure has been the envy of the rest of the country for decades.There's already a teacher shortage in the state of Iowa, and now Governor Reynolds wants to add this additional stress to teachers. Last March, House File 255 was passed, which provided a shortcut to Iowas current teacher licensing process. Interestingly enough, House File 255 specifies that an individual who is certified through this new alternative certification program shall not provide instruction to students who are eligible for services under 256B without further training 256B is for students who have an IEP (special education students). Not only are teachers underpaid, but this AEA Reform bill would put substantially more work on our teachers. Raising Teacher salaries won't be enough to keep good teachers, or any teacher for that matter.

01-30-2024

Denise Rathjen []

I urge you to vote NO on this bill as it stands. Our AEAs support our students and teachers in immeasurable ways! This impacts both special needs students and general education students. I understand the need to evaluate the systembut please do not vote to simply dismantle it completely! The students of Iowa deserve to have more time dedicated to making an informed decision about this matter that includes hearing directly from those who have benefitted from AEA's services.In my 15 years of experience as a paraeducator in special needs classrooms in the Cedar Falls district and now at the River Hills School in Cedar Falls, I see firsthand the expertise shared by our AEA professionals. Ive spent 12 of those years with one specific student and her family, both as her para and as a part of her care team at home. Her quality of life depends upon the services she receives from her AEA specialistsPT, OT and SLP.While my own specific experience highlights special needs kids, I can tell you that every student in our K12 system benefits from services provided by the AEAs. All our teachers are stretched to the max as it is and without support from the AEAs, they will be asked to do even more without adequate resources. I should add that my own employment status will not be affected, but it will drastically affect those professionals around me.

01-30-2024

Michelle Vaughan []

Please oppose HSB 542 and any amendments to this bill. The AEA is vital to the quality of public education and the development of the whole child. Iowa needs all parts of the AEA special ed services, educational services and media/technology services to ensure schools can meet the varied needs of all students. Please take the time to properly evaluate the AEA services before completely gutting them. Bring all stakeholders together, to work together, to strengthen education in Iowa rather than dismantle it.

01-30-2024

Alex Grawe []

Please support Iowas schools, educators, and students and vote NO to HSB 542. As a first year teacher, I am so thankful for the support and services my students and I receive from the local AEA. I am hopeful that you listen to the constituents that you were elected to serve and oppose this bill. Iowans do not want this!

01-30-2024

Bethany Vorhies []

How will we ensure Iowa is a state of quality educators without the quality professional development opportunities the AEA provides to all districts? Where will districts get adequate funding to be able to obtain and retain special education staff that is currently through the AEA (psychologists, audiologists, vision teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, etc.)?I am a new teacher to Iowa from the state of WI. In WI we do not have AEAs but CESAs which are not nearly as involved with individual districts. I see how both models work, but we cannot change this rapidly and have it be a successful transition. The students of Iowa WILL suffer.

01-30-2024

Sandi E []

As a longtime K 12 Iowa educator who has served as a classroom teacher as well as a teacher librarian, I am writing to bring attention to the vitally important role that Area Education Agencies (AEAs) play in Iowa, particularly in supporting the diverse needs of general education students. Without a doubt our AEAs provide invaluable services to our special education students, who make up approximately 1015% of our schoolage children according to national statistics. Let us not overlook the 8590% of general education students who also benefit tremendously from the wide range of services that AEAs provide.AEAs significantly impact general education by providing specialized services. These services cater to a broad spectrum of student needs, including academic enrichment. With the support of technology consultants from my own AEA, students in my building were wholly engaged using Google Expeditions goggles to extend their learning in social studies classes. Not only was this kind of hardware and technology cost prohibitive for my building, but teachers were also unprepared to deliver this kind of instruction without significant support from AEA staff. Only with significant guidance and support from our AEA were all students able to actively take part in this unique learning experience that otherwise would have been unavailable to them.Moreover, AEAs play a crucial role in bolstering the mental health for students across Iowa. Recognizing the interconnected nature of academic success and emotional wellbeing, AEAs collaborate with schools to provide targeted mental health services, ranging from counseling and therapy programs to educational resources that promote emotional resilience. AEAs serve as facilitators of professional development for educators, empowering them with the tools and strategies needed to identify and address students' mental health needs effectively. If general education AEA services are cut or eliminated, the kinds of services provided to students, staff, and community members in Perry after a school shooting there would not be available.The loss of library and media services provided by AEAs would undoubtedly have severe detrimental effects on Iowas educational landscape. These services play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of literacy, research, and information literacy within schools. Without the support of AEAs, schools may struggle to complement robust and uptodate library collections, limiting all students' access to resources. In addition, AEAs provide subscriptions to databases that are treasure troves of information, providing all educators and students with valid, reliable, and uptodate resources. The availability of such vetted, current databases enhances research capabilities and fosters a culture of continuous learning. As a classroom teacher and teacher librarian, I have found these databases to be absolutely crucial to teaching website and source evaluation. My youngest students used databases like BookFLIX and PebbleGO to promote a love of reading and curiosity in research; my middle school students searched databases like TrueFLIX and Britannica Online to support their research needs and NovelPlus to extend their fiction reading; and, my high school students use databases like SIRS and Points of View Reference Center to frame and develop research papers using scholarly, vetted resources. The absence of media services like these could hinder the integration of technology into the curriculum, impeding students' digital literacy skills. The loss of these services would not only impact the quality of education but also undermine efforts to cultivate critical thinking, research skills, and a love for lifelong learning among all students. It is crucial to recognize and prioritize the vital role that AEAs play in supporting school libraries and media services to ensure a wellrounded education for all students.I urge you to recognize and support the vital role of AEAs in Iowa's education system, particularly in their efforts to enhance the educational experience for general education students. Adequate funding and continued legislative support for AEAs will enable them to maintain and expand their essential services, ultimately contributing to the success and wellbeing of all students in our state.

01-30-2024

Lindsey V []

There is no possible way the Iowa Department of Education can ensure a free, appropriate public education (FAPE, a federal mandate) for Iowa's students if this bill passes. Regardless of the misconstrued data and misinformation used to write this bill (and the amendment), Iowa's parents, teachers, and administrators don't want it. Listen to your constituents; collaborate for Iowa's future and all of its learners. Don't decimate a system that is equitable and efficient because of a report written by a private company that doesn't know how Iowa's AEA system actually works. Please don't take Iowa's education system back 50 years!

01-30-2024

Molly Warnemunde []

I urge you to vote no on this bill. This will affect all schools and all students. It does not allow for local control. It will weaken the services being provided to schools. Slow this bill down and take the time to do a comprehensive review of the AEA while talking with all stakeholders involved.

01-30-2024

Laura Coia []

I am a parent of an autistic child and more importantly, a child in Iowa. We have been working with AEA since she was 22 months and have nothing, but good things to say about our experiences. I really dont know where our family would be without the Early Access support we received! We are now starting the process of special education evaluation for school and Heartland AEA is heavily involved in that process which has been so helpful to me being a first time mom trying to navigate this system. Please slow down this process and do a true, thorough review instead of just making reckless changes with drastic consequences.

01-30-2024

Vanessa Huber []

All current AEA services are vital to our school system professional development for our teachers, services for students with additional needs, print services to help student gets materials they need and to reduce the cost for schools, etc. Districts are already struggling to find quality special education teachers and without the support of AEA and their valuable services, this number will only increase. Its time we start putting our youth, their education, and their needs first. Reducing AEA staff and services is a step in the wrong direction and will negatively impact our youth and their future.

01-30-2024

Helen Kennedy []

Please vote NO to leave the AEAs under the control of aea boards and not turned over to the dept. of Education. The governor is not being honest about the data she is putting out, nor about how her new plan will work. She said the AEA money would go to the schools to be used as they want, but that is not true. They will have to get approval for everything from the director of the DE, who is an "at will" employee of the governor. The governor states money that will be given out, but there's no guarantee that will be every year. This whole plan is a way to privatize public education and take control from local boards. She removed boards of education 133 times when she amended the first bill and replaced it with dept of education. Anyone who votes for this bill does not care one bit about the kids in this state, especially those in rural Iowa. They are only looking for favors from the governor. They are elected by the people in their district to vote for bills that help their district, not be s rubber stamp for the governor. If you have read all the comments and don't know how much good the AEAs do, you don't care about the kids in Iowa. If you read the comments and still vote for it, you don't deserve to be reelected, you're just a rubber stamp for the governor. Stand up for the kids in Iowa and for the education system we have and the people who sent you to Des Moines to represent THEM and what they want you to do.

01-30-2024

Samantha Perry []

I strongly oppose this bill. Should this bill pass, thousands of jobs would be lost statewide. This bill turns educational services into a competitive bidding process and students will not get the services they need. That is not what our schools or students need. This bill is not good for Iowa educators or students and families.Please support the Iowans you are supposed to be representing and do not vote to pass this bill. Do not have your legacy be letting down Iowas children and families.

01-30-2024

Hannah Spring []

Governor Reynolds claims that she wants school districts to have control but HSB 542 does the opposite. ALL the control (even whether the school can get AEA services) lies with the Director of Education in Des Moines. How is that going to improve the student test scores? Without the AEAs, who will be there to support the teachers, Students, and School Districts?

01-30-2024

Michelle Larson []

Im writing to say please vote no to HSB 542/SSB 3073 for the multitude of reasons mentioned in feedback given previously. There are likely ways to improve services, but those require a thorough review that necessitates all impacted be involved. The education of our children deserves that.

01-30-2024

John Zimmerman [Registered Republican]

I am writing today as a registered republican, father of two boys still in school, and as an educator. The governor of the state of Iowa wants to see our public schools fail. If HSB 542 or the amended bill, SSB 3073 were to pass, the future of education in our state will rapidly deteriorate. The attacks on the AEA system are unfair, untrue, and have already done damage to an amazing workforce of highly trained and intelligent people. They work hard every day carrying out services that our districts ask them to do, they do the work that the Department of Education asks them to do, and they work alongside parents. They provide unmatched services to students, teachers, and administrators every day in every district in our state. The efficiencies and cost savings that each AEA is able to provide should be a model for businesses to learn from.Giving absolute control of our statewide education system to the director of education is one of the worst parts of the bill. The Department of Education is already understaffed and unable to perform their daily functions. 133 times the amended portion of the bill calls for all education related control to be given to the director. How is this oversight better than elected officials that serve on a governing board? This transfer of power is outrageous and uncalled for. Please ask your districts if they think this is a good idea. They will tell you it is not possible.All of Iowa will be in serious trouble should this bill or a version of this bill be allowed to pass. Rural Iowa will likely be in the most dire situation. They simply wont be able to hire the people to carry out the work and they wont be able to afford the increased cost for services should they have to purchase them through private business.With the passing of this bill, our students will immediately be at risk. They will experience school without the many supports they rely on every day they are in our school buildings. Teachers and administrators will go without the support, the resources, and the thought partners they are accustomed to having. So I ask you to vote NO on this bill and its amended form. Should you not heed the feedback, input, and advocacy you are seeing from Iowans, you will need to live with the consequences of the future of our education system and the election results on our next election day.

01-30-2024

William Soesbe []

Please stop wielding a doublebladed axe to address something that likely only needs a scalpel and a bandaid. I am a lifelong Iowan and registered as an Independent. I have three schoolaged children who are enrolled in Iowa's public schools. My family has lived in Iowa for generations. With that being said, I am completely embarrassed to be an Iowan at the moment. I do NOT support HSB 542 and I ask that you do not as well. Rather than continue to amend and alter a really bad bill that was written by outside interest groups, the bill should be promptly struck down. It is reckless to continue with the bill. If passed in its current form, it will have significant and devastating short and longterm consequences that will hurt Iowa's students, schools, and communities. Some of the damage will NOT be repairable. At best, the government should let educators do their jobs; instead of trying to make changes that are unwarranted, unnecessary, and are done just because they can be. At worst, the governor should create a task force with membership from all stakeholders (i.e. parents, AEA representatives, school district employees, students, legislators, Department of Education) and complete a bipartisan comprehensive review of the AEA system. Only then can you help to ensure the means justify the ends. Otherwise, you are taking advantage of the power and responsibility bestowed upon you to represent us. Citizens of Iowa are being told (through actions) that their voice, their story, their experiences, their wants, and their needs do NOT matter. The majority of constituents in Iowa do NOT support this bill. As elected officials, you were elected by the people to represent ALL of the people. You represent those who voted for you, those who voted for someone else, and even those who did not vote. You do NOT represent the people if you do not listen to them. You do not truly represent the people if you are voting yes because the governor indicated you should. We are telling you what we want, what is needed, and what is best for all students. Please listen to the people and act accordingly.Do the right thing...what is fair and just...what the people want and need...and vote NO.

01-30-2024

Theresa Smith [Parent & educator ]

Vote no to all to HSB 542. Even a small change to an elaborate system will cause major disruptions to students and teachers. Keep the highly qualified AEA leaders where they are able to make local decisions for districts. Allow the AEA to provide personalized services to every student who needs them. My son has utilized AEA services for speech and my family of educators has depending on the AEA for many aspects of our careers. Leave them alone.

01-30-2024

Meghan Bruns []

As an educator, I have worked with, and learned from, many experts at the AEA. They are an integral part of education in Iowa. I listen to Iowans discuss this bill, and not one person has been in favor of this bill. The Governor stated that AEAs have not been held accountable, but the AEA's website has a fact sheet that states: Iowas Area Education Agencies are regularly engaged in continuous improvement efforts, and believe a dialogue around potential changes to the system should include input from local and state stakeholders to ensure the system continues to reflect the needs of districts and children in every Iowa county.If AEAs believe in dialogue in changes to the system from local and state stakeholders, I believe they should be invited to the conversation with Governor Reynolds. They have a history of inviting feedback, so it is unfortunate that Kim did not give any before introducing this bill to cut funds and services. If you cannot decide to kill this bill, I hope that you invite stakeholders to this conversation before it is too late.

01-30-2024

Amy Roberts []

I am writing to express my concerns for HSB 542/SSB 3073. All three of my children received services from the AEA, as did my husband and extended family members. Families and teachers depend on a variety of services from the AEA's from Early Access services that can start after a baby leaves the hospital and involve physical and occupational therapists, teachers, speech pathologists, audiologists, teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing and teachers for visually impaired, and can evolve to supporting students, families and teachers in the school setting from kindergarten until the student graduates with a multitude of supports and resources helping the student transition out of the "school" world. How is cutting these supports helpful to students, families and districts? Especially in the smaller or more rural districts? I worry that systems that have been in place for years, perhaps even generations, will not be in place if the AEA's are under the Department of Education. There will be a gap in services for students, families and districts and the hole that is created will be devastating and have LASTING effects for Iowa's students. The AEA's services have evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of students and districts, let's keep up the proud tradition of Iowans helping Iowans. Say No to HSB 542/SSB 3073. Please protect the AEA's!

01-30-2024

Erika Choate []

Iowa students use and benefit from Area Education Association (AEA) services every day. The support of the AEA staff is an essential service (speech, psych, OT, consultant support, etc). These services and other resources the AEA provides (like computer applications, digital books, delivery services, etc) will likely not be affordable for public schools if AEA services are eliminated. Teachers need readily available staff to assist with all types of issues students experience, there isnt time or funding to contact companies/contract services for that kind of intense support and get students the help they need in a timely manner. Mental health and behavioral services already have a long wait list to get support.Our students and public school staff dont need LESS support! Please dont take away more from public education! The future of Iowa and the general population depends on it!Thank you for representing the constituents of our state.

01-30-2024

Sara Chorpening []

I am greatly opposed to bill HSB 542. What is being proposed is not in the best interest of Iowa's children, families, or educators. I urge you to please listen to your thousands of constituents and vote NO.

01-30-2024

Sonya Sellmeyer []

This is my daughter's story:"I was born at 27 weeks weighing 2.12 pounds along with some other complications. A few months after birth, I started to receive services through Heartland AEA for physical therapy. This resource was provided inhome and parentled to strengthen my gross motor skills. At EVERY home visit, my parents were provided with developmentally appropriate materials and activities they could use to support my developmental milestones. Starting at age 3, I also received communication services by an Speech Language Pathologist until I was a sophomore in high school.I have since come to earn an undergrad and graduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa in Social Work. As a School Social Worker, I was generously hired by Heartland Area Education Agency shortly after graduation. This is the very agency that gave me the strong foundation to be the young professional I am today. Heartland AEA was with me in the very beginning and now to say I am an employee is a blessing. To say I work with great people and families is an understatement! Iowans needs ALL Hearland AEA services. I can't imagine my life without them then and now."Please remember this story when you vote.

01-30-2024

R J Ugolini [Taxpayer]

I truly believe this bill will only lead to greater educator shortages in Iowa. Under the current bill, districts have the ability to opt in or out of using the AEAs. How will the skeleton of the AEAs that are left, be able to retain and recruit employees given fluctuations with staffing needs. Why would staff want to work at an organization knowing they serve at the whim of the director of the Dept. of Ed.I'm also appalled at the loss of local control. Why does the director of the Dept. of Ed. require so much authority if the true goal is to improve student achievement. How does removing locally elected AEA board governance and decisionmaking power from the AEA administrator 133 times accomplish this? This bill is obviously not about what's best for Iowa students.

01-30-2024

Sandi Montgomery []

Please vote no on HSB 542. As a speech language pathologist working for Heartland AEA I can say that AEAs are essential for our students, families, and educators. I have worked in both rural and urban school districts. In both settings I have worked with students that are medically fragile and struggle to communicate. I have been able to work closely with several families, teachers, and other AEA staff to support a students use of their communication devices/systems. These relationships have taken time to develop. Positive relationships have allowed our students to make progress and increase their quality of life. A students quality of life shouldnt be reduced because Governor Reynolds wants to dismantle the AEAs.

01-30-2024

Tammy DeBord []

As a citizen of Iowa, mother of children in public school in Iowa, a former PTO President and current member of the SIAC committee in my daughters school district, I vehemently oppose the proposed AEA bill as proposed.

01-30-2024

Taylor Benge []

Please vote no to this bill as it currently is written. This bill will hurt Iowa students, educators, and school districts. I am all for discussing concerns with the AEA system when all stakeholders (AEA staff, educators, administrators, families, etc) are able to come to the table and share their perspectives. I am not okay with trying to quickly pass a bill that will drastically change education in our state in a very negative way.

01-30-2024

Kathy McDonald []

Proposed changes to the current Area Education Agencies structure and resources is illadvised and potentially very detrimental to Iowas K12 schools. There is no way that individual districts would have sufficient funding to pay for the highly needed services currently provided by the AEAs, like school psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, audiologists, vision specialists, autism consultants, and AEA staff currently serving as consultants in other areas of education, such as mathematics, counseling and other subject areas.The state is still requiring educators to earn continuing education credits, and the vast majority of these are coming through the AEAs. Who is going to provide them in the future? Who will provide training for para educators and people who wish to become substitute teachers, of which Iowa currently has a huge shortage?Teachers take multiple required employment trainings every year, some of which Im sure are required by the state. Who is going to provide those, and will the state be paying for them?Lastly, our governor has seen fit to say that the AEAs arent doing their job in assisting students who have special education needs. Educational achievement for ALL students has declined in the last few decades. This hardly creates a correlation between AEA special education services and achievement or lack thereof in the special education student population.I would suggest that massive underfunding, the sabotaging of educational standards by the Legislature, and the accusations and vitriol leveled at public education professionals has far more to do with lack of achievement for all student groups than any failure of the AEAs. Its also important to remember that schools dont operate in a vacuum. Ways that society has changed have far more to do with what kind of student outcomes we have than anything any teacher or administrator can possibly achieve.

01-30-2024

Lauren Runyan []

Please vote no. The impact this would have on rural schools is so detrimental. So many resources that are provided for free through the AEA to students, families, and teachers will disappear. Passing this bill would have a negative impact on Iowans for years to come. Look at the data and even do some research for yourself. Please do not rush into this.

01-30-2024

Amy Pearson []

Please vote no on this bill. I am a school psychologist living in Lake Mills, IA, who is employed by Central Rivers AEA. I have been a school psychologist for 23 years.As a member of the AEA Crisis Response Team, I have responded to many crisis events, and have provided counseling and support to students, teachers, administrators, and parents. The crises included students suicides, a teacher's death from COVID, a student's death after being hit by a bus, a student's death after driving into a bus while texting, car accidents, and a coachs death by gunshot. I have provided grief counseling to a class of 2nd graders who lost their classmate that morning, shortly before I arrived. I have had students spontaneously hug me while crying. I have listened to a student with clinical depression talk about the appeal of suicide following the death of a classmate. Students ask me why did their classmates die, and I am trained in how to answer their questions. I have provided suicide prevention training to 9th graders when requested by a school district. Recently, you may have heard of the school shooting in Perry, IA. Heartland AEA's crisis response team responded that very same day and was on site to support to this community following this horrific event.As you can imagine, there are many, many people who have been impacted by crisis events in Iowa and who have been helped by an AEA crisis response team. This bill would dismantle the AEA crisis response teams which would have a detrimental impact on the mental health and wellbeing of Iowas children.In addition, in my role as an AEA Team Representative, I rely on experts to help me find evidencebased interventions for children who are struggling in school. These experts include Literacy consultants, Math consultants, and ELL consultants, all of whom are part of Ed Services. I also rely on members of the AEA WellBeing team to assist in serving students with severe socialemotional and behavioral needs. I can't do my job without them. The AEA is strongest when we are able to work as a team. This bill jeopardizes our ability to work together as a team to help teachers meet the unique and complex needs of children with disabilities.Respectfully,Amy Pearson, PsyS, NCSP

01-30-2024

Katie Naslund []

Vote NO! Our schools and students need more support, NOT less. This bill strikes services that Iowa schools, students, and families rely on without providing an alternate, AFFORDABLE, source for these services. In the case of rural communities, an alternate source simply does NOT exist. So then what?? This bill is proposing to fix a system that is not broken! AEAs provide support for ALL students. AEAs provide support to administrators, teachers, and paraeducators. AEAs provide support to families. When schools thrive; communities thrive. Vote NO!

01-30-2024

Kellie Martin []

I just attended a statewide zoom meeting held by the ISEA that explained the amendment to the governor's educationbill. I understand that you will be meeting to discuss this bill. I am a parent of a child that needed an IEP for academicsand I am a child of a gifted child who benefited from the support instructors were given from AEA media/general education services. I appreciate all of the services that AEAs provide. I strongly believe that public services need to be available for public students. If changes will be made to AEAs, I am concerned that services will not continue. How AEA services are changed, how can I be ensured that these services willcontinue in another way and will there be funding to accomplish these changes? I was born and raised in a small rural communityin northern Iowa. I observed the AEAspeech language pathologist when I was in high school and that was the beginning of my career. Rural communities need their schools; they are the center of the communities. The impact of taking local control away from rural districts will be devastating to communities. Please learn more about AEA services and the impact they have on all students, teachers, and families.Thank you for your time and your service,Kellie Martin

01-30-2024

Lisa Easley []

Please review and understand where money is going for the AEA but do not strip this much needed organization that supports and builds up schools and students. So many of the AEA services are vital to education.Preschool Teacher working along side them.

01-30-2024

Michala Pedersen []

As a parent of 3 young children in a rural Iowa school and a special education teacher, I am asking you to vote NO to HSB542. Please listen to what Iowans are saying! This bill is not in the best interest of our children nor schools. There are better ways to make improvements such as looking at accurate data, completing a comprehensive study, and taking the time to make thoughtful, thorough plans to ensure we are doing the best we possibly can for our children in Iowa.

01-30-2024

Megan H Copeland []

Vote No to HSB 542.AEA are our community members and real faces doing amazing work in our districts. AEA bring in a level of expertise that the rural schools will not be to afford due to severe lack of funding from the State for past three years. 542 is not best for the students or families of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Linda Rouleau-Carroll [Retired Admiinistrator]

I am a retired educator of 36 years. I moved to Iowa 29 years ago from another state that did not have the support of an organization like the AEA. I have worked in public and private schools. I have worked in three different districts supported by three different AEAs based on location. During my experience as a full time educator I valued the extensive and multifaceted work that the AEA's do to support children, teachers, families, and communities. I have served as a classroom teacher, school counselor, dean of students, assistant principal, principal, and director of teaching and learning. In EVERY position I found the support of the AEA staff was incredible. By staff I mean in every department specialized consultants, directors, technology, library/digital resources, trainings, and more. This bill is a calculated catastrophic disaster for all schools public, private, rural, suburban, or urban. I can't imagine that anyone would believe this bill is in the best interest of Iowa schools. Vote NO on this bill. If any organization needs to be overhauled, I would encourage you to take an indepth look at the Iowa Department of Education. I worked there as a bureau chief prior to retirement and that organization is broken and not well respected in the field.

01-30-2024

Tami Plein []

Please slow down here and consider all the consequences of this bill. There are so many pieces to this that cant be shuffled around in this short time. Privatizing services basically means hiring outside of our state. Iowa taxpayer money leaves the state. Along with our talent pool. Finally, the shifting of all decision making to the DE chief means this governor's appointed person is making decisions that should be made at the local and regional level. Consolidation of this scale is not efficient, effective nor fair. I thought our party stands for local control.

01-30-2024

Barry Timmins []

Please vote NO to this bill. Countless number of kids benefit Greatly from this service as well as the teachers and staff. This is a service that our community relies on and will negatively affect our schools if taken away! Please vote No!

01-30-2024

Doug Robertson []

Please vote no on HSB 542. This is not who we are. This bill was written by a group from Virginia who was paid over $1 Million to write it. They have no idea what makes this state the state that made me want to leave Nebraska in 1999 to pursue a career here. They dont understand the balance of rural and urban life that is a fundamental part of our midwestern values and makes our state unique. Voting yes to this will change that balance by providing more opportunities to students in urban areas, while making it harder for students in rural areas to get the services that they need. In fact, earlier today, I saw an add for virtual special education services (provided by an outofstate company) that could be an option, quite possibly the only option, for rural schools. Seriously, special education via Zoom?!?! Again, this is not who we are, were better than this. I grew up on a dairy farm in rural northeast Nebraska. I went to a oneroom school house from K8th grade. I went to high school in a town of about 2,500 people. There were a little more than 50 people in my graduating class in 1994. I mention this because I know what its like not to have the opportunities that kids in larger schools had. I cant imagine how challenging that would have been if I would have needed special education services. I really hope all of the senators and representatives from rural areas are paying attention.I am blessed to be the father of three twice exceptional children who have excelled in Iowas public education system. All three have 504 plans and all three received services from Grant Wood AEA, even though they were not in special education. I cant imagine how our experience would have been different if we didnt have a little support from occupational therapists, school psychologists, and behavior specialists. These encounters werent profound, but the timing was critical in changing the trajectory of performance at school for our kids. All three of my children were also fortunate to participate in College 4 Kids, a summer enrichment program that was a run by Grant Wood AEA at Coe College in Cedar Rapids. That program gave kids an opportunity to take a deep dive into 50 different classes and have a better understanding of possible careers. This bill kills that program that has served over 900 kids every summer since 1987. I ask every legislator that has taken the time to read this (hopefully at least one of you will) to please slow this down and have a conversation. This is being railroaded through the legislative process. Im not opposed to change, in fact, there are some things with the AEAs (and all of education) that probably should change. But it should be changed because Iowans are having conversations with Iowans about what is best for ALL of our kids. It shouldnt change because of politics. It shouldnt change because a think tank in Virginia was paid to write a bill that could be fast tracked through Iowas legislative system.

01-30-2024

Sherri Peterson Peterson []

As a 20year employee of one of our state's AEA and as an educator with over four decades of experience in Iowa schools, I urge you to continue funding our Iowa AEAs. I have seen first hand what happens when children and families receive the services that they need and deserve. Iowa children deserve to meet their full potential and these services cannot be replicated in the private sector, especially in our most rural districts.

01-30-2024

Barry Timmins []

01-30-2024

Bill Poock []

Please vote NO on HSB542. As a lifelong Iowan, I am very concerned that if this bill passes, even in the "revised" stage that was presented by the governor, it will have detrimental effects on students for decades to come. This bill removes so much control from local school districts and inappropriately places all the power of decision making with one person in the Department of Education. Iowa's students will suffer the consequences of this bill. Iowa's teachers will suffer the consequences of this bill. Iowa's school administrators will suffer the consequences of this bill. Iowa's rural school districts will suffer the consequences of this bill. Please listen to the hundreds of pages of comments from Iowans (both republican and democrats) who are in opposition to this bill. This is legislation that didn't even include the stakeholders who are invested in education in this state. School administrators and AEA staff were not consulted about this legislation. Legislators were caught off guard. Rural school districts will be the real losers. I am concerned that so much will be lost. Many, many services and supports will be stripped of the AEAs. We already have a teacher shortage in the state of Iowa. Now we are asking teachers to do MORE without the supports they have come to rely on in order to do their jobs well. Please listen to all Iowans who have shared comments. Please do not make a hasty decision. Let's take TIME to consider how we can improve the AEA system. But do NOT make a quick decision. I fear that if a quick decision is made, and this revised bill is passed, we will feel the negative effects of this legislation for years to come. Thank you for ALL you do for Iowans. Please make a good decision based on all of these comments. Thank you for your service.

01-30-2024

Katherine Southmayd []

I have received so much support from our AEA throughout my years as a kindergarten teacher. The amount of services and expertise that they offer to students, families and staff is irreplaceable. Im forever grateful for the time, energy, encouragement and help they have offered. Please do not make any changes to these agencies.

01-30-2024

Kari Christenson []

I am writing in opposition to the SSB 3073/HSB 542 bill. This bill will have a detrimental effect on the state of education in Iowa. For 50 years the AEA has been in service to students, families, teachers, administrators and school districts to ensure that equitable educational services are provided to ALL students across the state. FOR 50 YEARS! The Governor wants to dismantle a system that has been around for half a century in a matter of months based on inaccurate and misleading information. At this moment, it appears that the only thing the Governor cares about is getting this bill passed quickly and that a real plan of action for how to provide equitable services across the state has not yet been determined. How can taking away the AEAs, the only support system school districts have known for the past 50 years, be the best course of action for students, teachers or districts? How can passing a bill that puts nearly 1000 education professionals in the state of Iowa out of work be the best course of action? How can causing unnecessary and undue stress on schools, administrators, teachers, families and students be the best course of action for our state? I am urging you to make sure you have valid facts, that you truly understand the vital services that AEAs across the state provide (if you don't, please ask and find out), and that you listen to your constituents, the people of Iowa that you claim to work for, because Iowans have spoken loud and clear that they are opposed to this bill.

01-30-2024

Heather Swanstrom []

Our family has been greatly impacted by our local GPAEA. I, like many others, did not know the vastness of services and areas the organization served until we directly benefited from them. From the Early Access Progam to now receiving speech and OT, their services have been invaluable for my son, as well as many other children. What they provide supports students in and out of the classroom from birth. I know he would not be where he is today without all of the services he has received from the AEA, and their great staff. I also know, I as an educator I wouldnt be where I am without the support they have provided myself and my students through the years. Are there flaws in the system, yes, just like any system. But do you throw out a whole apple just because of one flaw? Absolutely not! Please vote NO for this current bill and continue the conversation.

01-30-2024

Peggy Van Kirk [Community member]

When I was working in Wisconsin as a teacher, I did a nationwide search of states who provided exemplary support services to children, families, communities and educators. No state in the country came close to providing what was available through Iowa's AEA system. Thus, I moved here and began my career as an AEA employee, Now this exact system is under attack for completely unknown reasons. What justification is offered to suggest that there are "too many AEA's?" The number of AEA's have already been reduced since inception. Looking at a map, one can see the current AEA's cover hundreds of miles in order to meet the needs of their constituents. Iowa is a rural State, with few "urban" areas. Larger cities in Iowa have different needs for support services than our rural communities and small towns. There are huge gaps between resources in cities v.s. small towns. AEA's help to fill those gaps by providing equity of resources to ALL Iowa families, not just those residing in suburban or urban areas. Do the right thingA NO vote for this bill is a vote for all of Iowa's children and families, border to border.

01-30-2024

Melissa Gonnerman []

I am a parent of 3 kids. I was born in Des Moines, grew up here, and am raising my children here. I have 2 kids currently in school here, and 1 who will be in 12 years. We have neurodivergence in our household as well as speech therapy needs in our house. My oldest also was deemed in need of reading help when she was in 1st grade. She struggled to read and therefore considered it her least favorite subject. By 3rd grade she had caught up. I attribute this success to her teachers, to the reading specialists, and to BookFlix and PebbleGo. Those two resources helped her find reading material that was appropriate for her reading level, many books that sparked her curiosity, and gave her readaloud options for challenging words or paragraphs that she could use independently during class time. These resources are currently examples of things that will no longer be accessible at deeply discounted perstudent license rates because they are media material. I fully believe that the Governors decision to contract with an out of state firm to build much of the bill means that this bill is completely out of touch with the reality of Iowas educational structure and system. This bill is not written by Iowans, it is not written for Iowans. And most importantly, it is not written for Iowas children nor the generations to come.

01-30-2024

Marcia Hamilton []

Protect Our AEAs!!! I am writing as a parent who has had a child with special needs in the school system in Iowa. My son used the AEA services from birth for hearing, developmental delays, and also for speech services. These services started in his daycare setting and continued directly to his classroom when he became school age. We lived in rural Iowa. I dont know how I would have been able to get my son speech service if it wasnt for the AEA. I would have had to leave work, take him out of school and drive him to a therapist. I have to be honest. It would not have been good for either of us. He would have missed so much school and I would have lost lots of time at work. I am thankful to have services directly to his school. The AEA was then again helpful when he became a high schooler. They help me set up important Vocational services for him, assisted with a four plus program so he could attend college and receive the necessary supports to help him become a success college student. Please not mess with a system that works so well already with schools, parents, and communities. The AEA also has assisted the teachers working with him. They have assisted with instructional methods and resources to help all students in his classes. Please remember, special education students are general education students first. Special education is just a small part of their education but so very important for equitable access. Protect Our AEAs!!! I am writing as a parent who has had a child with special needs in the school system in Iowa. My son used the AEA services from birth for hearing, developmental delays, and also for speech services. These services started in his daycare setting and continued directly to his classroom when he became school age. We lived in rural Iowa. I dont know how I would have been able to get my son speech service if it wasnt for the AEA. I would have had to leave work, take him out of school and drive him to a therapist. I have to be honest. It would not have been good for either of us. He would have missed so much school and I would have lost lots of time at work. I am thankful to have services directly to his school. The AEA was then again helpful when he became a high schooler. They help me set up important Vocational services for him, assisted with a four plus program so he could attend college and receive the necessary supports to help him become a success college student. Please not mess with a system that works so well already with schools, parents, and communities. The AEA also has assisted the teachers working with him. They have assisted with instructional methods and resources to help all students in his classes. Please remember, special education students are general education students first. Special education is just a small part of their education but so very important for equitable access. Please vote NO to this bill.

01-30-2024

John Swift []

Please vote no on this bill. The AEA system works, breaking something that works is bad policy. I havent talked to an Iowan yet (both republican and democrat) who is in favor of this bill. It hurts Iowa.

01-30-2024

Rhiannon Foulk []

The AEA is essential to the success of our kids. We do not have support in our schools to support our kids without the AEA. Taking away their services would be a huge disservice to our future generous. We should listen to the folks in these positions in schools and truly act in the best interest of those closest to the problem.

01-30-2024

Tara Hill []

Iowa will benefit with keeping the AEA in our schools. We need them. There are kiddos in these schools who benefit from the AEA and special Education and Paraprofessionals. There are many kids with disabilities and behaviors and academic issues of all sorts. Without AEA our schools will struggle. We need them to help implement what we need to do as a group and how to manage time for these kids. My son is autistic and ADHD in one.... He needs AEA in his school life. They are a blessing to the school districts. I work as a Para as well and have both sides of the AEA. Truly their structure and help to our special Education classes and kiddos on IEP's and BIP's need the structure and the help they provide. Please think about our kids and schools. Stop thinking about the money parts of things and start using the right tools in the right areas where your ppl need you is where your failing. Stand up for your state and it's people! We need AEA! Thanks for your time.

01-30-2024

Courtney Ahlquist []

As a parent and as an educator, I believe this bill will hurt the state of Iowas education system. As a parent, I have utilized the AEAs services when my oldest was showing gross motor delays as a one year old. His Early Access team helped him tremendously. As a teacher, I utilize the AEAs expertise nearly daily. We were as a team to benefit all students. The AEAs trainings and resources have benefited myself and my team to become better educators for our students. Please vote NO to this bill.

01-30-2024

Dianna Geers []

As a career educator in Iowa, I am asking that this bill not move forward. From the first day on my job as a special education teacher in 1992, I had a special education consultant in my room helping me learn the ins and outs of IEPs, student goals, parental rights, and student rights. Then followed a speech language pathologist, I was able to order books and materials to supplement what my school provided, and I had psychologists, physical therapists, and other support that allowed me to be the best teacher I could be for those amazing kiddos. As time went on, I used more and more of Grant Wood AEAs services from leadership and educational technology courses to the invaluable digital resources that allowed all of my students both general education and special education to safely conduct research, access ebooks and audiobooks, and explore topics of interest AND to have accessibility built in to those resources so that all had the option to learn. Currently I am working as a librarian at an AEA as I support our service providers, school librarians and teachers, and help provide resources that schools may try before they buy, or to see if an expensive item is really what their student needs. This is all done in conjunction with content consultant and school/teacher input. There is no way that this current plan will be able to help students. A thorough and intentional study is needed to protect our schools and students. Please protect our AEAs for the sake of the future of Iowa's children.

01-30-2024

Dianna Zumbach []

I have supported the Gov. in the past. NEVER, NEVER again will I vote for her!! The AEAs are vital to students, families, and schools success!! Teachers and AEA staff work simultaneously, always trying to best serve student's needs!! I have worked as a special education consultant for the past 11 years. My motto has always been, "How can I best serve the teachers I work with so they can best met the needs of their students". I use the media services, I use the technology services, I use the reading consultants, I use the math consultants, etc in order to provide teachers with resources!! Our Chief Administrator works tirelessly for ALL the AEA staff who are working in the field to SERVE students. His communication with school administrators is ongoing to ensure schools are receiving the support to best met students, teachers, and families needs. We need the WHOLE team of the AEAs to provide the BEST services for OUR students in Iowa!!My question to the Gov, WHY, WHY are you so focused on destroying Iowans public education system???

01-30-2024

Jennifer Collins []

In my 20 year career in the AEA system, I have had the privilege of working the last five in the role of the Mental Health Coordinator at Northwest Area Education Agency. A primary and consistent concern of local administrators and educators has been meeting the social, emotional, behavioral and mental health needs of their students. Suicide rates and mental health concerns are at an alltime high. Superintendents and principals are concerned about the health and wellbeing of their teachers and other school staff. Healthy children require healthy adults to teach them. Our team has responded to these concerns by building our capacity to train and coach local school staff in mental health and wellness, suicide prevention, restorative practices, school safety, crisis response, traumainformed training, and professional educator wellness. We have a team of 35 professionals trained in mental health crisis response that respond to school crisis situations, providing resources, supporting staff and students, offering deescalation interventions and mitigating the impact of trauma. These efforts have been in collaboration with community mental health providers and MHDS regions to make sustainable connections and align services between schools and communities to meet student mental health needs. The longevity of this agency has provided a unique support service with a solid reputation for best practices and longstanding relationships. Removing this net of safety and support will leave educators without trusted sources to support their work.Please vote no on this bill. The wellbeing of students and educators depends on it.

01-30-2024

Robin Heuser []

HSB 542 and SSB 3073 do not have Iowans best interests in mind and would cause irreversible damage to our education system. Please listen to and represent your constituents by killing this bill. Stand up to the governors intimidation tactics and threats. We are counting on you!

01-30-2024

Patricia Brinkmeyer []

I am writing in opposition to HSB 542. I do not agree with removing the support services of the AEA. As a child, I received speech services from a rural AEA. As a parent, my child needed to be evaluated for Early Access services due to speech and potential hearing issues. Our pediatrician recommended the local AEA and it was such a blessing to find this free resource that evaluated her hearing and her speech. She made tremendous gains and I will never forget those at the AEA who helped us navigate such an emotional time for our family. As a current Special Education Teacher, I work closely with the amazing staff at the local AEA and am always learning from them. The AEA always seems to be finding solutions to problems and ways to walk beside schools as they navigate new regulations and procedures. Our local AEA provides current, researchbased professional development and collaborates with school districts to ensure that students are evaluated and receive the services that they need. Ive seen the lists floating on social media of all of the services that are provided. While I may not personally access them all, I cannot begin to speak for someone else who is depending on those services. Every district, every school, and every child deserves equal access to the best educational resources. Please do not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Holly Kolfenbach []

Please vote NO to this bill! This is a crucial service to the children of this state. We should be thinking of ways to increase funding to public education in Iowa. These children they are the future!

01-30-2024

Michelle Wood []

Please protect our AEAs. AEAs help Iowas children.When my daughter was young, she had numerous ear infections. By the time she was two years old, I had concerns about her hearing. She would ask for a lot of repetition and needed to see my face when I was speaking to her. I made medical appointments and shared these concerns with her doctor. It took several visits with me advocating before I finally got her an appointment for a hearing test. When we arrived, the staff commented how young she was and how they probably couldnt get an accurate test at her age. They asked me questions and looked in her ears, but they didnt even try to evaluate her hearing. I was in tears. What more could I do? I called my local AEA. I expressed my concerns for my daughters hearing and the impact on her language development. She was scheduled to see an AEA audiologist at the hearing booth. The staff were excellent at working with a young child and completed a very thorough and accurate hearing test. My daughter did have hearing loss and it was significant in one ear. This report alone prompted her medical providers to act, but the AEA support did not stop there. Because the listened to my concerns about her development, a teacher was able to visit with us and observe my daughter. Thankfully, with the medical team prompted into action, her hearing returned to normal with no lingering developmental difficulties. This is just my story. Families across Iowa have stories just like mine. The original legislation and the proposed amendment will undoubtedly take away needed support for children and their families. Please protect our AEAs.

01-30-2024

Courtney Cooper []

This bill would have a devastating impact on students, parents, teachers, and school districts. All communities would be negatively affected. To pass this bill would be abhorrent. The only modifications that should be considered are to provide MORE support.

01-30-2024

Jan Evans []

Thank you for taking my comment to urge you to vote NO on moving this bill forward. These proposals will pull the rug out from under students, parents, and teachers across our state who rely on the professional services our AEAs provide.

01-30-2024

Jami Miller []

As an Iowa educator the past 20 years I strongly oppose this bill. This bill has been developed on the ground of false data, and does not show the full picture of what AEAs do for our children. This bill is not only dismantling AEA, if passed as written it will ruin small, private and rural school districts. It strips valuable resources from ALL children, not just those in special education, and will harm the children of Iowa. Causing damage that will take years to recover from. I question how a bill that mentions 133 times that it's taking decision making away from local control is giving districts "more control", and I would like to see accurate data that shows how the proposed finances are sustainable. I would like to hear answers to so many of the questions posed that currently have no answers, and I would like to see Superintendents and AEA staff on the board, giving input. I urge you, for the future of Iowa's children, to please slow down this process and throughly evaluate the AEA, making educated changes that will be in the best interest of students and promote growth and achievement, instead of irreversible damage. Please, do not pass this bill.

01-30-2024

Jami Miller []

01-30-2024

Holly Russell []

As a lifelong Iowa, I oppose this bill. I have been a teacher in Iowa Schools since 2001 and continue to teach today, in the Ankeny Community School District. During my time as an educator, I have served in all grades K12, 10 years in public schools and 13 in private Catholic schools. In every position I have held, having the AEA at my side as an educator has made my job more meaningful and helped me to becoming a better educator. The AEA has the credit for helping me with the following major items during my career: 1) providing professional development in areas of required trainings, 2) providing me with professional development in my curricular area, 3) providing professional development in teaching me to teach and reach all kids with differentiation, special education expertise, and expertise for serving Gifted and Talented students, 4) providing me with print resources my district was not able to afford, 5) providing databases of research materials for my students to access and learn beyond their building's walls, 6) providing me with professional development to understand, access and use online learning management systems during the pandemic and beyond. I would not be the teacher I am today with the AEABoth the special education professionals (who are endlessly working for our kids, but there are not enough of them to go around) and the dedicated professionals who are developing teachers to become more than we could be on our own.As an Iowan Student, the AEA provided services to my small hometown, Columbus Junction, when our town was turned upside down with students who needed ELL services higher than anyone in town knew how to provide on their own. Classmates of mine who I watch grown from students who could not have a conversation with us in classrooms to dedicated scientists, teachers, farmers, and productive members of society.As an Iowan Parent of two daughters, one in public HS and one in Catholic elementary school, they have served my daughters when they needed expanded services for being Talented and Gifted, when one of them hadn't started walking when she was 18 months old, and when we weren't sure if my younger daughter could hear due to a family history of hearing loss. In all aspects of my life, personal, professional, and family life, I have counted on the AEA for services that have made my life and the people around me's live's betterfor generations. Too many of our education resources have been taken away since 2017, and this is one we literally cannot AFFORD to loose. I want my daughters to want to raise their own kids in Iowa as my husband and I's families have down for generations. Let's leave them sometime worth staying here for.

01-30-2024

Michelle Tressel []

Although retired now, for more than 35 years I taught in an LEA in Iowa and used AEA services or was an employee of an AEA. I also have a nephew who received services from an AEA.I am very concerned by the damage HSB 542 would impose on education in the state of Iowa. Of the many reasons HSB 542 would harm education, I wish to highlight the following: The partnerships with LEAs and accredited, nonpublic schools will be lost. It was my experience that when an LEA needed assistance interpreting a new state requirement, addressing student behavioral issues, working with ELL students or providing grief counseling after a major tragedy, the AEA would be contacted. Resources, longterm and shortterm, would be put in place to meet the needs of districts and accredited, nonpublic schools. In working with the DE for more than 25 years, I discovered that the DE sees the federal and state government, not the LEAs, as their customers. The DE, by definition, is not positioned to provide services the LEAs request nor can they slide into that role effectively. There will no longer be advocates for families and experts in consulting with districts on how to provide a free, appropriate public education to students with special needs. In addition, the AEAs provide related services free of charge to students who are currently enrolled in an accredited, nonpublic school. Media and educational (instructional) services, critical services to schools, will no longer be available. These services are diverse and provide significant costsavings to schools, both urban and rural, schools that might not have access to these services otherwise. Handson science kits, boxed books, production of materials, assessment materials, and online resources represent a very, very small number of media services provided to schools. The expertise provided by consultants in the areas of reading, math, science and other curricular areas is outstanding. Not only do they support teachers and principals but also curriculum directors in the districts. And not to be forgotten is the topnotch staff development that is available to teachers and other staff. I took courses to remain current and to renew licensure. The courses were convenient, costeffective and very relevant to classrooms in Iowa. I also taught courses at the AEA and in districts. The AEA system is a comprehensive system on which LEAs and accredited, nonpublic schools rely heavily. Many do not realize the complexity of the services provided to the LEAs and accredited, nonpublic schools. Even though the AEA system is not a perfect system, rather than dismantling the system, please modify the bill so the system is studied and data and input from customers and stakeholders are gathered. The AEA system is too important to the public and accredited, nonpublic schools to dismiss it with great study.Please do not support HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Jason Lang []

The evidence of how awful this would be for the state is overwhelming. Please stop this nonsense. Bills like this are turning Iowa into a backwater of ignorance. What are you doing to our economy and future? Kill this thing in committee.

01-30-2024

Danen Cooper []

This bill would hurt all students, educators, and parents. Please think of the future of our communities and state before you try to take away not only equal opportunities but the right to a decent education. This not only hurts those who have special needs that are below the standard average but also those who are exceptionally above. This would hurt our state not just immediately but especially 20 to 50 years down the road.

01-30-2024

Randy Allison [Educational Solutions, L.L.C.]

With all due respect, please vote NO on this bill. I worked in education across Iowa for 40+ years. I have been on staff in 3 different AEAs, worked for the Department of Education, and worked as a private consultant. I can appreciate the sentiment that AEAs have changed over the last 50 years. Change has been required in order to be timely and responsive to changing needs within education and to changing state and federal requirements. There is always room for improvement and reconsideration of how AEAs operate. However, in thinking through those issues and considering future needs there seems to be little, if anything, to gain from what is a decimation of the existing system with this proposed bill. This is a high stakes decision that will have short and long term consequences at the individual, family, school, district and state level. A serious concern I have is that no one seems to have taken the time to truly consider the issues this bill presents in comparison to the presumed concerns it is said to solve. This seems to be a clear case of overreaction. If there is a problem to be solved we must clearly articulate it, analyze it for probable cause, and determine meaningful and valid methods to address them. Methods of determining the success, or lack thereof, must be in place. I fear that without deep knowledge of the interconnections of Iowas educational system at the state, AEA, and LEA level this bill, as currently conceived, will quickly create a level of dysfunction across the state that our educational system has never considered or experienced. There are funding issues, cost issues around economy of scale, inefficiencies and redundancies across districts in production and service offerings, issues with recruiting/hiring/training/retaining professional staff, challenges finding and keeping low incidence staff, insensitivity to local needs, a lack of onground flexibility, inability to meet state and federal rules and regulations in general and special education, timelines for implementation, poor continuity of services and service provision, questions about Early Access and Early Childhood programming, student data management and IEP data systems, mental health services and resources, behavioral programming, autism training and support, consistency of messaging and services for parents, vocational programming for students with disabilities, knowledge and linking to community resourcesand so many more. The point is, there has been no information provided in conjunction with this bill to suggest any consideration of these kinds of things. I have not met with or heard from anyone that can answer questions about how these types of issues will be addressed in a comprehensive and cohesive manner. I honestly wonder if anyone behind this bill has deep knowledge of these issues and/or has attempted to figure them out. In order for this bill to be meaningfully considered, answers to these matters are imperative for any success; both immediate and long term.

01-30-2024

Madison Imoehl []

As a School Social Worker & AEA employee, I believe it's crucial to highlight that AEAs play a vital role in supporting all students throughout Iowa. By providing resources, expertise, and collaborative opportunities, AEAs contribute significantly to creating an educational landscape where every student, regardless of their unique needs, has the opportunity to succeed. This inclusive approach not only benefits individual students but also strengthens the entire educational community.

01-30-2024

Misty Nay []

The services that the AEA provides are vital to the school districts, administrators, teachers, and students in our state. Not just the special education services, but ALL the services. Cutting these services and leaving schools without resources, not to mention, enough money to pay for them, is not only unfair, but also completely against what most Iowans want for our kids.The rate at which the governor is trying to push this bill through is dangerous, to be frank. You cannot pull the rug out from beneath schools with no plan as to how they are supposed to find, coordinate, and fully pay for these services. The only ones who suffer in this scenario are kids.The services that the AEA provides to our state are comprehensive, vital, and admired by those all over the nation. The outpouring of support for the AEA is not a coincidence. Its a testament to the impact they have had on the people and children of Iowa. And now it is your job to speak for your people, as we expect you to do when we vote you into your role.

01-30-2024

Jim Demmer [retired educator]

Please,please do not support this bill. It takes away any control to local districts. Students are not financial numbers, but human beings who do need individual plans Taylor made by AEA specialists.

01-30-2024

Juliette Houseman []

Please show your constituents and ALL children and families in Iowa that you understand that this bill is no good for anyone and vote NO. Take the time to bring all stakeholders to the table and get the input needed to make it a better system for ALL Iowans.

01-30-2024

Angie Holcomb []

I am an elementary principal in Sioux City, Iowa and I am writing asking you to vote against HSB 542: As an educator of 30 years, I have had numerous interactions with AEA supports. Since the inception of AEAs in the 1970s, they have existed to provide fair, equal, costeffective services across the state in the areas of special education, education services (such as literacy and math instruction), and media/technology. They provide resources that are too costprohibitive for schools to secure independently. The AEAs resources support all Iowa students, not just those in special education. AEAs follow the standards of service established in Iowa Administrative Code 281 and provide these services to all public schools and accredited private schools within Iowa.Many of my 30 years have been in Special Education and one of the phrases that I have repeated often is that ALL students are general education students first and foremost. ALL teachers need to know best practice strategies to support such a wide range of students. The last two years for sure, have brought us students with significant needs; academic, behavioral and trauma related. I don't know how we would even make the progress we are making without the supports, knowledge and expertise from our AEA. We rely on many of their supports on a daily basis. There is no way as a building administrator that I can have in depth knowledge on every aspect of what it takes to run our building and support the needs of all our students. We have been starting to learn about the Science of Reading and how to change our practices to help students be more successful. That training and expertise has come from our AEA trainers. We have needed to access supports in providing Positive Behavior Supports to ALL students, alternatives to get students up and moving during break times, and Restorative Practices to help students understand the impact of their choices. All that training, resources and expertise comes from our AEA experts. Educators spend a tremendous amount of their own money on making and accessing resources to teach their students. The AEA offers many services from printing, binding, laminating, lending library, etc at an either way discounted price or for free. The AEA van at our school is busy. Our 5th grade students accessed the traveling star lab to enhance their science instruction which was possible through the AEA.I realize that the proposed increase in teacher salary is important and is absolutely needed but teachers will not go into the profession if all of their supports, resources and experts are taken away. I am deeply concerned that if AEAs are dismantled as HSB 542 calls for, that our school as well as others, are greatly going to suffer. Our student and family needs are high. We need ALL the supports and services the AEA can provide us as well as more. I know there are always things we can do to become better, but I believe theres a better way to improve outcomes for Iowas students than taking such a huge swing at the supports and services as called for in this bill.

01-30-2024

Lynda Lanus []

Im writing to you to request that you oppose HSB542 and its amendment SSB3073. I know youve heard from many families, superintendents, and teachers across the state asking you to oppose this Bill and to complete an indepth study of whats working and what could be improved upon without dismantling an entire infrastructure. Therefore, Im also asking you keep the promise you made when you were elected which is to represent the voices of your constituents and their children. I know thats asking a lot, I really do. Its hard to hear information that paints such a dismal view of our education system and not want to make changes for the positive. However, as Im sure youve heard, the information shared with you wasnt complete, nor did it give you the full picture of how much our special education students are actually learning. With this misleading information, youve been made to feel that this Bill will improve services by allowing local choice, which is really not local control/choice since everything would go through the Department of Educationso less local control, and more state control). I beg you to have more conversations with AEA leadership and Superintendents so they can tell you just how much this will destroy our rural districts. When a district struggles, that means the children suffer, and this is what will happen when the financial demands for quality services falls to small districts. I really dont think this is what you want at all because I feel that you care about our children more than that.Without going into more detail, Ill keep it short and say that as a direct special education service provider its extremely defeating and gutwrenching every day to work with the most vulnerable students; whether because of disability, poverty, or trauma, feeling you dont have the support of your state leaders, or that your voice is not important. It truly is heartbreaking, and I wish I had better words to convey this to you. However, Im at a complete loss when trying to wrap my mind around what could happen and the implications it has for students and families from this day forward. As an Iowan, Im asking you to represent your children and families and oppose HSB542/SSB3073.

01-30-2024

Kari Turnis []

I strongly urge you to NOT support this bill. Having worked for the AEA for nearly 25 years, I have seen firsthand how the work done by each and every AEA employee positively impacts students, families, and schools. AEAs ensure all students, regardless of location or background, have access to highquality educational opportunities and resources. AEAs support ALL schools, rural, suburban, and urban, including nonpublic. This bill will be detrimental to those services, and does nothing to increase special education performance. Speaking to you now as a lifelong Iowan who attended public schools, I am saddened to see the attacks on public education, including AEAs. This bill does nothing to improve education in the state of Iowa. Again, I implore you to listen to the people of Iowa and stop this bill from moving forward.

01-30-2024

Julie Aschenbrenner []

Do NOT dismantle or try to downsize, fix or however you want to spin it the AEA! Yall tried to do that with Medicaid by privatizing it and as a nurse I can assure you from a patients perspective that has been one big fail! Stop trying to solve problems that dont exist! Maybe figure out how youre going to feed hungry children since the governor doesnt seem interested in that.

01-30-2024

Jessica Wessels []

AEAs are the lifeline to our education system. We need them, we use them on the daily, we appreciate them and we want them to stay exactly as they are! This bill is not in the best interest of anyone in the education system. Please take a step back and think about this. Think about the best interest of our students, our future. Please do not put our future at risk and vote NO for this bill. Thank you to all the wonderful AEA employees. You truly are the foundation of our system!

01-30-2024

Susie Green []

Please vote No to House Study Bill 542. Our daughter received AEA speech services as a preschool student. All three of our children benefitted from AEA curriculum support in their classrooms and AEA sponsored gifted education and enrichment opportunities. The bill, as it stands, will gut a system that has served students, schools and our state well. The Department of Education cannot adequately replace the direct service, client relationships and educational efficiencies our students, schools and states deserve and have come to expect from our AEAs provide. This is a misguided effort for our state and for our students. I respectfully ask you to represent your state constituents and vote no. Thank you!

01-30-2024

Katie Roling []

I am joining the hundreds of comments already here urging you NOT to advance this bill. Our AEAs provide access to essential services and supports for every Iowa school (both public and private), and the current structure of pooled resources is integral to their effectiveness, efficiency, and equity. There is *no* evidence that dismantling this system in favor of feeforservice will address any of the achievement concerns identified by the Governor. Please slow this process down and engage in further study with all stakeholders to determine whether/which change(s) should be made.

01-30-2024

Amy Wichman []

I am OPPOSED to the proposed legislation HSB 542 that will significantly impact Iowas Area Education Agencies (AEAs) and ultimately every Iowan now and into the future. As a parent of three children and an Iowa educator of 28 years, I continue to see talking points and propaganda from the governor that is untrue and disputable. I encourage you to slow down the process to learn about the AEAs, their function, and their important role in the State. Consider these points:There will be Iowa residents who will lose jobs/ careers as a result of these changes, potentially in catastrophic numbers. Many are NOT people who are licensed teachers who could fill positions. They will become unemployed, uninsured Iowans or will leave the state. This is reality that needs discussed. There will be outsourcing as a result of the proposed privatization of services for schools. If ANY other businesses in the state of Iowa were going to outsource jobs or privatize with outofstate companies, Iowans (including Iowa legislators) would be irate. Outofstate companies are already poaching schools... The Department of Education DOES NOT have the infrastructure to oversee, run and/or consume ANY additional functions. Their inconsistency in staff, their lack of credibility with schools, and their inability to carry out initiatives without assistance from AEA staff (Early Literacy and ESSA law) is evident, daily. In addition, the language in the bill requiring so much to get "approved" by the DE makes everyday tasks impossible for districts (133 mentions of DE "approval needed). If AEAs have areas of concern, they should be studied and improved. To upheave, disrupt, and dismantle a system in less than 6 months is irresponsible, hasty, and damaging to students, educators, and parents in Iowa. The AEAs ARE evaluated by the State. Through annual comprehensive Desk Audits and accreditation visits every five years. The cascade of the system (Districts to AEA to DE) functions fine, as is, and in fact, is needed. Please dont succumb to the propaganda and misinformation that is being distributed. Continue to talk to Iowans, listen to parent stories, and truly take time to unpack the real consequences of these decisions on Iowa now and in the future. Listen to Iowans, parents, educators and YOUR CONSTITUENTS.

01-30-2024

Bryce Carlton []

Please consider how this bill will impact equity and access to highquality educational opportunities and resources to ALL of Iowa's children by voting NO. The devastating consequences of this bill moving forward will be farreaching and felt for years to come. How will Iowa's education system recover? How will Iowa be able to attract or retain educators if you dismantle their support system? Iowa's children deserve better. Iowa's families deserve better. Iowa's educators deserve better. ALL Iowans deserve better. Please listen to the thousands of voices across the state who are against this bill and vote NO!

01-30-2024

Jennifer Turner []

I oppose this bill. Iowa schools will still need AEAs regardless. Small schools won't have choice contrary to the governor's assertion. I worked for Heartland AEA as a speech therapist for 15 years and then wanted to go part time and I am currently doing teletherapy in CA for a Canadian company. It is not as good. All my kids have minor issues that work over the internet although not ideally. But there are lots of kids who wouldn't get any benefit from that. That is the private option available. Rural schools hiring their own SLPs, OTs, psychs, would be nearly impossible as there just aren't that many, few live outside metros, and small schools probably can't offer fulltime on their own. So why would we write 300 some contracts between districts and AEAs? We'd lose economy of scale and create chaos. Local control is lost in this bill. AEA boards are appointed by districts now. The governor wants her DE director in charge of everything and to have to approve everything. That DE director is rumored to be MIA quite often and people have trouble getting her signature now. She ended the Family Educator Partnership at AEAs that's been around since 1984 without talking to anyone. There are a lot of people VERY fired up about this. Nobody wants this except the governor. We won't forget. I will make sure to remind as many people as possible next election.

01-30-2024

Lisa Korcuska []

Please listen to the folks you represent, this bill is dangerous to our children who are just starting to recover from the trauma of the pandemic. This could be, and most likely will be further trauma to students and their families. People say Iowa hates their kids, prove them wrong. Iowa's kids deserve better.

01-30-2024

Stacy Polewik []

As an educator we make decisions based on a multiple sources of data. An individual education plan is written based on an student's needs. Special Education is about individual students. Teachers in a school district need support on implementing these plans. By passing HSB 542 you are limiting the support teachers in school districts receive both directly and indirectly. I urge you to vote NO to HSB542. If there are concerns about the current Area Education Agencies then I recommend you do a a comprehensive review. Quick decisions are not best outcomes for students, families or schools.

01-30-2024

Stacie Brass [River Hills]

I am the parent of a specialneeds child enrolled at River Hills school in CedarFalls Iowa. I strongly oppose this bill. This is a significant change and certainly does not appear to have been researched well enough. Can someone show me a track record of excellence by the department of education in this area? What makes us think that the Department of Education would somehow do a better job than the AAA? EA has specialized in the unique needs of children like mine for years. Hit the pause button, do the research.

01-30-2024

Martin Mulligan [Iowa taxpayer-involved citizen-voter.]

Sensory Sensitive Santa A personal experience Prior to COVID, I was approached by the leader of a local group to join them in putting together an event for local children at Christmas. The families who belonged to the group stated they were unable to take their children to see Santa like typical kids because their specific needs were not taken into consideration ( it has become more common now) . This could not have been done without the support from AEA staff, who were able to provide advice on lighting, noise levels, schedules, activities and supports to help the event be successful.All completed by AEA staff outside of work time.I was to be Santa!With AEA advice, which included guidance to community volunteers, and careful planning, the kids were able to experience Santa for the first time. For some families they had their first picture with Santa and they still talk about it!Vote No on HSB542Don't be the Grinch! Iowa needs the AEA's more not less!

01-30-2024

Stephen Slobodnik [Parent]

Our two daughters received excellent services through our local AEA. Our oldest is 27, severely retarded and wheelchair bound . The AEA fought for her to have this independence, not the school. Our youngest is developmentally delayed. The school administration pulled her out of her supported math class without our knowledge until she started failing. ARA fought to have her put back in the supported class. Please vote no against this poor bill.

01-30-2024

Kristin Shelton []

I would like to ask that you vote no against this bill to dismantle the AEA system as we know it. This bill will only have a long lasting negative impact for all students, districts, and families. If there are concerns, please review the AEA. The AEA is a well organized, fiscally responsible agency that benefits all students and the districts we serve.

01-30-2024

Margaret Woodruff [Parent, Grandparent, voter]

I have seen how the AEA is a partner to schools, communities, students and families. The AEA is the support, the middle ground, that is the glue that helps with trainings and curriculum, and offers strategies to students, teachers and families that are struggling. The dedicated AEA staff reflect, teach, practice, and coach parents, students, teachers, and administrators, along with being community partners. Please vote NO on this bill! A great deal will be lost in July 2024 if this bill goes through. Schools, families, and children birth through 21 will be without services that have helped children grow to their highest potential .

01-30-2024

Jean Shepherd []

As a retired teacher, I am appalled at the slash and burn legislation that has been put forth by the governor. It is ull conceived, rushed and the ramifications for all stakeholders obviously have not been thoroughly researched. An example of this mess is the advertisement of job openings already for positions not yet created or voted upon. I have worked for many years with those in the AEA and valued their assistance inany situations.PLEASE vote against this horrific idea! Voters are watching!!

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01-30-2024

Catherine Hahn []

Good Evening! My name is Catherine Hahn. I am the parent of a child/ adult who utilized AEA services starting at 6 months through 21, an employee of the AEA as a physical therapist for the last 29 years, and an advocate for persons with disabilities who has served on local, regional and state level committees. The current bill before you to dismantle the AEA services will being great harm to students, families , local school districts and communities. It does away with the excellent educational tradition of having local control in collaboration with supports of the regional AEA under the guidance of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa State Board of Education and puts in it's place an educational system totally controlled by The Iowa Department of Education. This includes local districts having to seek approval to have contracts assigned, loss of all local input and loss of transparency that currently exists through elimination of current standards to publish budgets , etcPlease vote NO on this bill! Let us consider a measured approach to changes in the system where families , educators, administrators and legislators can come together to write and adequately fund a bill which will improve educational outcomes for all Iowa's children.RespectfullyCatherine Hahn

01-30-2024

Sadia Ashraf-Benson []

My name is Dr. Benson and I am an unlikely advocate for the AEA. I had premature twins and the AEA was instrumental to our boys growth. When the boys went to Kindergarten the AEA was once again mine and my boys support. Fast forward to 3rd grade and the FAP has helped me navigate to get the boys and me support. I also have a 6 year old tha5 doesn't have as many needs but the AEA once again helped create a system in the classroom to assist the school teacher with his type personality. My years of training in the ICU could not get me the support that I needed through the FAP and AEA. It would be detrimental to our community to lose the current resources that only they can provide. From a physician and mother.

01-30-2024

Spencer Dworzynski [Engineering, tax payer and concerned citizen]

The AEAs of Iowa offer vital services to each of our school districts. Cutting back on AEAs services will have an impact on our communities and hurt all schools, particularly in rural areas. I myself have benefited from an AEA speech therapist while in elementary school. That help is one of the contributing factor to my success today. I value all the support and programs that AEA has to offer. Lets make sure such a bill is not rushed and legitimate and defendable evidence exists which suggests a change is necessary prior to entertaining any proposals.

01-30-2024

Molly Uhlenhopp []

Please vote NO to this bill. It does not make sense as to WHY this is being proposed. I have not met a single person who supports this. LISTEN to the people of Iowa. This bill was written by an out of state company who simply does not understand the AEA. My four month old was born at 29 weeks 1 day. The AEA began to provide support while we were still in the NICU. The immediacy of the AEA is and will be unmatched. Please stop this bill: vote no!

01-30-2024

Ann Dworzynski []

Vote NO to this Bill. The people of Iowa are telling you they WANT AEA services and resources in their districts. We need to think about the rural communities and how the student will be impacted. We have tons of studenta tha rely on the AEA for more than special education. We have rural communities that use our STEM kits as part of their curriculum. Please vote NO

01-30-2024

Janet Norman [Parent/ retired educator ]

Please vote NO on this bill. There is overwhelming out cry from constituents who do not want this action taken against the AEAs. I believe there has been very little time to gather accurate information. There was no local participation in writing this bill. Im appalled at the acceptance of the information provided by an out of state company that doesnt know how AEAs work. They were paid handsomely with my Iowa tax dollars. I have little faith in the Department of Educations ability to take over what the AEAs have provided in the timeline they have provided. Passing this bill will be a huge blow to schools that rely on the AEAs services, especially rural districts. A no vote would mean you stand by the constituency that you serve at their invitation by electing you to serve their interests.

01-30-2024

Marcy Marvin []

This legislation will CRIPPLE Iowa schools, especially small rural schools. They do NOT have the resources to provide ALL the services that the AEA provide to them. There is already a shortage of teachers/staff and this will drive people out of education as educators are asked to do more with less. This legislation is clearly political and someone stands to benefit financaially. The DOE cannot begin to absorb all the special education services for the entire state. This will be devastating to children, families, and Iowa. Please do what is best for children and vote NO to this!!!

01-30-2024

Lindsey Rupp []

I have yet to see how this bill would improve the outcomes of Iowa students. Slow this bill and do a meaningful instate review of how AEAs work with public and nonpublic schools to improve student outcomes. While there is a lot of reference to Dept. of Education oversight, I have seen little about how this would functionally work or yield improvements. The governor claims that it is categorically false that she is planning to end AEAs or cut services, yet that will be the outcome when you lay off administrators, cut Media funding and move Special Education funding to schools money that for many districts, especially rural districts, wont be able to provide the same services or level of service as it does through the AEAs economy of scale. I would ask the superintendents who claim to be unhappy with AEA services, have they reached out to AEA administrators to share their concerns? Have they reached out to their AEAs board of directors to voice their concerns? There are ways of addressing concerns without scraping an entire support system that has benefited generations of Iowa students and continues to today.

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Hill []

As an educator and a family member whose loved ones have directly benefited from AEA services, I strongly oppose the recently amended HSB542. This legislation jeopardizes the wellbeing of our students and school staff. I urge you to vote against this bill for the sake of Iowa's children. The invaluable and equitable resources offered by Iowa AEAs are instrumental in supporting the diverse needs of all children through the state.

01-30-2024

Helen Kennedy []

Vote NO on this bill. The governor mainly has a vendetta on the administrators salaries, but instead of we working with the boards she will "fire" all AEA workers. That's over 3,400 Iowa employees who work, live, spend money, have families in the state of Iowa, who work with 1,310 schools, in 328 districts with over 517,444 students in public schools, additionally, they service all non public schools students. If a company employing that many people left Iowa, the governor and legislature would bend over backwards to keep them here. Why would they do this to their own good employees, students and families? Vote NO

01-30-2024

Nicole Heiselman []

Please vote No regarding HSB 542. This will not be good for our students as well as our educator's and parents. Dismantling the AEA's is not the right thing to do. There has also been no mention the AEA's that are on the ground when tragedy happens in the schools. They help in many many ways. Very sad and disheartening if this happens. Again please vote NO!

01-30-2024

Erin Engler []

Please do NOT pass this bill. AEAs serve a vital role in our public schools and our students cannot afford to have more taken away from them. This bill will especially impact students with special needs and schools in rural communities. It is sad enough to see our tax payer dollars getting funneled to private schools through vouchers, its even harder to see a vital agency who has served our state for 50+ years lose funding, resulting in a greater lack of resources to our public schools. How is this bill putting Iowans first and making our state better? I sincerely hope that the concerns of actual taxpaying Iowans are considered before making a decision to pass this bill. Please, listen to the people of Iowa, read our comments and concerns and keep the best interest of our children at the forefront of your minds. I beg of you, vote NO.

01-30-2024

Sarah Schmidt []

AEAs have been a vital part of my family's life. I had a sister who was on an IEP back in the 90's. My mom has let me know that without the AEA support she didn't believe that the schools would have listened to her input, as they were claiming to know my sister better than she did. Because of that I went into Special Education and was a Special Education teacher for seventeen years in a rural Iowa school. Through those years I relied on AEA support to help me improve my teaching and help make my classroom the best learning environment for all of my students. What I learned in college was so far from what life in a classroom was really all about! If it hadn't been for the support I was given by my AEA I would have walked away from the profession log ago. No one else in my district taught Special Education or understood where I was coming from or the demands that I was faced with. Having large numbers of students on IEPs, all with different goals and supports ranging from the least to most severe. I spent so much of my time advocating so hard for my students, as teachers were quick to send them my way when there was a concern instead of having them in their classrooms. With my AEA teams support I helped educate my teachers that students with special needs could learn, are general education students first, and deserved to be in the classroom. I now have nieces and nephews that also attend rural Iowa schools and are on IEPs. I have had my siblings call me very upset because they do not think that the schools are hearing their requests and wanting the best for their kids. They are at their wits end. I encourage them to reach out to their AEAs to help advocate for their students. For this reason that is why I am now a Special Education Strategist with Northwest AEA. I understand having local control, but what about if that local control doesn't understand the laws, doesn't listen to families as valued members of the IEP teams, doesn't believe that students with severe needs belong in their district and don't think they need to educate them. These are all things that I have come across in my three years as a Strategist, and it's very scary to me what the future holds.Without the support of the AEA's I'm worried that we will have more teachers walking away from the profession and in return will affect the education that all our students are receiving. I worry we will have parents who don't trust that they are being heard by their districts and will resort to the legal system. Who better to help educators, the students and their families than those who understand and have the training and expertise to support all teachers. Please take your time and think about the ramifications that this bill could have on Iowa. Our education system was once what everyone strived for across the nation. Let's get back to making education a priority and have it be great again.

01-30-2024

Lisa Taylor []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. I have served as an AEA speechlanguage pathologist for 19 years. Many of my assignments have been in rural areas. I have provided speech services to students in grades PK12 with communication disabilities ranging across severity levels. I engage in daily collaboration with LEA teachers and staff as well as parents and other AEA colleagues in order to identify students needs and to provide effective evidence based instruction and supports. The AEAs provide quality and equitable services to all students in Iowa. This proposed bill is being rushed through without time for serious consideration, input and review from all stakeholders. This proposed bills drastic measures would leave local school districts with less control and students and families with less services. Please listen to the many people across Iowa who have reached out to you. Please support your local schools, families and students by voting NO.

01-30-2024

Lynne Currie []

It is obvious that the vast majority of Iowans are against this bill and want you to protect our AEAs as they are. Improvements are possible with any company or organization, so if that is what is needed, then address them without dismantling a system that has worked for 50 years. As a school social worker with Grant Wood AEA who serves two rural school districts, I have been so moved and humbled by the support my districts have shown for their AEA services. Every student and educator in the state receives equitable services under the current AEA service delivery model, and the proposed changes to it would create resource gaps between urban and rural districts, increase costs to districts, remove local control, and diminish the services that districts currently receive. I urge you to support your AEA's and preserve the current service delivery model.

01-30-2024

Becky Dodd []

I am asking you to kill this bill or at the very least vote NO until your constituents' questions can be answered confidently and accurately. There must be a concrete plan for any transition that may occur.I work for Heartland AEA for the Early ACCESS program. Part of my role is to meet with families from all parts of the state that have a baby in our local NICUs. These babies have all been referred to Early ACCESS and come from every county across the state. Many from areas that have no resources other than the AEAs. Recently a NICU parent asked me what this bill means for their child's services. They asked me, what will it mean if my child still needs services when the child is old enough to start school. This parent is facing so many unknowns with their child's diagnosis. They don't know what needs their child will have over the child's lifetime, but they do know that their child is at high risk of developmental delays. Prior to this bill, I was able to confidently explain what services would look like. I was able to explain they will have a TEAM of people that will work collaboratively to ensure their child's needs are met. I was able to tell them that their service providers will be with them the whole step of the way and help them transition to preschool (if needed), or graduate from services. I was able to tell them that some of those same providers will be there to help their child until they graduate high school. Please tell me, what do I tell these families now? They need to hear something more than "they will receive services". They need to know that they have a consistent team that functions like a well oiled machine. They need to know "who" will provide those services. They need to know how we can ensure there will be no gap in services. They need to know that under the new plan all of their contracted services will work together as a fluid team. They need to know that their child is a priority to their service providers and not just another number on a waiting list. Because these are all of the things AEAs provide. But as this bill is written, there is no plan. There is no mention of how families will transition as of July 1. Please vote against this bill.

01-30-2024

Kathy Gabrielson [retired school counselor]

As a retired public educator of 35 years experience, I am deeply concerned by the discussion of the massive destruction of the current AEA system. Over my many years of working with them through their professional development and AEA personnel support in special education services and mental health, they were instrumental in guiding the reform of educational practices and professional consultation and guidance for school services. I am distressed at the loss of this system for our local school systems. I encourage you to NOT do the drastic AEA reforms suggested by Governor Reynolds. Thank you for your consideration. Kathy L. Gabrielson, Story City retired school counselor

01-30-2024

Kelly Gisch []

Fellow Iowans, I urge you to vote NO on this bill that will drastically reduce much needed support and resources to our public school teachers, administrators, staff, and most importantly Iowa students. You have a responsibility as stewards of tax payer money to act according to the best use of those funds in a way that impacts the most people for the betterment of Iowa families and communities. I can think of nothing more important than supporting fully Iowa youth and the professionals who work with them. My own children have benefited greatly from AEA services that would otherwise have not been available to them. As a former Iowa teacher I utilized AEA resources on a regular basis to enrich my students. Please support AEA and our Iowa schools fully and vote NO on this bill.Thank you

01-30-2024

Kristin Sparbel []

I am concerned about impacts of decreased educational services and unequal access to services that is likely with continued cuts to Iowa's AEAs. I have worked in public education in Iowa for many years, both as a paraeducator and more recently as a speechlanguage pathologist. As a paraeducator, support from AEA staff such as speechlanguage pathologists, social workers, and occupational therapists helped me to better work with students to support their learning and growth. As an AEA speechlanguage pathologist, I have benefitted from the wealth of knowledge of my coworkers, professional development that was highly relevant to my work, materials from the print shop, and access to the media and assistive technology loan programs. Please consider importance of the services and supports for children, families, and educators provided through the AEA from early intervention through high school.

01-30-2024

Sally Slavens []

Please vote NO on SSB 3073. AEAs provide critical (and affordable) support to all Iowa students, teachers, staff, and administrators. As an Iowa taxpayer and graduate of the Iowa public school system, we should continue to invest in experts to help children thrive, no matter their location, needs, or circumstance.

01-30-2024

Maggie Trecker []

I live and work in the BondurantFarrar CSD! The AEA has helped shape me into the teacher that I am today! The training they provide are vital to Iowa schools, and without the AEA teachers will suffer and more will leave the field! Teachers and students need the AEA!

01-30-2024

Erica Borgerding []

I and many of my fellow Iowans are NOT in favor of this bill and it is not what is best for students, or Iowa schools. If you want change, slow down and listen to what Iowans have to say. Vote no!

01-30-2024

Paula Arends []

I am a seniors citizen, grandmother, and retired teacher. I live in a rural commuity. Please do not pass the AEA bill. . Our AEAs do so much for our schools. We do not have access to the services they provide. Our Iowa children, teachers, and schools need all the services our AEAs provide. Many students besides the mentally handicapped need the services.

01-30-2024

Kathy Cole []

I am asking you to please oppose the amended HSB 542. This bill was proposed without any input from Iowa educators, Iowa parents, or Iowa AEA staff. There are no points of action in the bill to improve student achievement which seems to be one of the Governor's biggest issues. The AEA system already is an established system that serves all students in the state with oversight from the Department of Education. This bill takes away local control within the schools as well as funding for media services. School districts will not be able to afford the level of services that they have received within the AEA system if this bill passes. This bill will negatively impact educators, students, and families.

01-30-2024

Henry Gerhardt []

Please vote no on this bill. The governor has tried to rush this through with lies for no benefit but her own. How would this benefit Iowas school system? It wouldn't. She has cut funds to the AEA for several years. Despite that fact they CONTINUE to provide outstanding services to all iowa schools. They level they playing field for rural schools. They offer countless educational development opportunities as well as assist schools in integrating new technologies. I have heard nothing but great things about the work/workers of our AEAs. We need to support them!

01-30-2024

Sean Boyle []

I would urge all legislators to vote NO to this piece of legislation. Iowa's AEA system is a triumph of bipartisan planning and design and has been held up as one of the premier Education Service Agencies in the nation. Special Education workers flock to our state to learn, contribute, and enhance all of the education services and support systems to every public, private, and home schooled student in Iowa. The flexibility of the current Iowa Code concerning the AEAs allows our state to adapt to new situations quicker than if having to wait for oversight to act. The Crisis Response program offered by Heartland AEA, that is STILL being used by the Perry School District almost a month later, is an amazing example of the AEAs providing a service that is not Special Education Based and the AEAs are the perfect medium for this service thanks to their already distributed architecture. Overhauling the entire system because of one very biased report created by an out of state entity and a minority of supporters is irresponsible and undemocratic. Additionally, putting all the decision making power into one state run agency, which already struggles to complete it's own work and often offloads its projects on the AEAs, will only further to waste state resources and will continue the slide of Iowa's education standing. At a minimum, the committee should read the words of the former Deputy Director of the Department of Education, David Tilly, and take the time to find the answers his questions before moving forward.

01-30-2024

B Metcalf []

As a special education teacher in the state of Iowa, depend on a variety of AEA supports including professional development and media services. My students receive a wide variety of supports including speech/language, occupational and physical therapy. Multiple time during the week I use supports provided by my Work Experience Coordinator and Special Education Consultant. Due to this support a large number of my students are able to learn skills for the future and I depend on the support of these individuals to allow me to provide the instruction that they need. It does not make any sensethat we would destroy a system without any input from those that use them every day and no plan in place to replace. There is no doubt that students will suffer by this predetermined action at the state level and then it will be too late. If it is this important then why not take the time to keep what is working and fix what is not. In the end it is the teachers and families that will have to fix the problems when students lose out, not those supporting his total overhaul.

01-30-2024

Emma Eaton []

Thank you for your service to Iowa. My name is Emma Eaton. I am a parent of a first grader at Dallas Center Grimes Community School District and I've got two more kids who will be entering the school system in coming years. I am also in my 12th year of teaching currently a teacher of the visually impaired, and previously was a special education teacher. I'm emailing today about concerns with HSB 542 and the impact it could have on my children's education.Based on information provided about the services that our district uses, DCG used $464,000 for media and educational services in the first quarter of the 20232024 school year. For the 20222023 school year, DCG professionals benefitted from $619,000 worth of in person or online training/PD. Additionally, DCG used approximately $166,000 worth of library and media services for the 20222023 school year. At this time, the only money discussed to be returned to district control has been special education funds. Therefore, if the proposed changes are passed and parts of AEA are cut or services are moved to a fee for service model, the money for these services will come from DCGs current general education budget. Our district cant replace all of the services they receive from the AEA with their current budget. If bigger districts like DCG can't afford to replicate service to their students, how in the world are our small districts going to survive?At this point, my children have not needed special education services, but I know they are benefiting from the services their teachers are getting. These proposed changes dont give the power back to schools, it gives the power the Department of Education. Those in the highest positions at the DE dont have educational backgrounds, therefore they dont know or understand the depth of our students and of the services each and everyone of them require. Please dont take these supports away. Dont fail the students of Iowa!

01-30-2024

Shelby Ripperger []

Please vote against HSB 542! The amendments to this bill are not enough to remedy the concerns voiced by thousands of Iowans. AEAs are vital and these dramatic changes to the structure of AEAs will directly reduce the quality and quantity of supports available to all schools, families, and children in Iowa. This is too important to rush. If nothing else, I implore you to slow this bill down. Allow for true public input, for time to gather valid data, and for Iowans to be able to participate in a fair democratic process.

01-30-2024

Valerie Van Zee []

Please vote against this bill. As a school social worker for an AEA and as a parent of 4 children in the school system, one of whom has received direct services and the others who have benefitted from the systems support the AEA provides, I am asking you to really consider what benefit this bill brings. Let's do a comprehensive review with all the right people around the table so we can improve our students' success. I cannot see how this will improve their outcomes and am certain it will decrease their outcomes. I live in rural Iowa and the services the AEA provides cannot just be replicated easily or cost effectively. Our kids deserve our very best. Let's provide them with it!

01-30-2024

Erin Harris []

As the parent of a child who receives special education services, I implore you to please vote no on this bill. Contrary to Governor Reynolds claims, this legislation will not improve my childs education and, in fact, will harm it, along with every other childs in the state. Please do not allow special ed kids to be used as tokens in this plan to dismantle Iowas public education system. If you truly care about improving our childrens education, there are many, many other ways to do that, and many incredible parent advocates who would gladly share their knowledge with you.

01-30-2024

Dana Crane []

Please dont cut funding that keeps AEA services available to our schools and children. Being in the rural area my son and I live in this is a vital resource for our children and they have done so much for us over the years. They have great staff that has been very helpful with maintaining my sons IEP for the last 10 years and our children need them.

01-30-2024

Daniel Schreiber []

Ask your friends, ask your neighbors, ask your family members: How have you seen our AEA benefit Iowa children? Do it. And then do it again. The stories you hear will be personal. Sad. Uplifting. Even remarkable. And they're often hidden these aren't the stories we voluntarily tell, but they're the stories that shape us as community, a state, and a future.I beg you to take a moment to listen to these stories and to understand the impact this bill could have on the kids who's stories have yet to be written.Please vote no to this bill.Sincerely, Danny father of five, Storm Lake, IA

01-30-2024

Samantha Applegate []

I am the parent of a deaf child in the Dallas Center Grimes community school district. The cut to the AEA will undoubtedly have negative effects to our children, teachers, community and more. These services go beyond the classroom. They are a support system within our families. Our child was diagnosed with Bacterial meningitis at 8 months old and we were thrown into a medical world we never saw coming. AEA were our first contacts to help lead the way and set our son up for success long before the classroom. We have always been comforted knowing we will have them along the way. We are truly scared to not have these resources in the future. Please think about our children, and how their lives are being affected by these decisions.

01-30-2024

Brenda Walker []

I do not support the changes proposed for the AEA. Activation of this plan shows significant lack of understanding what the AEAs provide for our districts and the ability of school systems to establish and maintain their own specialized special education programs. In addition, moving forward with this change shows a significant lack in understanding of what the voters want. Iowas children need the support of our elected officials and this bill lacks evidence of that intent.

01-30-2024

Melissa Bray []

Please vote no to dismantling our AEAs. They are vital in providing services, trainings, supports, materials, mentoring and so much more in public schools. As an early childhood special education teacher I work with many AEA staff daily in the classroom I get to check out items to trial with students related to physical, adaptive, or communication needs. I learn from experts and collaborate to meet a variety of students needs. I cannot imagine a world without those supports. All students benefit from the AEA. Public schools need the AEAs.

01-30-2024

Kari Rea []

I write to you as parent, special education teacher, special education consultant, taxpayer, voter, and Iowan. Please vote no on HSB 542. I taught special education for fifteen years and relied on the expertise of my AEA SLP, school social worker, school psychologist, special education consultant, OT, and PT. Eleven years ago I joined Northwest AEA as a special education consultant. The needs in our schools have increased every year. In response, our agency has grown to include Best Practice Coaches in behavior, specially designed instruction, and academics. In addition to Child Find responsibilities, I participate in problem solving with building administration and leadership teams on a weekly basis to develop plans to meet the needs of every student, no matter where they come from or their skill level. We develop plans and then monitor progress. When progress doesn't occur or doesn't occur fast enough, we look at the plan and make changes. We work closely with families to meet their needs and answer their questions, sometimes meeting monthly to ensure effective communication. If you are worried about the progress of students in special education, I invite you to visit a public school setting to observe the challenges teachers face AND the success stories happening in every building in our state. Before supporting this bill, please work with and listen to those who are in the schools and classrooms, and the parents of the children facing challenges on a day to day basis. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Taresa Fetzer []

I am writing in strong opposition to this bill. Dismantling the AEA's will have life long impacts on every student in Iowa. Please, slow down and take the time to make the best plan for our state, our schools and our students. Once done this can not be undone. Why rush such a major decision. If we want what is truly best for students, we need to use multiple sources of data. The Department of Ed should be familiar with the RIOT process, since it's found on their i3 Iowa IDEA Website. RIOT is a process that requires educators to Review, Interview, Observe and Test. The i3 website states, "No single procedure may be used for determining a child's developmental functioning and eligibility thus the RIOT process ensures multiple sources of information are used to make decisions." Maybe it would be a good idea for Governor Reynolds, Director Snow and all legislators to use the RIOT process to evaluate and assess the AEAs. Have they REVIEWED relevant information gathered from multiple sources? Have they INTERVIEWED and truly listened to parents, students, teachers, grandparents, AEA staff? Have they completed any OBSERVATIONS? Please, go out to the schools. Spend a day with teachers, AEA staff, administrators, students. Gather good observational data. Finally, TEST. The i3 website states when describing TEST, "convergence of data gathered through a variety of means." Has Governor Reynolds and Director Snow used a convergence of data or used a small data set that was shifted to meet their needs? Have they used a variety of means to collect testing data? Please, hold yourselves to the same standards teachers, educators and AEA staff are held to when making life altering decisions on a daily basis. Please use multiple sources of data to make life altering decisions

01-30-2024

Mary E. Airy [Retired ]

Please vote no for this legislation that will disrupt an education system supported by AEAs. Dont rely on an out.ofstate Guidehouse report and legislation that clearly shows the reviewers did not understand special education services, technology and media services, education services, professional development (continuing ed) that school district teachers, paraeducators, administrators, and other community members that need to renew their licenses from the BOEE. Students are taught in general education classrooms and are provided additional learning support from special education staff.

01-30-2024

Laylon Baucom []

The AEAs have always made sure to hire licensed professionals to serve their roles, and the amount of unlicensed "interpreters" we see in other states, so the importance of having the AEA systems.We, as Iowans, can not rely on public schools to have the information available to make decisions around hiring in roles that require various licensure.The needs of learners are so varied, that we need this 3rd party to ensure proper and ethical supports be provided.Many kids are neglected or flatout abused at home, and the supports from the AEA are often the only hope anyone gives them towards their future.The AEAs also provide Occupational Therapy for learners of various abilities, even those that need no other supports, solely due to the age of iPads causing children's hands and spines to develop in ways that have not effected previous generations.If we lose AEAs, all learners lose. Everyone loses.

01-30-2024

Emma Dworzynski []

The AEA is crucial for Iowa schools, helping children, parents, teachers and school staff. The AEA is a wonderful resource and is dedicated to helping children. The schools need the AEA without them teachers would lose the resources and support they provide. Students would loose the help they give that teacher and the school cannot. Taking the AEA away from schools is not going to benefit them, it is going to hurt them. Many students need help that the school and teachers are not able to provide. Taking away the AEA is only hurting the school, teachers and most importantly the students. The AEA is a real resource to kids and is truly dedicated to making a difference.

01-30-2024

Leah Ripperger []

Please oppose this bill. I have personally experienced the benefits of the AEA. My son was born with significant torticollis. He was also born during the peak of COVID19 when inperson physical therapy was not an option. After reaching out to the AEA, we were able to set up virtual services with a physical therapist. She demonstrated exercises, sent us resources, and met with us virtually until his condition corrected. Without the support of the AEA, my sons condition would have gone untreated and could have caused longterm health issues and developmental delays (such as delayed milestones, difficulty eating, vision problems, or balance problems). The flexibility of the AEA and its vast scope of services are unmatched and cannot be replicated by individual school districts.

01-30-2024

Tammy Schaapherder []

As a parent, teacher, and constituent I implore you to vote no. This bill dismantles a system which serves our most vulnerable students. The bill is based on a very small amount of data which has been misconstrued. A bill of this nature requires a thorough, in depth and transparent study. Judging by the number of public comments both here and in the legislative briefings, it is obvious that the people of Iowa are concerned and rightly so. Slow this process down! The amended version does NOT address the concerns brought up by voters. The fact that this bill gives overall power to the Dept. of Ed in Des Moines over local school boards and dissolves AEA boards is the opposite of local control. Rural schools will no longer be able to receive equitable services. Who will replace the specialized services that AEA's provide? Where is the plan of how to make this better? How did the AEA's get accredited last year and have high approval ratings by the Dept. of Education and yet are now deemed a failure? Please look further into the faulty claims and do what is best for kids.

01-30-2024

Brenda Jenkins []

I moved back to Iowa because of our strong educational system. I stayed working in Iowa because of our strong educational system. I want to remain working in Iowa because of our strong educational system. Let's allow Iowa's students to receive an education they, like me, can be proud of. To do that, I beg you to vote "NO" on this proposed legislation. Let's come together and have conversations with those that are experts in the field and recipients of the services, then do what is best for our students. Iowa can be better. This bill will NOT make it better.

01-30-2024

Cassie Vazquez []

Please support Iowas students by voting NO on this bill. The AEA is the most cost effective and efficient way to provide services to our students, especially in rural Iowa.This bill is bad for kids and bad for Iowa. It is not fiscally responsible.

01-30-2024

Kathy Soetmelk []

I urge you to vote against HSB 542. The decision making authority needs to remain with the people closest to the school and the children and not given to a distant Education Director. The rural schools depend on the ability to get resources from AEA's that they could not otherwise afford. Iowa is known for its quality education. Let us keep it that way by offering more and not less. Please vote no on this bill for the sake of Iowa and our children and educators.

01-30-2024

Carol Warmbier [Retired AEA Sch Social Wkr]

As a retired AEA Scool social worker, having worked in both urban and many rural schools districts since 1986, I have experienced the changes over time that the AEA has made to services in response to the needs of local schools. This ability to listen and assist districts comes from relationships developed. Many AEAs decentralized and offices were set up in local schools. These relationships partnerships with parents, teachers, and administration made a big difference for many students. The efficiency of services makes a difference. As we all know, people don't care what you know until they know that you care. Relationships matter. The proposed bill will, without a doubt, centralize administration, destroy helpful relationships, and create more bureaucracy to interrupt services for students. I can't even imagine the fallout. Please vote no on HSB 542

01-30-2024

Carol Warmbier [Retired AEA Sch Social Wkr]

01-30-2024

Carol Warmbier [Retired AEA Sch Social Wkr]

01-30-2024

Melissa Blohm []

Please do whats right for Iowas kids and slow this down. Let all the right voices come to the table to help Iowas school systems the best they can be! Our rural schools will suffer and how is that fair to the future generation?

01-30-2024

Jane Phillips [Current Iowa Public School Teacher ]

33 yr teacher: Current HS SpEd, former school counselor, and middle schoolLiteracy. Governor Reynolds outside special interest groups are the tail wagging the dog. Can public and private schools improve/become more efficient? I sure hope so. Can our AEA system become more efficient? Possibly. However, Reynolds uberexpensive report is 3/4 fiction; its a made up narrative whose objective is to provide talking points the media will repeat ad nauseum and Iowans will fall for. Please vote No and insist that all stakeholders be allowed a seat at the table to recognize and celebrate all that IS working in Iowas educational system, identify and acknowledge its weaknesses, and jointly roll up their sleeves to improve what once was the epitome of public education in the U.S.

01-30-2024

Brooke Davis []

If its between childrens education or lower property taxes, raise my taxes. This bill seems like a blindside attack on the AEA, and a big waste of time and resources at the state capital. Can we quite fixing things that arent broke?

01-30-2024

Kerry Noethe []

Members of my family have benefited from AEA services in the past and are currently relying on AEA services now. These services are needed. Please do not deprive our Iowa citizens of this critical service. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Samantha Wilson []

AEA is vital for our children. People don't understand just how much they do. Especially for trauma. With all these school shootings, and other horror stories, these kids need the chance to have reliable sources. I know from experience, that trauma in any form, needs therapy. These kids need AEA. The parents need AEA. Do not take an amazing thing away from our children and parents. Why are people who know NOTHING about AEA and Schooling in charge of making these decisions.

01-30-2024

Melinda Stonebraker []

Im a parent in a rural district that depends on services provided by the AEA. Im especially concerned about loosing AEAs special ed services, mental health services, and early access screenings. Please vote no on this bill and continue to fund AEAs fully. Public education needs more money not less.

01-30-2024

Spenser Erickson []

Vote no! Dont let this turn out like last years school choice bill and get rushed through so fast. We all saw recently how far over budget that went in a years time. I find it hard to believe that this would turn out any different. Put the childrens needs first and stop all this nonsense. Iowans support our AEAs lets not take them away.

01-30-2024

Spenser Erickson []

01-30-2024

Brianne Hanson []

As a public school educator in the state of Iowa for the last 16 years, I can not emphasize this enough: DO NOT RESTRUCTURE THE AEA. It is simply not the answer to "doing better for our special education students." If you would like ideas from a public school educator who works with special education students and teachers about how to do better for our special education students, I would be happy to share some ideas with you. Restructuring the AEA is a desperate plea to gain more funding at the cost of services and resources for ALL students and teachers, including special education students.Governor Reynolds claims she listened to the public and made changes to the proposed bill, but she did not listen; she has still taken away needed services and money from the schools after being told how necessary these services and the funding for them are to families, students and teachers. Please consult with teachers, coaches, administrators in public education and AEA staff to give you first hand ideas for improving special education in Iowa.It is irrational to blame the AEAs for this proficiency gap. There are many contributing factors to any student groups success or failure. Things like socioeconomic status, parental involvement, stable home life, lack of professional development for special education teachers, not providing a menu of curricular resources foo for special education teachers to utilize, a lack of funding to staff more special education teachers so students with IEPs can receive individualized instruction in a small group, a lack of funding for para support and lack of para training to support students with IEPs are ALL contributing factors to the proficiency gap. The AEAs do not provide instruction to students and cannot be blamed for this.Governor Reynolds continues to share misleading posts that could convince some Iowans who are unfamiliar with the education system that the AEA is responsible for the proficiency gap.She has continued to cut funding from the AEAs year after year and is now trying to get rid of them with misleading, inaccurate social media posts (reference her facebook posts). We need to be providing more FUNDING the AEAs to support ALL students. There are 35 EL students on average in each classroom in my elementary school. Many of these students do not speak English and there are few resources at the building and district level to bridge this language barrier. Did you know that the AEA has multiple copies of Rosetta Stone available for students to use to develop the English language (other languages as well).The AEA has STEM kits, novel sets, an entire library filled with books that are not available in my school library. EVERY student (and teacher) needs and deserves for AEAs to remain in tact as is, with more funding. Many teachers in my building reach out to the AEA to utilize their services and resources in some capacity. My mom also works at the AEA and is often sharing stories of teachers gratitude for the resources provided by the AEA.I have attended several AEA professional development sessions that pushed my own thinking and the thinking of my colleagues forward. Students from PreK5th grade in my elementary building receive speech services from the AEA. It is irresponsible to suggest that the AEA could be restructured, or that media services should be removed from property tax yet claim that AEAs can continue to offer media services. I would invite you to go into many schools in your state so you can see first hand how vital AEAs are to the success of all students. Please consider doing this before voting on this bill. IOWA NEEDS AEAs!

01-30-2024

Erin Billings [Private citizen]

I am in STRONG SUPPORT of this bill! I know there are tons of special educators that are commenting, but they are all doing so, likely because they are not understanding what this bill actually accomplishes. Making these changes to the AEA's are reasonable. I understand this bill is not going to keep districts from using the AEA's and their is no reason the AEA's need to be relied upon for media services. Most of the changes being made are common sense and attempt to eliminate duplication of services or allow the LOCAL districts to determine their own priorities. Please do not let a few fearmongering educators try and persuade you that this is a bad idea. I am appalled at the LACK of services the students in our district get from our AEA. As a Speech Pathologist and a parent of students in our small public school, I have said many many times to teachers in our district that, so and so should be getting speech therapy, and they aren't. I don't think many of the commentors understand how the AEA's get their funding, and how much each district has to fork out to the AEA's. Schools must be under LOCAL control and when AEA's are not in the local community, the local community gets left behind. The LOCAL administrators and teachers are much better equipped to identify and serve the children with special needs at their schools in the ways THEY feel are best. For the same reason that large, over populated districts are a BAD idea, so is the idea of having an AEA making decisions for a district they really don't have a vested interest in serving. I want my LOCAL school board, and administrators who are directly accountable to me to be making these decisions. Administrators and LOCAL school boards are the best people to be able to direct the funds from the state in the best way possible. Please pass this bill on to the next step ! THank you!

01-30-2024

Suzie Maas []

I am opposed to this bill, even in the amended form. AEAs are a vital service to all Iowa schools and students. They provide equitable service across the state and they provide it in a timely matter. Please vote no and save our AEAs.

01-30-2024

Wendy Aanonson []

In the field of education, we are expected to use data to drive our decisions. For example, we use data to write goals, to evaluate students, to monitor progress, and to choose intervention approaches that are evidence based. The governor should follow these same expectations in determining what is best for our students. So far I have not seen the data to indicate that families and educators have been disappointed in the AEA services they receive and have access to. Other states actually look to Iowas model with envy and wish their services were as efficient and effective as ours. Why do we want to change to a model that will end up with worse services and cost more?

01-30-2024

Teresa Bushman [Keystone AEA employee, taxpayer, voter and grandmother]

I am in opposition to HSB 542 because over my 21 years at Keystone AEA I have been witness to the value teachers, school administrators, parents, and students put on our staff and the work they do. I have watched the crossdivisional collaboration grow and evolve as the needs in schools evolved. I have watched as the AEA teams carried out the tasks assigned by the Iowa Department of Education. I have seen our valuable professionals rise to every challenge put in front of them. Since this bill has been introduced I have had many conversations with teachers and parents and it seems like each conversation brings up a new question about how they will handle this or that if the bill passes? what are the schools supposed to do about this service if the bill passes? what will the AEA staff do if their job is eliminated? how are people supposed to plan for the future? the list goes on and on. I speak with everyone who will listen and ask if they are aware of the bill, if they are not I ask them to reach out to a teacher or school administrator they trust and ask their opinion to ensure they get unbiased information. Not one person I have talked to has supported this bill or the dismantling of the AEAs. Although, all questions will probably never be answered, there are so many unanswered questions. Decisions as impactful as this bill deserve a full study with all stakeholders input as well as accurate presentation of information. At that time, an intelligent datadriven decision can be made. I grew up in Iowa and moved my children back here knowing Iowa was a great place to raise a child. If this was the direction Iowa was going 24 years ago, I definitely would not have returned. Now my husband and I have a child teaching and grandchildren attending public school in Iowa. Moving control of the AEAs to the Iowa Department of Education will take away local control and make getting supports for our most precious resource (our children) a bottleneck of bureaucracy at the DE. It is hard enough to keep teachers in the profession and adding this roadblock will exasperate the problem. I want to thank all house members for serving in your elected capacity. I know it is not an easy task. Please know that an overwhelming number of voters in Iowa who are educated on what this bill is are not in favor of this change. Please don't feel pressured to move forward something that was not written by Iowans or at the will of the majority of Iowans. Thank you for your consideration.

01-30-2024

Amanda Elliott []

Please vote NO to HSB 542 and protect our AEAs. As a speechlanguage pathologist, I rely on student data and research to guide treatment decisions for students every day. I ask for the same thoughtful process to be used before considering any changes to the current AEA system. As a mother in a rural community, AEAs provide equitable opportunities to my children and their educators that would not be possible without the AEA. The proposed changes will decrease efficiency of supports already in place and hurt rural students the most. Please support all of Iowa's children and their families by saying NO to this bill.

01-30-2024

Alicia Emanuel []

Please vote no on House Study Bill 542. The authors of this proposal to cut AEA services are clearly out of touch with the Iowa educational system. Iowans support special education, mental health services and value the AEAs support of our public schools. This is not a partisan issueyou are either for our kids or against them. I hope Iowa voters will take note of which side you choose.

01-30-2024

Kristine Stineman []

The AEAs are so Important to all kids, students, teachers and families in the state of Iowa. I wouldnt be the teacher I am today without all their help. I currently use Seesaw in my classroom and have been using it for many years. Seesaw is so amazing because Im able to communicate with families, my students show what theyve learned in school each day. I went to a couple trainings at the AEA on how to use this in my classroom. Im so grateful for all they do to make every student feel successful. Teaching isnt easy, but the AEA make it so much better because they will do anything to help you out. Please keep all areas of the AEA, they are so important to all.

01-30-2024

Delaynee Billings [Private citizen]

I strongly support this bill! Please let the educators in my local school district direct funds and help to special education students instead of some random person from the AEA who probably doesn't even know my town. I don't want my taxpayer money going to fund an Agency at the state level instead of MY schools!

01-30-2024

Amanda Davison [Educator ]

Since arriving at Dallas Center Grimes, the AEA has not only been a major partner in supporting my students but also in professional development. When teachers are discussing strategies for supporting behavior or academic needs. Behavioral and academic specialists, like Kim Alex or Penny Hudson have been there with a listening ear and ready to try out new tools. Their tool box is always full. Some might not know this, but the AEA offers teachers affordable classes for professional growth that help us meet the licensure renewal credit requirements. They also provide our mandatory health training, content specific training and many student resources. They really do all they can to support the many schools they serve per county. Now let's get down to the most important job this agency has, our children,our students. In my 8 years with DCG, I have seen the amazing growth the AEA has been involved in. Ive now had the privilege of teaching three different grade levels during my time. Their dedication to our students does not change no matter the grade. One of the dearest students to my heart has had a major team supporting him from kinder 5th and beyond. Every time weve( special educators,admin, SLPs OTs, PTs, gen ed teachers, and parents) gathered to talk about support and what his day might look like, our conversations are child focused. Filled with positivity, solutions and some great stories. Our AEA has taken care of Iowas children, educators and families since 1974. Let's not let 2024 be the year it ends. I urge the committee to listen and learn from concerned public education defenders and to end HB 542 ! Thank you for your time and dedicated service.

01-30-2024

Jolynn Hefel []

I live in the Dubuque Community school district and the area education agencies are an essential part of public education in my local school district.Please do not change our AEAs! The AEAs support the already short staffed schools in helping children with individual needs to help them advance their abilities to full potential. School staff need the AEA to help support the great they are doing. Money has already been pulled from public schools, please do NOT take away critical help that students need. Educate kids, they are our future!

01-30-2024

Jane Murphy []

As a registered Republican, parent, and 18 year employee of Central Rivers AEA, I oppose HSB542. If the bill passes, teachers, support personnel, and even administrators will be scrambling to fill in the gaps in services that would be created. Rural districts would be especially impacted. For the past 18 years, its been a privilege to serve Iowas children and families. Most recently, Ive worked in Early Access, helping build the capacity of parents and families to improve outcomes for our youngest learners those who are from birth to 3 years old, by working directly with them in their homes. I am asking for your help to protect the supportive framework AEAs have built for Iowa children, families, and educators. The components and services provided by AEAs are all needed to work together seamlessly. Its ok for members of the Republican party to disagree with our governor on this issue. Please help by voting no on this bill.

01-30-2024

Patricia Fehlberg [Retired GWAEA ]

Hello! My name is Pat Fehlberg. I am a retired GWAEA Occupational Therapist living in NW Cedar Rapids. My family first encountered GWAEA shortly after moving to Iowa from Illinois in 1993. Two of our three children had developmental delays which threatened to impact their education. We were quickly connected to early intervention specialists who worked our family, sharing strategies and exercises we could do at home to help bridge the gap. Experiences with both daughters were quite successful and later, the girls enjoyed participation in PACT, as well as College for Kids. Ultimately, they graduated as members of the Nationsl Honor Society and attended Iowa Stste University. Both daughters now live ,work , pay taxes and vote in Iowa. The AEA system is a shining example of what works in Iowa. As a 21 year employee at GWAEA, I worked very hard with teams of colleagues, teachers, parents , administrators and students to improve access to learning. Using AEA media and technology services, staff distribution center, and teacher work center, I was able to trial assistive devices with students in rural and urban districts assuring a good fit and reducing unnecessary costs . I am so proud of our Iowa AEA system, and thankful that our state has demonstrated such a deep appreciation and investment for our future citizens. I urge you to continue your support of the full AEA system. We do not provide special education instruction rather we support access to learning. The changes proposed to the AEA system do not make sense, and as a result, appear to be politically motivated. I think this would be a horrible reflection on our state! Please continue your good work on behalf of the people of Iowa , and do what is best for our people and our State. Thank you very much for your consideration in this matter.

01-30-2024

Michele Rogers []

Democracy is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. You have heard from your people and your people have said NO to this bill. Now, you get to choose. Are you going to kill this bill or are you going to tell us by supporting this bill you have no interest in being reelected in the districts you swore to represent and you choose to be bullied in to passing this bill instead? Absolutely your choice. You have been told NO in so many ways, by so many people, and with so many reasons imploring you NOT to support this bill. How about this? Vote NO and then actually go back in to your districts, roll up your sleeves, put your boots on the ground and shadow a staff member of your home AEA for a day? I have one more question for you to consider. When has it ever been a good idea that one entity has complete control over anything? Since I dont have faith in any of you to do the right thing for the better good, let me be absolutely clear. Why would you give absolute control over the Iowa education system to the Department of Education and more specifically, its Director?

01-30-2024

Emily LeFebvre []

I urge you to vote against the dismantlement of services the Iowa AEAs provide as the removal of services would be detrimental to the education system in Iowa, especially to rural school districts. Iowa AEAs provide a multitude of services , including crisis counseling when a tragedy like the death of a student or school staff member takes place. It provides independent professional development and teaching license renewal credit opportunities to help teachers continue to stay highly qualified and in classrooms for free or at an affordable rate; which teachers often pay from their own pocket. AEAs mentor new teachers by providing guidance in best practice teaching and support to lessen the stress a first year teacher carries. Iowa AEAs help plan and help with follow through for school improvement plans to provide students safe and rigorous learning environments and so much more. All of Iowas AEA services are so essential to be betterment of our students education experience, and the removal of these services would then fall on the already underfunded and overworked schools and teachers or the permanent removal altogether.

01-30-2024

Maggie Slaymaker []

Please vote no to this bill! Our AEAs provide essential services to students and support to families and teachers. The partnership of the AEAs and local school districts provides equity of services and supports for all students. The impact of reducing supports provided to districts, families, and ultimately our children will be detrimental.

01-30-2024

Anna Westermeyer Marlin [Great Prarie AEA]

Please, please reevaluate HSB 542. This bill will harm childrens education, not help. It will leave many professional Iowans without jobs. It will stress rural school systems much more than they already are. It will also paradoxically remove much of the choice for schools that the bills initial premise seems to promote. At the very least this bill is reckless, at most its a dangerous declaration of how Iowa politics values its childrens education. Please do better.

01-30-2024

Maria Price [Parent, Educator]

If lawmakers truly want to improve education in Iowa, and support children who receive special education services and their families, they must oppose this bill. Even in its amended form, this legislation would destroy a system that has served generations of Iowa children, families, and school districts with what is widely regarded as a highquality educational structure of services and support. As a classroom teacher, I depended on AEA professional development, expert services, and support for my students and to improve my own practice as an educator. When I went to work for the AEA, I saw not only the work behind the scenes, but the heart behind that work. AEAs work to build relationships and trust with not only students and teachers, but with their families and district leaders. It is why these stakeholders consistently give AEAs highsatisfaction ratings and are the ones standing up against this bill and for the preservation of AEAs. By dismantling the AEAs, this legislation would do irreparable damage to the educational system of Iowa that will have longreaching effects for generations. This bill will, in fact, do the exact opposite of what it claims to address. It would create inequities and inefficiencies that do not need to happen. Local AEAs build trust and can address the needs unique to their area school districts with efficiency that would be lost in the changes proposed by this bill. The loss of efficiency caused by this legislation would cause children, some the neediest and most vulnerable among us, to fall through the cracks. Please dont let this happen. Please stand against this bill and for the children, families, and schools of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Kaleigh Rogers []

Members of the Committee: These new amendments do nothing to improvethis bill or improve special education. I urge you to do your own research and not listen to the misleading and misinformation coming from the Governors office. Legislators need to listen to their constituents who they represent, who elected them to office. Area Education Agencies provide needed and welcomed support to all teachers in our educational systemespecially our rural school districts. Please don't let the governor continue to degrade and dismantle our Iowa educational system.

01-30-2024

Russ Nay []

Everyone I have talked to with direct experience in the education field and specifically AEAs tells me that this is a bad idea. When my parents moved to this state, Iowa public schools consistently ranked in the top 3 nationwide, as they did when my kids attended school. Now we rank near the middle of the pack, and bills like this one are sure to continue that slide. Rest assured, I will vote AGAINST anyone that votes FOR this bill!

01-30-2024

Deanne Hobbs []

Please continue to support our AEA by voting NO to HSB 542. People do not realize all of the support AEAs give to our public schools unless you are actually there. Come visit and see them in action. Support Iowa teachers and Iowa students by voting NO!

01-30-2024

Vicki DeMoss []

I employ you to oppose HSB 542, if not for the rationale that I have previously shared with you in prior correspondence as a parent, grandparent, and an occupational therapist for the last 14 years serving children from birth to age 21, their families, and teachers in Early Access and in rural and urban schools, but also because both the original and amended versions do not outline the specific provisions that are being proposed to ensure how all the current services and supports being provided on behalf of and to children within the general and special education settings will be provided with the proposed legislation. There is a multitude of data sources and evidence available that I am confident has been provided to you that overwhelmingly disputes the few vague, and misrepresented information that has been spewed as a basis for the proposed legislation. What is indisputable is that shifting all of the oversight, organization, and management of the services that AEAs currently provides to essentially ONE individual, the Director of Education, who answers only to the Governor without appropriate checks and balances, is not ethical, and not representative of a democracy that serves the public interest. There is absolutely no credible evidence that the proposed changes to the wellestablished current AEA/educational structure and services will result in any surmountable improvement to the student performance in the state of Iowa. Please, instead, take the time to study and offer transparency in a comprehensive review of our current system with all stakeholders, i.e. parents, teachers, expert licensed professionals, and administrators to identify where improvements can be made. Thank you,

01-30-2024

Brenda Brammer-Smith [Heartland AEA ]

As a public educator for 28 years, 22 of which I was a teacher in rural southern Iowa, I am bewildered by the proposed bill. The bill does not address or positively impact student achievement in any way. If we want to increase achievement it is not by taking away or decreasing services as that truly is counterintuitive. Instead, schools, teachers, parents, AEAs and legislators should all be working together if the goal of the bill is to increase student achievement. Currently, as part of my job as an AEA Special Education Consultant I conduct evaluations for special education services. By IDEA law the evaluation process for each individual child allows for a 60 day time period. This time is used to collect data on performance, progress and educational needs through an intensive process including the following: review of records; interviews with parents, teachers and the learner; observations of the instruction and the learners environment; as well as various tasks or tests. All of this is to ensure that the evaluation is comprehensive due to the high leverage decision being made. This bill was presented less than one month ago without any input from schools, teachers or parents that have benefited from AEA services. The thought of making a decision of this enormity without doing a full comprehensive review would be negligent to say the least. This bill would negatively impact students, teachers and schools across the state and would debilitate education as we know it, especially in rural Iowa. I ask you to stand up for children and for families of Iowa by continuing to support Iowas AEAs. If nothing else, please slow down. The magnitude of the changes that this bill is proposing warrants a comprehensive review of AEAs, their partnerships with districts and their funding before extinguishing an educational system that has proven to successfully serve Iowans. It is with my utmost respect that I reach out to those that have the ability to stop this bill from moving forward. I truly appreciate your willingness to hear from people like me who are in Iowa schools everyday. We all want to increase student achievement so that all our students graduate future ready to be able to be productive citizens in our great state of Iowa and this bill does not align with that goal. Thank you for serving as the representation of the people of Iowa.

01-30-2024

Joanne Mauck []

I am a mother and a grandmother, representing the schools here in eastern Iowa. The potential of harm due to the proposed change is catastrophic. Just ask any parent teacher or AEA staff and you will find that they are terrified what this change will due to our students and teaching environment. I have been doing volunteer work for four years at PrairieCrest elementary school. I see the benefits that the children in need received daily. How can we believe that this is possibly about kids or districts when the district teachers are those responsible for providing the instruction that impacts the metrics our governor is citing to say that AEAs are failing children? Do not believe for one second that the benefits of district choice will outweigh the negative consequences of this bill. If you vote yes for this bill, even with the rumored amendments, you are without a doubt creating inequitable education, for Iowas children, and allowing a vendetta against the AEA chief administrators to control, educational outcomes for students in Iowa. Please Vote NO. Thank you for your time and consideration of what others are also telling you why you should vote no

01-30-2024

Spenser Erickson []

Please vote no on this bill. Iowa children deserve this best opportunities, lets not take away from that. The AEA is very important. So many families and school districts rely on its services. Lets hit the brakes and come up with a better plan.

01-30-2024

Dana Sanders []

Keep the AEA services as they already are. Any of these adjustments are going to strip away local control and the desperately needed services for all of the children. Enough with playing politics and kissing the butt of the right wing groups. Anybody that is caving to the governor on this should be ashamed of themselves. The people matter more than her.

01-30-2024

Laura Zimmerman []

As the mom a child who was been in the special education system since he was 3, I can say unequivocally that without the AEA, he would not have had the same supports, access to education materials, and IEP goals that truly have helped him to be where he is today. He would be failing without the AEA who helped the school when what he needed more resources not just once but every single year. Please vote no against all parts of this bill. Thank you.

01-30-2024

Deborah Mendoza []

Please oppose HSB542! FOR Iowa students, their families, AND their teachers need AEA services intact. I follow moms of autism and many other special needs blindness, deaf and hard of hearing, the list goes on and on, these parents NEED the guidance of the professionals who see their needs, get to know them and their children!AEA provides an umbrella for many different professionals to team up to fill the deficits of the services available for each individual needs. Please oppose HSB542 and it's ammendments.

01-30-2024

Michael Maas []

I am writing you in concern to Bill number HSB 542. I would like to say that I am not in favor of changing the Area Education Agencies (AEA). The changes that the governor is proposing are too drastic and too quick. I do not understand how the changes that are being made will benefit students. Giving schools a choice to choose will not really be a choice for almost all districts. They will not really have options as most of Iowa is a rural state! The new system that the governor is looking at will end up costing schools and tax payers more money. These private services will cost thousands and thousands of dollars for these districts. Maybe the school doesnt need a certain service every year, but when they do the AEA is there to support in whatever way the school needs. If there is a child who is hard of hearing, they have an audiologist, if there is a child with severe autism there is a team of people who can help with that, if there is a training that needs to be provided to teachers or paras there are AEA members to help with that, if there are resources that are too expensive for the school to buy there is media for that. By changing the AEAs in this capacity it is greatly going to lessen the education of our students, teachers, school administration, para professionals, community members and families. I am asking you to please vote no to HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Dustin Mauck []

I implore you and your fellow Representatives to stand up for Iowa Education and consider the impact this bill will have on countless families, schools, and children. So many have spoken out already about the drastic nature of this bill. It just doesn't feel right.VOTE NO!!!

01-30-2024

Eric Saylor []

I would call this bill a solution in search of a problem, except the solution is far worse than whatever problems the AEAs currently facemost of which can be laid at the feet of the legislature's open disdain for public education. This legislation appears to serve one constituent: Governor Reynolds. It was written by an out of state group at the behest ofwell, we aren't entirely sure. It certainly doesn't seem to be coming from Iowa teachers, school district administrators, school boards, or parents of students, nearly all of whom are united in opposition to it. The speed and pressure with which the governor is attempting to push this through, without heeding the warnings, advice, and knowledge of education experts across the state, strongly suggests that she wants it to be approved before people realize just how destructive her gutting of the AEA system would be to their children and schools. There is no call for and no significant public support for this bill: please do the right thing and vote no.

01-30-2024

Terri Parker []

The opposition to this bill has already produced many amendments. That should be the first sign that it has many concerns that need to be thoughtfully discussed. I encourage our representatives to table voting on this piece of legislature and convene a group of Iowa stakeholders to examine how to best meet the needs of all students in our state. Examine all the data. Hear all the voices. Do not rush important decisions without transparency and concensus.

01-30-2024

Jennifer St. Peter []

Please take time to carefully review all AEA services and listen to the students, families, and districts, who depend on the services, before tearing apart a 50 year old system that has grown in response to the needs of the students, families, and school districts.

01-30-2024

Maureen Drees [IKM-Manning Community School District, retired teacher and current substitute teacher]

Please listen to the people who have first hand knowledge of the value of AEAsthe teachers, the paras, the parents of students, the principals, the AEA staffand maintain the strong AEA structure that we presently have. I am old enough to have needed speech therapy before AEAs existed and thus did not start until I was in first grade. Fortunately, with much hard work on the part of my therapist and me, I was able to master the sounds that were difficult for me. However, if I had gone to a smaller school or hadnt had teachers and parents who advocated for my needs, that wouldnt have happened. As a teacher in a small school in western Iowa, my students received the speech therapy that they needed when they were in preschool or even before because of the AEA speech therapists. If we no longer have the services of the AEAs, speech therapy, especially in rural areas, would be much harder for children to receive in a timely manner.

01-30-2024

Douglas DeWolf []

I believe that that this bill is a bad idea. I believe that all students, especially rural students will suffer if we do not have an independent AEA. If an AEA staff member is paid by the school district they cannot be a true advocate for the students. If a student needs an accommodation and the school doesn't feel like giving it to them there will be no one to fight for them. This bill does not address student achievement and will do nothing to improve it. We were told that Iowa is the only state that has independent AEAs. We have not been told why that is bad. No one is saying we can't improve student achievement, but this bill is not the answer. I implore you not to support it.

01-30-2024

Penny Schlagel []

Please consider the ramifications of HSB 542 and VOTE NO. As a physical therapist working in rural school districts in northwest Iowa, I can assure you there is a need for the structured services provided by Area Education Agencies. I work with children from Birth to 21 years of age, many with significant disabilities that require many different services throughout their lives. The AEAs have these services in place and are ready to step forward and support the students, families and schools. While this bill claims to put the control of these services in the hands of the local districts, it also puts the responsibility of finding and providing those services squarely on their shoulders. In the case of my rural districts, there are few physical therapists available and almost none with pediatric experience. The schools may be required to contract with hospitals from farther away, forcing them to pay for travel time to and from the school resulting in extremely costly services. The same issues will arise with other services such as occupational therapy and speech therapy. It should be noted that all of these services are Federally mandated and are not optional. This is but ONE area of this bill that will put an increased strain on local districts. One final note: I love my job. I truly feel like I make a difference in the lives of people who need me. The thought of leaving them to make do with services that dont exist, hurts my heart. Thank you for considering the outcomes of this bill and voting NO when it comes before you.

01-30-2024

Kelsey Owens []

Legislators, please prove me right in that we are united, strong advocates for the AEA, Schools, Families and Students of Iowa by VOTING NO to HSB 542/SSB 3073. The amendments do not go far enough to protect Iowas students and they do nothing to improve their outcomes. I beg you to stop this attack against AEAs, slow down, learn more about how they work, what the financials look like, what the data actually says, and understand the real life human impact this bill will have (for generations of Iowans). AEAs are not above change, please bring ALL stakeholders to the table so that we can grow together in the right direction. A fellow commenter spoke the hard truth with this comment: vote this bill in, get voted out.

01-30-2024

Emily Marcantonio []

Please vote NO and carefully consider the grave consequences for all parties affected by this billIowa students, educators, and districts are at risk of losing valuable support and resources. The severe lack of understanding of what our AEAs do, paired with the rate at which this bill was presented proves to be a truly reckless decision with harmful implications. Education is a partnership but this bill was created with zero collaboration or input from stakeholders. Please listen to the outcry of your constituents, vote no, and protect our AEAs and those students served.

01-30-2024

Dakoda Flory []

I am a special education teacher and the AEA plays a vital role in my ability to best serve my students. The guidance and support they provide all students is critically important for students, teachers, and parents. Please rethink this bill and how it will negatively impact all students PK12. Thanks!

01-30-2024

Laura Clausen []

Good evening. Please vote no on this bill. This bill will take away local control and move all that control to Des Moines. It will eliminate local jobs. It will hurt all children. I teach. I use media services to help children have a stronger understanding when we study particular topics. My kids use things like PebbleGo or bookflix to read because we want them immersed in text and to have multiple means to access it. I could go on and on. I could tell stories of how I used the audiologists all the time when I was little after ear infections and how my son accessed early access for speech but I will trust that if you are reading all of my above statement you know I am a strong proponent of the AEA and I believe we should not change it in these ways at all!

01-30-2024

Melissa Taylor []

Please! This is a time when our children need the elected officials to support them! So many of the students in Iowa are living in less than fortunate situations and our schools, along with the AEAs provide a great deal of resources! Do not support this bill. It is not what is best for our students, our schools, or our educators!

01-30-2024

Kate Gerber []

This bill is NOT in favor of what is in the best interest of Iowa public schools and the mentality of life long learning. As education is forever changing the AEA keeps us updated, supplies support, and challenges us to learn more as educators. Professional development is being pushed to the side by taking our AEA reps away.

01-30-2024

Julie Honan []

First, and foremost, I am asking you to save the AEA's from this disastrous bill. My 2 children have attended a small, rural district since kindergarten. They have received so many benefits from the AEA without even realizing it. Their teachers used book kits, stem activities, and media which all impacted their learning for the better. My daughter is a part of HOPE squad which was brought to our region by AEA employees. It terrifies to believe that in just mere months that all of these services will be gone for our IA students. If there is a crisis...what is your plan? How are you going to guarantee that there is equal access to highquality educational opportunities and resources to ALL students? Who is going to offer the leadership and guidance to school districts on educational issues/curriculum, etc when science, math, and reading consultants jobs are eliminated? Who is going to manage the workloads of those in speciality positions (SLP, PT, OT)? Speaking of which, the chaos that is being created by Kim Reynold's bill will drive educators away from our state. Don't we want the best? Don't our students deserve the best. There are WAY too many concerns with this bill that need to be discussed by ALL parties (especially by those that have dedicated their lives to education). This voting Iowa constituent wants you to vote NO on any form of this bill.

01-30-2024

Tara Christiansen [Mom]

My name is Tara Christiansen. I respectfully ask you to please, please, protect our AEAs and ALL of the services they have successfully provided to the students, families, teachers, and administrators in Iowa's public school systems. My husband and I have three children who attend Boyer Valley CSD in Dunlap, Iowa. While our children are not served with an IEP, our children have benefited by attending a district which is served by Green Hills AEA. With the help of the fully trained and highly educated staff at Green Hills AEA, Boyer Valley Elementary improved from "Commendable" in 2022 to High Achieving in 2023; Boyer Valley MS/HS improved from "Acceptable" in 2022 to "Commendable" in 2023 on the Iowa School Performance Profile from the Department of Education. Specifically, with the help and guidance of the school improvement team from Green Hills AEA, the district teachers, staff, and administrators analyzed student data (academic & demographic among other data). Based on data analysis, teachers and staff were supported & trained by Green Hills AEA reading and math consultants regarding how to better gather and use appropriate student data. Green Hills AEA reading and math consultants then trained staff with evidence & researchbased targeted supports and evidencebased interventions to implement with general education students, as well as students who are atrisk, and those being served with IEPs. Consequently, all students even studentsServices such as I have described above, which increase the achievement of ALL students, are provided by the AEA in a fiscally responsible way. Rural districts would not have access to or budget to have services such as these if this bill was approved. Privatization of these services would lead to inefficient service delivery to students, families, teachers, staff, and administrators. Privatized services also have the purpose of making money, rather than helping students gain skills to close gaps. Any decision made without thoughtfully addressing how services and support will be provided to all stakeholders is a disservice to our students, will not address service efficiency for our students, teachers, staff, and administrators, nor increase student achievement. Please, protect Iowa's AEAs and all the services they provide!Respectfully, Tara Christiansen

01-30-2024

Beth H []

Please vote no for HB 542. The services AEA provides to all schools in our state give all children equitable services. They provide valuable services to children, families, daycares and schools that can not be provided by passing this bill. Listen to the people of Iowa you are representing and vote no.

01-30-2024

Vicky Hill []

Please vote no to this bill! I am an associate at our district and I am able to receive training that benefits my students. The print center is beneficial to our teachers as well. Lastly, as a grandparent, my grandchildren have benefited from multiple support systems that the AEA provide. From resources, to consultants what they provide is crucial to their success. If you vote yes to this, you have to realize the disservice you are doing to educators, families, but most of all to the children in this state!

01-30-2024

Robin Hopperstad []

Iowa Area Education Agencies help all Iowa Schools have access to specialists, equipment, and resources for our students in Iowa to thrive. Governor Reynolds proposed amendment of HSB542 will take away local control from schools which means unequal access to resources, specialized services and opportunities for students among large and small districts. Vote NO to HSB542.

01-30-2024

Sarah Esser []

I urge you all to vote NO to HSB 542/SSB 3073. The repercussions of removing any of the AEA services is detrimental to educators, schools, and most of all the students. Do a study of the AEAs and services. Then work with them to improve if necessary. I am very concerned that any services are being cut, especially mental health services. Mental health services provided in the school are necessary and children truly benefit from them. As a voter and parent, it is so disheartening to see that so many citizens can voice opposition and the bill may still pass. Please vote NO and do what is best for children.

01-30-2024

Dana Cunard [Waterloo Comm Schools ]

As a special education teacher, passing this bill will harm our students with IEPs. I collaborate daily with multiple AEA reps, speech pathologists and occupational therapists. Children are coming to school with higher needs than ever before and we are harming them by passing this bill. This bill is hurting teachers and children alike.

01-30-2024

Seth Piro [-- Year]

Vote no. To improve education in Iowa state leadership must empower educators and coordinate the vast network of passionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable minds in the state, not divide them. Fee for service and moving local infrastructure away from communities are not a solutions for closing achievement gaps. It is a recipe for higher special education deficits, inequitable and less effective services to teachers, learners, and families. In order to repair the damage done by these attempts to ram this devastating bill through our heartland with misinformation and misguided public attacks, state leadership will need to reinvest in and ensure stability for our education system. The efforts taken since 2018 to errode education in the state have been working. The cards have been shown and legislators must now stand together to prevent the commercialization and privatization of our educational system. Education is public infrastructure, invest in and maintain it!

01-30-2024

Julie Stephens []

Please slow your review process.Gather feedback from AEA stakeholders. AEAs provide vital services to Iowans. Shoving the bill through without thought will have lasting negative repercussion to the educational system. This will impact current and future students. Ive served on school district advisory committees. AEAs support districts and communities in Iowa. This bill is not in the best interest of Iowans. My rural community needs AEA support.

01-30-2024

Amanda Seeley []

Please listen to the great people of Iowa & oppose this bill. HSB 542 does not address ways to improve student achievement, proposes a huge reduction of local control, & diminishes the opportunity for ALL of Iowas students to access equitable educational services and supports. I urge you to pause & engage in collaborative problem solving with Iowan stakeholders & work together to make a positive impact on ALL students.

01-30-2024

Kevin Cole []

I grew up in a small rural community and understand the challenges in providing quality education with limited resources. I required speech services and it was challenging situation. The services I received greatly benefited me. HSB 542 would have a large negative effect on our schools by removing local control and decreasing educational services/technology support.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Appel []

As a professional who has worked in education for 15 years and a mother of two young Iowa students, I strongly and wholeheartedly oppose this bill. This bill is based on misleading information and takes decisionmaking power away from local schools and places it in the hands of the Department of Ed. The efficiency of the AEAs ensures that every district (even small districts), every school, and every single student has the exact same opportunities and resources. Every district. Every school. Every student. Please listen to your constituents and allow us to have a voice.

01-30-2024

Rebecca Carver []

Do not vote for this bill as currently written. Our AEAs provide essential and necessary services and support to each and every child and educator in our state. This bill will only serve to dilute those services or place them behind levels of red tape. Our rural districts will be the most affected. This bill is not what is best for Iowa education. It is not what is best for Iowa students.

01-30-2024

Marie Lane []

Please do not support this bill. AEAs are essential to support students, parents and teachers. They encounter numerous difficult cases and work diligently to support the best possible outcomes for the life of the child while supporting the teachers and creating a better learning environment for other students. My oldest son is now 22. He was nonverbal until 41/2 and was a challenging case. He is high functioning and works full time, supports himself and is about to buy a house. While he is fortunate enough to be able to do this, he did this through the countless hours of support provided by speech pathologists, education specialists, psychologists, occupational therapists and many more. The AEA taught me to be a better parent. When he was nonverbal, they taught me how to use sign language and the PECS system. When he struggled with behavior, they helped to figure out why and what solutions we should put into place. They never gave up on him, no matter how challenging things were. They never gave up on helping me to be a better parent either. He graduated high school with a 3+ gpa and has now been at his full time job for almost two years. He is a taxpaying contributing member of society. While he still needs help from us with learning how to adult, he is an amazing success story of all of those who have held him up throughout the years. My gratitude for the work of all of these professionals over the years is overwhelming. I do not want to see any child miss out on the gift we have received. Our state needs children to be supported by professionals who serve all counties throughout the state regardless of the schools funding or resources. The AEA staff are wellnetworked, provide support for each other, training and have experience with unique and challenging cases through their experience at many schools. In closing, I would like to share a short story of one of my sons initial successes. There I was seated on an uncomfortable brown chair, sweating as I tried to contain my busy oneyearold on my lap. I wish I would have taken my coat off. My husband already had the camera out. He was obviously shooting pictures of our son. Where was he? I would ask, but that huge lump was already forming in my throat, preventing me from asking. Dodging my husbands arm and a few heads in front of me, I anxiously scanned the group of five and six yearolds decorated with brown construction paper antlers made from their own handprints and red dot snickered noses. What if I wont be able to see him? Worry swept over me just before I saw him standing on the end in the front row. The chorus began and he was singing! He was really singing! He even did the movements. I was so proud of him. It was absolutely unbelievable seeing him up there. There was no way to prevent the tears from flowing. Time had stopped.It was only a year ago that we were concentrating on two to three word sentences and only a little before he had finally called me Mommy. Today he was singing! Maybe some people thought of tonight as an obligation or a simple tradition. For me, tonight was extraordinary. It was a night I wasnt sure would ever be possible for my son.Thank you for taking the time to read my comments.

01-30-2024

Rebecca Lachenmaier []

I am adamantly opposed to this bill in any form. It will strip services in already strapped rural districts. It will hurt ALL of our students.The fact that Democrats and Republicans are united in opposition should be an obvious sign that Iowans do not want these changes. Please listen to your constituents and stop this bill now.

01-30-2024

Elizabeth Kosmicki []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. I am writing to you as a citizen of Iowa. I am particularly concerned about the June 1st deadline for school districts to state how they would like to have their special education services provided whether it be through the AEA, in house, or through a private provider. What is the timeline for then implementing this change? As a speechlanguage pathologists with Grant Wood AEA, I provide legally mandated services over the summer, even when school is not in session this includes working directly with students (Extended School Year services) and conducting evaluations. Grant Wood AEA contracts end June 30th, and employees typically know months ahead if the contract is being extended. If a school district decides June 1st that they want in house or private services, what will happen to students receiving summer services if they cannot hire a speechlanguage pathologist by July 1st? I am very concerned students and families will experience gaps in critical services if the bill passes as currently written. Please take more time to gather information.

01-30-2024

Jill Faucher []

Please do NOT support House Bill 542. Our AEAs serve all students in the state. My children attend the Cedar Valley Catholic Schools (CVCS) preschool and elementary schools. Neither have disabilities, but I know they are evaluated annually through the AEA for hearing and we also consulted with them for speech when my daughter had trouble communicating in 3year old preschool (which has since resolved). In addition, there are many ways in which our AEA benefits our children, working behind the scenes to support our teachers and students. It may not be cost effective for CVCS or any district to hire full time SpeechLanguage Pathologists, Audiologists, Psychologists, Learning Development Specialists, Staff Development Specialists, media and printing equipment and services, and the all the other professionals they employ, to support students and staff. When our children and staff are no longer properly supported or feel safe in Iowa schools, what value does the education system provide? It takes a village and the AEA is part of this village. Please let the experts in the education do their jobs and let the AEA continue doing the good work they do to provide opportunities and support to our children and teachers. Instead of focusing time and resources to overhaul an important part of our education system in Iowa, an overhaul that nobody asked for, and please start figuring out how help schools keep Iowas children safe in the classroom.

01-30-2024

Shaylee Vander Velden []

I am writing to ask that you DO NOT support HSB 542. This bill would be detrimental to Iowa's students, schools, staff, and families. I was recently voted onto my local school board and have had the chance to hear from and talk to several families, teachers, and staff in our district. Everyone I have heard from is in support of AEA's and their current structure. While I understand the need to increase support for our special education students, a goal I fully support, this bill is NOT the answer.I urge you to not rush this bill through and work with our AEAs and highly educated professionals to come up with a bill that works for our students, educators, schools, and families. Please vote NO on this bill. Thank you for your time.

01-30-2024

Christy Decker []

Please do not support this bill!! AEAs provide support for our students and teachers!! As a mother of a child currently undergoing assessment for special education services, this really hits home!! Understanding the services available to help our daughter gain confidence in her way of learning and succeed academically has been amazing. I cant imagine the stress and continued struggle wed be experiencing without a local AEA, whose caring professionals work so closely with educators in our school. WHY MESS WITH A EDU SERVICE THAT WORKS!!?? Please do not support this bill.

01-30-2024

Joel Gehling []

My wife was beside herself tonight. She is terrified of losing her job. Shes a school psychologist with an AEA. Not only was she crying about this our future, our plans, our dreams but she is so worried about the kids who rely on AEA services. Where will the help they need come from? Certainly not the DE. Shes also worried about the teachers she works with; the educators and parents she has spent the last 20 years cultivating relationships with. What about them? Seriously, elected officials! These are peoples lives you are destroying.

01-30-2024

Ashley Panno []

I had a lengthy comment in opposition of HSB 542 in mind, but in scrolling these comments I see my points have been covered repeatedly ( and very thoroughly) in an overwhelming majority of comments submitted. Have the courage to listen to your constituents and the overwhelming, bipartisan opposition to this bill.

01-30-2024

Ryan Chambers []

Thank you for your work serving the people of Iowa. I trust that you all hold a genuine interest in producing the best legislation that will serve our state tomorrow as well as a decade from now. Please do not allow this bill to move forward. It will be detrimental to our state. The AEAs provide an incredibly valuable service to the neediest students in our schools, both public and private. The testimonials and stories you have heard only scratch the surface of the successes experienced on a daily basis. I fear this legislation is based on poor data and is largely agenda driven rather than service driven.While an achievement gap exists on one assessment, please understand that this is not a black and white issue. First, NAEP does not support using this data for these types of decisions. Also, having a discrepancy is a requirement to even qualify for special education services, so why would we expect these students to achieve at grade level on one assessment on one day that has zero impact on their education? When they are no longer below proficiency, they are exited from services. This is not like other states. Again, Iowa is exceptional in this respect, and should be held up as a model to others, not punished for our successes.If the concern is administrative costs, there are far less drastic resolutions than a state takeover of a locally controlled system. I feel any concerns with the AEAs can be addressed if only those involved have the willingness to consider them and include all stakeholders in the decision. Please do not let out of state interest groups irreparably harm our highly effective and efficient system.

01-30-2024

Melinda Padley-Jones []

I am a teacher, a parent, and a taxpayer in this state. I am writing to urge you to vote no on HSB 542.This bill would create drastic cuts to the services that we use to help our most vulnerable students and children from birth. These are services that teachers, parents, students, and staff rely on every day in both public and private schools. There is no way, even with the funds designated to the school districts instead of the AEAs, that school districts would be able to provide these services for the students. My school district is probably in a better position than most of the districts around us and we would still not be able to hire the staff to provide the services that the students would need at the same cost that the AEAs can do it. This bill would be devastating to rural districts across the state. This is an attempt to restructure a system that is working for our students and our school districts to give the governor more control. As a teacher, I rely heavily on the AEA for support for my students with behavior issues and learning difficulties and with the cuts that would be taking place if this study bill moves forward, these services would be greatly decreased or eliminated altogether. I am not sure how I would effectively do my job without these behavioral supports for my students. My students would also not have access to the supports that they need to be successful in my classroom without the AEA supports. I have also received some of the best training that has impacted my teaching from our school's partnership with the AEA staff. This is not training that each school district could pay for individually but it is training that has made me a better teacher. Our district has also relied on the AEAs to help fill in our substitute needs by offering substitute authorization training. As a teacher, I also use the AEA constantly for their media and creative services including printing posters and materials for my students. These are just a few of the examples of the services that would be cut from the AEAs. There has also been little to no information about how the new TSS funding will work for schools or how the new teacher salary requirements will be implemented. There are too many unanswered questions about these parts of the bill for anyone to vote on. These are ideas that were put in this bill to give legislators a reason to vote for a bad bill. Do not do it. If you want to change the TSS formula or raise teachers salaries, you can do that in separate bills, as these are separate issues from the AEA structure. This bill does not benefit students or schools. I urge you to listen to what your constituents want and vote no on this bill. Please vote for what is best for our students and the people that you represent, not along party lines.

01-30-2024

April Wallace-Henning []

Now that you know how multifaceted the AEAs are, now that you know how many NICUs, children, families, district staff, and administrators rely on the AEAs, now that you know this is irreversible, now that you know the entire state is watching to see who you put first, now that you know better; do better.

01-30-2024

Lisa Wymore []

Each of Iowas children deserves quality and effective education regardless of the size, location, and financial resources of the school they attend. The proposed changes to AEAs will devastate Iowas educational system. The negative effects will disproportionally impact small, rural schools as well as fiscally challenged districts and small private schools. Impacts on students will not be temporary or shortlived. The bills focus on a segment of services provided to students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) overlooks the critical systems and supports provided by Area Education Agencies (AEAs) that impact student learning across classrooms and instructional settings. AEA services support ALL Iowa students equitably and effectively. The timeline laid out in this bill is not reasonable and will create chaos. Our students deserve better. Please slow down and consider the consequences of this bill. Centralized decisionmaking in Des Moines eliminates the local control that has been a cornerstone of Iowa education. It also limits our systems ability to be responsive to changing conditions and immediate needs. A comprehensive review including data from multiple sources and stakeholder input is essential for making wellinformed decisions that strengthen our educational system and student outcomes. This decision is far too important to be rushed. Please vote NO. Take the time for a comprehensive, thoughtful, and welldesigned review. Do not dismantle the support students, parents, teachers, and school leaders use daily.

01-30-2024

Debbie Thompson []

01-30-2024

Stephanie Hersom []

Please vote no for this bill. Look at the true facts and make decisions based on what is best for communities, students and schools. This not only impacts the present, but will impact the future of education in Iowa.

01-30-2024

Jenn Jenson []

HSB 542 should not have gotten this far. I have taught in public and private schools in Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. I have appreciated the AEA and all the support they provide for Iowa teachers, students, and communities. Please Vote No on HSB 542 and keep Iowa schools strong with the support of STRONG AEAS.

01-30-2024

Erin Farquhar []

He requires a Behavioral Intervention Team who help with those Social Emotional/Behavioral Supports that may be cut. He requires Crisis Emergency Support if/when he has meltdowns and he requires TRAINED Educators, Substitute Teachers, and ParaEducators to help him throughout every minute of his day. PostSecondary Transition is IMPORTANT for Special Education Kids 14+ who are transitioning to high school and then to reallife matters to the success of these children who have to go out into the real world and live their lives with work placement when possible. It is an essential piece for the endgame of schooling that my son may not have the chance to even use if it is cut. Saying that they are not touching Special Education is a dangerous mistruth and no one in the general public or the legislation truly understands what these services do and mean for our children unless they have a child with a disability. For all the children who cannot speak, who cannot hear, who cannot walk, who cannot get through a school day without the support of an entire AEA team and their trained paraeducators and teachers please take a deep dive into what those services that I listed above provide and help advocate to keep them. Sincerely, Erin Farquhar, Mother of Abe

01-30-2024

Henry Gerhardt III []

I support the AEA and the school districts. My daughter is a elementary teacher in Council Bluffs and utilizes the SW Iowa AEA services quite a bit. Iowa needs the AEAs support to help our already understaffed school districts. The AEA's are reviewed every 2 years by the Dept. of Education. Any issues are dealt with and corrective measures taken. So why are issues being raised now with little or no justification? I would think one might want to check with the Dept. of Education to understand how stripping services from the current AEA's and adding an additional 100 positions outside of the current AEA's is going to help anyone. I do not believe moving decision making to Des Moines will help anything other than add more unnecessary overhead to the system. Why not take the funds for those 100 open positions the governor wants to add and furnish the monies to the current AEA's budgets instead of making the usual cuts to services. We would see a better bang for our tax money. I really think the author of this bill should do her homework prior to wasting the peoples time. PLEASE VOTE NO on THIS BILL, it what Iowans are telling you they want and the kids and educators are telling you they need and deserve!!

01-30-2024

Teena Seguin []

I am writing in opposition to the AEA reform bill. I have five sons, and all of them have benefited from the collaborative services the AEA provides to our small school districts in the area. They have received special education support, mental health support, literacy support, and probably many other AEA supports behind the scenes that have improved their teacher's ability to educate them. I am so confused why the timeline of this supposed AEA reform needs to occur so quickly without a real study of the needs that Governor Reynolds supposedly thinks this will fix. The AEA is the school's local team to help them address many needs of their students. I don't understand how anyone can think it would be a good idea to give so much power to the Department of Education. This bill allegedly gives "local control" but nothing about this plan really gives local control. So many aspects of this bill require Department of Education approval. Now school districts lose their local team of passionate providers who work so well together and instead many rural school districts will not be able to replace these providers. Mental health needs in our area are immense, and we have very few mental health providers. If this bill passes, schools will also no longer be able to share mental health school social workers who provide free mental health sessions through the AEA to students in school settings. I am very scared how many suicidal, depressed, anxious students will no longer receive the mental health help they need. Please consider slowing this process down and really examining what changes need to actually happen to address the special education gap. Please don't wipe out many services that our rural schools depend on to provide for their student's needs. You can choose to do the right thing for Iowa, Iowa's children, and the people of Iowa.Respectfully, Teena SeguinHarrison County

01-30-2024

Stephanie Storby []

Please vote no to to HSB542. Although I do not believe that this issue should be a political republican vs democrat matter but instead, what is best for our students I am in most cases, a republican voter who does not support this bill. As a state, we need to do what is best for the people of Iowa, support our school districts and my child, your family, your friends future!! Anyone with common knowledge of education and a sense of right or wrong knows, this bill is not what is best for all students. Please listen to families, educators, and AEA Administrators/employees. They all need each other to provide efficient and equitable services to students. They are willing to work together to do what is best for kids and implement strategies and plans to continue close gaps and meet expectations for ALL students. You were voted in office to listen to the people of Iowa. Do not do our future wrong by passing this bill. Please show Iowans you care and are listening. Stand up for what is right and say no to HSB542.

01-30-2024

Stephanie Storby []

01-30-2024

Tiara Draisey []

We need the AEA! The amount of services provided to Iowa children goes unmatched with anything else. So many children will be left without a program that works. Instead of closing down the AEA why don't we support it further?! Our schools need these resources.... period! Please think about what will happen to these families, too these kids, to the teachers. The teachers need the AEA support!

01-30-2024

Tiffany Goetz []

Vote no. Please listen to the voices of Iowans as you have been voted in to do and do what is really, truly best for our kids. Our kids need a village now more than ever and that is what AEAs provide. The focus should be on improving the services rather than scrambling to figure out the services. Educators are leaving the profession all the time and this will only increase the exodus. Our kids need you to vote no and recommend the review Governor Reynolds originally talked about.

01-30-2024

Heather Schuldt []

Vote no!If I were an elected official I would be taking serious notes about the amount of Iowans who are fired up and closely watching this process.I'm glad to hear that some Republican legislatures are reassuring Iowans that they are not a "rubber stamp" for Kim Reynolds. Governor Reynold's actions this week concern me with her need to meet privately with those that are not on board with her bill. Will this be another case where lawmakers are ousted by their own party because of their unwillingness to be a rubber stamp? I respected Republicans like Dustin Hite and Jon Thorpe and that is what happened to them. I want to believe that our elected officials will use their own minds and ears to guide them to the right decision. I want to believe that the amount of opposition this bill has created will matter. There are times that I wonder why I stay in Iowa. Every year since becoming an educator, I've faced some sort of challenge. Challenges that seem to be brought on by the State. When I question myself on why I stay in Iowa, I can't help but think of my father. My father served in the Vietnam war. My father would have much rather stayed home to milk cows in rural Guthrie County but he proudly served his country. When he returned home to his beloved Iowa he was spat on by anti war protesters. My father ultimately died in 2004 from cancer caused by Agent Orange and when I think of my father, I remember why I deserve to stay in Iowa. He would be angry to see what we have become as a country and he would be upset to know the little people sometimes don't feel like they matter. He would be upset to know that some Republicans don't show up to town hall forums to listen to the people that voted them into office. He would be upset to know that Iowans weren't good enough to be consulted with when it came to our education system. Separate Teacher PayStudy the AEAKeep AEA's with their local control (having a member that is appointed by each school board that is served the by AEA)Consider how effective the DE is (it is not)Consider how frequently the DE position is vacatedConsider how the current DE director does not have a teaching licenseConsider why a private entity from Virginia was good enough to write the bill but Iowans were not. Signed,A police officer's wife A motherAn educatorA registered Republican voter

01-30-2024

Claire Keith []

This bill will hurt all students but will also disproportionately hurt students from rural areas. Rural communities are already shrinking and because of that it is very difficult to bring professionals to rural areas. Without AEAs, students in rural areas will suffer from the lack of services and this will force their families to move to urban areas(that is if they dont have all of their assets in land they use for agriculture or the like, and can afford to leave). Taking away AEA services and moving them to individual school districts will hurt Iowa education AND economy.

01-30-2024

John and Mary Cabeen []

Our grandchild needs AEA services and AEA champions as they are. We are frequently hearing that her AEA will still be there if the district wants to utilize it. This is absolutely NOT true. You are taking the heart and foundation out from under the AEAs and the AEA services will never be the same. You are going to make her school district work harder to find services that have been proven valuable over and over again and readily available today. And, to bring on the Department of Education to oversee the AEAs which already collaborates well with districts just doesnt make sense and is not necessary unless the Governors plan is to create a new Department of Education to oversee all areas of education. The wording has approved by the director so many times the bill just screams the state will have control. Youre not giving anything to anyone. This comes at a great cost.There are solutions for administrative pay such as salary caps which has already been discussed and a collaborative approach to improving education for all stake holders including districts, AEAs and the Department of Education that could be sought. However, solutions do not seem to be looked for as even the amendment is lacking with them. It feels like the Governor introduced the bill for something far greater. Please, are you listening to Iowans? We are not in favor of this bill.Please restore the provisions for Area Education Agencies that House Study Bill 542 removed and/or added as there is no merit for these changes as other solutions can be sought first. Any endorsement for this bill will be those legislators legacy for AEAs, Iowa schools, teachers and most importantly our children and grandchildren. In the absence of understanding, slow down and lets do what makes sense for Iowa. This bill is not necessary and if change is, then there are other ways that are not being pursued. We hear that legislators are being bullied to vote yes for this bill. We dont understand that madness and pray it isnt so. Please know we appreciate you standing strong for our children and for Iowa. Thank you for your time. John and Mary

01-30-2024

Matt Marietta []

Hello Committee Members! Recently, we moved our family back to Iowa from Colorado because we were looking for a closeknit community where you know your neighbors, strong public schools, and a quality of life only Iowa provides. This recent bill has been tough to swallow because it seems to go against why I came back to Iowa to raise my family. First, I love my neighbors, and we vote differently but still find ways to work together to create a wonderful community with outstanding schools. This bill is a far cry from neighbors working together to find proactive solutions that make schools better. As an educator, I am never beyond questioning our work, the status quo, or looking for ways to be efficient. These decisions are made in COLLABORATIVE spaces, and I don't see that evident in this bill. Second, we came back to be a part of strong public schools that are the lifeblood of the community. This bill seems to continue to dismantle public education in the state of Iowa by making decisions without the people impacted (teachers, parents, superintendents, AEA Staff) being part of the problemsolving process to provide data sets that are valid and reliable, unlike the one we have seen presented by our Governor. At one point, Iowa was one of the highest achieving school systems in the country, and we were better funded; private schools were paid with private dollars, and taxpayer money supported all studentsnot the country club approach of picking and choosing students like the private schools do/are allowed to; schools were seen in a positive light and not to problem, and local school boards were elected by local community membersNOT the Dept of Education. Third, we moved back to Iowa because we found that politics and not the good of the people in Colorado often drove legislation. For example, we have wordforword bills in the last year that match Florida's. Could we have written that bill at home, or did we want to jump on their coattails? Intelligent and competent legislators could have created this here at home. Also, we hired a Department of Education director with a history of supporting private education, not public education. Public education in Iowa is the people who live, eat, and breathe Iowa Nice and want nothing more than to see our state succeed with an educated and informed population. I look to myself first when there is a problem and then talk to my neighbor. But we have looked outside the state for Guidance, and it does not feel like my vote counts or is heard. I am in touch with superintendents and still have not met one who finds this bill the way it is written to be a good thing. Will this pass when the feedback from leaders has not been positive? If it does, it sure feels as though my voice and the voice of Iowans have fallen on dead ears. I hope we kill this bill as it is written and include the people involved in developing a plan to continue improving Iowa as a place to live by providing worldclass public schools to ensure we educate each kid each day. I am asking you to join me in killing the bill and taking a stand for an Iowan that feels as though this is far from what the MAJORITY of Iowa want for their kids and their local school. Respectfully, MM

01-30-2024

Vickie Shipley []

I strongly support AEAs and feel they do incredible work. Both my daughters utilize AEA services my youngest has a child with speech delay and regularly works with AEA staff for his language needs. My oldest daughter is a visually impaired consultant in Iowa so works 1:1 with invaluable resources and staff provided by the AEA for the children she services along with continuing ed resources for her own professional development. As we recently witnessed, an AEA crisis team was at Perry schools the morning of the recent shooting and continue to help the schools move toward normalcy. These are services that schools will not be able to afford to outsource as suggested by proposed legislation.Please vote NO to these drastic changes to the AEA resources our future generations so deserve!!

01-30-2024

Stephanie Patin []

I am writing to express my vehement opposition to the proposed Senate Study Bill 3073/House Study Bill 542 and to urgently bring to your attention the catastrophic impact it could have on Iowa's children, particularly those with special needs. This bill, whether passed with or without amendments, threatens to undermine the educational prospects and wellbeing of our most vulnerable students, and it is imperative that it be immediately halted.As a dedicated pediatric occupational therapist and a committed member of the Area Education Agency (AEA) in Iowa, I am deeply troubled by the potential repercussions of this legislation. It poses a grave threat to the essential services and support systems that AEAs tirelessly provide to schools, especially in rural areas where access to specialized resources is already scarce. The bill's disregard for the invaluable contributions of these professionals in delivering quality education to students with diverse needs is not only insensitive but also incredibly shortsighted.Furthermore, the bill seems to disregard the fundamental principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), particularly the mandate to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all students with disabilities. By potentially limiting access to crucial services for students in rural communities, it directly contradicts the principle of equal educational opportunity. Every student, regardless of their location, deserves equitable access to the education and support necessary for their success.Of utmost concern is the proposal to allocate funds for contracting with private service providers. This approach risks introducing bias into service provision, prioritizing financial considerations over the best interests of students. AEAs are recognized for their impartial decisionmaking and studentfocused approach, qualities that must not be compromised for the sake of profitdriven motives.I am particularly troubled by recent assertions made by the Governor, implying that AEAs are failing students. Such unfounded claims spread misinformation and cast unwarranted doubt on AEAs, potentially damaging their relationships with schools and decisionmakers. This misinformation may influence policymakers in ways that could harm the reputation of AEAs, which have played a crucial role in providing essential services to students with special needs.At its core, my opposition to this bill stems from the severe threat it poses to the wellbeing of students with special needs in Iowa. The potential loss of experienced AEA employees, combined with reduced access to services in rural areas and a shift towards profitdriven decisionmaking, could cause irreversible harm to the quality of education and support available to these students.I implore you to reconsider the profound implications of SSB 3073/HSB 542 on our education system and, more importantly, on the lives of students with special needs. Crafting policies that genuinely serve the best interests of our students requires a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders, including AEA employees.Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter. I eagerly anticipate engaging in further dialogue on this pivotal issue.Sincerely,Stephanie Patin (Newton, Iowa)Pediatric Occupational TherapistConcerned CitizenRegistered Voter

01-30-2024

Stephanie Patin []

01-30-2024

Robert McGrath []

Where do I even begin on this one? I guess I'll start with the outright lies Kim is using to try and bolster support for this ridiculous bill. She is twisting data and making claims that are just plain lies. For example, she is insisting Iowa public schools have been labeled "Needs Assistance". What she fails to explain is that is simply Level 2, of which there are 4 (4 being the lowest). Level 2 is simply related to technical assistance, such as verbiage in IEP documentation. It is absolutely NOT "let's bring in the Feds"! They don't even enter the picture for Level 3. Next lie: the AEAs are failing our students. Ok, well, first of all, the AEAs are a support service. But set that aside they are ABSOLUTELY helping our students, teachers, schools and communities. I swear I have seen this first hand more times than I can count. I know for a fact every single AEA employee including those "Chiefs" she so desperately wants to sack, are incredibly dedicated...dedicated to our students, teachers, schools and communities. Not only are they dedicated but they are experts! So, we want to go ahead and get rid of them in favor of a Poly Sci major with absolutely NO experience? Next lie: control goes to the schools instead of the AEAs. Well, first of all NOPE! It sure doesn't! Does she even read what she proposes? All control is the Department of Education (again led by a Poly Sci major). EVERYTHING has to be approved. I'm sorry who will have control again??The bottom line: this bill is a JOKE and an insult to the State of Iowa. Kim DOES NOT deserve the title of governor I refuse to call her that! I'm sure her Republican lackeys, like useless Grassley, will vote this through (even though Grandpa was an AEA fan/supporter).My only hope is the Republican legislators use their common sense and recognize this bill for what it really is 1) revenge against employees ("Chiefs") who make more than Kimmy and 2) a powerplay to pacify her backers who send their kids to private schools (don't even get me started on her stupid voucher system I can't wait to see her fake data on that one...tough to hide the fact 66% of the vouchers went to kids ALREADY in private school...money that should have gone to our public schools she loves to bash so much).Rise up everyone and let's take back our schools and our State!

01-30-2024

Jill Budde []

Im all for change when its supported by data. Whats being used is not comparing apples to apples. This needs to be stopped and more time spent on better understanding the whole picture. Why the rush? Something is fishy.

01-30-2024

Amanda Dunsky []

I strongly oppose the AEA bill for the following reasons:1. As a parent of students who attend a small rural school, this bill will be a disservice to all rural students (and all students for that matter). The AEA can provide special education services, Ed services, media services, IT services, and much more. If flow through money goes back to the schools, rural districts would not be able to have all these services for the money they get back. Rural districts will be forced to choose. THAT IS NOT RIGHT!2. Along with the Special Education Supports that districts receive they will be losing Literacy Consultants, Math Consultants, Professional Leadership and Learning Consultants, and much more. I am pleased to see that the governor has proposed a Science of Reading bill,it's the right work,yet will not fund Literacy Consultants through this bill to support schools in this work. Professional Leadership Consultants support school leaders, provide professional development, coaching, ESSA and IDEADA support. If this bill were to pass these supports will be gone. THAT IS NOT RIGHT! 3. The AEA has fully supported the governors Future Ready Initiative, which is the right work! Through the Ed Services area, consultants hold monthly Future Ready learning sessions for school districts to help support the governor's initiative, where the AEA leads districts through data dives, provides resources, assists school counselors on the district career plans, provides learning through Portrait of a Graduate, and much more. It is an unbelievable resource for districts. This would be gone under this bill. THAT IS NOT RIGHT!4. If this bill is to pass the way it is written, what happens to all the professional learning that the AEA's provide for teachers, administrators, and para educators? Most of the classes fulfill license renewal, however, many educators and districts take these classes so they can apply the strategies learned in their classrooms or schoolwide. Examples are: Maximize Your Data, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, classes on Dyslexia and how to support students, Restorative Practices, etc. There are so many I cannot list them all. THAT IS NOT RIGHT!5. I am against the AEA bill being combined with teacher compensation. We all know teachers should be paid more. However, this is a different issue and should be a separate bill. Please do not combine them. To your constituents this looks like a way to guilt leaders into voting for the proposed bill and THAT'S NOT RIGHT! 6. To say that special education students are not making adequate progress because of the AEA's is a gross misstatement. This is a systems issue. We are in a teacher shortage. A high percentage of special education teachers start on conditional license (and that's if you can find someone willing to do so). These teachers have no background in special education and need the support and coaching of the AEA's in order to do their job.

01-30-2024

Jessica Kite []

Terminating services to all of Iowas children and teachers is NOT how to improve education. Listen to the thousands upon thousands of educators, parents, students, and community members who are begging you to put a stop to this devastating bill. Work WITH educators to improve education instead of terminating thousands of educators jobs and significantly further burdening our school districts. There is no hope of improving education when your terminate educators and services to children and teachers.

01-30-2024

Julie Lambert []

The services and resources AEAs provide to students, parents, teachers, and school staff are so important to Iowans! Reducing services, decreasing positions, and cutting funds within the AEA system will hurt public education in Iowa and ultimately negatively impact students. The people of Iowa are speaking and we oppose this bill.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Fischer []

So many questions remain with this bill. Why the rush? Why havent teachers, principals, superintendents, and parents been asked for opinions? Where is the data that backs the claims that our AEAs are failing? What happens to local control with the director of education is left making many of the choices? How will small schools adequately provide services that local AEAs were providing? I am a high school teacher and I know my department budget will not be able to provide the materials o use through the AEA. Please stop the advancement of this bill.

01-30-2024

Jamie Weiss []

As an educator, parent and grandparent I ask that you vote no to bill 542. And recognize how well sourced the educational system is with AEA in its entirety, as it stands, with the immense number of resources, of which to draw from so that students of today may be successful not only within our school system but as successful adults.

01-30-2024

Julie Stoneking []

As a parent of a child who has received AEA services since he was born, I can assure you that AEAs are the model for all education systems. We should be promoting AEAs, not discrediting. Vote NO on this bill and use the opportunity to write a bill that actually makes sense.

01-30-2024

Dani Augustine []

Please vote no on this bill. It does absolutely nothing to address concerns or improve outcomes for students across the state. Dismantling AEAs will cause irreparable harm to students, families and educators

01-30-2024

Honora Swift []

As a constituent, native Iowan, parent, and school psychologist, I urge you to vote against HSB 542/SSB 3073, which drastically reduces the services of Iowas Area Education Agencies. (These opinions are my own, and Im not speaking on behalf of the AEA system).I have served Iowa students as a school psychologist in Area Education Agencies for 10 years, in both urban and rural districts. The AEAs provide a comprehensive system of educational supports that serve both public and private schools, and both general education and special education.The AEA system provides educational services to our rural state in an efficient, equitable, costeffective, and comprehensive manner. Having worked in Illinois school districts as part of my graduate training and as a school psychologist intern, I can tell you that Iowas AEA system significantly enhances our states educational system compared to what is available in other states. This leads to better outcomes, including high quality instruction, highly qualified teacher, and student progress. Iowas AEAs work because they are embedded in local districts and are responsive to local needs. Removing decisionmaking authority from local AEAs and placing it with the Department of Education is concerning. Passage of this bill will damage Iowas entire educational system. The AEAs are something special and unique to Iowa, and they should be a model for how education should be supported throughout the country. The AEAs are worth protecting. Please vote no to HSB 542/SSB 3073.

01-30-2024

Alicia Rasmusse []

Please vote no to this bill. As a schoolbased physical therapist for over a decade, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of people including children/students, families, educators, and school districts. One of my assignments included covering 6 rural school districts. I fear that with the bill, and the very minimal amendments made to it, many of those rural districts and students will suffer. Services will no longer be equitable as districts wont be able to provide services needed. Lawsuits are likely to increase as familys are typically fierce advocates for their children and know what services could/should look like. Moving control to one central person, location, or entity (i.e. DOE, Director of Education, the Governor) takes away the voice of the people and decreases efficiency. This bill would also cause a huge increase in teacher workload while also offering them less support with the change/removal of services. Kids would not get the consistency of services that are so needed from children and families. This bill leaves a lot of questions. All stakeholders deserve some input and time. Thank you for your consideration.

01-30-2024

Kelly Mueting []

This bill is not representative of Iowas needs or expectations for their children in public education. This bill will leave rural communities and children without the broad range of services they have now. Please pause, gather correct information, and develop a plan inclusive of the AEA system, parents, and educators.

01-30-2024

Abbi Perkins []

These students are our future. By cutting AEA funding, programs and/or agencies, you're doing these children and all of our futures an extreme disservice. There is no possible way small, rural schools can absorb the responsibility to have inhouse programs or resources these students utilize. Students will fall behind in school and that goes against the big "no child left behind" push from years back. Why would you risk setting these children & students up for failure? This is our future. Make the right choice & keep the AEA asis.

01-30-2024

Deborah Morning-Wibe []

I strongly oppose any bill that will change or eliminate the Iowa Area Education Agency (AEA).As a 40 year former director/educator at a nonprofit daycare/preschool in Iowa, we used the AEA constantly in the areas of speech, hearing, and many behavioral programs. As a mother of three, the AEA discovered hearing problems with two of my children and followed them from preschool through high school graduation.As we have small children in our center, the Early Access program for kids 03, is also very beneficial. They are able to check up on our kiddos needs and help them not only at the center, but also in the home if assistance is needed there.The AEA is always easily accessible when contacted. For all of the districts they cover, its amazing how quickly they are able to assist with any problems we have, or find other options if its something they dont cover. They are also willing to provide inservices for our staff when needed.So where would we turn if this agency was no longer accessible? Many families would not be able to afford services elsewhere (the AEA is always free to our families). What would this do to our Iowa childrens education? Children are able to receive the help they need in specific areas and return to general education. Cutting this agency would definitely be a disaster for Iowa.

01-30-2024

Jennifer M. []

As an educator, parent, and former Iowa student, why are you wanting to make changes to things that so many schools, teachers, families, and communities benefit from. While I understand everything is based off meeting a bottom dollar in your position, what happened to investing in our future. I would invite you before making a huge change support for so many educators, teachers, and families. Ask the question to more than just the administration, while their answers may be the same, as the people in the trenches using the AEA services to make their class and community a better place, the teachers and families. Yes, families use the AEA just as much as school to support student early intervention. I encourage you to not only go to the local AEA, but visit ALL the AEAs and local schools and talk with the early intervention teams, teams supporting the schools, the technology centers, teachers, and families! Find out how important these services are to the community and how instead of limiting them or cutting them to meet a bottom dollar, but what we can do to help them help their community better with more resources to support our student education. All students are General Education students first! So while the AEA does so much to support our student who have an IEP to help them grow, they are General Education students first and for most and deserve to have the support to access a Free and Appropriate Education. Please consider increasing supporting the AEAs rather than cutting them to pieces and leave a mess for the communities to figure out how to support.

01-30-2024

Rhonda Vobr []

I encourage you to not pass the bill calling for the modifying of the AEA's in the state. As a former teacher, my experiences with the AEA was very positive. In my position as a librarian and library associate, the services provided by the AEA were heavily used. The provision of multiple copies of books, the technical assistance, teacher trainings, counseling during emergencies, interventions, and other assistance fill a void that school districts cannot provide on their own without going to great expense that they can't afford. The modification of the AEA's would be detrimental to all students but especially special education students.

01-30-2024

Todd Hodgkinson []

Despite the Governors claims, there is no credible data supporting the need for this bill or the restructuring of the AEAs. This bill strips away local control and undercuts the educational supports for vulnerable populations especially those living in rural communities.

01-30-2024

Jennifer Dillon []

As a born, raised, and educated Iowan, Im a born and raised Iowan, Im proud of my state and always have been. This is why I was saddened at the paltry changes made in the amendment following the governors promise to change it. If anything, the amendment language is even worse than the original bill and results in removing even more local control. As I talk to fellow Iowans and read their comments across a variety of platforms, they are speaking clearly. Iowans do not want this bill. This bill will hurt Iowan children, especially in the rural districts. Even though the governor has said there will be no reduced services, there is no way this bill will allow the same level of services the AEA provides to ALL students across our great state. This bill will remove local control and give it to the very same institution already struggling with compliance. I urge you. I implore you. I beg you to think of our children and vote NO on the AEA bill. Listen to the people of Iowa. Let our legislative system work, and do not be bullied. Do it for the kids! Protect our AEAs!

01-30-2024

Courtney Whittington []

Please consider how detrimental the passage of this bill could be to the supports and services that are currently in place. The people of Iowa deserve to be involved in this decision making as they are the ones who receive the benefits of the AEA system. The way this has been rolled out has not included input from neutral parties or provided a comprehensive overview of the AEA system. The review conducted by the outside party does not provide a comprehensive view of the AEA system.I encourage you to say no to this bill and protect the AEA.

01-30-2024

Melanie Belew []

Please listen to your constituents we are not in favor of this bill. Please vote according to what the people you represent want and not what the governor wants. This drastic & reckless dismantling of our AEA services will have negative impacts felt for years. Please slow down this process and be more planful about what needs to change and what doesnt.

01-30-2024

Tayler Johnson []

As a special education teacher in a small, rural school district please listen to the outcry by Iowans that are against this bill. Each and every day, I utilized the services provided by the AEA. Without those services, I know I would be unable to give my very best to my students. This unnecessary attack on a system impacts more than just the AEAs. Vote AGAINST the disruption of necessary and stable supports to students families, teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators and districts as a whole.

01-30-2024

Tangala Krous []

As a parent, I am concerned about the passage of this bill & the long term implications it will have on my own childrens educations. Not a week goes by that they dont mention indignation they learned on Epic or wanting to practice math skills with Prodigy. Both types of media &/or technology likely impacted by this bill. As someone who works in schools, I also fear the chaos that will ensue & disrupt my own childrens educations as school districts scramble to fill roles & responsibilities previously provided by AEAs. The turnaround on this bill is unrealistic at best. Iowa is not the only state I have lived in and this is not my first position within the field of mental health and/or education. While I have witnessed how other states operate special education services different from Iowa, I can assure you that rural areas within those states particularly suffered from a lack of qualified professionals to provide quality educational services. I am also worried about the perception, and reality, of public education in Iowa. We were content in our metro area that we previously lived in, but with two young children, thought we would try returning to Iowa for two reasons: Iowa's public education system and to be closer to family. So we moved here in 2019, when Iowa was still ranked 5th in the country. When I checked in 2022, Iowa had dropped down to 22nd; and most recently 13th (but K12 is still ranked 16th in the country). This is not a result of deficiencies within the AEA system or the public education staff. Both of those parties have been around and involved with public education for decades prior to 2022. I am imploring you, if you truly want to do what is best for students, please slow this bill down. The AEA system within the state of Iowa at least guarantees rural districts at least have ACCESS to qualified professionals for students with unique needs. With the current legislation, large swaths of the state will not be able to continue guaranteeing that access.

01-30-2024

Xixuan Collins []

As the parent of a student with special needs, I cant imagine what his education would be like without the services provided by AEA. AEA has evaluated him and worked with schools to put in place a suitable education plan for him. Without adequate funding, the same services will not be provided to students like him, and this is unfortunate and disturbing. ARA is a great asset for Iowa Education and deserves the support.

01-30-2024

Jeanne Rochford []

AEAs are essential for our public and private schools in Iowa. I believe the Iowa people have spoken. Please remember who you are representing and who elected you. We as constituents are your partners and care about the future of all children. The AEA provides equitable services to children and families. We need all parts of AEA. This bill will drastically impact the future of all students. The rationale in the bill continues to be unclear and in no way is tied to student achievement. Our focus should be on supporting our AEAs so each student gets the best education. This bill is going to drive professionals out of the state of Iowa. As a legislator, I urge you to talk to AEA personnel about their jobs and gather a deeper understanding of the support they give school districts and families. Please VOTE NO and do not rely on others from out of state to determine how the support should be delivered to our students.

01-30-2024

Linda Goetz [Retired Iowa Teacher]

Linda GoetzI am a retired Iowa teacher and am truly appalled by this proposal to dismantle AEAs, which will come at a cost for our students, parents, teachers, and administrators. When I needed help with special needs students, which was every year for various student needs, I turned to the professionals at our AEA. Whether it was for a student with a hearing loss, students on the spectrum with various needs, students with social/emotional issues, students with learning disabilities, students with speech needs, and the list goes on. We in the public education system teach everyone, and we test everyone including all scores into our statistics. The AEAs supplied me with skills, materials, techniques, and professionals from our area who truly cared and worked hard to make sure all students needs were met. Inservices were invaluable and much needed since there was no longer money for teachers to attend conferences. We use to share nurses, counselors, principals, and special ed teachers in different buildings in the district, and school districts splitting those from the AEAs, or not being able to afford these services which also include technology and services of fire walls and training on the latest equipment and updates on software, would come at a high cost for districts. Please slow down and study this proposal and vote NO on this bill. Where is the data coming from that our special ed students are performing lower than many other states? Why is this being proposed? Did the state run short on funds after the giveaway of scholarships for students to attend private schools. Does the governor believe students will perform better relying on one person in different areas in Des Moines do a better job? I am so against this bill, and I cant believe that most parents will be happy when they realize all that will be lost for their children who are a priority and not a product of scores, but kids who will be more successful with the adequate help that they deserve without costing the districts even more money. Please vote NO on this bill.

01-30-2024

Taylor Niewohner []

I am opposed to this bill. AEAs are a vital service to all Iowa schools and students. They provide so many supports and and services that help students and teachers. Please vote no and save our AEAs.

01-30-2024

Amy Jackson []

I feew up in Iowa, had 5 children here and countless foster children. We have had to utilize birth to 3 services and IEPs at all levels. The AEA system helps support teachers and the district with knowledge and experience that is beyond l. Many people do not understand the system and all they do. There is legislation by governs them and there is oversight: I am an imploring the House and Senate members to please to vote this down. Our governor stated previous to January that she would liens discussion: Find out more, look at all the statistics including where do kids end up after graduating their IEPs. My son is thriving and he hat is due to the connections to resources and up to date instruction to help my child who learns different. Please as a life long Iowan, mother, and grandmother I am asking this be voted down and identify strengths and areas of change. Dont dismantle a system that works but is asking please let us know where you want the them to improve. Thank you all.

01-30-2024

Sue Davis []

HSB 542 I know from 40yrs of teaching how vitally important the AEA is Iowa for public school children. Any cuts to the AEA or public school funding or mental health for children will continue the downward spiral of Iowas schools. Please do not let that happen. I urge you to slow down,, listen to those who actually know how this affects their children, take time to look at the data and actual facts. I am opposed to HSB 542.

01-30-2024

Rick Maehl []

Test scores arent the problem. At best they are just a symptom of a problem. A comprehensive, transparent study that includes all stake holders and objective outside specialists to collect and analyze the data gathered from families through the state government, define the problem(s) and document the successes, list possible solution options and the associated costs, then make prioritized recommendations should be the minimal acceptable protocol to follow. It is unreasonable to expect a short summer to fall study, that leaves out most all the stakeholders, and produces a solution without a whisper of notification, would be adequate for such an important issue. If Legislators really are interested in improving student achievement, then start over and do it right.

01-30-2024

Jamie Craig [Cardinal CSD]

Use the Guidehouse report findings to investigate what other states are doing for specialized educational services that could benefit Iowa students. Use AEA and DE teams to see what about the states are different. Different oversight surely isnt what impacts student achievement. The best teachers using the best strategies with AEA support does. Literacy, math, special education, media, mental health, and negotiated purchasing power the AEAs already help districts provide the best education to our students in Iowa and are willing to do whatever it takes to make things even better. Republicans arent for more government oversight and regulation. Lets not make the AEAs an exception to the belief system.

01-30-2024

Brittinae Nelson []

The bill allows out of state contractors for servicesdo you want tax dollars going out of Iowa? I am concerned with the proposal by Governor Reynolds regarding changes in the AEA system and encourage you to reconsider. As a rural public school special education teacher and a mother, I have seen firsthand the good work of the Area Education Agency. The AEA has helped my students AND my daughter, who doesnt receive a special education services through the AEA. They have helped with therapies (PT, OT and speech) for my students since some of them were babies and continue to this day at school. The Early Access program is an invaluable tool to get therapists and parent educators in the homes of struggling young children. At an early age, that wait time is devastating and can lead to irreparable damage and poorer development outcomes for these patients across their entire lives. These services are completed in the homes of these children which eliminates travel time, babysitters for siblings, gas money for travel, and time away from work for the parents. Additionally, the AEA services are free. This allows many families who would be unable to afford these services to get the care their children so desperately need. Many kids will be left behind if these services are eliminated or moved to the private sector.When my students turn three, they receive support from the AEA in school. They help with equipment, classroom adaptations, and technology, as well as continued therapies at school. Each student has different needs. They utilize the AEA technology services. I dont know how schools would do this without the AEAs, with ever changing technology. The AAC devices my students use is constantly changing. How is each district supposed to keep up on these very specialized interventions? Having an AEA employee that can be consulted at multiple schools makes more sense both financially and logistically. Additionally, small rural schools may not have access to people trained in these specialty areas if the AEA is not available to provide the personnel.Within my classroom there is a wide variety of abilities and conditions. Governor Reynolds referred to concerns with test scores of special education children as a reason to cut or change the AEA. First, that is a false measure, many special needs students are limited in their educational abilities compared to their neurotypical classmates. Using standardized tests is not an adequate way to access their progress. Each child has an IEP (individual education plan) which focuses on attainable goals for each students ability. Also, students use other measures to show growth such as alternate assessment or their IEP goals.. Looking at how each child is advancing with their IEP goals is a better judge of how the teacher and the AEA is doing. Many kids are not working on typical educational goals as their condition may limit their ability to read or ever achieve certain educational benchmarks. These students are typically working on behavioral, social or life skills instead. Those goals are NOT accessed in a standardized test yet are equally important to the education of that child. Those goals lead to improved independence and safety in the community when they become adults. In addition, Governor Reynolds has used the NAEP assessment data as evidence of poor performance of students with IEPs. My understanding is that not every child takes the NAEP test and only 270 Iowa students with IEPs took the NAEP test at the last setting. However, there are over 270,000 students with IEPs in Iowa. How can this data then be valid and reliable to use to draw conclusions about the performance of students, teachers, or AEA workers? This data represents a sample size of less than 1%, yet this is how we plan to make decisions that will negatively impact many children, as well as many teachers who depend on the AEA services to help them do their jobs well.Additionally, the AEA helps schools build systems that allow for the very important support that special education students rely on. The AEA's provide many services to schools in Iowa and many of these services intertwine to support the whole child. When you take a piece like school improvement away, the overall support suffers a great deal. Governor Reynolds posted a misleading infographic late last week. The infographic is a bold statement to make, directed at a service provider with no mention of contributing factors and based on a single data source of a selective small sample size. Please consider the information before making a decision based on this inaccurate claim, without reflection on the larger system involved. This statement is not only disheartening, but also distasteful.I saw the infographic after spending my day teaching my classroom of students with unique needs. Clearly to Governor Reynolds, my students are just a score, which if the data was actually accurate, one would notice growth and the gap is becoming smaller! Please consider all aspects before making decisions! All our kids deserve the best education Iowa has to offer, whether they are a farm kid from a tiny town or a city kid from someplace like Des Moines.As a lifelong Iowan, I urge you to please reconsider these plans for the health and education of my daughter, my students and future Iowa students.

01-30-2024

Mike Upah [CMNET]

One of the most concerning issues is that the amendment consolidates more power to the department of education and creates an education czar who can veto a local district's plan to use an AEA or a private service. Department of Education could reject plans until the district chooses the "right provider," or could force a district into consolidation if they just can't seem to muster the resources to meet ADA regulations. LOCAL CONTROL will be gone!

01-30-2024

Ami Leath []

Please ensure the information you are receiving is factual, not false claims. Take the time to reach out to district leadership, families, AEA, teachers to hear the real stories and benefits of partnering with AEAs. As constituents, we are trusting that you are making educated decisions that benefit ALL students. Local control? Doesnt appear that way with this new proposed bill. Please slow down or stop this bill.

01-30-2024

Jamie Orozco Nagel []

I am strongly opposed to the bills proposing to reorganize Iowa's Area Education Agencies. As a member of the public it was difficult to find a copy of the proposed amendments to this bill and I hope that time will be given for all Iowans to review the amended bill and provide meaningful input. I am especially disappointed in the amendment because I do not feel that the changes made reflect the concerns that Iowans have noted (for example it does not separate teacher pay minimums but instead keeps them together with AEA reorganization). This bill does not provide solutions to the supposed problems with AEAs that have been stated. The bill puts more burden on local school districts while taking away funding, support, and local oversight. This bill makes changes to the AEA system that could harm students by making services more difficult for schools to provide and is unfair to the public by reducing local decisionmaking and taking away locallybased leadership. I previously worked for a state government agency and now I work for an AEA so I have seen the difference in how AEA services are more closely embedded in the communities they serve while also being able to provide high quality services to both small and large communities. Thank you for the consideration and please do not support this bill.

01-30-2024

Kahri Plein []

Please do not support HSB 542, even with the few amendments that have been made. This bill will take services away from Iowa children. Rural children will be hurt the most as their small schools struggle to provide adequate services, but all of Iowas children will suffer as a decline in instructional services and a lack of materials & services available from cutting the media portion of AEAs will mean less resources in the hands of our children and less knowledge and support for our teachers who teach those children. The AEA system provides a costeffective, efficient way to serve children across our entire state. If you believe they are in need of review, I would start by reading the accreditation reports which were done in 2022 and then by visiting our AEAs and schools. Talk to the experts and do due diligence rather than rushing a bill that is not in the best interest of our children. A rash decision and sloppy bill will result in devastation that will take our state years to recover from.

01-31-2024

Sarah Johnson []

I am a lifelong Iowa resident and the parent of 3 children currently attending public school. I am opposed to HSB 542. Instead of this bill, please support a transparent and comprehensive review of the AEA system using multiple sound data sources and input from school districts, parents, community members, medical professionals anyone who currently partners with the AEA in any way. If there is a problem to address, define it, measure it, and propose a clear plan for implementation ensuring there is infrastructure (funding, staffing, training and supervision) before making any changes. This is too important to rush and the messages from Iowans are clear: Do not allow this bill to pass. To pass this bill would be an absolute breach of trust for the citizens of Iowa by the government; with the consequences falling on the most vulnerable, those without a vote or a voice on this issue, the 500,000+ children enrolled in Iowas public and private schools. This is a pivotal moment for decision making. Please choose to listen to the parents, educators, and experts in educational systems instead of the political rhetoric. Please do the right thing and do not pass this bill.

01-31-2024

Sarah Downey []

I am in agreement with the thousands of other constituents that are strongly opposed to this bill, HSB 542. Are you going to listen to your voters or be bullied by this governor? You are elected to represent Iowans which means listening to their concerns, educating yourself on all sides and analyzing ALL the information to determine what is best for Iowa. Parents, Educators, school boards, school administrators are all against this bill and value the services provided by the AEA system. Please listen to Iowans and understand what they want and need to support all of our students. I promise you it is not in this bill.

01-31-2024

Jenny Connolly []

Im from rural Iowa, my 4 kids go to a rural school, my husband is a rural school teacher. Our youngest, who is now in kindergarten, received 2 years of speech help via the school based speech pathologist from the AEA. He graduated out of the program at the end of his 2nd year of preschool. The help was not only outstanding, but logistically for a set of working parents, we would have had a very hard time figuring this out and the immense cost and lack of experts in this field already would have made the process almost impossible. With so many things stacked against schools and kids from a help perspective (long wait times to get into specialists, insurance issues, etc.) this help is vital to kids. Im happy to chat via phone or email as I can not make a meeting due to being a working person nor can my teacher husband due to work. Ive written my legislators twice and am now making this public comment in hopes that someone thinks about schools in rural areas and families in rural areas who will not have access to the things the AEA provides. Thank you for the opportunity to provide public comments.

01-31-2024

Sheila King []

The time is now to LISTEN to the people of Iowa and vote NO on this bill. Please slow down and think through the negative impact a bill of this magnitude will have on children, educators, schools, communities and the AEA staff members and their families. Given the outcry from Iowans parents, school administrators, students, and community members and the serious questions that have been raised, it is irresponsible at best to let this bill move forward. Please, LISTEN. And then, engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue about how we come together to make education for all Iowa's kids even stronger.

01-31-2024

Justin Larson []

Please vote NO to HSB 542. My wife and I are proud graduates of Iowa's Public Schools in rural Iowa. We are parents of 2 children that have graduated from Iowa's Public Schools in an Urban District. Please slow down and consider taking a comprehensive look at Area Education Agencies in their entirety. Consider the equity of services AEA's provide to ALL Districts within the State of Iowa in Special Education, Educational Services, and Media Services. Given that Iowa has many Districts that are Rural in nature, we are diverse in the size of our School Districts, and that diversity impacts funding and individual purchasing power of all Districts. Consider the expertise of AEA services provided to Students, Families, School District personnel, AEA personnel, Private Schools, and outside agencies on a daily basis. Please consider multiple viewpoints during this comprehensive study to possibly include Students, Parents, All Levels of District Administration, General Education and Special Education Teachers, TLC Leaders, AEA Personnel from each subgroup of employees, School Board Members, Private School participants, State Department of Education Leaders, and Legislators. A comprehensive study would provide clarity regarding Local Control, which is being transferred to the Director of the Iowa Department of Education, another agency, or simply eliminated 133 times in the bill. Nonpublic entities would have clarity regarding service provision. "Fee for Service" requests may be eliminated, changed, or modified as all parties gain an understanding of what current services the AEA's provide at minimal cost to Districts in the areas of Educational Services (including Professional Development services), and Media Services. Please vote NO to HSB 542, and ensure that you have taken the time to gather all of the facts to make a well informed decision. As rational thinking individuals in your given professions, before making critical decisions, you collect multiple pieces of data from multiple sources to ensure you are making the right decisions for your company. Please take the time and energy you would use in your own profession and company, and apply that same due diligence and rational thinking. Remember, your decisions will impact ALL students, ALL families and ALL educators in the State of Iowa.

01-31-2024

Leah Olson []

I am writing to you as a constituent, mother and mental health professional and asking you to vote no to this bill, as it raises more questions and concerns than it does answers. There are 133 instances where the proposed bill states that the Department of Education and/or the director, an appointed position, will be given decision making power. It proposes that the Department of Management have the authority to lower property taxes if a district chooses not to. 1) Does that sound like local control? 2) What evidence is there that the proposed changes in this legislation will lead to improved student outcomes? Rural schools have a smaller tax base, which will absolutely lead to inequality of services. The proposed bill takes away the ability of AEAs to hold contracts and operationally share just in the school district that my children attend, that will mean eliminating the technology, library and mental health school social work services that are currently shared between small districts. Our district continues to have a list of unfilled teaching positions, and I fear this legislation will add to that list, put more of a burden on rural schools and will in fact not lead to improved student outcomes. 3) Why is there a rush to push this bill through, despite overwhelming opposition to it? Instead, please complete a comprehensive study and involve all stakeholders in the process in order to have an accurate understanding of how any future changes will impact school districts and students. There is a wealth of knowledge readily available this is evident through conversation with parents, teachers, principals and AEA staff who are in schools daily. There is also a wealth of data available not just the NAEP data, taken by 266 students, which is the one data point the governor continues to share. Data shows that in 2022, there were 5,638 or 7.82% of students with disabilities in Iowa that were exited from special education services because they met all of their goals on their IEP and had made sufficient progress. Iowa's State Performance Plan and Annual Performance Report Letters (submitted by the DE to the federal government)reports on a variety of measures a vast majority of the data that the DE reported about students with IEPs demonstrated "non slippage." Despite this, several sections documented noncompliance, not due to a lack of student progress, but due to "failure to publicly report" as required by the federal code, and it was noted that this had been the case for multiple years in a row. The report lists three options for necessary next steps, none of which is a swift overhaul of the statewide AEA system. Data is available in the AEA accreditation reports, following the site visits completed by the DE in each of the AEAs over the past 2 years. The report for Green Hills AEA, which serves our local school, indicates that the agency met all 9 standards. The DE provided many praises for the work being done, and when this report was written 14 months ago, there was no mention of drastic changes that needed to be made to services in order to better support student achievement. 4) Why are we basing a high stakes decision on one source of data? 5) Why is the teacher salary increase included in this bill? Please separate this so that it can be given the attention to detail that it deserves. If there is data to support the sustainability of this, even in rural districts, then please support this. Thank you for representing Iowa voters and doing what is in the best interest of Iowa students by voting no to this bill.

01-31-2024

Jessica Statler []

My son was born with several congenital abnormalities including vision problems and hearing loss. AEA helped us navigate a very uncertain road and remained a guiding light throughout his formative years. My son is in the talented and gifted program at his school now and he is thriving. It would not have been possible without the unwavering support of AEA over the years. We are forever indebted to AEA.

01-31-2024

Jessica Statler []

01-31-2024

Jim Gorman [Retired]

There is an old Chinese proverb that goes something like "Do not use an axe to kill the fly on your friend's forehead." Wise words to be sure, and yet it seems to fit perfectly with what Governor Reynolds is proposing with HSB542. Billed as the AEA reorganization bill, it would be more accurately renamed the AEA demolition bill. The recommendations contained in the Guidehouse million dollar study of NAEP data (and only of NAEP data), and adopted almost verbatim by the governor, suggest that the AEA system is responsible for the poor test performance by Iowa's students with disabilities. So the "fix" is to simply do away with the present structure and return to the simpler days of 1974, before the AEA system was established. Governor Reynolds has stated that the AEA's have FAILED, dishonoring thousands of dedicated Iowa educators who currently or previously worked passionately to provide support to children, families, and educators in this state. I had the privilege of working in the AEA system for 30 plus years as a Speech Language Pathologist and Special Education Director and while I may take issue with her suggesting that my work for over three decades was a failure, I am more concerned with the stage she is setting for the future of education in Iowa. AEAs are no strangers to change, and will continue to be willing partners with the Governor, the Legislature, and the State Board of Education to address challenges and improve the system for the benefit of students. But the AEAs cannot partner if the Governor is more intent on killing flies than in seeking meaningful solutions to real problems.

01-31-2024

Marcy Growden []

We are parents of 4 children. 2 with special needs and 2 with need for special education. How is taking services away supposed to support test scores climbing? Also if we do not equip our children with appropriate skills to be functional adults how does that contribute to our societys future? AEA required many different trained professionals who actively participate in making families functional. It supports parents trying to provide guidance with children who struggle. Adding additional stress and creating more obstacles is the last thing our education department needs. This is our future society. Our future leaders. Our future professionals. Our future families. How is this creating building blocks to make a better America? Complicating matters that need to become more simplified. Our world begins with education. We need to be providing resources not taking them. We owe it to our children for the best educational plan. This is really the best way forward? Im stunned by how tone deaf we have become to our own childrens needs? We should be teaching them to find their voice. We should be building a legacy that we are supporting the best options available. Who is winning in this? Our children will be the only ones losing at the end. To support by pulling educated and brilliant minds together to find a path for our children to soar in the world. How can you be part of a solution when you can see the issues at hand. We can do so much better for them then this. We have to.

01-31-2024

Lisa Andreasen []

Please vote no for this bill.I have worked in education for almost 20 years as a School Psychologist providing support to our rural school districts. I also speak from the perspective of my parents who also both served for 30+ at the AEA as School Psychologists serving in those same schools. I have a heart for our small, rural districts and am extremely concerned about the effect that this bill will have on those districts. The current structure of the AEA allows for rural districts to be able to receive equitable resources that they wouldn't otherwise receive if they had to purchase those services independently. Our AEAs are structured in such a way that we can utilize our funding to make sure ALL students in our AEAs receive the best.I am extremely concerned about the speed at which this bill expects decisions to be made and that all of the control will be moved to the DE. I thought we were a state that valued local control, but all this bill does is take away local control. We already have a shortage of teachers in this state and I fear that taking away the resources that schools rely on through the AEAs will only cause that shortage to increase. Please stop and listen to the stories that have been shared about the amazing things that the AEAs have done to support schools and families. I work with the most talented professionals that spend well over 40 hours a week working with students, teacher, administrators, and families. These professionals stay awake at night worrying about our students and how to best support our schools so every child can receive the best education. They have not failed Iowa's children. Please remember that this bill affects children who are our future. Please do not let that future be one with fewer opportunities and resources for success.

01-31-2024

Aimee Streicher []

I am against this bill. I am asking my Legislators to vote NO. Please take the time to set up a committee of parents, teachers, superintendents, school board members, administrators, AEA staff, health care providers, and legislators to study the AEA supports/system over a period of time. This is being pushed through too quickly, and on misunderstandings and incorrect accusations. The proposed amendments do not address my concerns, and are detrimental to the students, families and educators of Iowa. PLEASE VOTE AGAINST THIS BILL. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Maura K []

The AEA system is a crucial part of the success of the educational system in Iowa. AEAs use data to look at student performance and educational trends, which helps inform policy decisions and improve academic outcomes for all students. They also provide valuable insights that can be used to target resources and support struggling students. The AEAs streamline their knowledge and resources to ensure that learners in communities of all sizes are able to benefit from specialized services not typically available within individual school districts, such as hearing, vision, speech, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, early childhood education, special education, career and technical education, and professional development for specific subject areas. Please consider the positive and life changing impact the AEAs have on so many Iowa families and educators. The AEA system is a vital part of our educational system and the success of all Iowa learners.

01-31-2024

Kyle Benning []

Our AEAs are staffed with vital education professionals that provide essential support to school districts. The education of our children should be handled by passionate, Iowabased educators, not outofstate research firms or appointees via political favors. Please protect our AEAs; our children, teachers, and schools depend on them.

01-31-2024

Mike Wheeler []

I do not support this bill. AEAs under the DE must not happen. Please vote with the overwhelming majority of Iowans by with your NO vote. Thank you to those of you that have opposed this bill from the beginning and to those of you who now oppose the bill. For those of you who block my emails, do not respond to my concerns or will line up to support this action which will harm children, the Governor has said Iowans are passionate about their children. That is her one absolute truth which you can bank on.

01-31-2024

Dion Varty []

The AEA is very important to my family and many others.I have a grandson with a 504 and have had another grandchild who had an IEP when he was younger.my youngest grandson was checked in 2023 because he was saying less than 25 words at 2 1/2. He was evaluated and had a hearing evaluation as well. Public schools are failing our kids in reading and math levels due to budget cuts, and so the AEA is needed more than ever so no child gets lost in the cracks of the system. Do not pass this bill!

01-31-2024

Karen Sproule []

As a proud retired Iowa public special education teacher, we need our Area Education Agency(s) left as is. Our AEAs are vital to not only special education, but to all of Iowa's education system. I could not have served my students and their families without the talent and time of those involved in AEAs. Why is there such a rush to dismantle a system that has functioned so well for 50 years? This bill, HSB 542 / SSB 3073 needs to be opposed, IF this bill is passed, I, along with many many other Iowans fear a negative impact will result not only within our education system, but Iowa's economic system will take a hit as well. I beg you to listen to the voices of Iowans who deeply oppose this bill.

01-31-2024

Cal Long []

I have several friends who are teachers. My mother was a teacher. My sister and 2 of my nieces work in education. My family knows first hand the value and service AEAs provide to Iowa. No one I know supports or sees the urgency for this legislation. Please, kill this bill and take the time to study any real problems.

01-31-2024

Ann Hardy []

Please vote No on HSB 542. As an AEA occupational therapist everyday I see the value of our services to students, families and teachers. Just yesterday I shared reading strategies with a general education teacher who is including a student with a significantdisability in her general education reading groups and was struggling with how to include her in instruction. I learned about these reading strategiesin an AEA professional development class on workingwith students with significantdisabilities. Several special education teachers I work with, from rural school districts, arealso attendingthe class. Together we collaborate to learn and improve instruction forour emerging learners usingalternative materials,assistive technology and these instructional strategies. Without this education loop in place, all provided by the AEA, we will all struggle to meet our students' needs, especially in the rural school districts I serve. Let's not compromise a whole system that works. If changes are needed, then please do a comprehensive reviewof our AEA system involving all stakeholders and make decisions based on that information. If changes are needed in the AEA system, let's figure that outand propose changes that will make the system better, not gut it. HSB542 isn't right for Iowa. Please vote no!

01-31-2024

Julia Bebensee []

Please listen to your constituents and vote NO to amended HSB 542. This bill significantly impacts public education by taking away services the AEAs provide to all students, families, teachers, and school districts throughout the state. It will severely impact rural school districts and take away local control. Slow down and do a comprehensive review of AEA services getting input from ALL stakeholders. Lets make Iowas educational services stronger for all students. Iowa parents, educators, administrators, school boards, AEA staff, and other citizens are speaking out: VOTE NO.

01-31-2024

Amy Grote [ ]

I have never seen Iowans come together the way that they have in opposition of this bill, this speaks volumes as to how inherently wrong the plan to destroy Iowa's current AEA structure truly is. Regardless of political affiliation, we're all able to see the mayhem and destruction this will cause across the state of Iowa. Collectively, we are concerned for the future of our children, schools and communities if this bill passes. This bill is so obviously detrimental to all families in Iowa, that it is hard to imagine that it was created for anything but nefarious purposes simply follow the money. You do not want this stain on your voting record, vote NO and serve your constituents instead of being used as a pawn in Kim Reynold's political game. She doesn't care that a large majority of Iowans are opposed and that she'll lose their vote because she's vying for a senior/executive position down the road. She'll be gone and YOUR constituents will still be here in Iowa waiting to vote you out in the next election. Vote NO on HSB 542.

01-31-2024

Amy Herzog []

AEAs are vital for so many aspects, especially in rural schools. We are already considered the deplorables so please dont make our future generations worse. We do exist, we do have opinions, and we implore you to listen! Prior administrations built AEAs and enhanced themfor good reason! statistics show how especially in rural schools the impact on education, especially for those kiddos who need that little extra help in keeping up with their peers! I dont even have children with IEPs but I know my kids benefit from AEAs. Who asked for this? I have yet to have a conversation with a teacher, principal, or superintendent who suggested these changes or support it. Please dont take local control away from us. The state already took our tax dollars away for the voucher program, please dont continue to hack away at the education system! Our kids deserve better!

01-31-2024

Kristi Kenny []

I can not emphasize this enough: DO NOT RESTRUCTURE THE AEA. It is simply not the answer to "doing better for our special education students." Restructuring the AEA is a desperate plea to gain more funding at the cost of services and resources for ALL students and teachers, including special education students.Governor Reynolds claims she listened to the public and made changes to the proposed bill, but she did not listen; she is still trying to take away needed services and money from the schools after being told how necessary these services and the funding for them are to families, students and teachers. Please consult with teachers, coaches, administrators in public education and AEA staff to give you first hand ideas for improving special education proficiency in Iowa.It is irrational to blame the AEAs for this proficiency gap. There are many contributing factors to any student groups success or failure. Things like socioeconomic status, parental involvement, stable home life, lack of professional development for special education teachers, not providing a menu of curricular resources for special education teachers to utilize, a lack of funding to staff more special education teachers so students with IEPs can receive individualized instruction in a small group, a lack of funding for para support and lack of para training to support students with IEPs are ALL contributing factors to the proficiency gap. The AEAs do not provide instruction to students and cannot be blamed for this.Governor Reynolds continues to share misleading posts that could convince some Iowans who are unfamiliar with the education system that the AEA is responsible for the proficiency gap. She has continued to cut funding from the AEAs year after year and is now trying to get rid of them with misleading, inaccurate social media posts (reference her facebook posts).We need to be providing more FUNDING the AEAs to support ALL students.The AEA offers Rosetta Stone to support English Language Learners. They have STEM kits, novel sets, an entire library filled with books that are not available in school libraries. EVERY student (and teacher) needs and deserves for AEAs to remain intact, as is, with more funding. Many teachers in my child's school reach out to the AEA to utilize their services and resources in some capacity.I would invite you to go into many schools in your state so you can see first hand how vital AEAs are to the success of all students. Please consider doing this before voting on this bill. IOWA NEEDS AEAs!

01-31-2024

Jamaica Reed []

Iowa AEAs play a crucial role in ensuring the delivery of quality education across the state. These agencies serve as invaluable resources, providing essential support, professional development, and specialized services to schools, educators, and students. As a teacher and a parent of a child with a learning disability, I know first hand how their commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment has contributed significantly to the success of Iowa's education system. Bill HSB542 poses a threat to the very foundation of this support network. This legislation, if enacted, could undermine the collaborative efforts of AEAs, potentially leading to a decline in educational standards and accessibility. It is essential to recognize the vital role that Iowa AEAs play in shaping the future of education and oppose any legislation that jeopardizes their ability to provide effective support and resources to schools and students statewide.

01-31-2024

Sherry Peterson [9308010053]

My son and his wife were both raised in the Iowa public school system. He is now a Special Education teacher in HS and she is a SLP in Elementary. Both work in Minnesota public school systems. They would like to return to Iowa to work and live but they won't even considering returning due to the recent actions of Kim Reynolds and our Legislature. Your actions are gutting the public schools and causing many quality educators to either leave teaching or leave Iowa. The damage you are doing it inexcusable! I also work in a school and see the impact of your actions every day. You should be developing the services provided to all students and educators not stripping them away. Please step back, lay politics to the side, and do what is best to support quality development of services for all Iowa students. The way this has been handled already shows how little thought was put into the issue. It's currently obvious this is only a political move to satisfy private sector at the cost of our children.

01-31-2024

Jacquie Potts []

Please do what is right for children, families, and schools. I strongly oppose this bill and ask that you listen to the voice of those advocating against it and act responsibly. This will hurt all students. This will reduce services. Please do not be naive and believe this will improve student achievement. Vote against this! The wrong people are at the table making decisions that impact our students.

01-31-2024

Mandy Burns []

I do not support this bill. It does not represent Iowa and our values. It takes away local control by placing decision making in the hands of one person. This is not whats best for Iowa. It hurts smaller, rural districts significantly more as they will not be able to receive the quality and quantity of services with the funding they will receive in return. This is not Iowa. This was created by an out of state group at a high cost. This is not Iowa. We are built on a tradition of strong education where students receive a quality education no matter where they live. The AEA system was created to support this and continues to support this value. It takes away resources from teachers who desperately need them, especially as they are starting out. This bill will only lead to further the teacher shortage, especially in smaller districts with fewer teachers to mentor. Please slow this down and take the time to comprehensively study how we can improve services by taking our time, including stakeholders in the process, and using multiple sources of data appropriately to make improvements that will make a difference.

01-31-2024

Mary Rickert []

As a former educator and grandparent I cant stress enough how bad this bill is for the children and teachers of Iowa. The AEA provides critical support for educational services and opportunities for student growth and success. Many families and students will suffer if this is passed. I saw firsthand how important this system is. Please use your position to aid the students of Iowa and dont vote for something you know is wrong for the future of education in our state.

01-31-2024

Matthew Johnson []

I am a lifelong Iowa resident and the parent of 3 children currently attending public school. I am opposed to HSB 542/ SSB 3073. Instead of this bill, please support a transparent and comprehensive review of the AEA system using multiple sound data sources and input from school districts, parents, community members, medical professionals and anyone else who currently partners with the AEA in any way. If there is a problem to address, define it, measure it, and propose a clear plan for implementation ensuring there is infrastructure (funding, staffing, professional development, and supervision) before making any changes. The future of my children and the over 500,000 other children enrolled in public and private schools in our state is at stake. Please choose to listen to the parents, educators, and experts in educational systems instead of the political rhetoric. Please do the right thing and do not pass this bill.

01-31-2024

Kristyn Kell []

Please, please read the comments, meet with teachers, administrators, parents and students no one will say yes to this bill. The AEA is part of everything we dothey are vital to our success from IEP compliance, grief counseling, speech therapy, instructional supplies and I could go on and on. Please start listening to Iowans!

01-31-2024

Heather Gould []

Each of you has been trusted by Iowans to be our voice, to represent. Please listen. If this bill passes, it WILL NOT lead to improved test scores for our students with disabilities. It WILL lead to complete chaos for students, families, educators, school administrators and communities. Education in 2024 is complex, from the individual student level to the systems level. The needs of students are great. The AEA system is deeply embedded at all levels and is making a difference. The actions suggested in this bill are comparable to an untrained surgeon treating a hangnail by amputating a limb and then expecting the bleeding to stop. Should this bill pass, the bleeding will not stop. And Iowa's children will pay the price. Please help.

01-31-2024

Jana Hosek []

Many people have summarized the countless ways AEA are an asset and service to children, schools, and communities. It really comes down to who legislators are beholden to because voters/tax payers have made their stance clear. This bill has no business making it out of committee.

01-31-2024

Sharon Clark []

As an Iowa voter, mother, and school psychologist I ask that you not move forward with this bill. AEAs are valuable resources for ALL students and school staff. There is much misinformation that has been published about funding, structures, and success of students. The impact of this decision will be far reaching for years to come and it will not be a positive one for Iowa students.

01-31-2024

Susan Mitchell []

Please support Iowa teachers and school districts and keep the AEAs as they are. Being a teacher is tough enough, please don't make it harder for them to find the support they need to educate our kids.

01-31-2024

Adam Puderbaugh []

Please vote no on HSB 542! This bill consolidates power to an appointed government official and removes economic efficiencies of scale from a vital system for supporting schools in our state. Both moves equal bad government and hurt children. I have not heard or seen any Iowan publicly supporting this bill outside of the Governors social media. That is a sign! Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Ellen Wubbels []

Please do not vote for this bill. I have read the bill and as a retired teacher, I see no benefit to students especially our special needs students. I listened to and read carefully the words of one of our senators as he expressed concern that some districts do not receive as much in monetary benefit from the AEA as they pay in to it. I see the AEA as an insurance policy. Some pay in to it and never receive as much benefit as others. Others receive far beyond what others receive. That is the power of pooling resources for the benefit of everyone not just those who can afford it. Please slow down, take a careful look at not only the AEA but all of the entities that have an impact on students the teachers, para educators, AEA, etc. There is much more to student achievement than the AEA but they are an integral part.

01-31-2024

Jen Ohannessian []

AEAs are a critical part of Iowa's educational system. I have experienced AEA services as the sibling of a disabled child, as a teacher, as a parent, and as a paraeducator. I urge you to vote NO so Iowa can keep all of the exceptional services that the AEA delivers.

01-31-2024

Bridget Thompson []

I am pleading with you to listen to the voices of your constituents and please vote no on the amended bill HSB 542. The AEA and all of the services they provide have made an incredible impact on my life and my family! The AEA was there to provide support when I brought home my daughter after she was born prematurely. They came into our home and provided her with therapy and most of all their services gave our family hope for a future! My daughter received early childhood special education, PT, OT, and Speech services before starting school and special education and AEA support services throughout her schooling to help prepare her for life after graduation. I was inspired by her dedicated AEA team to go back to college and get my degree in special education. I taught special education in Lake Mills for 18 years working alongside the AEA school team and relying on their services and guidance. I attended AEA trainings to help me become a better teacher and reach more students in the ways that they learn best. Now, I work for the Central Rivers AEA as a special ed consultant. I couldnt ask for a better team of dedicated professionals to work with! The AEAs passion for helping all students through collaborative effort is making a difference in the lives of children, families, and educators! I had hoped to work for the AEA until I retired. Now, I am worried about the future of education in Iowa!Please help protect our AEA, Iowa children, and the career I love.

01-31-2024

Kylie VanderFeen []

I am asking that you please please please say no to this bill! As a parent to a Spina Bifida daughter, we have used a lot of the AEA resources since she has been born, and have now seen the impact from a parent perspective of how important the AEA is for our daughter in the school setting as she is in preschool now. Im also a public educator and know how important every aspect is! I do not see how this bill would positively change the education and resources that parents, teachers, and students receive. PLEASE SAY NO TO THIS BILL!!!

01-31-2024

Rhonda Conrad []

Please reject this bill! It does nothing to improve Iowas educational system. It does nothing to help Iowas most valuable resources, our children. Iowans do NOT support this bill. If improvements are needed in the AEAs, take time and do the homework to make educated decisions. Use your conscience and your vote to do the right thing.

01-31-2024

Krista Colberg []

I live in Illinois, but work in Iowa. I am a specialist specialist and have witnessed the dedication of Aea workers. Their support is vital to evaluate suit needs, provide services, supporting the school system as a whole. The impact of the elimination of services would be great for Iowa schools.

01-31-2024

Susan Shipley-Lawrence [Des Moines Schools]

Good morning,My name is Susan ShipleyLawrence. I am a 38year veteran teacher in Des Moines. I have spent my entire career teaching special education and/or supporting special education students, teachers and families a a special education consultant. AEA's fill in the gaps for schools. If we don't have specific materials, the AEA does. If we don't have a good understanding of curriculum or teaching practices, the AEA sends out a specialist to help build our practice. If we don't have expertise in a low incident area disability, the AEA sends out some who is an expert. They provide quality instruction to both students and staff. I believe it is not in the best interest of our students in Iowa to change the current format of AEA's. I'm also concerned that the Department of Education would oversee the AEA's based on this bill. It is my understanding that the leadership at DOE Iowa does not have a background in education. It is bewildering to me, that someone who hasn't been a teacher, principal, superintendent, would have the skills to lead this charge for the students of Iowa. We have exceptionally qualified folks in Iowa who would have the skills. Many of them are currently directors for our AEA's. I ask that you do not dismantle the AEA's on behalf of our special needs students, families and staff. Susan ShipleyLawrence

01-31-2024

Tonishia Dockstader []

I am writing as a concerned parent of a preschooler and freshman in a rural school and a sophomore in the teacher preparation program at Iowa. If the HSB 542 bill passes (even with the current amendment), Im concerned for the educational experiences my children will have. Since the bill does not allow for districts to keep their Media money, rural districts like East Buchanan will suffer! Teachers will not be able to check out professional resources from our local AEA. Students (including my children) will not be able to utilize the vast educational tools they currently have access to. Just a few of the include; MackinVIA, virtual reality equipment and programs, OSMO, boxed book sets, star lab, STEM activities, and Breakout kits. Rural schools like East Buchanan dont have the funds in the general budget to continue to provide these resources which means ALL students (including mine) will suffer! When my oldest graduates and enters the teaching profession, the support of the AEA will not be there to help her continue to learn and grow as she encounters challenges within her own classroom. Im asking you to oppose the HSB 542 bill for my childrens educational experience and ALL students in the state of Iowa.

01-31-2024

Makenna Browning []

Because of the services AEA provides to my son, he is thriving in public school. If you take these services away, my son will no longer thrive. He will fall through the cracks and get left behind. The services, support and dedication of the AEA works day after day, child after child. Taking it away would be a huge disservice and its terrifying as a mom whose child DEPENDS on AEA to correlate and work closely with his teachers and with him. You cannot take this away from our schools and from our kids. These roles are vital in special education and there will be hardly any pieces of special education to pick up if you shatter our school systems by removing AEA.

01-31-2024

Jessica Johnston []

While I am in full support of increasing educator pay, I cannot stand behind this bill attacking the AEAs. My son had feeding issues when he was younger. There was a long (and costly) wait for Blank. I called the AEA who were there to help my son within days. He qualified for services and within 9 months, he was exited due to the hard work by the AEA OT and consultant. We have not had any issues since his exit (8 years later). The AEAs are not failing kids. This bill is an attack on the most vulnerable population, students with disabilities, many who are too young to speak for themselves. Please vote no to this bill.

01-31-2024

Luke Roling []

I ask you to oppose HSB 542. The proposed changes will undermine the stability of vital services for all Iowans, disproportionately affecting those in rural communities for whom AEAs serve with an efficiency that will not be provided by the private sector.

01-31-2024

Sue Peters [Glenwood Community Schools]

Please do not take the AEA away. Ive been teaching for 35 years and I can tell you it is a vital part of our schools. It provides so many services to students, the teachers use it for media check out opportunities that we wouldnt be able to provide to our students otherwise. It would be a huge detriment to our schools to lose the AEA.

01-31-2024

Sue Peters [Glenwood Community Schools]

01-31-2024

Rick Vazquez []

Please support our AEAs by voting NO to this bill. I grew up in a rural school (Washington, IA). I received an excellent education thanks, in part, to GWAEA. I want my children at Clear Creek Amana school to have the same opportunities I had.I am a republican voter and am strongly opposed to this bill. Thank you for your support.

01-31-2024

Seth Roberson []

My name is Seth Roberson. I am a lifelong resident of Iowa, a former teacher, a parent, and spouse of an AEA employee. I am writing you with concerns about HSB542. Iowas AEA does a tremendous job supporting our teachers and students. As a parent I have experienced this with both of my children. Our oldest was struggling with speech to the point his peers noticed he received great support. Our youngest was being bit several times a week at a daycare center the AEA was in the center supporting the staff within a few days soon after the issue improved greatly. I have great concerns on why this bill came about. Every single educator I know relies on the AEA. The system is not broken, so why the rush to completely dismantle a system that supports Iowas schools on so many levels with comprehensive educational resourcesboth human and physical? Why remove a system that provides crisis support when schools are hit with tragedy? And one of my biggest concerns is why was this bill written by a firm in Virginia instead of by Iowans who know Iowas unique needs?If this bill goes through it is clear our small and most rural schools will be hurt the worst. I grew up on a farm in NE Iowa and received speech therapy through the AEA myself. The challenges that would be created by HSB542 would severely limit the access to all of these supports.

01-31-2024

Keisha Troendle []

In school I was not in Special Ed but needed speech at a young age to help form my hard c and k sounds. Without the AEA I would not have gotten that help in a rural area. We would have had to drive to a bigger city causing me to miss school which could have had a negative impact on my education overall! And not to mention my parents would have also had to miss work. Which depending on employer could lead to lay offs only causing more poverty and unemployment in this state. Do the right thing for the kids. All kids need services and public school teachers need help, especially after you already took away part of their funding dont take away their other lifeline of help or public education in Iowa will fail miserably.

01-31-2024

Elizabeth Kaump []

As a parent and someone that generally votes conservatively, this bill is frightening. It absolutely does not account for what is best for Iowas children. The AEA services all children. It provides equitable services to all. They are there in times of need, times of crisis, and to support every day needs of students and staff in both public and private schools. Dismantling the AEAs and giving ultimate control to the Department of Education is taking away local control and giving it to people who really have no idea what the needs are in each individual district. The timeline of this is also daunting. There is no way control can be altered and there not to be disruption to services. Services that are critical to students and schools. I am asking you to please pause this bill. Slow down and continue explore all of the ins and outs of what this impact would truly mean. Listen to what the public truly wants and show us our voices are being heard.

01-31-2024

Dan Elliott []

Please vote NO on this amended AEA bill. This is too quick. Financially this is going to be tough on smaller schools and especially of some schools decide to pull out of their AEA. Also, schools have to decide by June 1st? How do schools know what services they are going to need for the next school year in June? Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Erin Potter []

As a Minnesota resident I have spent some time today writing to Iowan government officials. I have had the honor of working in three different states now and two AEAs in Iowa (and my grad experience in a third). I have attended national conferences where Ive learned that the AEA system is not only unique but the envy other states. And it should be. The AEA system is far superior to any other structure Ive seen in education. Gov. Reynolds says Iowa special education is underperforming and then uses the most illogical data set to support her claim. Of course there will be students with disabilities not meeting standards its literally how they are found eligible for special education services to begin with. A better data set would be to look at longitudinal cohort data (dont worry legislators I know some AEA employees who can teach you what that means) because the other thing Ive learned is that AEAs in partnership with amazing special education LEA staff conduct quality reevaluations to ensure students still need special Ed services and as soon as they dont, theyre exited. These kids would not be included in the governors data set but they tell an important story. Schools are not what they were in the 70s. Neither are kids and neither are their families. The AEAs have evolved out of necessity. They have filled gaps. They have also realized (as other states are now also realizing) that an important way to support special education students and staff is to implement an MTSS framework. Its a prevention model rather than a wait to fail model. Its logic. Its easy to see the role an AEA could serve to support implementation. Education is suffering. We do need to change just as we have over the decades. But an extreme bill that feels very reactive and is based on nothing but assumptions and opinions and really poorly understood data is not the answer. I wrote the governor and asked her to pause and conduct a thorough needs assessment with relevant stakeholders with diverse experiences and expertise (dont worry AEA staff can help with this too) to inform what is needed to move forward. You could also check out the customer service surveys that the AEAs gather from those they serve. I havent seen that data reported in her criticisms. If we want small districts to be able to provide quality services to their students and to be able to hire and retain educators then we HAVE to have systems like the AEA in place to support them (notice I didnt use the word equity seems that isnt something Iowas governing officials care about).I often tell people that if they knew some of the things educators experience in a given day that they would be shocked. Support our educators. Stop the cuts. There wont be any left if we arent careful.

01-31-2024

MJ Key [Mary Jo Key]

Please don't pass the bill regarding AEA.....this has to STOP. STOP destroying public education. How can you give monies to private education when there is such a shortage of teachers that are drastically underpaid. This has been going on for YEARS and now you want to destroy AEA? Listen to your people that you represent!

01-31-2024

Angie Bollmeyer []

This bill is going to take away supports for my children's teachers. I have used the AEA services since my kids were 4 yrs old. Without their expertise, know, and guidance I am sure my boys would.not be where they are today. The AEA helped support their teachers and we're a vital piece to the team. Teachers have so much in their plate already and now you are going to take away their support system?? Seems backwards to me. Ask yourself these questions: Who asked for this change? Iowans? Schools? Parents? (AEA'S have a 97% satisfaction rating.)Where is the data that shows this is going to close gaps and increase test scores? Have you looked at DMPS (Doesn't use the AEA) data and compared it with schools who use the AEA'S? Who is going to hold the DoE and Director Snow accountable??

01-31-2024

Randalll S []

I am a very dedicated Republican conservative. However, on this, Bill, I need to disagree strongly. This is not what I am many of my friends wish. If the bill was based on strong evidence that was truthful, I would totally support it. However, in this case, there appears to be way too many inconsistencies. The result when this fails will not be positive for the party that I am dedicated to. Please vote no

01-31-2024

Lindsay Seamer [PVCSD ]

Iowans do not support this bill! Please take time and due diligence to work through the facts. Listen to education experts. AEAs are efficient and they do have oversight. We dont need a complete overhaul. Have you looked at other states who have done what you are proposing? Is it working for their students and families? Is it as efficient as our current system? Please, please dont rush a vote on this. The effects will be massive and felt for decades if you push this through. Please support public education for all Iowans by voting no. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Amanda Roberson []

Please oppose this bill. As a parent in the state of IA I have seen first hand, over and over again the valuable services the AEA provides. We have utilized the AEA to support our 11 year old with a speech IEP. The SLPs he worked with were amazing and helped to correct his speech errors, and build his confidence. We also utilized the AEA when our 8 year old was a baby. He was being bit at daycare and the AEA came in and worked directly with staff to ensure safety for our child and the other children there. Without a doubt the AEA provides valuable services to children, families, schools, and communities in the state of IA. We need the services they provide. Thank you

01-31-2024

Amy Thiessen []

Again, I am voicing my support of AEAs. The revisions are inappropriate and do nothing to improve it. Its all verbiage. The amount of people from all parts of the political spectrum against bill HSB542 and its modified versions are vast. We know what matter. Gov. Reynolds is so out of touch and acting in alarming selfishness. This will not stand. We feel the struggles of sending our kids to Iowa schools already. Teacher and staff are heros and find ways to be successful and be a light to so many. Meanwhile their support system, continues to erode their supports and abilities to do their jobs and we LOVE POINTING fingers at these lovely humans. Please vote against these bills. Please vote against everything she tries to implement. She cannot be trusted to do what is best. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Alicia Bellville []

I am asking you to OPPOSE this bill. This is not the first year this party has taken from our public school system. Our students deserve better than to continually have resources, funding, and people taken away from their education system. The Governor says she is doing this to increase special education students' proficiency, but what in this bill will help improve that? Instead of putting in more supports, you are intending on removing the people whom support the special education and general education teachers. You will be removing funding from MENTAL HEALTH, when you say mental health is the reason we had the terrible incident in Perry. You are removing resources and media resources that allow teachers and direct service providers to be the best they can be requiring these people to use their own money to supply materials to support these students. When you cut millions of dollars multiple years in a row, it makes it difficult to provide the best we can for our children. Please take your time in reviewing this. Please really think of the children not how to gain more control of the system and funding. Privatizing education is not the answer. This is the best way to make sure the poor, disabled, and at risk students get left behind, and will take away the equity we currently have across the state. Education and mental health should not be a partisan issue. We should all be working together to promote the best and most growth for our students and the future of Iowa. Think of our students first and vote NO.

01-31-2024

Victoria Willoughby []

I have proudly worked for Heartland AEA for almost 10 years and in that time I have experienced incredible support and growth as a clinician and as an educator. I have been extremely saddened and disheartened by the governor's proposal of HSB 542. It has been made very clear that the writers of this bill do not understand all that is needed to support children with special needs and the classrooms within which we want all students to thrive. I firmly believe that all of Iowas children and families deserve the best education, not just those who can afford it. This bill would dismantle agencies that have worked tirelessly towards that goal and with that same core belief. I would ask that you vote against this bill. Our students and families deserve so much better.

01-31-2024

Joan Parker []

I oppose the bill HSB542 as it relates to education support in our Iowa schools.This bill would not support our future generations in their education opportunities. This would not provide support to our education teachers and decrease the services to help support those children in need. No child should ever be left behind because the support and services for them are not provided. By eliminating the AEA, the backbone of our education system in the state of Iowa Detrimentally Hurt our education system in our state and falter. I encourage everyone to say no to pass this bill to allow our area education agencies to continue to support our children our teachers to prepare for our future.Governor Reynolds needs to take a stronger look around the entire state of Iowa and support our area, education, agencies, and our school districts

01-31-2024

Denise Geier []

Please vote No! On this bill to dismantle AEAs and give total control to one person. This will not give local control to school districts. The person in control is not a lifelong Iowan. Did not attend Iowa schools and holds a degree in political science? I am unsure of how that prepares someone for the directors position? I vote and this is NOT what my representatives should support. This bill needs more time to be debated. You also need to look at how it will hurt our students, small schools, really all schools. Services will not be available to those who truly use it. It feels as those this is being pushed through with ulterior motives from our governor. Please vote No on this horrible bill. It will devastate our childrens education in Iowa. I spent 37 years in an Iowa classroom as an educator and 13 years as a student. Plus numerous graduate classes from Iowa institutions. I am ashamed of this bill. It has not been studied or debated enough. Iowa deserves better. Vote No, PLEASE! Our Iowa students and families will thank you!

01-31-2024

Carol Hemesath []

Please do not vote to support this terrible bill. Iowa needs the AEA and it is working JUST fine the way it is. Iowa schools, especially rural schools, need the experts at the AEA to support the mission of the school, which is to educate and support all the students. As a mother and grandmother, our family has used AEA in many ways. I am grateful for the help we have gotten. Many many families have benefited. This service is vital. Our schools need these experts. Please, do not vote for this bill.

01-31-2024

Karen McFarland []

AEA's have been performing well and are extremely appreciated by parents, teachers, and administrators. The agencies need local control to be able to serve local students. Not all school districts in Iowa are the same! Some things in education deserve robust public funding. AEA's are one of them.

01-31-2024

Shannon Parrish [Taxpayer/Mother]

Please Vote No, some additional concerns to think through. Mrs. Reynolds is paying a lot of money to another state to manage the Voucher bill. Ms. Reynolds has asked an out of state company to develop this bill and now encouraging private companies to come in and provide out of state services. Why is she sending Iowans money out of state to other companies? She is surrounding herself at the top levels with people who will not say "no" to her and some of these people are not from Iowa nor have the appropriate degree in his/her position. Also, parents this may be a concern but think how easy it will be for private companies to access your child's information (parent addresses, phone numbers, DOB's etc..) when they are given access to the statewide IEP system where all the evaluations are held and all IFSPs and IEPs are stored. They will be able to see it all. I am not against people moving to Iowa and helping our state, but is saddens me to see Iowans voices shut out and dollars are sent to other states.

01-31-2024

Shannon Parrish []

01-31-2024

Beth Swantz []

I am writing as a life long Iowa AEA user. I was a student in the early 70s and remember when our rural school was able to order books from Grant Wood AEA. I became a teacher in the 80s and grew my learning in so many ways through access to the AEA courses, workshops, and programs, and professional books and videos through the library. My students used AEA resources in many ways, especially the online resources like Britannica our only access to an encyclopedia. I left teaching for 15 years and have just returned to the classroom this fall. The thought of not having the support of Curriculum consultants makes me sick to my stomach. In the first few months of this year I have personally connected with many AEA staffers science consultants modeling teaching and working in my classroom with students, Digital Learning consultants answering my instructional technology questions and brainstorming the best ways to connect students with technology, Mentor coaches supporting my first year partner teacher. Each of those jobs and supports would be eliminated if this bill goes through. Please, stop the destruction of this institution it will only hurt our students, teachers and the districts of Iowa. This Bill does NOT fix anything rather it breaks an already fragile system. Just STOP!!!

01-31-2024

Ashley Nielsen-Wise []

Good Morning. I kindly urge you to vote NO to this bill, even with the amendments that have been brought forth since the introduction of this bill.If the goal is to improve the special education services and supports for students with disabilities, this bill is NOT doing that in the slightest. Additionally, this bill is taking away many services that assist with the achievement gaps of ALL students. I went to a small school and greatly benefited from the servicesof the AEA.However, when I went to college; I still noticed gaps between myself and my counterparts who had gone to larger schools where they were able to experience more.The way that the bill is currently written, with the amendment the localdecision making authority is actually transferred from the local level to the Director of the Iowa Department of Education, another agency, or is simply eliminated 133 times, taking power away from the State Board of Education (elected positions who should be representative of their constituents) to the Iowa Department of Education Director (an appointed position).The amendmentgives the Department of Managementpower over total tax levy remains. This provision will allow the Department of Management to arbitrarilyreduce a district's levy after an elected board approved the levy rate which will establish precedent for overturning locally controlled decisions by LOCALLY elected board. To me this is a shift not from control of state/federal funding to the school districts, it has the ability to take it away and take away power from the schools and locally elected school boards.The amendment prohibits some sharing agreements (such as shared Social Workers, Tech, School Business officials) which many schools use to save money. In my previous experience through my educational career, this means that I would not have had the opportunity to take certain classes and be exposed to certain technology which would have hindered my educational growth. Again, creating a gap between myself and students of other states/larger districts. The bill is to "help" those with disabilities, but what happens when the bill ends up hurting not only those with disabilities but also general education students. Many schools in rural districts and lower socioeconomic districts are going to SUFFER because of this.Per the new amendment, there is no funding to support the local school district choice for AEAs to contract for media.The timeline is June 1st of THIS YEAR. With all of the services that the AEA currently provides, and with all of the proposed changes if this bill were to go through, do you really think that every school district and the department of education would be ready and prepared for these massive changes that soon? So again... more HARM done than good.This amendmentleaves teacher pay increases despite local school districts concerns about budget issues. Of course we want to increase teacher pay, but what happens when small schools/low socioeconomicschools can't afford enough teachers? What are the kids supposed to do then?Reducing funding for the AEA would jeopardize the abovementioned benefits,negativelyimpacting the educational landscape in our community. Students, especially those in smaller and more rural school districts, will suffer from a lack of support, and teachers will struggle without the necessary resources to provide quality education.I kindly urge you to consider the longterm consequences of reducing funding for the AEA and advocate for maintaining or even increasing support for this essential agency. Our community's future depends on the education provided to our children, and I trust that you will make decisions thatprioritize their success.The success of the future children of our state, determines the future of success of our state. Vote NO to this bill. Iowans do not support this bill.

01-31-2024

Deb Kock [WLEA]

As a public school educator for 25 + years I strongly advise you to vote against HB 542. I attended a virtual town hall and listened to parents, former students and educators plea for the services that their local AEAs provide! The Dept. of Ed. Cannot handle these specialized jobs! I support and stand with the AEAs for the equity of our students!

01-31-2024

Kerry Biondi-Morlan []

Iowa has the third lowest special education complaints in the nation. There are reasons for this. AEA are local with boots on the ground, they build relationships with students, families and districts. The professionals receive topnotch, relevant professional development that allows staff to practice at the top of their license, there is little staff turnover, and it allows for equitable services. Destroying AEAs will not close the achievement gap. Let us work together as a team to help students. If you destroy an AEA system that is highly regarded, who are you going to blame next?

01-31-2024

Joyce Cota []

Do not pass this bill, the services our AEA and Keystone offer are vital to the schools and communities they serve, and would especially affect our rural schools! Governor Reynolds claims to care about Iowas students, and has voiced concerns about every parent being able to afford to get the best education they can for their child. Of course, this was said while she rammed through her bill that took money away from public schools, and sent it to private schools, to enhance her vouchers program. Her quest to dismantle public education since she became Governor is obvious to all who are paying attention. (Its also hypocritical to claim you want whats best for Iowa students, and then refuse to accept federal aid for groceries for low income iowa families during the summer months, while kids are not in school). Please stop this antiAEA bill in its tracks, it will be detrimental to far more students and teachers, than it could ever help. Thank you

01-31-2024

Amanda Spohn []

I am asking that you please do not support this bill. The AEA has been a huge help with not only just education for subjects of all kinds but just with helping with kids with down syndromes autism ADHD. With everything that's coming up through this world the AEA needs to be supported, not downsized not gotten rid of. It needs to stick around and be with us for a lot longer. Our teachers not only suffer but the bigger picture is that our children will because They won't have access to all the information that AEA can provide to help them learn and just to support them again. Please do not support this bill

01-31-2024

Melannie Trees []

Do not pass HSB 542. If approved, the impact will extend far beyond the school setting, influencing entire communities, particularly rural ones, and negatively impacting Iowa's youth. If the goal is to advance our society through education, then this proposed bill undeniably puts that goal at risk along with the future achievements and welfare of Iowas children. Please listen to your constituents and vote NO to this bill because it is ultimately not what is best for Iowas kids and Iowas schools.

01-31-2024

Trishia Dietzenbach []

Iowans are speaking loud and clear, vote no on this bill. We need local control, with decision making power spread over a group of people (local boards, superintendents, teachers, parents), rather than one person at the Department of Education. Voting no on this bill will let Iowa teachers know you support them. It will let students and parents know you care about the education of ALL Iowa students. It will send a message, loud and clear to our young professionals that Iowa cares about education, so they should stay here to work and live. This bill will have immediate and devastating effects for teachers, students and families.

01-31-2024

Morgan Stone []

As a parent in a small to medium sized district just outside the metro, I have major concerns as to how my children will access media, and technology services without their district having to jump through a ton of hoops. I also worry about their teachers ability to fully implement evidence based practices. This bill and its amendments seem to add red tape where none is needed. I, along with many others as evidenced by this public comment thread, am opposed to this bill and its amendments.

01-31-2024

Jason Martin-Hiner []

I'm asking that the subcommittee vote NO to letting this proposal move forward. Speaking from my experience as an educator, we like to consider two essential questions when considering adapting our strategies/approaches to learning for a student that is struggling. "Do we have adequate data to support the need for the changes we are going to implement?" and "Do we have evidence that the changes we are going to implement will help with the problem we are trying to solve?"This legislation dont meet either of these bars. It is based on a small data set of questionable value and there is no evidence that the proposed changes will actually help anyone. In fact, this quote is taken directly from the Iowa Department of Educations website, highlighting the benefits of our current system: As intermediate agencies, AEAs offer the kinds of services that can be most efficiently and economically provided on a regional or cooperative basis among school districts. The Iowa system is widely regarded as one of the foremost regional service systems in the country (https://educate.iowa.gov/about).Nearly all of this legislation comes from an analysis written by a few people from an out of state company with no knowledge of the intricacies of our AEA system and the benefits it has for Iowa educators and students. I am always open to critical examination and looking for improvements, but this proposal is being rushed through without careful consideration of how it will impact our system in a negative way for decades. Please vote NO and take the time to consider how to best gather the appropriate data to make an informed decision about improving education in our state.

01-31-2024

Sarah Figanbaum [Tripoli CSD]

My name is Sarah Figanbaum, an educator with 33 years of experience, currently serving as an elementary principal and the district's school improvement coordinator. I wanted to reach out regarding HSB 542 and express my opposition to it.Throughout my teaching career and as a parent, the AEA has played a vital role, providing invaluable support. I urge you to take the time to research the facts and seek knowledge from those deeply involved in education the educators themselves. Just as you would consult an optometrist for your child's eyesight, the experts in the field of education, including administrators, teachers, and AEA consultants, should be your source of information. Please get the facts before making any decisions.Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,Sarah Figanbaum

01-31-2024

Anne Stupar []

Please vote no to House File 542/Senate Study Bill 3073. The focus of the AEA is to help support our students, families, teachers, school staff, schools and districts in a large variety of ways. There is a strong team approach with the AEA and the schools; they work together to provide the best outcomes for ALL students in ALL areas (big and small school districts). I urge you to please think about all the wonderful services and supports (both at the forefront of the daily work being done in schools as well as those that are less visible day to day but still very present and extremely beneficial in the success of our children and their teachers) that are provided to all students, teachers, school staff, schools and districts. I honestly dont think that most people have knowledge about the extent to which AEAs support students, families, teachers, school staff, schools, and districts. Please listen and have an open heart and mind to the voice of your constituents and vote no.

01-31-2024

Sherri Boschee [Lenox Community School ]

As a teacher, I have seen firsthand what the AEA does for our public schools. From the psychologists that work with students who have experienced trauma, two specialists, who work with students with special needs, and their teachers, to those who assist school districts with data analysis and discovering new and improved ways to deliver instruction. All of these services and more are essential to the success of all Iowa students. Please vote no on hsb 542.

01-31-2024

Lee Goldsmith []

This bill reads as another axe strike to our invaluable public schools. Why would we restrict our educators from research insights? Why limit our childrens' access to services and equity. Our public schools are available to all of us, and we need them to be strong. They are not just 6 hours of class time. They are the foundation of our community, and so is anything and anyone who supports our public schools. How can I possibly support a politician or legislation that would harm our children.

01-31-2024

Melissa McAllister []

I strongly oppose this bill. Our youngest child greatly benefited from speech services from the AEA to overcome a lateral lisp and learn how to pronounce words in a different way and she was not a special education student. As a 20+ year volunteer in our public schools, I know that ALL students are general education students first, so cutting the nonSpecial Education services WILL also impact students with disabilities who are students in many General Education classes. All AEA services matter!

01-31-2024

Craig Barnum []

AEAs provide essential supports. HSB 542 in its current state would disproportionately devastate smaller communities and school districts. Media and curricular resources are vital services for these districts. Without them, districts would be forced to hire additional technology and curriculum personnel. The current AEA arrangement efficiently shares these services in a very costeffective manner. The impacts would be compounded due to talent/workforce shortages in both of these areas, so even if districts did have the resources to hire these additional positions it is very unlikely they would be filled. The logical outcomes are few services for rural kids and communities increasing the opportunity gap for these populations.One of the stated purposes of this legislation is to increase the efficacy of special education services. This is also mistargeted. As a parent of a child with an IEP and receiving these services, I fully support this premise. However, let's be clear, most of the issues with special education achievement are not due to shortcomings of the AEA system. Addressing special education needs to happen at the LEA or local district level where the vast majority of special education services are implemented. My child receives AEAbased speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Staffing these types of positions is already extremely difficult. The outcome of this bill would exacerbate these staffing challenges by making it harder for AEAs to anticipate which districts would need these services. My fear is that districts would actually lose the ability to provide these critical services if the code was implemented as written. In summary, this bill will hurt families, communities, and school districts. It should be abandoned or at the very least substantially revised to remove these harmful outcomes for Iowans.

01-31-2024

Amy Conlin [Keystone AEA]

I am deeply disappointed in the introduction of this bill, to decrease the services from the AEA and the implications that the AEA are at fault for decreasing or failing abilities of the special education students. This bill is what will fail special education students. Special, education students need access to all the AEA services in the schools and so do the teachers either through the people that work with them or the media Sources they can provide. Without them small districts will suffer and ultimately the children will suffer.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Durfey [VOTER, parent]

Governor Reynolds must be under the impression that if a student requires AEA services, they require them for the extent of their educational career. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are so many ways that AEA staff can come to assist a student for a limited time, for whatever a student may need, and then exit them from said service. AEA's are for all students! By limiting the scope, the Governor is hindering a student's ability to receive what they need, in the moment that they need it.

01-31-2024

Judi Barta []

Please slow down and really look at the changes being proposed for the AEAs. First of all, putting it under the Department of Education ADDS another level of bureaucracy and it takes away local control. I have heard that there are hiring adds out for the Department of Education for when this bill is passed. That implies that Gov. Reynolds is not going to listen to the people who receive services and do what she wants regardless of how it will hurt our kids.I have an adult child who received AEA speech therapy at the age of four, who wouldnt receive that under the new bill. I have a granddaughter that also received speech therapy and reading assistance in grade school who also wouldnt have gotten that help under the new rules, AND I have a grandson who received special education services for 6 years before getting an official autism diagnosis. All of their lives would have been completely changed without the easy access to AEA services.PLEASE listen to the people who have used the AEA services, the kids, teachers, parents and AEA professionals as they are the ones who will truly be hurt by this bill.

01-31-2024

Robyn Ponder []

As a lifelong citizen of Iowa, parent, and educator, I am extremely concerned about the proposals for restructuring AEAs. I have been an educator for over 21 years and in my current role as the Curriculum and Special Programs Director (special programs include special education, Talented and Gifted, English Learners, AtRisk, Technology, and Teacher Leadership), I see first hand the positive effect our local AEAs play every day to support ALL teachers and ALL students. In overseeing special education in our district, I know the importance of supporting students with IEPs, but those students are general education students first. The AEA's provide irreplaceable support for our general education students, so taking those supports away will hurt the success of all students. I fear we will see more students with a disability qualifying for special education if we loose the support that strengthens our core needs. In addition, the time, energy, and expense it will take for leaders in our schools to seek out and budget for individual services that AEAs currently provide us will be detrimental for our districts. This bill will end up putting more stress on school teachers and leaders. The attached letter goes into more detail on how our district utilizes AEAs every day, outside of the already amazing special education services we receive. Thank you for listening, hopefully taking appropriate action against this bill, and doing what is be best for all our students in Iowa.

Attachment

01-31-2024

Nancy Cross []

The revised bill from the governor is still not in our children's best interest. I can only imagine what their parents are feeling!! The head of the depth of Ed . Doesn't have a degree in education so lacks know about what is best for ALL of our children. How is this going to encourage our college students to go into a job that could easily end in one year or less? A board is better to make decisions than just one person. Why were so few students tested for such a big decision and change, A few hundred vs the thousand that are being helped? How does it even seem possible that it will cost less with these changes and not hurt our CHILDREN. Help may come from outside sources just like the testing was done by who?where is the data telling us we need a change.Thank you for reading about my/our concerns. Call or text if I can help.

01-31-2024

Leslie Moore []

Consolidating power in the executivelyrun Department of Education through this amended bill in the name of oversight and choice is a political move, rather than a response to Iowa citizens' needs and concerns about education in Iowa. The Governor is putting our elected officials in the position of supporting her agenda or listening to Iowans affected by these unnecessary actions. I implore our elected officials to listen to their constituents and the thousands of hours they have collectively given to make their voice heard on this issue. Children's welfare and confidence in our state representation is at stake.

01-31-2024

Jennifer LIghtbody []

My grandson received services through AEA that met his needs to be successful in high school. Centralized power in the Department of Ed will dilute focus, downgrade quality and result in resources being siphoned away to support a bigger state bureaucracy. Please reject this bill until further study is done.

01-31-2024

Stacey Ubben [West Fork High School]

As someone deeply committed to the field of education, I have long believed in the importance of raising starting salaries for teachers. A competitive salary not only attracts talented individuals to the teaching profession but also recognizes the invaluable role educators play in shaping the future.While I wholeheartedly support initiatives aimed at improving entrylevel compensation, I am equally concerned about the financial wellbeing of those who have dedicated 25 years or more to the field of education. These experienced educators have contributed significantly to the development and success of countless students and have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and expertise over the years.As we advocate for increased starting salaries, we must address the concerns of our seasoned educators. They deserve recognition for their years of service, commitment, and the impact they have made on the lives of students. I am eager to understand the plans and considerations for providing fair compensation and benefits to educators with extensive experience.It is my sincere hope that any proposed changes in salary structures take into account the valuable contributions of veteran teachers. Acknowledging their dedication through competitive compensation and additional incentives will not only honor their years of service but also serve as a crucial step toward retaining experienced educators in the profession.

01-31-2024

Glenda Wiltgen [West Lyon Com. School]

This bill needs to be STOPPED. I have worked with our AEA for over 30 years. They do amazing things for our schools. They give us resources that we use many times a day; everyday we teach and/or plan. Public schools take every child that is brought to us. We don't get to deny or turn away anyone. We need help dealing with and figuring out some students. As teachers we are wearing thin and taking this away from us is one more thing hurting our students in Iowa. Please tell Governor Reynolds that it is time to start putting Iowa students first. Her testing information is not even relevant anymore. Listen to your teachers. The ones using this valuable resource, should have the most power when deciding this. Why are people who no nothing about being in a classroom, working with kids, making this decision? Ask the people who use this. STOP THIS BILL. Thanks,Glennie Wiltgen

01-31-2024

Janelle Schorg []

I would like to know how dismantling the AEAs will improve student achievement? Where is the research? The evidence based practices? Schools are required to implement evidence based practices when they have a designation so why shouldnt the state/department of education need to too. This bill does not address the root cause that the governor would like to improve and I believe it will actually make it worse.

01-31-2024

Donna McClain []

I do NOT support any part of this bill. I have spent time looking through these comments and I have yet to find a single one that supports this. Every comment is asking you to vote NO. Please listen to your constituents. They are the people you represent. You were elected because they believed you would be their voice at the capitol. Now their voices are screaming at you to vote no, please listen. This is how democracy works! As a mother of a three children and an educator my family has benefited from all parts of the AEA. Our oldest was born with a cleft lip and need speech therapy. We could not have afforded a private company to provide this for him. We also used the AEA hearing specialist and behavior consultant to educate us as parents about how to help our child. Our middle child was talented and gifted in math. The AEA math consultant helped her teachers provide her with accelerated learning. This is one important aspect of what the content consultants do for teachers. They use their extensive knowledge in literacy, math, science, CTE, social studies, and technology to assess children that are not only struggling but need more acceleration. Our third child struggled with reading in kindergarten. The AEA content consultant helped his teachers by giving them research based strategies that targeted his specific needs. He did not qualify for an IEP so without the general education literacy consultant he would not have had support. As a principal and superintendent, my husband relied on the general education services from the AEA to provide professional learning to his staff, to support behaviorally challenged children, and to provide support during times of crisis. He also needed the services of the special education consultants. Small districts in rural Iowa will not be to find all of this support. Their flow through dollars that the will not cover the costs of all the support personnel they currently receive from AEAs. Please listen to your voters!

01-31-2024

Kayla Benson []

I am not going to sit here and give you all of the examples as to why AEA needs to stay in public schools because youve heard that and obviously are not listening. You run your campaign on giving parents the choice giving the power back to the parents for their childrens education, if that is true, let families decide. Give the power to the families to decide that is what you were all about. I have a son that is nonverbal does not speak one word I have never heard him say Mom I have never heard him say I love you. I may never hear that. And I rely heavily upon the teachers and AEA services to not only educate myself but to help better educate people that are working with my son to give him a life that he deserves. And if you take that away from him, you are basically saying that children with disabilities are not worth it. youve already crossed them off . by doing this, you would be putting special education back to the Stone Age for Iowa families. I would love for you to have a Townhall meeting and allow parents that use AEA services to speak up and tell you what impact this will do not only their family, but the future of their children, it is easy to set upon a hill and sign off basically on pieces of paper and its even easier staying on that hill and not seeing the impact that that thing that you signed has on the people that voted you in. Remember that you work for us!

01-31-2024

Jennifer Funk []

As a school psychologist who has spent the great majority of my 18 year career working in the AEA system, I am opposed to HSB 542. Im a native Iowan with great pride in the education I received in a very small rural district. It is this pride that drove me to return to my home state after graduate school and internship in Michigan. In my field, Iowas AEA system is revered as the gold standard model of service. I implore you to slow down and truly understand what the AEA provides equity and access to highquality educational opportunities and resources. No school lacks vital services changing this would mean unequal access across our state. Additionally, the economy of scale AEA can leverage helps save taxpayer money while ensuring highquality services are provided. Many questions remain as to how HSB 542 will do the same. Please vote no on this bill.

01-31-2024

Brad Lake []

Please vote down this bill! I dont know one person who supports this bill. It begs the question, besides our Governor, who was asking for this change to our AEA?! Not teachers, not parents, not administrators! So why is this bill even here in the first place! Look at these comments and remember youre in your position to represent the people who elected you. Its obvious where the public stand on this issue. Please vote accordingly. Thank you!!

01-31-2024

Theresa Sheeder []

I fervently and respectfully request you to vote NO to HSB 542 & SSB 3073, I am a mother and grandmother of children in rural areas who have benefitted from AEAs services. And these bills will NOT improve services or increase student achievement, nor do they provide guidelines for those who would provide the services appropriately, in turn creating a GREATER gap in student achievement. It isnt feasible that all districts will be able to contract with appropriate providers to help teachers and students consistently, appropriately, OR fiscally responsibly as does the AEA. Due diligence is IMPERATIVE before ANY change is considered. PLEASE put ALL children first before the almighty dollarit CAN be done. It is our DUTY and RESPONSIBILITY to ensure the best for ALL childrenPLEASE VOTE NO and protect our children!!! Thank you for your time.

01-31-2024

Liz Johnson []

Please support AEAs and the children of Iowa. This bill will not improve special education or education in Iowa, in fact it does quite the opposite. Rural schools will never be able to fill these positions of specialized staff resulting in children losing services and law suits increasing in Iowa.

01-31-2024

Katie Lyons []

Respectfully, I implore you, as a mother of two children, as a former early childhood special education teacher, as a current early childhood special education consultant, and as a fellow Iowan, please listen to the voices speaking loudly against this bill. Listen to the experts in education with wisdom gained through years of experience and research. Listen to the parents who are concerned about what happens to their childrens education. Listen to the teachers whose tireless dedication has repeatedly been tried by more demands and less support. Please carefully consider the lasting ramifications of this bill. Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Scott Walberg []

Ive had several friends that have needed and utilized the services provided by the AEA. I grew up in a rural community as well. These services are vital to many school districts across our state. They need to remain localized to provide the level of service needed for the child and minimize out of class time. ive never seen DE staff in a classroom, at a school administration meeting, or a school board meeting. The AEA staff is regularly at these places, getting feedback and providing input, working together for our states children. The governor has not provided any studies, research, or feedback from school boards, superintendents, principals, or even AEA field staff across the state to back this bill! She has twisted and misrepresented the stats, and already changed her stance because of lack of knowledge and research. I urge our all of our representatives to dig to the bottom of why this is really happening! There is NO clear path or plan for succession. SLOW down, first figure out if there is truly a problem. Always room for improvement, but to throw out the current system, build a brand new one with no clear plan, no standards to measure that plan, with no shown cost savings, is for sure a detriment to school districts, families, and children across our state! THE Very people you represent. I urge you to vote this bill down.

01-31-2024

Nancy Cross []

I just read the comments from our past school board member from Waukee. Please read it yourself as she had some excellent points About the AEA and it's great part of our education system. I've seen it help several students on the past several years I am acquainted with an AEA leader she is very busy helping the area schools. I do not see how you can cut services and save money at our children's expense. Because cutting services is what you are suggesting.Also separate teachers salary out from this bill. That is a different subject and not just to get this inadequate bill passed.Go back and read Wendy L from Waukee as a past school board member. She said it very well and I agree and don't want to repeat something she so well presented to your group. Thank you

01-31-2024

Mary Stevens [Central Rivers AEA ]

I am opposed to HSB 542 and am asking you to vote no on this bill. The stated purpose is to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. There is no evidence that the changes included in this bill will have any positive impact on individual students. Lets take a look at whats working well for students with disabilities in our current Iowa educational system. Then focus our efforts and resources on replicating these strategies across the state. The current bill will essentially dismantle the AEAs and disrupt our Iowa educational system. We will have to spend our time and effort on recreating a system rather than focusing on improving outcomes for students with disabilities. Please vote no on HSB 542.

01-31-2024

Nancy Welu [Retired Keystone AEA Special Education Consultant]

As a retired special education consultant, I served schools, teachers, families and children for over twenty five years. I use the verb serve because that is what AEAs do. For over fifty years, AEAs serve and support ALL schools in Iowa. This is a system that has worked for fifty years. Do not destroy it. Please vote NO on this bill!

01-31-2024

Carrie Fellinger []

As an educator of over 26 years I have relied on the AEAs support as a student, teacher, parent, grandparent, and for all the students I serve. Their resources have contributed to every aspect of my growth as an educator. The AEA serves all children and supports teachers with their expertise in many areas. They provide equitable services across the state. As an educator I know that teachers need resources and support to meet the varying needs of todays children. WE can not continue to cut educational supports and expect better for our children. I know I want better for my grandchildren, daughter, daughterinlaw, families I serve, and all my colleagues. AEAs are needed for a support system to continue to achieve great things in education. To our elected representatives, we believe you will do what is right to support a solid educational system and support a firm foundation for Iowas children by saving the AEA. Vote no to this bill.

01-31-2024

Sheri Hosek []

I strongly urge you to NOT support this bill. Our students, teachers, and administrators need the services that AEA providesnot only the special ed services, but the educational and media services aspects of the AEA, not just the special education services.The educational and media services departments greatly benefit students with IEPs also. Below are some of those ways:Assistive technology teams and technology resources that are available for consult to any district, no matter how big or how small. While assistive technology may still be available under the restructuring, the AEA staff's ability to collaborate as a team, attend conferences to build their knowledge to share with teachers, and respond immediately to phone calls will be a thing of the past.General education consultants who partner with both general education and SPED teachers to ensure teachers are getting the most uptodate professional development and that students are getting strong instruction in both the general education and special education settingsBehavior support teams that can go into districts upon request, free of charge, to observe challenging behaviors from students and coach teachers to reinforce positive behaviors.Administrative support Special education doesn't exist in a silo, it is part of an overall system. That system needs to be data driven and ran efficiently. AEA staff consult with and support administrators to ensure data is being used to properly provide intervention before special education identification and used to monitor to ensure students are progressing towards their IEP goals.Media services provides countless resources to ensure teachers have manipulatives for students who need them and rich text to enhance oral language skills. Cutting the media services part of the AEA will have a disproportionate impact on rural districts.Again, please do NOT support this bill, as it will hurt our state's children by not giving them all the incredibly helpful tools they need in order to succeed.

01-31-2024

Monica Augspurger []

I have been a speech language pathologist(SLP) for 30 years. This bill will have a negative impact on the services and supports that students and schools receive across the state. I worked at Heartland AEA as an SLP in Iowa for 25 of those years. As an SLP in the AEA system I have had access to more professional development and collaboration opportunities with other SLPs and teachers at no extra expense to the school district. This is beneficial to the students that I serve as well as the teachers that I work with.If the Legislature truly feel that something needs to be done to decrease the budget to AEAs or provide more fiscal decisionmaking for school districts, then sitting down with districts and AEAs to come up with a plan that truly benefits students makes the most sense. This is NOT happening right now. This bill is being pushed through for reason that I do not truly feel are in anyone's best interest, especially Iowa children. Please consider who is really benefitting from this bill by thoroughly digging into the facts. Look all ALL of that data, not just the data that the governor is showing you. I think that you will see that Iowa students are succeeding. Thank you for reading.

01-31-2024

Nancy Fry Dvorak []

Please dont support this bill in any form! I am a grandmother who used the AEA services many years ago for my children. Now I have grandchildren in the public school system. After last years voucher bill passed by all Republicans, the total dollars which were taken from public tax money meant for the public school systems was grossly under estimated. It seems to me that Kim Reynolds cant seem to tell the truth on any amount of money that she thinks will be impacted for the education of public school children. And another blow to the children of Iowa was the removal of federal money to help feed underprivileged children during the summer months. In my opinion, Kim Reynolds is looking to stockpile money to pay for the voucher system. This all needs to stop. An audit of her and her staff needs to happen now! Stop this bill now! It only harms all children in our public schools.

01-31-2024

Amber Hruby []

As a parent and substitute teacher, this bill feels like a way to destroy public education and make it harder for teachers and parents to get help for their student/child. I think we really need to ask why? Who does this benefit? It doesn't benefit students, parents or the state as a whole. The only possible beneficiaries are private companies that would provide these services for higher rates. This isn't a fix and is instead a huge step backward. If you care about our children and the future of our state this bill is an obvious no vote.

01-31-2024

JoDee Granberg []

Please vote no on this bill. There has not been enough research with educators, kids, parents or others who know how much the AEA does for all. Why is there such rush to push this through now? Due diligence needs to be done. Our rural schools do not have the resources to find the help needed in a timely manner. Our kids don't deserve this. Our children are living in tough times. It's not always about test scores....they are often left to fend for themselves. The programs and support provided by AEA cannot be discarded and/or handed over to organizations who don't have the skills or knowledge to know how to help. They need these trained professionals to help in all areas of their lives. Trauma and behavior is a huge part of that. Please don't let our kids be the victims of rushed decisions based on shifting funds and taking away programs that are necessary for their success.

01-31-2024

Josh Lyons []

The AEA system has had a profound impact on Iowa students, their families, and educators over the last 50 years. The services that they provide to schools allows for sharing of services, provides ongoing support for ongoing and new initiatives within districts. We need AEAs to support regular and consistent services for our students. This bill, although provides some local control, may unintentionally create a ripple of effect of inconsistent services and supports from year to year without assurances of consistent services providers and services districts count on including leadership support, media services for not just online resources or books (but also technology and digital learning support), and other supports for families in crisis just to name a few.Why are we putting more power in the hands of the Department of Education, taking away local control, and giving the Director of the Department unilateral power and control over decisionmaking.I agree that the AEA system needs to be examined and changes may need to be made; however, a more diligent study with purposeful recommendations need to be made prior to blowing up the whole system.

01-31-2024

Melanie Haan []

By shutting down any part of the AEA is hurting Iowa's kids. I have utilized the AEA for over 15 years. They have guided and helped me tremendously. From ear and eye checks to my autistic son. We wouldnt have had the early intervention that everyone says is so important for my autistic son if it werent for the direction of the AEA. The years it took to fine tune and reach out to help kids cannot be undone by one governor thats had a mission for dismantling public education and everything associated with it. I live in a great city(Bettendorf)and awesome schools but even they will not be able to fund and find the amount of services needed to fix this dismantling. Every month that might go by with schools and kids trying to figure out how to go forward after this will be lost time on vulnerable kids and parents not to mention all the lost jobs by AEA personnel.I promise to spread the word to my ABA therapists and parents and top ranked schools disabled kids parents to let them know about the Governor's movement towards uncaring and selfishness with wanting to promote private schools for money.Im assuming the Governor already did the asking about why our numbers in Iowa havent improved. Iowa has so much farm chemical run off that Iowa might actually have more severe autism and disabilities that other states and that might be why we cant get better numbers for Kim OR maybe not giving the AEA more money for sooo many years even as inflation has risen is the reason kimmy cant get the desired numbers shes wanting as an excuse.Iowa mother of 5

01-31-2024

Jennifer Horn-Frasier []

As a former public school teacher in Iowa, as a parent of public school children, and as a nearly lifelong resident of Iowa, I join the thousands of other citizens of Iowa to exhort the legislature NOT to pass this harmful bill. If passed, it would do immeasurable damage to our public education system, which is already under attack and struggling. I have experienced firsthand the expert help and benefit of our worldclass AEA employees, expertise and help which is simply not available through any other accessible, affordable means. My children are already considering relocating to another state that is more supportive of public education and other values we hold dear. Please do not pass this terrible legislation and give them yet another reason to leave.

01-31-2024

Doug Rowe []

Thank you for all you. But NO THANKS for this bill. I am a Republican. What the state is wanting to do to public education is a disgrace. We need the AEA, we dont need the DOE to manage this. It appears that actions taken by the state are pointing to the demise of public education. We need the AEA, does it need to be evaluated to see if a restructure is warranted. Yes.Example of AEA services.We had a death of a GR Parent and support of the school. We made a call to the AEA for support for our kids. Within minutes we had a response and plan. Can you tell me that your proposed plan will porvide the same support, in minutes, and be included in the money we pay the AEA. I doubt it. Government doesnt work that fast. About the salary, you want to start teachers at $50,000. That is great. For our school this adds roughly $11,500 to the starting wage. Are you going to provide funding to increase my wife's salary from $65,000 (after almost 30 years) to $76,500? Only right and fair to those already employed. I doubt this will happen.You have aready given me great cause to change and vote Democrat based on the use of public money to private schools. You pass this and I will not vote Republican in the state of Iowa again.

01-31-2024

Kelly Sass []

The sheer number of comments allowing this bill speak for the lack of public support so I will keep it simple. AEAs play a vital role in our schools, particularly rural schools. The services range from teacher support to physical therapy. I urge you to reject this bill as it will no doubt hurt Iowa students and Iowa schools. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Maria Green []

I've worked in special education for 8 years with students with a variety of disabilities and varying levels of need. The support the AEA has provided to me, my coworkers, and the students throughout that time is truly irreplaceable.

01-31-2024

Emily Sadewasser []

I am strongly opposed to this bill that threatens the quality of education our children receive, reduces the much needed resources available to them, and weakens support for our educators. This would have significant negative impacts on our schools and communities as a whole, especially in rural districts. Iowa needs AEAs! Please vote no on HSB 542.

01-31-2024

Shelly Henderson []

Please vote no on SSB3073/HSB542. Why are we rushing to dismantle AEA? Who is this really benefiting? Please realize that the majority of Iowans, the people you work for, do not want this! Vote NO!

01-31-2024

Matt Miers []

Please stop destroying Iowa's excellent public schools. Please stop trying to turn the education of our kids into a forprofit businesses. Our children should never be used for making money. Destroying AEAs for private companies (who have zero track record of success) is an absolute joke.

01-31-2024

Patricia Schuch [Ms. Patty’s Place Daycare]

As a former educator and in my current business; there has not been a day that AEA services were needed. The younger citizens of IOWA have the rights to receive an education that prompts learning. There are numerous citizens that need the extra resources that are provided by the local AEA. If these services are taken away; you as our government officials voted in to provide for the USA citizens, will be setting the future into a downward spiral. The school system is lacking in all aspects. Then you take away a necessity that strains the whole society.THIS IS NOT WHAT YOU WERE VOTED IN OFFICE FOR. Taking advantage of h weak and indefensible. Why not cut your ridiculous salaries? Stop voting for our resources to be help 3rd world countries. This is a total disgrace and I cant wait till you meet your maker. Last question..WHAT IF YOUR CHILD NEEDED AEA?

01-31-2024

Branwen Graham []

As a lifelong Iowan, I am appalled at what has been happening within our educational system and the direction our state is trying to go regarding the services available for our children. I am also an adoptive parent from our states foster care system. Our youngest has been receiving support from the AEA Early Access program since he was 10 months old. It has been amazingly beneficial to help him progress and reach those developmental milestones that he was not reaching before. He was born with drug exposure that has caused developmental delays. He will likely continue to need the services that the AEA provides as he enters his school years. Many children in our foster care system do. The changes proposed to the AEA and funding could deeply hurt those children that are most in need of our help. It seems that rural areas of our state could be hit especially hard with privatizing the services the AEA currently provides in those areas. I fail to understand how making services less available and more expensive in those hard hit areas is any type of improvement and not just a political stunt. Whatever side of the aisle you are on, I implore you to oppose both bills. Point blank they hurt my son Luke and all the other Luke's in my state. We are paying attention to our elected officials and hope they are putting the needs of Iowa's children over anything else. Our votes matter and I refuse to support anyone who can't see the negligence of these proposals. Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Natalie R []

As both a parent, and a professional in specialty services, this bill in now way supports parents or students. It also doesn't increase teacher salaries like it claims. This bill will take away necessary services from public access, and force parents to try to find supports privately. The waiting lists for these services at private providers is already up to two years for some of these. The detriment to the children is immeasurable, and the community. Please see notes below from the ESSA signed in 2015. ESSA includes provisions that will help to ensure success for students and schools. Below are just a few. The law:Advances equity by upholding critical protections for America's disadvantaged and highneed students.Requiresfor the first timethat all students in America be taught to high academic standards that will prepare them to succeed in college and careers.Ensures that vital information is provided to educators, families, students, and communities through annual statewide assessments that measure students' progress toward those high standards.Helps to support and grow local innovationsincluding evidencebased and placebased interventions developed by local leaders and educators.Sustains and expands this administration's historic investments in increasing access to highquality preschool.Maintains an expectation that there will be accountability and action to effect positive change in our lowestperforming schools, where groups of students are not making progress, and where graduation rates are low over extended periods of time.Without the AEA, Iowa will be, at their own fault, 100% in direct violation of this. Please do the right thing, and stop this bill in it's tracks. VOTE NO.

01-31-2024

Sandra Carroll []

Please do not allow this bill to advance out of committee. It is moving too fast. It is trying to dismantle a system that has been in place and served us well for 50 years and restructure it in 5 months. There is no funding to support the local school district's choice for AEAs to contract media. This bill gives too much control to the director of the department of education, including complete authority over AEA staffing, contracts, salaries, reorganizations, and dissolving AEAs. What happened to local control? This bill is not in the best interest of our students and of Iowa schools. Do not support it!

01-31-2024

Christie VanWey [Marion Independent School District]

As a school Business Official the financial impact from the loss of the AEA's will be damaging. Even though the funding for the AEA is shifted to the district control, we as a district cannot provide the services that the AEA provides to us at the amount of funding we will receive. For example, our district does not need a full time Audiologist, so we will pay top dollar in the private sector to hire one to come into the district.That is just the special ed side. The other services the AEA provides are bulk purchasing with all our districts to provide HUGE discounts on things like paper, food service items, etc. In addition to providing technology consulting that allows us to update our infrastructure at the most efficient cost and effective manner instead of relying on salesmen who want the biggest sale, not concerned about the best outcome for the district. I could go on and on about the cost savings the AEA brings that can't be measured. This bill simply will provide a huge burden on district budgets and in the long run, be our children will be the ones who pay for that.

01-31-2024

Sandi E []

01-31-2024

Molly Moser []

I am writing in opposition to HSB 542. Impact on Children's EducationThe proposed bill poses a significant threat to the quality of education our children receive. Eliminating educational services, media, and technology support means a direct reduction in resources available to students, hindering their ability to access essential learning tools and information. Its important to know that our states educators believe that all children are general education students first that means we support all of them with many of the same resources, and then add additional resources according to a students specific needs. In Iowa, most children receiving special education services are educated in a general education classroom. Our AEA system intertwines all the resources a student receiving special education resources needs to best support quality outcomes. Isolating special education services from our other services reduces a teachers ability to support all of his or her students. Content area consultants play a vital role in supporting teachers and students, especially those facing challenges in their learning journey. The bill's impact on removing this support undermines the strategic assistance needed to address the diverse learning needs of students.Loss of Professional Development for TeachersWe all appreciate that teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of our children. The bill's elimination of professional learning opportunities and content area consultants directly impacts educators' abilities to enhance their teaching methods and support struggling learners effectively.Strain on Rural SchoolsSmaller rural schools will bear the brunt of this proposed legislation. With the removal of educational services and technology support from the services available for their districts, rural schools will struggle to meet the diverse needs of their students, exacerbating existing disparities in educational opportunities.Financial Burden on SchoolsSchools will have inadequate funding to replace the services that are being lost. As many of our midsized and smaller rural districts begin reviewing the money that is currently flowing through their district to the AEA, theyre finding that those funds fall dramatically short of what would be needed to replace the services being lost. Job Loss in the Education SectorThe proposed bill not only affects students and teachers but also has severe implications for employment. Each AEA will reduce many positions, creating a ripple effect of economic hardship and increased unemployment in the education sector.Diminished Access to Digital ResourcesStudents today rely heavily on digital resources and online databases for their academic pursuits. The removal of these resources due to the bill will hinder students' ability to complete homework assignments and research, potentially hindering their academic performance. These resources are purchased at consortium prices and made available statewide in a process that benefits all Iowa students.Threat to Special Education ServicesThe bill's failure to adequately fund special education services places a disproportionate burden on schools, jeopardizing the quality of support that students with special needs receive. This not only affects the students but also places additional strain on teachers and staff responsible for their care.In Iowa, most children receiving special education services are educated in a general education classroom. Our AEA system intertwines all the resources a student receiving special education resources needs to best support quality outcomes. Isolating special education services from our other services reduces a teachers ability to support all of his or her students. Overall Impact on the Future We cant stress enough that the repercussions of this bill extend beyond the classroom, affecting entire communities, and an entire generation of students.Education is an investment in the future of our society. The proposed bill, by undermining the quality of education and support services, jeopardizes the future success and wellbeing of our children. It is imperative to consider the longterm consequences and work towards a solution that prioritizes the needs of our students, families, and educators.

01-31-2024

Judi McCarty []

I am opposed to this bill. It will hurt our education system in the state of Iowa. Our children will suffer without materials and collaboration for teachers. Parents will not have the resources they need from birth on. The AEA staff that work on our schools daily have a knowledge of wealth in all areas including the Science of Reading. This bill will NOT change test scores for our students with disabilities. Test scores are just a snapshot of a student. The best way to look at performance and growth is through their IEP goal progress. Please say NO to this bill.

01-31-2024

Jessica Pullman [Turkey Valley CSD]

I am opposed to HSB 542. My school district is part of Keystone AEA and as an educator there are numerous services Keystone AEA provides that are irreplaceable! In my 20 years in education I have been a secondary science teacher and currently my role is the district's instructional coach and curriculum director. In all 3 of my positions I have received many trainings at Keystone that have been extremely valuable and allowed me to grow in my career. The employees of Keystone are knowledgeable and helpful in any way that I have needed. My trainings through Keystone on instructional coaching and curriculum have provided me the knowledge and partners with our navigator team to move my district forward. We have worked through implementing multiple new core curriculums that past three years that without the expertise of our team at Keystone would have been a much longer process and definitely not as smooth. The multiple individuals from Keystone AEA that are in our building on any given day are the greatest resource of knowledge, expertise, and team members that make our district better. If you want school districts to make gains in student success, we need the resources and experts that we have in our AEA. Thank you for your time and for considering the HUGE impact this would have on our school districts.Sincerely, Jessica Pullman

01-31-2024

Jennifer Gersten []

I want to express my opposition to HSB 452, even with the modification. Both of my children have directly benefited from AEA services through Grant Wood AEA, ranging from Early ACCESS that helped my younger daughter with developmental delays and feeding difficulties to AEA consultants in the school to help with training and coaching on an IEP and BIP to college readiness supports for my older daughter, who is now in college. This bill will negatively affect the range and quality of services available to the children that need it most. Please do not pass this bill. The AEA model has served this state well and I don't want to lose this for my children or other children.

01-31-2024

Mary Jo Nordheim []

I urge you to take some time and research what the impact to our districts would be should this bill pass, especially to our small, rural districts. This is too important to our children to be pushed through so fast without further study and understanding.

01-31-2024

Deborah Rose []

Please, please, please consider the chaos that the passage of this bill will create for ALL Iowa students, families, and school districts. Not only is it bad for Iowa education, but the timing of it does not allow for an efficient and effective transition. The DE cannot support districts the way the AEA can. Also, please separate the teacher compensation part of the bill from the AEA part of it.

01-31-2024

Amy Tharp []

I cannot believe that I even have to write this, but I oppose bill HSB 542. As a special education teacher, I am appalled that our state is even considering these socalled "modifications." I am appalled that these "modifications" are being proposed by people who do not even work with educators or students. I would invite any of you and all of you to contact the educators in our state and personally have a conversation with them about how they feel about these "modifications." I would also invite you to spend a day in a special education classroom. I cannot even tell you how much more difficult my job is going to be if these "modifications" are made. Our AEAs provide so much support to teachers and students. They provide professional development and resources that would not otherwise be available. You can try and place these responsibilities on schools, but I guarantee this will be a huge disservice to teachers and students. Here is something else to consider ... teachers are leaving the profession at high rates right now. If you continue to take away support and resources, this is going to happen at a much higher rate. We (teachers) are exhausted, mentally, physically, and emotionally, and we need all of the support we can get. We rely on our AEAs for SO MUCH of this support. Again, I oppose bill HSB 542.

01-31-2024

John Willoz []

Listen to your constituents, and DO NOT vote for this bill. If you do, people like myself will actively campaign against you. We will explain to as many people as possible how you are trying to tear down the excellent services of our education system so you can provide tax cuts and subsidies to the rich. Think for yourselves if that is still possible. Stop allowing national politics to dictate what they think is best for Iowans.

01-31-2024

Amy Pothoven []

The below arent my words but when this came out of nowhere I began talking to friends in education. And thats who we should listen to on these changes. I am sure there are things to be improved in our current AEA system, but why would we rush through something so important. Teachers and kids need our support now more than ever. This all feels wrong. From Kelli Robertson from Grant Wood AEA: Take a look at current education related openings/shortages across Iowa right now. The current state of things is certainly not going to attract educators or fill these positions. Even if you dont think you really use many AEA services, just take a bit of time to imagine.Here is what teachers in classrooms will immediately notice: Loss of mentoring/induction support available from the AEA for new teachers and administrators. That professional book that was recommended? The one that you just wanted to check out from the AEA so you didnt have to buy it on Amazon? Gone. Spend your own $30$50 or try to get your school to buy it for you. Those online resources you were using throughout your daily schedule with students that have been instantly and freely available like Pebble Go and BookFlix ALL GONE. Free access to research articles for your profession through EbscoHost to help you stay up on research yourself or verify EBPs yourself. NOPE. No longer. Spend $10$30 per article on your own or see if your school will buy it. The science kits? The ones that you use for your ENTIRE science curriculum? Well, you might need to find, buy, and/or learn an entire new curriculum. Those will be outta here. Do you have parents asking about summer camps and/or students needing summer enrichment on a college campus? Yeah sorry, College for Kids is gone. Do you have students in reading or math classes who might be struggling and you arent sure what instructional strategies might be needed and youd like a sounding board and someone with more ideas who has expertise and training in those areas to reassure you? Sorry. Thats gone. Are you in a rural school with limited resources and youd really like your students to have some coding or computer science experiences as a class to spark some interest and see possibilities and connections with future professions oops. I guess that digital tech support is all gone. If you are a teacher who has been following accessibility and national teaching research, wanting to dive deeper into UDL and best practices for your classroom to help all students understand what tools can help them achieve more well, you will have to see if your instructional coach will help you, or maybe the school can have you watch a webinar or something, because those consultants who could have led or cotaught lessons with you to guide you are gone. You watched a webinar on instructional strategies and saw those visual supports or communication supports that you should be using. It feels a little overwhelming. You know what? Now instead of easily ordering them and having the AEA make them and send them to you, YOU will have to make them and put them together on your nights or weekends (Do you have the right program? Enough ink? A laminator? ). You have students who speak a few different languages. Youd like some book sets and materials to support your teaching. Ope sorry. How about those consultants we have to help me talk through what I should do to best instruct these students on core standards? Ugh we dont have that anymore either. And then there is this student who is just constantly needing support. They ripped up some books when they got frustrated and shout across the room. They didnt really teach us anything about all of these behaviors in college. Sorry, we dont have that support anymore. But is there some professional development I can take? I didnt learn this in college. I didnt have this ELL student I dont have experience with behavior I want to get better with UDL Nope. Not here. How is that feeling for support? Do we think that will help attracting education professionals to fill shortages and keep them wanting to stay in education?Iowa was built on a core value of support for education. This isnt new its on the Iowa quarter. We have been highlighted nationally as one of the premier state support structures in the nation. Its not extreme, it shouldnt be political, its been a core value for decades. This is not the Iowa I know, and with actions like these, Im not sure people will be flocking to Iowa. I believe in Iowa roots!!

01-31-2024

Mary Nachman []

I am opposed to this bill in its current state. A proper study was not performed and statistics being used to support it are inadequate and have been cherry picked to use only those that prove an overhaul is needed. I have multiple family members who are teachers, in Iowa , and elsewhere and a family member who is part of this agency in Iowa. Frankly, it is insulting the insinuation that these hardworking educators and skilled professionals are doing their jobs so poorly that the system needs a complete overhaul, when that is not the case.Today these professional constantly advocate for the services these children need, collaborate to provide them and have access to the resources needed to deliver the support and services.This Bill will affect all that and dramatically reduce the quality of support children and families receive.What about rural schools? How many licensed, OTs, PTs, STs, will they be able to find.What about private schools that currently do not pay for these services? Where will they get the funds for them? Will they move their children to public schools as a result and have to make choice over an environment that is either well suited to their children or one where they can get support services they need to succeed?What about the warehouse/library of all the tools (materials/books/technolgy/assistance devices)these professional use to support the children? What will happen to it? Alot of time and taxpayer money has been invested in building up this library of resources, to let it go to waste as a result of a government bureaucracy is unacceptable, and highlights the need to support the agency. No single individual or small/modest sized agency can possibly develop such a comprehensive library of tools.

01-31-2024

Penni McKinley []

I urge you to scrap this entire bill and its amendment. I have lived in Iowa 69 years and have always been proud of the education system in Iowa and its top ranking year after year. My daughter was lucky enough to receive speech therapy as well as reading interventions in the early 1980s. She attended a grade school with one classroom for each grade, how would we have known there were resources available if not for her teacher reaching out to AEA for an evaluation? I am an RN, her father had a masters degree from ISU and we had no idea what AEA was or what they provided. How would any parent know about these resources if not for the integral part they play in the day to day business of teaching our children? My daughter is now an Early Childhood School Psychologist for AEA and I know how large her caseload is and how frightened the parents of her clients are of losing services. Who would parents of premature infants be referred to for monitoring of developmental delay? Where would a pediatrician refer a parent for a nonspeaking three year old? This bill and amendment effectively destroys the framework that supports our school system. What criteria did the agency use to evaluate the services of AEA? The report seems to run counter to what is seen in everyday classrooms. Why in the world would we want AEAs to be under the direction of the Department of Education? What experience does the director in special education and needed services? This would create a mammoth department that would not be able to nimbly respond to needed changes and unduly add more bureaucracy. Please stop this bill. Perform an audit of the pay structure of AEAs if the Gov thinks they make too much money. Allow rebuttal of the findings of this outside study. Listen to the outcry from parents, educators, and school administrators. Evaluate for yourselves how this would impact rural schools and schools of varying sizes. Unbundle teacher pay legislation from this bill and let it move forward on its own. Then, throw the rest of the proposed bill out!

01-31-2024

Rosemary Selking []

I grew up in Iowa and benefited greatly from my AEA throughout my education. This bill will strip vital benefits from current and future students. I oppose this bill because even though I no longer reside in Iowa, I will always be an Iowan at heart, and I will always care deeply about the education and success of my fellow Iowans.

01-31-2024

LuAnn Hooper []

My daughter was helped by the AEA when she was little, she was born with hearing impairment, and didn't get her hearing aids until she was almost 6. She is doing well now, but she had her first head start from the AEA, I believe every child should get that kind of a smart, from caring people!

01-31-2024

Angela D []

In Iowa, we've always taken care of our most vulnerable citizens. We'd always prized our children, and taken care of those who have special needs or who are mentally ill....We were not whatever this dystopian nightmare is.

01-31-2024

Rose Fedeler []

I am opposed to the bill because I am a taxpayer and do not want so much local control moving to the Iowa Department of Education. The governors proposal is presented as more local control but the details of the bill show that will not be the case.

01-31-2024

Sandra Schatzberg [Retired educator/parent]

I urge you to vote NO to this amendment. I strongly disagree with the Department of Education having more control over the AEAs in Iowa. I do not think this is in the best interest of Iowans. Less governmental control and more local control is best for our students, educators, and families.

01-31-2024

Ann Powers []

As an educator for the past 34 years, I'm deeply concerned about the possibility of not having support from the experts who work in our AEAs. Small, rural districts will need to contract out all the services the AEAs provide and this will greatly affect their budgets. We have a wonderful working relationship with the many AEA staff members that serve our district (St. Ansgar CSD)! They get to know our students on a personal basis and make sure their needs are met. They also provide excellent support to our teaching staff to help us continue to improve our practice and provide inperson trainings that are invaluable. I do not believe our children or teachers will be able to get the same quality or availability of support that the AEAs provide.Thank you for your time and consideration of my request.Ann Powers

01-31-2024

Berleen Wobeter []

Vote no. My comment is simple but comes from experience. Governor Reynolds and I have about the same experience age wise. As she spoke with reporter Amanda Rooker I heard her repeated use terms like it should get better over time etc. it was all unspecified wishingful thinking. We can not afford to wish magical results into being. This is not leadership. This is a recipe for disaster as all wishful thinking is. Our students deserve much much better. Her type of planning would receive a failing grade and parents, teachers and administrators know it.

01-31-2024

Marie Lemka []

Iowa AEAs are vital to the education of all of Iowas children from birth to graduation. They provide services for children with both learning and physical disabilities. They also provide vital training for teachers so that all teachers can address the needs of all children. Strategies that help a special needs student can also help other children who are struggling to learn. AEAs also provide support for students and families in times of trauma, such as the horrific event in Perry. AEA support was there immediately for those families. These are just a few of the resources provided by the AEA. They also have sets of books and digital resources for districts to borrow. The people hurt the most by reducing AEA services are our children. Families are already fleeing our state in order to provide better educational opportunities for their children. Please dont make a bigger mess for our educational system than you already have. Iowa needs its AEAs.

01-31-2024

Michelle Thorpe []

This bill does nothing positive for our children. I don't understand the Governor's agenda, but it's not in our kids best interest. If you just listen to the outpouring of support to keep the AEA in tact, I don't see how you can vote for this bill. What happened to representing the people of the state, including our children? You're supposed to be representing us all. Do we no longer have a voice? We want the AEA. The schools want the AEA. Our children need the AEA, AS IS. The support they provide is critical. I do not support this bill and if you are truly listening to those in your district, as you should be, you won't support this bill either.

01-31-2024

Robyn Groff []

Please vote NO on this bill and protect and support our AEAs. No one wants this bill. Your rural constituents and their schools will be harmed by this bill (as well as all public school attendees in this state.) Remember, a strong public school system just doesn't benefit the children that attend it. It benefits all of our society, so that we have educated citizens able to perform jobs at every level of our communities.

01-31-2024

Ann Gale [Retired]

I implore the esteemed represenatives to vote no on this bill. When an important decision needs to be made, the best results are usually found after stakeholders are consulted, choices are considered, and pros and cons of those choices are weighed. The movers behind this bill appeared to not have talked with teachers, parents, administrators, children, or AEA staff. I ask that you conduct a study before considering reckless changes. I am a retired school psychologist (19782014), and I know about the vital services that AEAs provide. If this bill moves forward, it will be challenging for large districts to meet those needs, and impossible for small ones to try. Im afraid that the inevitable result will be that children will be unserved. Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Linda Linn []

Grandmother, mother and retired educator. I am against this bill as my family has benefited and is benefiting from not only the services of the AEA special education services but also media and professional development. AEA services are vital to parents with all types of special needs learning and functioning difficulties as well as behavior concerns and high learning abilities. As a retired school counselor I relied on AEA services in times of crisis and for needed local and state resources. Rural public, private and charter schools will be devastated. Did you know that homeschooled students also receive needed services from the AEAs? Do your own research first before you destroy a system that makes Iowa a successful state!

01-31-2024

Brad Jermeland []

AEAs have been providing timely, relevant services to students, schools and families since 1974! They have evolved over time to meet the needs of all entities they serve! They are held accountable by the boards that govern them! They are close to the schools and families they serve!The proposed bill takes away services and local control of services. There is nothing in the bill that indicates services would be enhanced! Can AEAs improve services? Yes, they can! All organizations seek improvements daily! Do not pass this bill!

01-31-2024

Callie Reynolds []

AEA has been pivotal to my child talking, and having the opportunity to catch up to his peers. An attack on AEA and schools is a direct attack on the very children who benefit and use these services. Whats the benefit of this bill, less educated children from staff with less experience? It makes no sense and just adds more duties to schools you have already severely underfunded and continue to take funds from.

01-31-2024

Angie Grote []

As a school board member for a small school district, I'm pleading that you vote NO! The AEA is a necessity for our school district. We simply won't be able to afford the services for our students if we don't have the AEA. All companies and agencies have room for improvement. Take a year to evaluate the changes that need to happen to improve the AEA, then reevaluate. The proposed changes are simply too big! Please don't hurt our students and staff!

01-31-2024

Ali McLaughlin []

In regard to HSB 542, please do not let this bill continue any further. If these proposed cuts were made, they would have a negative impact on my kids and all kids in Iowa. As a parent of a 10th grader and a 5th grader in a rural Eastern Iowa school, I am in favor of the services the AEA provides to our school. Many of the valuable educational materials my kids use daily are supported by our Grant Wood AEA. Without the AEA, my kids' teachers will be stretched even thinner and pushed further from their primary job of teaching kids. Schools do not have the resources, staffing, or time to keep up with the help that the AEA provides. This bill feels to be rushed through for unexplained reasons. It should not be passed.

01-31-2024

Stephanie Barrett []

I am strongly against making ANY cuts or changes to Iowa's AEA system. The AEA provides absolutely vital programs and support for our schools, both public AND private, across our state. In the aftermath of the recent school shooting in Perry, who provided the mental health support for the students? AEA did. Who provides invaluable training and support for our already overworked, underappreciated, UNDERFUNDED public school teachers? You guessed it, the AEA. Over the past several years, it seems as if Iowa schools (and public education/educators, support programs, etc) have been viewed as public enemy #1 by the Governor and this administration. Enough is enough! The AEA is essential to our school system and the socalled 'facts' being presented are misrepresented data. There is oversight, students (yes, special ed students despite the 'data' released by the Governor's office) have improved utilizing AEA services, and there is no issue with 'overspending.' I encourage ALL state legislators to seek out factual information from actual public educators and vote against this bill.

01-31-2024

Kara Shannon []

As a Republican voter, I am in disbelief that our Governor has taken the time needed to build an infrastructure of supports that will get the results we all want for our children. It is clear from the town halls I have attended that there is absolutely NO support for this bill! It would be unconstitutional for you to ignore the thousands of emails, messages, phone calls, voicemails, conversations and comments here and approve this bill. You are elected to be our voice and we need you to oppose all parts of this for our children! After that, lets put together a team to meet with AEA administrators, school administrators, teachers, parents and students and start addressing the REAL concerns!

01-31-2024

Eric Schmit []

Iowa's Area Education Agencies provide essential services and are currently structured to enable a simplified organizational and leadership structure that drives efficiency and promotes scalability. Iowans do not want this bill. Bills, such as these, make it hard to encourage young families to stay in the state. It makes it difficult to attract talent to the state. I say this from experience.

01-31-2024

Timothy Gellings []

I am strongly encouraging members of the legislation to vote no on this bill. One strength that Iowa has to attract new employers to the state is a strong and accommodating education system. This bill will dismantle a strong education system and make the state less competitive to surrounding states which may lead to lost opportunities for growth & tax revenue as well as an exodus of families.Again, I am asking for members to vote no on this bill.

01-31-2024

Anne Steffensmeier [Retired, speech-language pathologist]

Please kill the AEA bill or at least slow it down so there can be more study of the issue which include input from Iowa stakeholders. And, please separate the AEA legislation from the teacher pay legislation.I worked for the Grant Wood AEA for 37 years as a speechlanguage pathologist working primarily with children from birth to kindergarten and their parents and educators. I know my service to these Iowans has made a difference. One example is, getting my flu shot at one of my local HyVee stores this past September, the nurse who administered it came into the room greeting me as an old friend. She said of course she remember me and still thinks of me on occasion for what I did to help her daughter and her family. They had no idea where to turn when their daughter was 2 and not talking. Through my support of the family and work with her daughter, the daughter is now almost 30, a college graduate, and was married last summer. Also, a short time ago a family stopped me in another HyVee store in town. The mother asked if I remembered them, as they remembered me. She further stated you gave us our son. Her son is on the autism spectrum and as a toddler was not interacting with anyone. Through my work with him he learned to interact and have fun and learn from them as toddlers do. She was so proud that through my support and the services he received in his school through the AEA and the school staff, he is now in regular education for all subjects. The parent's pride was so precious to see. These are just two stories of many children and families I have impacted. This can be multiplied to thousands when all AEA staff are considered. But I could not have done these services without the support of other AEA including the educational services staff who I consulted with me and who provided materials for parent education, the media services who provided the materials I needed for evaluation and doing therapy with the children, particularly the devices children needed to communicate when they could not talk and learn when they were not able to learn in the standard way, the professional leaning department who provided state of the art learning experiences, and the IT department who help me learn and who maintain all the technology that is part of our educational world today.I will close by pleading with you to separate the AEA and teacher pay into different legislation. They are two different and important issues. They deserve to be addressed separately.Please do not move forward on the AEA bill.

01-31-2024

Laura Jumper []

Please do not support this bill. This is way too drastic of a change. Schools cannot make such a huge decision in a few months not to mention be prepared for that by August. Please listen to the public. They have spoken. The governor keeps talking about the bloated admin salaries yet they are under the 5% required by law. What is the rush here? Please take the time to think this through. We cannot afford to get this wrong.

01-31-2024

EJ B []

If this bill is passed, I worry about the future of our state as a whole. Youve heard from so many how this will affect schools and children but you should also consider how it will affect everyone else in our state. What will happen when our schools are taken to court because theyre not able to provide special ed services as written. Will that affect our tax payers? What will happen when families move out of the state so their children can get a proper education? Will that affect business owners who have less people spending money in their communities? What will happen when small rural schools have to close or consolidate because they cant afford to stay open? Will our home values in these towns with no school go down? The children in our state will grow up to be the adults in our state. Are you willing to compromise the education and potential of our future? If this bill passes, many highly educated people will be left without a job. These people make a decent living and spend money in our state and local communities. Many of them will be forced to move out of state and their money will be spent out of state as well. This is not only an education issue, it will likely change the trajectory of Iowas future in many ways. Please vote no.

01-31-2024

Sam Keith []

I am opposed to bill HSB 542. This bill provides no evidence to support that it would improve student performance. In fact, it would be damaging to student performance statewide. AEAs provide comprehensive wrap around services to every child that needs them. If school districts have to call on several different agencies to provide speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other needs for a child, it will take longer to get those services, there will be more administrative costs, and it will take more time away from a teacher's instructional and planning time. AEAs are already in the schools, already have relationships with teachers and administrators, and are already very well practiced at providing top notch services to students in need of them. If any version of this bill is passed, it will negatively impact children, families, schools, teachers, and Iowa's future. As a parent of a toddler, I'm am scared to think that should my child need any of these valuable services, they may not be available to him.

01-31-2024

Emma Bouza []

Please do not support this bill. I know you have heard from thousands of Iowans telling their stories and why Iowa AEAs are incredibly valuable. As a parent of a child with disabilities and a public school employee, the AEA services my family uses are countless. Could the system be evaluated, absolutely. Does it need to be pushed thru without a clear and definite plan, absolutely not.Please don't just hear your constituents, but actually LISTEN to what they are saying.

01-31-2024

Hope Johnson []

I hope lawmakers will listen to the many, many constituents sharing their experiences and will preserve the AEA. Stop this rush to dismantle a system that is working so well. If our lawmakers are not brave enough to stand up to the governor and do whats in the best interest of their constituents, then maybe they dont deserve the honor of representing Iowans.

01-31-2024

Adriana Adams []

As a teacher currently working in Iowa, I can not emphasize this enough: DO NOT RESTRUCTURE THE AEA. It is simply not the answer to "doing better for our special education students." Restructuring the AEA is a desperate plea to gain more funding at the cost of services and resources for ALL students and teachers, including special education students.

01-31-2024

Melissa Reade [Leader Valley]

Please carefully consider all elements in this bill that are an effort to seismically dismantle Iowa Area Education Agencies, transfer control to the Department of Education, and forever shape education in Iowa. I believe in thoughtfully and ethically discerning how we can create efficiencies and effectiveness within private and public sectors. I would be remiss in saying that the AEA is not worthy of that same discernment, as is the Department of Education. This legislation has been hastily presented with no thoughtful examination and input from key stakeholders. It is premature to dismantle the AEA system as proposed with no real and thoughtful plan in place to ensure student needs are not the casualty of this rushed legislation. An expedited timeline, misrepresentation of the facts, lack of transparency and input, push for privatization of education services, and poorly executed changes can have unintended negative consequences for our education system that will make a marked impact in Iowa for generations to come. I respectfully encourage you to vote in a way that truly represents the views of your constituents (not party leaders), seek clarity, and vote courageously and conscientiously. Your legacy as a legislator is being written in these moments.

01-31-2024

Kathleen McElligatt []

But why you support this/and burn approach to providing services to needy students and teachers as well is clearly a terrible idea. We have a wonderful statewide system. It is patently untrue that Iowa students perform far below the national average. Irregardless, I believe that the Republicans will push this through quickly, destroy the system that is in place without replacing it with a system that is as good or better, and embrace the right wing agenda that Reynolds and her minions are such fans of. It's a tragedy but it's our new normal in Iowa.

01-31-2024

Shelley Milks []

Vote NO! I've witnessed multiple families benefit from comprehensive AEA services throughout my lifetime. Families and children need these services everywhere in Iowa and politics should not be a driving force behind yet another bad education move in Iowa.My daughter is a second year teacher. She has wanted to teach since she was a young child. Her first two years have been beyond challenging, but she fights every day for her kiddos and works hard to love a job that is under appreciated, under paid and in a school that is under staffed. The most essential training and support she receives starts with the AEA in her area. Blowing up AEA services will make her job harder. Iowa needs to do better for our educators and their students.

01-31-2024

Carol Balong []

As a retired Iowa teacher I urge you to vote NO on this bill. The services the AEAs in Iowa provide are invaluable to every teacher and student in this state. The resources of AEAs were used in every school in which I worked, and provided things and personnel schools cant afford because the state already underfunds our education system. Limiting the AEAs will only further hamper schools.

01-31-2024

Elizabeth Woods []

Please vote no on the bill today. I think it's important to understand the AEA system more before making drastic changes THAT WILL impact families, students and the communities in Iowa. I work with low incidence students age b21 and to be the most effective, I need to work in a system that allows me to carry out quality services to children in ALL populations, regardless of where they live and their home life. I've worked in 4 other states that has a "coop" system. When working in a system like a "coop" system, the qualify and delays in service delivery was often happening. In a "coop" system, the communication from service providers and districts was often poor and often didn't get the full data about the student to know how best to work with them to make progress towards their outcomes and goals. I've also worked in another AEA than the one I'm currently working in. I think when it comes to the system, there was some differences but when it comes to my daytoday job, it was similar and made for a good transition. I think to take away the AEA system as a whole or make drastic changes to how we do our every day business will be detrimental to our families, students and communities. Another think about: If you agree to allow districts to choose to go with an outside agency and maybe a neighboring district goes with AEA, what would that transition look like for a family, who is on an IFSP, that is going from a nonAEA support system to an AEA support system? Do you have that plan in place? This happens all the time! Often our families move from district to district and if that happens, the transition is smooth because we able to move with them OR we know who the providers are so we can communicate with them to ensure continuity of service delivery. How is Des Moines Public Schools doing without AEA support vs a similar district who has AEA support? Have you compared and reviewed their special education data?

01-31-2024

Michael Jones []

Iowa's AEAs are essential to the work of public schools in Iowa. The public school system is already underresourced and overburdened with the growing societal issues facing Iowa families and communities today. Downsizing the AEAs and eliminating services will only contribute to the challenges facing the system today.

01-31-2024

Maggie Casey []

Please protect Iowa AEAs. Schools, students, and teachers rely on the services they provide. Doing away with the AEA would only further hinder the community and take away from amazing educational opportunities.

01-31-2024

Megan Zadow []

The AEA is an important partner for the schools offering valuable and unmatched services and resources. To diembowel our AEA and expect the department of education to be able to recreate the AEAs incredible care is irresponsible. The director of education has no experience or credentials in education. Why is this bill inviting her and the dept under her to run the education system AND the system in place to help children who need any additional help in any capacity? The schools are already short staffed; especially in regards to teachers and aids in that specialty. You are spreading the educators and the dept of education too thin and the children WILL suffer because of it. Also...The teacher saleries have NO PLACE in this same bill. These are and should be treated

01-31-2024

Nicole Skaar [Iowa School Psychologists Association]

I STRONGLY oppose this bill. I oppose it not because I oppose change within the AEAs. I actually would love to see change within the AEAs. I am a school psychologist (NOT school counselor), and we could be doing so much more for students, but we are stuck doing compliance work due to large case loads and lack of knowledge about how we are trained. We are school mental health professionals and special education experts. BUT there are too many issues with this bill. The bill consolidates power at the Dept of Education. The bill allows schools to hire out of state service providers, which WILLL be more expensive than AEA services. The bill eliminates operational share between AEAs and LEA, which is a great way to increase mental health services for kids in schools (see Great Prairie AEA's model for sharing school social workers). This bill WILL COST SCHOOLS MORE! Private services cost more! Finally, the data the governor is using to support this bill is taken out of context. Success in special education is exiting from special education. Have you looked at the number of students who exit services each year? Have you looked at how many students are making progress on their IEP goals? THIS is how we measure success in special education. Not some large scale standardized achievement test given to only those students who are still in special education in a system that regularly exits kids because they are now capable of achieving in the general education system. SLOW THIS PROCESS DOWN! Learn more and dig in to what changes actually need to be made within the AEAs to continue improvement of an already great system.

01-31-2024

Jeri Messenger [Retired]

Please vote against this bill. We need to take the time to get this right, because if we get it wrong it will take years to correct. Stand with the children, families and schools in Iowa. Drop this bill.

01-31-2024

Nancy Dunn []

Please vote NO. This bill will result in inequities in services across the state, particularly in small districts. Students will suffer the consequences. Recruitment and retention of staff to the AEAs will be impossible with the lack of job stability. Keep the oversight of these services in the hands of local folks, not in the hands of a state agency. The system is working efficiently now, so there is no need for an overhaul.

01-31-2024

Anne Speer []

As an Iowa citizen raised in Illinois, and parent of two children who I have chosen to raise in Iowa and who have been on the receiving end of multiple services under the Iowa AEA model, I implore you to vote NO for this bill. The opportunities for growth as a result of this model reach ALL children, teachers, and administrators no matter where they are in their learning journey. A system like this is unique and would have been an asset to me growing up in Illinois. Solid and ACCURATE data and input from ALL stakeholders should be examined before any system is completely dismantled as this bill suggests. Slow down, study, learn, listen to voices, and make informed decisions.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Stumpff []

This bill will harm students, teachers, families, and schools. It's criminal that it's being pushed through so fast against so much public opposition. The AEAs efficiently provide a range of services to their local districts, and the proposed model can't possibly replace or replicate them.

01-31-2024

Tania Schramm []

I am opposed to all parts of this legislation AND the manner in which it was proposed. Its a terrible bill which will do real harm to students and families. Plus, it feels like it was crafted in secret by outside interests and foisted upon Iowans. Please voteNo.

01-31-2024

Katie Vander Sanden []

As a resident of Lyon County Iowa, I urge all legislators to say no to this bill.AEAs provide services to all parts of education. Cutting services and positions will harm the children of Iowa. The data the Governor is using is misleadingnot all students take the NAEP that she is referencing.Listen to the people of Iowa and stop HSB 542.

01-31-2024

Jeffrey Kuhns []

Iowa needs our AEAs. The support and resources they provide our children are needed today more than ever. Kids and schools need more support not less. This will negatively affect children all over the state and should be avoided at all costs. AEAs are one of the best things our education system has going for it, and to remove it would be terrible. The attack on our education system has to stop.

01-31-2024

Lisa Johnson [retired special education teacher]

I am strongly against HB 5452. I am a retired special education teacher who taught students with various disabilities for 33 years in Iowa's public schools. I relied heavily on services from Keystone AEA for initial identification and instruction for my students. AEA personnel provided advice and support when working with difficult students and families as well as held me accountable for following complicated and everchanging laws in special education.I also relied on Keystone AEA also for inservice, materials such as films, books, and handson kits and professional education materials. It was a wonderful to have such a variety and abundance of supplemental tools at my fingertips.There is no way smaller rural school districts will be able to have the same support and materials if this bill passes.I urge you to vote against SSB 3073. Vote NO and leave Iowa's AEAs alone!

01-31-2024

Annette Lenz []

I am reaching out to you to ask you NOT to vote for the bill proposed by Governor Reynolds to change the AEAs.This move, even with the changes (very little), will destroy Special Ed services to our students and put an unnecessary burden on our rural schools. Governor Reynolds sharing numbers about special education students failures show how little she understands how special education works. Also her hiring an out of state company to give her recommendations that she is using as her rationale to take over AEAs is simply ludicrous. How is it that Iowas AEAs have been commended and is being used as a guide for other states, but she still to change it? I understand that there can be areas of improvement, but why not work with the AEAs to make those improvements, instead of taking it over. I have heard complaints about the salaries of the heads of AEA. Did you compare their salaries to some of the superintendents salaries of the larger school districts? How about the number of students/teachers they oversee? If you look at those numbers, you will find that find a big difference with those superintendents vs AEA. Also reducing the number of AEA is detrimental for all the students of Iowa. At their inception, there were 15 AEAs, now we are at 9. To cut the number of AEAs even further will stretch services and students, teachers, and schools wont be able to get assistance in a timely manner. I have serious concerns about the head of the DE. When I look at her credentials, they are all involved with private schools. She has no public school experience. That is a huge red flag!!! When the former director of the DE comes out and has serious concerns about this bill, that should cause people to do some deep searching. This bill will severely hurt the small school districts. Our rural school districts cant afford cuts to AEA and the changes proposed. AEAs are essential to school districts and are a vital partner in serving students in Iowa. Please do not vote party line on this! Please listen to your constituents. This is moving too fast, which makes me wonder why?

01-31-2024

Diana Volkens []

This is such an important issue that is going to affect smaller rural schools. I dont understand what the rush is to push this through. Do the right thing PLEASR slow this down and think about ALL of the students in the state.

01-31-2024

Donna Sweeney []

Please do NOT Eliminate our AEA assistance throughout Iowa. Its hard to believe any representatives would support such a foolish cut to the budget. It makes no sense to ignore so much of Iowa population.

01-31-2024

Janell Wright []

My child and several family members rely on AEAs to access supports that we would not be able to afford outside of the school setting. There are no available services privately that can meet our children where they are, in the classroom, and support them. This is why AEAs exist. We decided once that our children, regardless of income, regardless of location, deserve mental health and educational support. This bill walks back that assertion. This bill will strip mental heath and educational support funding and access from rural communities and children who desperately need these services statewide. As written, this bill is an attack on systems that supports our children. It removes oversight, removes access, and shifts the power into unqualified hands. There is no provision in this bill that improves or increases access to those most in need. Please help parents and families (and teachers and school staff) continue to provide for our children through AEA by increasing access, not removing supports.

01-31-2024

Jennifer James []

Please vote no on this bill. As a parent of 5 children in a community of 376 people, this bill will significantly and disproportionately negatively impact my community and similarly small and rural communities. I have a twice exceptional child. Meaning they are gifted and talented but still struggling in school. The school had been labeling them as defiant and a behavior problem. Because my child is gifted, they didnt recognize an academic deficit, but labeled it as a compliance issue. The AEA has helped our school identify classroom structural supports and behavior management strategies to support them to be academically successful. Additionally, my TAG teacher has benefitted from AEA training to better support my childrens advanced learning needs in order for them all to maximize their learning potential. Removing the supports for children not explicitly identified on an IEP would be doing an injustice to all children who have different learning needs that fall into different tiers of the response to intervention (evidence based) hierarchy. Additionally, as a former student to a private school in Burlington, I recall regular educational media supplements used within our classroom. While we were a private school, our district did not have the resources like the public school did to independently purchase every desired educational materials. Because of these additional supports, my parents could make an educational decision right for them knowing that their children were still getting a valuable and exceptional education. I do not feel confident that moving all AEA local guidance, decision making and finances, especially for my rural community to an urban and state controlled environment 45+ minutes away will have a positive impact on my school district or children. If the state truly had concerns about the operation of AEAs why were these concerns not mentioned during the regular audits/reviews? Why hasnt the state talked with the AEAs of concern and formulated a plan of action? What prevents the state from dismantling the ASAs and local control quietly and unilaterally once control has been transferred?If you trying care about student success and local control, you will vote no. Thank you for your time.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Lefeber [Myrtue Medical Center]

AEAs are vital to all schools but especially for those who are rural with limited access to 3rd party resources. The ability for AEA to source out PT/OT speech media education emergency preparedness is not something that rural districts can just pull together with 3rd party sources. Limited budget and limited resources will be a burden and really have a negative effect on the kids and the staff alike. Please keep the AEA intact

01-31-2024

Wayne R Manternach [Iowa Citizen]

HSB 542This bill, which will dismantle the AEA structure and strip local control, is unnecessary and detrimental to the future education of our children. Most school districts will not be able to provide the comprehensive services that the AEA system was set up to and has provided through out it inception. i feel the state will not be able to provide the same hands on services that has helped countless Iowa students.

01-31-2024

Susan Canaday Bormann []

I have concerns about HSB 542 as legislation that further hurts rural school districts and their families. Access to services for students in rural communities is a serious challenge, and AEAs help provide important services in our rural schools. AEAs also provide important resources to students and teachers that we would not otherwise be able to provide in our schools. Centralizing AEA's through Des Moines undermines local control. Please oppose this bill, or at the very least, slow down the process to ask questions about the Governor's claims and make thoughtful decisions in the best interested of rural Iowans.

01-31-2024

Cindy Smith []

Please vote NO to the proposal for the extreme changes Governor Reynolds wants to put forth to our Iowa educational system concerning the AEA. You will be doing a great disservice to the many students that it will affect. Governor Reynolds is hurting the many students in our great state of Iowa.

01-31-2024

Susan Enzle [League of Women Voters of Johnson County, Iowa]

I could detail numerous objections to Governor Reynolds original bill as well as to the amendments she made after receiving overwhelming public opposition to the legislation that would change Iowas AEAs. However, I would argue that until a full and thorough study has been conducted by all of those interested in the wellbeing of students and schools who are served by AEAs, all legislation should be placed on hold for this legislative term.I attended two public forums in the past week and saw parents weeping at the microphone. They lauded the skilled guidance and help they had received from an AEA so that their children could develop and learn. Much of that support came from highly trained and experienced educational specialists, e.g. speech therapists, psychologists, who are already in short supply here in Iowa, especially in rural areas.These parents were terrified that their children would lose services, or that the services would be disrupted in the short term as changes were implemented in the system. Hence, slowing this whole process down, taking sufficient time to study thoroughly the wideranging roles the AEAs play in Iowa, the different needs of different schools, and the needs of parents and their children, would doubtless help ease the fears of these parents. Since an honest and complete study of the AEA system could hardly be done in a few months, I believe that this legislation should be placed on hold for the duration of this legislative session until such a study has been completed.

01-31-2024

Diana Bryant [Retired Teacher (2021) AHSTW]

As a retired teacher, as well as a new grandmother, I have HUGE concerns about the education of, not only my grandchildren and students in my district, but children across the state of Iowa. As a former teacher, I utilized many services provided by our local Greenhills AEA; services that positively impacted my students and their education. Although I do believe there are areas for improvement and "trimming the fat" is likely necessary, completely dismantling the AEA's IS NOT the answer. Please do what is best for our kids . . . take the time necessary to take a deeper look. *Are there services that could be justifiably eliminated?*Would a complete audit indicate where there may be unused flowthrough $$ that are allocated for specific services?**If there are unused flowthrough $$ allocated for specific services, where are those $$ going?*If completely eliminated, how can smaller districts, like mine, afford or even have storage space for all the tech and media resources that are currently available and utilized through AEA's?*If eliminted, how can smaller districts afford the online services now provided by the AEA? ie: BookFlix, TruFlix, etc.These are just a few of the things that come to my mind when considering the pushthrough of this proposal.STOP! TIMEOUT! DO YOUR RESEARCH & THINK THIS THROUGH! DO WHAT IS BEST FOR OUR KIDS!

01-31-2024

Margo Magill [retired AEA and public school Early Childhood Sp Ed and Kdg/Jr Kdg teacher]

Please listen to your constituents and vote NO for HSB 542. I began teaching in 1976 when Iowa legislated Free and Public Education for all Iowans Birth to 21 years old. Our AEAs were and continue to be an integral part of education for all children by providing both direct and consultative services. Our local school districts benefit from cooperative purchasing, lending libraries, professional development and a great many other services in additon to Special Education services that will not be possible without our AEA. Our rural school districts will be especially impacted due to the size and distance between districts.

01-31-2024

Robert Brown []

The AEA is one of the strongest components of our education system in Iowa. Without the support the AEA provides our schools across the state of Iowa in area of special education, technology assistance, media support as well as professional teacher development, our schools will quickly struggle to provide our students with the quality of education they have received for the past five decades. Make no mistake, this bill is designed to eliminate the AEA system.

01-31-2024

Teri Orr [EPI, Inc.]

There are so many voices expressing their true thoughts and feelings in regards to HSB 542, stories that share the successes and needs for AEA. Please listen to your constituents, and vote no. In our rural area, this would deeply hurt our schools, early childhood programs, families, and children. We love our Keystone AEA area services, staff, and media libraries. They offer so much that can't be accessed other places. If change is needed, let's take the time to do more investigating, surveying, and intentional planning. Quick change such as this does not work for us.

01-31-2024

Paula Reece []

I live in a rural community and have taught in both a rural school and urban setting. The work that our AEAs do for families is VITAL and ensures that districts in poor areas have equal access to services as bigger districts or those with more money in the coffers. AEAs are a highly effective and affordable option for districts and communities. To strip AEAs of their services in the name of school choice is a recipe for disaster. It will only reduce service access to students and families and encourage forprofit organizations and companies to swoop in and offer services to school districts that will be more expensive and less researchbased. This is a horrible idea that will have devastating, longlasting effects on our students, schools and communities for years to come if it passes.

01-31-2024

Bob Grell []

Good Morning.I would just like to take the time and tell you why I oppose the bill that limits/does away with AEA. In a time where I feel like education for our children has fallen further behind than many other countries, and parents have a harder time making ends meet, this should not be an extra burden for not only the parents, but current teachers whose numbers are going down. Children should never be the ones to suffer from the lack of, or bad allocation of money. I wish I could do a lot more to support local education and meal programs for children who come from low income families or need additional resources because of learning disabilities. Please vote No. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Nancy Kehoe [Retired Iowa educator ]

Please reject every part of this bill. The educators and children of Iowa deserve the ultimate education, and this bill deprives them of that opportunity. Please listen to the people who are sharing their concerns about this bill.

01-31-2024

Susan Folkerts []

PLEASE take the time to fully evaluate all the ramifications of this bill!! Think about the longterm effects as well as tomorrows bottom line! One of the strengths of the AEA system is that it provides equitable services to kids in Albia as well as Urbandale, in Sigourney as well as Cedar Rapids. Dont pull the rug out from under our rural/small town kids! Also, the AEAs provide continuity of services through a team approach when serving students and school districts. Dont make services less effective by outsourcing to private agencies that cant/wont coordinate services. I worked for over 30 years for 2 different AEAs, in both rural and urban districts. The AEAs are a good system for ALL Iowans!!

01-31-2024

Michelle Soloth []

I have been a staunch supporter of Governor Kim Reynolds and a republican voter my entire adult life. If this bill passes myself and my family will no longer be supporters of the Governor. I am a parent and I was a teacher of special education. I worked with students who had severe cognitive disabilities. Without the resources of our local AEA I would not have been able to do my job. My first year teaching I had autistic, nonverbal students and zero supplies and zero resources. I was given an empty classroom and told, "Goodluck!". I utilized the AEA for everything: books, learning manipulatives, basic supplies, learning videos, curriculum, and much more I am not going to list here. I also had the support of our Level 3 consultant, a speech pathologist, an occupational therapist, and a school psychologist. I came in with no special education experience (I was earning my endorsement while teaching at my district). I would have quit midyear if it had not been for the support of the AEA.Governor Reynolds states she wants to give the control to the schools, however the bill gives a lot of the power to the Iowa Department of Education. As well, we have school administrators and school boards who do not like to spend money on special education services. I battled our administration and school board for supplies and resources for my students with little success. Now, we are going to leave this in their hands?Please vote no on this bill. When republicans and democrats actually agree on something, you need to listen!

01-31-2024

Donna Godar []

As a former public school teacher and parent of a person with disabilities I see a lot wrong with this bill and ask that you not move it forward. If it must move on, there needs to be a LOT more study done on how it will impact children and families. Consideration also needs to be made about how it will impact all school districts and there ability to meet the legal demands of IDEA. The timeline of moving forward with this bill is causing more chaos for everyone associated with education in Iowa AEA staff, superintendents, school staff, families, and children. I could even see the passage of this bill affecting how people vote in upcoming elections!The integrated practice that the AEA's provide quick services to those that are coming into special ed services and help teachers with skills to help kids learn and keep them out of special education too. The assessments that are mentioned are not a fair way to evaluate the success of AEA's. Kids move in and out of Special Ed so the population is different all the time. Plus, it is a very small sample size.AEA's are evaluated regularly and just completed an intense accreditation process where all 9 were 100% successful. While teachers do deserve to be paid more, there needs to be consideration made as to giving credit to those who have given more service to the profession and adjust everyone's salary accordingly. (Taking away AEA's and their affordable professional development and support while teaching and improving education may make this incentive less worthwhile thereby losing even more teachers to burn out.)Thank you for your careful consideration of this issue and listening to the people of Iowa.

01-31-2024

Lara Schulenberg []

The AEA is imperative for all students of Iowa. What the AEA does that many do not understand is that it addresses the vital needs of student populations and dedicates trained and specialized professionals to those specific needs. They do not generalize. It is in the generalization that gaps exist. If a school's population struggles with its students making it through to graduation, they have specialized educators who specifically work with these atrisk students. This does not fall to an already overwhelmed Counseling Department. The AEA is a successful model of how education departments should work around this country. I am a 25year educator. Listen to the professionals, not political agendas.

01-31-2024

Kathy Butler []

I support nothing about the Governors proposed legislation to drastically reduce services provided by the longstanding AEA system. She initially discussed a comprehensive study. Please... Dont make sweeping changes without understanding ANY of the short and long term implications. 7/1/2024 is less than 6 months away. No one can plan for any sort of transition to make sure children and educators are served. Just say NO. It seems the Governor would like to push through this legislation as quickly as possible so Iowa does not have time to rally and push for appropriate amendments or to shut this down totally. I understand that the teacher the Governor recognized in her speech on recently was trained by the AEA. Guess what, AEAs wont be able to provide training to her or other teachers anymore. I also understand the Governor spent 8 million dollars bringing in an out of state company to train teacherson something the AEAs were already providing. Rural districts arent able to participate at this point as there are stipulations on the number of teachers per district that have to participate (40). Thank you for your time!

01-31-2024

Anna Selk []

Thanks for being public servants. As an educator and local elected official, I understand this work can be challenging when views differ. It is clear that the vast majority of Iowans are on the same page regarding this bill. Please vote no for HSB 542. Even after revisions, this bill will negatively impact Iowa's students and education systems. There are over 10 AEA staff supporting my school on this day alone. We do not have capacity to manage or access to a workforce to manage these services in isolation. Our participation in this "coop" model not only takes a variety of burdens off of public school staff, but it provides access to services in an equitable way throughout our state.

01-31-2024

Will Linder []

Please vote no on HB542. Many districts do not have the educational resources or abilities to hire staff for these services because the needs vary greatly between districts. AEAs provide practical and costeffective solutions for public and private schools across the state. They ensure that EVERY child and school district receives the support they need without the hassle of hiring experienced staff, budgeting, and other challenges. I urge you to reconsider this bill, which restricts AEAs from providing services to all districts without unnecessary restrictions. Iowa's students deserve better than the bare minimum.Thank you.

01-31-2024

Wendy Leaders []

Please vote NO to this bill. The AEA is an essential part of our children's education. Dismantling a program that supports all students and teachers only serves to save money instead of prioritizing education and support for our students, teachers, and schools. You should be looking at ways to improve our public education system not harm it.

01-31-2024

Amy Kimball [Madison County Health Care System/ Iowa Chapter of the AAP]

I am writing to comment in opposition of HSB 542 related to the Governors Proposed Legislation on AEAs. I am a pediatrician practicing in Winterset, Iowa. I care for patients from over ten Southwestern Iowa counties. I have patients who receive essential services through AEA in all of those counties. Those services are varied based on the needs of the child, but they are critical services for the childs health and development that would not otherwise be readily available to those children and families. I cannot think of a day in my over twenty years of practice that I have not in some way interacted with or utilized the services of the AEA. AEA provides pediatric health care providers with essential resources, therapies, and supports for children and families no matter where they live or what school they attend. They are specialists in child development, educational needs and social emotional behavior. AEA also provides resources to educators and pediatric health care providers that allow us to be best equipped to help children be healthy, successful and thrive. I am also a parent of a child who benefitted from the expertise of AEA providers. My daughter has speech and language delays, Selective Mutism, and a NonVerbal Learning Disorder. She began receiving speech therapy and AEA services in preschool. She did not speak a single word in school her entire Kindergarten year. AEA staff worked tirelessly directly with her and provided resources and supports for her teachers and us as a family. Their skill and understanding of her needs helped her to find her voice. She is now an academically and socially successful Junior at Winterset High School. The proposed changes to the AEA will have a direct negative impact for children and families in Iowa. At a time when we have increased social, emotional and behavioral needs in children, any decreased access to AEA services would be a step in the wrong direction for increasing access for children and families to learning and mental health supports, especially in rural areas. AEA is currently providing critical services to students and families in the aftermath of the Perry school shooting. These services are not available through other or more qualified resources in Iowa and are absolutely critical to the wellbeing of children. Please oppose these changes. The only changes needed to the AEA that would benefit children and families would be to increase funding so they could continue to provide excellent services to all children in Iowa.Respectfully submitted,Amy N. Kimball, DO FAAP

01-31-2024

Heather Jeffers [Pleasant Valley Community School District]

I cannot stress enough how vital how all services from the AEA are to our school district. When it comes to developing professional development for our entire staff, we seek learning out from the AEA, so we are prepared and knowledgeable as a leadership team. When it comes to training for our leaders on how to be good leaders so they can facilitate PLC meetings and address student and learning needs, we turn to the AEA for support. For training our instructional coaches so they know how to best support teachers and increase student achievement, we turn to the AEA. We would literally be so lost without these supports. Our students, teachers, and leaders would suffer. Our system could not survive let alone improve without the programs and help from the consultants at the AEA.

01-31-2024

Amanda Khader []

Iowa used to be a leader in education. Iowa was a state that teachers flocked to, parents moved to, and other educators chose to practice in. As a former AEA School Psychologist, I am confident that this bill is a mistake. Supporting education and fullyfunding all necessary services, should NOT be a partisan issue. Schools, families, and individual students will feel the impact if this bill is passed. Please consider what is best for this state, and consider what needs to be done to make Iowa an educational leader again.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Seuntjens []

Please vote NO on HSB 542. This bill will negatively impact ALL students in our state, especially those in smaller districts. If change is needed, then let's work together to find ways to improvethere needs to be collaboration between ALL stakeholders. This bill as written takes away all local control and moves it to one individual who has not experience working with our system. Please look at all the facts, not just the ones Governor Reynolds chooses to share. We vote you into office to represent US, not the Governor. Please listen to your constituents and vote NO or at least Slow this process down so all parties can work together on a resolution that benefits everyone! Thank you.

01-31-2024

Paula Thome []

It should be evident from the thousands of emails, phone calls, social media, and town halls that Iowans did not ask for this bill and do not support this bill. It is more and more frustrating that the political process is not allowed to play out. This is not how the process works. I expect my Iowa legislatures to listen to their constituents and analyze each bill as to whether or not it is the right thing to do in Iowa. The amount of opposition to this bill should be telling legislators that this is not right for Iowa. I firmly am in opposition to this bill and any current amendments.

01-31-2024

Mary Wilson []

PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! Vote NO on HBS542 and SSB3073! You are holding the future of Iowa education in your hands. Please don't make the detrimental mistake of allowing this bill to proceed. At least, not before it is given a year to really look at the true numbers and figures and not just the ones that Kim Reynolds is tossing around. You are in your position to represent the people of Iowa. The people of Iowa are speaking loud and clear! We do not believe this bill is in the best interest of our children and the future of Iowa's educational system. Please look at what's glaring right in front of us. We have a Director of Education who has no educational background (How does that even happen?) She has a bachelor's degree in Political Science. (Hmmm... where is her interest really lying?) and she is from West Virginial (She doesn't even know where Iowa's values and interests lie?). Then we have Kim Reynolds who had an outofstate company from West Virginia ( wow... what a coincidence that's where Director Snow is from....)conduct a study which cost us taxpayers upwards of $1,000,000,000! That Iowa taxpayer's money didn't stay in our state. It went to Director Snow's State! What part of the taxpayer's funding did that come out of? Don't let Kim Reynolds bully you! Do what you know in your heart is right for the Iowa people and most importantly our Iowa children. Vote No on these bills!

01-31-2024

Don Reid []

Please move the teacher salary increase from this bill to a separate bill, and pass it. The rest of the AEA bill will throw our entire education system, public and private, into chaos this year so please vote NO and proceed more cautiously. Otherwise hundreds of our special ed teachers will leave the state, which will be awful since there's a national shortage of these teachers.

01-31-2024

Catherine Gorman [retired]

I spent 43 years with the AEAs as a Speech Language Pathologist all over the state. I would like you to think about the following: opting for outside the AEA is not at all feasible. I worked in Early Access, when I retired in 2018 private SLPs made $250.00 and up an hour. Some insurance covered some did not . And there is no way they would drive to the homes which defeats the purpose. Choosing someone from another AEA would not work because they do not have people available that are free to do that and travel is also prohibitive. Department of Education people are overworked and under paid they do not need more to do and through no fault of their own they are not qualified to oversee special education. Without local directors of Special Eduction services will suffer and State Complaints will increase dramatically costings district hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees. Kids do NOT need reduction in services. Why harm our kids? They are our best assets and tomorrows leaders. Please STOP cutting education funds and hurting kids. Was Des Moines school district included in the reported standardized test results? Could be interesting to see the difference between the only Iowa district the has never had AEA services and the rest. Either way the results of one standardized test is NOT a true representation of rate of progress, and to report it as it is , is embarrassing for those reporting. With out functional assessments the study is pretty meaningless. Truly studying the issue is fine and making improvements is great but use IOWANS to do the study. We have many intelligent, highly educated and qualified professionals with many years of experience in Iowa. If this bill is supported then I highly doubt that Iowans, Republican or Democrat (we are both smarter than that), will support the legislators that have supported it.

01-31-2024

Marta Nelson []

The Governor's statistics are slanted. The 12 tests she talks of are all part of the same standardized test and in there lies the biggest problem. An IEP (Individualized Education Plan) modifies a student's education to help them learn, and each one is different. Their education is not standardized therefore a onceeverythreeyears standardized tests is not appropriate to evaluate IEP students. Many states do not give special education students this test but Iowa does, and Gov. Reynolds is using scores from an inappropriate measurement to convince Iowans to buy her changes.

01-31-2024

Meredith Pecinovsky []

I am opposed to this bill. AEAs are vital to education in Iowa. The services they provide to families are irreplaceable! Iowa needs to be funding public education and AEAs, not trying to privatize everything. Public education and services work when properly funded and valued. If the state truly cares about children, they will NOT pass this bill. I am worried about the great educators and service providers that will leave the state upon the passing of this bill. We need to value education again!

01-31-2024

Blake Durbin []

I live in the Urbandale school district and my wife teaches in the Norwalk school district and the Area Education Agencies are an essential part of publication in our local school districts. Please do not change our AEAs!

01-31-2024

John Kinley [Retired Educator]

I strongly encourage the subcommittee members to vote NO on this proposed bill. I have been involved in one capacity or another with K12 education for 48 years. I cannot quantify the significant support provided by the AEA system to me, as a teacher seeking resources; as a principal seeking ideas, strategies, and support for students with disabilities, as well as support for their classroom teachers; and as a principal and district leader who needed the expertise of a crisis responses team to support students, parents, and staff during times of unthinkable loss.The current system works! The current model is efficient. It is responsive, yet flexible in meeting the needs of students, staff, and parents. Resources can be made available quickly. Access to services for all kids regardless of where they live is critical. Our rural districts and their students and families will undoubtedly be negatively impacted by this proposed bill. Our districts currently know support is available in short order to provide support for unforeseen needs be they a crisis in our schools or a new student who moves into our districts who needs assistive technology to be successful.This proposed bill strikes me as a solution in search of an unknown problem. Listen to your constituents the folks on the ground who utilize the services of the AEA system every day. If you listen to them, you will vote NO on this proposed legislation.

01-31-2024

Jenni Grandgeorge []

I am a lifelong Iowa resident and the parent of 2 children currently attending public school. I am opposed to HSB 542/SSB3073. Instead of this bill, please support a transparent and comprehensive review of the AEA system using multiple sound data sources and input from school districts, parents, community members, medical professionals and anyone who currently partners with the AEAs in any way. If there is a problem to address, define it, measure it and propose a clear plan for implementation ensuring there is infrastructure before making any changes. This is too important to rush and the message from Iowans is clear: Do not allow this bill to pass. To pass this bill would be an absolute breach of trust for the citizens of Iowa by the government; with the consequences falling on the most vulnerable, those without a vote or a voice on the issue, the 500,000+ children enrolled in Iowa's schools. Please choose to listen to the parents, educators and experts in educational systems instead of the political rhetoric. Please do the right thing and do not pass this bill.

01-31-2024

Jim Green [Retired Teacher]

As an Iowa public school teacher for 44 years (35 years at Riceville Schools in the Keystone AEA and 9 years at St. Ansgar Community Schools in the Central Rivers AEA), I want to share with you how incredibly valuable the AEA system has been for me as an educator, for local school district students and for my family. As an educator in a small rural school district, I utilized the AEA media and curriculum lending library very heavily during my 45 years of teaching, in part due to the limited budget for purchasing these materials. Most of my years of teaching, I taught 6 or 7 different classes each day so when I used media items for my teaching, I may only use the item one class period for the entire school year. To me it made more sense to have these items at the AEAs lending library where other teachers could use the item on the many days that I was not utilizing the item. This represented a huge savings for the local district by having the media materials purchased by the AEA and shared between all the teachers in the AEA that taught the same subject matter as I did. During my time at the Keystone AEA, I applied for grants to purchase teaching materials worth over $30,000 that I would then place in the AEA lending library for all teachers in our AEA to use. In 2013, I left my teaching position in the Keystone AEA but now, over ten years later, they still have 50 items in the lending library from these grants that are still being used by the Keystone AEA teachers. They do weed out items each year with low usage and accept teacher recommendations for the purchase of new items. I absolutely know that the media curriculum libraries in all AEAs are an incredibly valuable resource for the many educators in both public and private schools that utilize this service. Other resources that have been invaluable for me as an educator included professional development activities, printing services, assess to digital resources, state discounted purchasing of teaching supplies, programing for inservice activities to meet the ever changing use of technology and educational reform initiatives. I was an Agricultural Education teacher and our AEA hosted several meetings each year to assist all Ag Ed teachers to meeting the requirements for Perkins funding, working with curriculum development, working on developing concurrent enrollment courses with our community colleges, learning about changes in the Agricultural industry with guest speakers and tours, and simply sharing ideas and concerns between teachers. The AEAs have provided these services to all Career & Technical Education (CTE) teachers. In recent years, the AEAs have been very helpful to local CTE educators in completing Iowas secondary career and technical education program selfstudy and CTE program approvals now required on a rotating five year basis. During my many years of teaching, I was always pleased with the services and support provided by my AEAs and their staff.As a parent, some of my own children were provided services through the AEA, specifical with speech therapy. They also benefit from many of the online resources that the AEAs purchase for the use by students and teachers in each school district. I have a daughter who is employed to work with special needs students in the Cedar Rapids school district and she is very concerned about the loss the AEA services that the school district utilizes for helping their students to be successful.This change reduces local and regional control and decision relating to many educational services and priorities and puts these decision in the hands of the Director of Iowa Department of Education which is a politically appointed position.The proposed change will have a negative effect on the educational experiences and opportunities for students, educators, and families within our state. This especially affects rural school districts and school district with declining enrollments. AEAs currently provide their services to both public and private school students. Changes of this nature should have serious input from the individuals most affected by the change, and this is not the case. Changes of this nature should be intended to improve the quality of education in Iowa and this plan will not do this. Changes of this nature should be bipartisan and nonpolitical which does not appear to be the case. Rather than scrapping the Iowa AEA system that has proved to be a tremendous resource supporting a more equal access for educational opportunities for all of Iowas students, I would request leave the AEAs in place as they are and consider restoring some of the cuts in funding that they have experienced in recent years.

01-31-2024

Geneva Dillon []

As a parent of special needs children, I have worked with the AEA for years. The AEAs are not a perfect system they are filled with people, so of course they can't be perfect. There are improvements that could be made to certain AEAs. However, making sweeping judgements of the entire system and essentially dismantling the services they provide and trying to do so using incomplete, inaccurate, and heavily biased data is unconscionable and will cause severe harm to come to general ed and special ed students alike. The success and progress of our communities and society as a whole depends heavily on the level and quality of education which our children receive, and this bill will decimate the progress of thousands of present and future Iowans.

01-31-2024

Abigail Lill []

Why would one ever want to dismantle a program that helps families that shows no regard to income level, demography, or ability? Are we to assume families rely strictly on privatized clinics for support? There arent enough professionals in the state, nor country, to fulfill the needs of all of these families that would go without. Refer to the AEAs representatives for guidance and please dont make decisions without consulting numerous professionals.

01-31-2024

Paul Harbor [Citizen]

Iowas AEA system is recognized as setting the standard for educational support services nationally. For the sake of Iowa children and the educational staff in each and every school district, please do not adopt these reforms.

01-31-2024

Luke Morlan []

Please vote no on SSB3073/HSB542. It is very obvious that there is not public support for this. How can you possibly support this? This will have a severe impact on not only the children in our state, but the communities the AEA supports. Please have a spine, stand up to the governor and serve your constitutes properly.

01-31-2024

Larry Martin [Tax Payer]

Vote no to HSB 542Too much, too soon, too little data.Where is the data to inform this massive change?Where is the quality data that is: Comprehensive, Credible, Reliable, Relevant, Calculable, with Completeness & Accuracy of metrics.No quality data has been presented. Step back, study, gather stakeholder input and quality data. Then propose a change.Vote NO to HSB 542!

01-31-2024

Carolyn Herman []

As a parent in a rural school district, whose child benefits currently and has previously benefited from AEA services, I am opposed to Bill HSB 542. The burden that these changes will place on our school district are apparent and unwanted.

01-31-2024

Anne Miller [Audubon Community Schools]

I'm a school board member, parent, and former teacher from Audubon Iowa. Please vote against dismantling the AEA's. Our small, rural school district utilizes our AEA in so many ways. This is a system that works for us and is critical for the success of our students. We are doing our best to maintain local control, centralizing these services at the state level does not help our kids. I've heard the arguments for the bill and they are faulty at best. I'm unsure of what the problem is that this bill is trying to solve, what data do we have that shows the problem even exists? Who even wrote this bill and why? Why is it being rushed through in such a gross way? Our students deserve discussion and transparency. I would welcome a call; my number is below. The arguments against the bill have been nicely laid out by others, but I'm happy to elaborate on how much the AEA has meant to our local district.

01-31-2024

Amy Adams [self/personal]

Slow down and talk with invested stakeholders: AEA employees, students, parents, and educators. This bill is moving too quickly and those making decisions need to better understand the full range of services AEAs provide. As a former educator in a rural district, our AEA provided services that would not have otherwise been available to myself and my students because we simply could not have afforded them. The ability of school districts to provide these resources on their own through private companies is not realistic.AEAs continuously update and manage these enrichment activities for the districts they serve. Privatizing this wellneeded service would be devastating to rural Iowa education. Special education students will be harmed by this despite what the Governor is saying. Every special education student has an individualized educational program (IEP) as a guide for teachers and as a benchmark for student growth and success. These legal documents are highly individualized and are as varied as the abilities of every child. It is misleading to say Iowas special education students are failing. That would require an audit of each Iowa students IEP. We need better funding for our public schools and to maintain the services of our AEAs within our schools.

01-31-2024

Dina Brake []

I am writing to urge you to vote no on HSB542. This is a terrible bill that will have lasting negative impacts for Iowa students. AEA's provide vital services to students with and without disabilities. The remarkable 50year history of Iowa's AEAs speaks volumes about the effectiveness and relevance of their services. These agencies have not merely survived; they have thrived by adapting and evolving, despite consistent cuts in funding over the last 20 years. Dismantling this system without a deep understanding of the comprehensive support provided by AEAs is reckless and irresponsible governance. Preserving the legacy of Iowa's AEAs ensures that every student, regardless of their geographic location, continues to have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.We must do better for students with disabilities, that is true, but dismantling AEA's is not a solution to this. AEA's provide so much more that just services for special education and are essential to small rural districts. By now I would hope you have read David Tilly, former Deputy Director at the Iowa Department of Education's letter to the education committee and Gov. Reynolds about his take on this. He has many valid points and I agree with his assessment. Please listen carefully to your constituents. While AEAs are not well known to all Iowans, to those who have needed their services, they are almost universally praised. There are reasons for that.

01-31-2024

Darcy Wold [DMPS]

As an educator of 29 years and a parent, I beg you not to vote for this AEA bill. I see the value of their work everyday in our school. I do not support this bill and if you care about Iowa children, you wont either!

01-31-2024

James Stoycheff []

This bill seeks to dismantle AEA's and distribute a portion of those funds to LEA's to provide their own services. The basis of this is masked in an erroneous belief that local control is better, and LEA's will be able to provide as good or better services at their own discretion.There is an obvious missing element to their proposal. That is a cost analysis of such a transition which outlines how I district would be able to provide basic services let alone all those specialty supports now provided by the AEA. the comments provided by the public outline, all of those specially supports and services now provided by the current AEA structure, and if anyone thinks that school district of the state of Iowa will be able to match this by going alone, they are sadly mistaken.There are neighboring states where LEA's do purchase their own basic services, and I have experience in this type of system, and all I can say, is that the equity of the Iowa AEA's second to none and the most economical one for the money.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Cosgrove []

We sat watching Governor's Reynolds Condition of the State speech and were taken back. The governor's misinterpretation and lack of knowledge of this organization was evident. The devastating effects House Study Bill 542 and Senate Study Bill 3073 will have on our state will be felt statewide by all ages. We watched thinking, how can she state this, how can she promote this? And, we are asking you now, How? How will our voices be heard to get more information to those who are making the decisions before a vote is taken? And, why so quickly? The Department of Education already posted jobs and changed its statement previously supporting AEAs. It feels like what we are seeing is "Backdoor politics."AEA is just not special education because a learner is not just special education. General education is involved as well. These collaborations are tried and true and they continue to help all learners, teachers, families and districts involved. Please don't mess with these services. She needs them! With over 320 school districts in the state, shouldn't the question be... "How can we help?" You are investigating the salaries for AEA Chiefs while yet, the DSM Superintendent has a base salary of $270,000 annually and he only supports 30,000 students. Our AEA chief supports 53 public school districts, 30 accredited nonpublic schools with a total of 11,069 teachers & administrators, and 148,942 children and students birth to age 21 served. Again, why aren't you asking, "How can we help?"Recently the Iowa Department of Education needed a way to manage the significant components of special education/early intervention in the state of Iowa, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for schoolage learners and Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) for birth3. After several years of missteps, they partnered with AnLar and developed ACHIEVE. ACHIEVE is used statewide by teams of educators, service providers, and in the future, families to develop IFSPs and IEPs. Again, this took several years. To this day, it's still not working as it should and remains in phases of development. And, this is the agency you want to oversee AEAs? It was very clear the staff in the trenches and the staff overseeing this project have different views when it came to development and support. It is a struggle every day with the limitations ACHIEVE gives providers, districts and families. Although improvements have been made and appreciated, many suffered for it as they could not prepare for learner's needs or meetings with families within the program as well as the training for those who use it. We worry about the Department of Education's involvement when it's being brought on by false interpretation of data and the lack of recent success when it counted.Please, we ask you to slow this down and take the time to investigate new data, talk to all stakeholders and really understand the AEA before doing anything. We're not sure who provided the report that these decisions are being based on, but we think you should get your money back. Your data is not all current and should be interpreted by those who know what it means. Before this report, the Dept of Ed even stated that Iowa AEA system has been widely regarded as one of the finest systems of intermediate services in the country. And, although Governor Reynold has stated, "Iowa is the only state in the nation that operates this way," the truth is that 46 states have similar systems to Iowa's. When we read this statement, we understand the word "similar" is present and realize not all states are the same. However, the impact that is felt when first heard is Iowa is a lone wolf. This is a very misleading statement.Although Governor Reynolds stated a review hadn't been done in the last 50 years, several have. Each of the AEAs had accreditation reviews within the last few years from the Iowa Department of Education and all of Iowa's AEAs were reaccredited.Iowas AEAs are widely regarded as one of the foremost regional service systems in the country, offering programs that can be provided most equitably, efficiently and economically on a regional or cooperative basis among school districts. Why would we want to dismantle something that works? Any organization can work better but in the absence of understanding it, don't destroy it. Have conversations, learn and help build a stronger foundation to grow from. It really feels like there is a different motive at work here besides giving districts a choice when so much will be lost.

01-31-2024

Jessica Chrystal []

As someone whose served on SIAC and worked in Special Education for over 3 years in urband and rural districts,I realize the negative impact this legislation would have on students and families. This bill is not about bloat or over spending: Special Education is operating in a deficit. Over 280 of 327 districts ended FY22 with a negative balance. 22 had deficits of over $1,000,000.There have been drastic cuts to A.E.A.s the last 3 years: FY 21/22$22.5 million,FY 22/23$24.5 Million and FY 23/24$24.5 Million. The expansion of programs and services can be correlated over the last 50 years to the forming diversity of learners in this state. This bill threatens the equity the A.E.A. provides to all students and their families across 99 counties.The D.O.E. has a questionable track record in providing timely guidance and communications.Many administrators across this state have never been asked for input over their frustrations in dealing with the D.O.E.Statt with a audit of the D.O.E. and their ability to handle these proposed changes. Instead if listening to out of State consultants maybe the Govenor should be taking advice from administrators,teachers,parents and students before dismantling our public education system.

01-31-2024

Patricia Higby [Iowa AAUW]

My Dad was a very wise man. He always said if it isn't broken, don't fix it. The AEA's are fine. Please ditch this bill and work on something that needs fixing, like food for hungry kids over the summer or oversight of nursing homes.

01-31-2024

Amy Condon []

This bill is going to have a negative impact on kids in ALL schools, public and private schools. Do you realize AEAs provide services to private schools, as well? Many of the representatives are not even fully aware of how much of the work and materials and support the AEAs do to support ALL schools. There also has been so much incorrect or outdated data being shared to promote this bill. This is unacceptable! If the legislators want to make changes, I know AEAs will step forward and work with them. But to completely get rid of AEAs that have a very positive reputation in Iowa with educators?! This feels like a political game of the Governor to try and push an agenda that does not match what the citizens want or need. If this bill goes through, there will be consequences at the next election. We will make our voices heard loud and clear if you refuse to listen to us now. Please tell us how many emails or comments have you received in support of this bill? Please remember you are here to support the citizens of Iowa, not just push political agendas that will not benefit Iowans. Thank you.

01-31-2024

Jake Hudson []

This. Bill is a huge Mistake. Not only do I have a child who utilizes AEA services, as the husband of an AEA social worker, I can think of countless stories of the families she has helped. This bill makes no sense and will end up hurting special education and leaving countless families without service. Please do not vote to support this bill. It isn't for Iowans!

01-31-2024

Laura Morine []

Please vote NO to bill HSB542! AEAs provide a tremendous amount of support to our students, parents, teachers and our districts. The students are Iowa's future and they deserve to have the services AEAs provide. Look at the funding that has been cut to AEAs over the years and SSA for schools isn't even keeping up with inflation, yet more unfunded mandates are added. Again, I urge you to vote NO!

01-31-2024

Jonathan Danker []

This Bill will hurt the schools in Iowa especially the rural areas. As an Autistic person, The AEA helped me with the education I needed during my childhood. My mom used to work for AEA and help a lot of people who need the support from the AEA. I worried about the future of the Special Education if this bill passed. A lot of students will not have the education they needed and a lot of hard working people will lose their jobs.If you love kids and schools, you should not support HSB 542.

01-31-2024

Jeanna Kakavas []

AEA's are an integral part of the school system and the community. This Iowan uses these services and supports these services. I do not agree with this Bill. Please support our students and our educators by supporting the AEA system. The proposed changes will only decrease student performance.

01-31-2024

Casey Thompson []

Comments on Bill 542 & 3073Pros:Increase pay for teachers, this will always get a better quality person in the class room as the pool for teachers will increase.Allow for private entities to provide services, if school districts elect to go private or provide their own services its for one of two reasons, money or quality. Both are a benefit to the system. Only caveat is these non AEA services have to provide the same level of care as the AEA. That means have a full staff/group consisting of the same types of professionals as the AEA's do which is more that people think.Reduce admin cost, Just because AEA's are adhering to only 5% of money to administrative cost doesn't mean they need to have inflated salaries. Extra "public" money should not go into the pockets of top administrators. let them make a decent amount and cap the salaries and move that money back into the school districts.Looking for ways to improve the level of care for both special ed services.Cons:Moving all the control to a central unit in the department of Ed. These AEAs need to stay as local as possible as the variety of populations in the state vary significantly from very rural to larger city areas. By allowing AEA's to make the decisions themselves it allows them to provide better careNot allowing AEA's and school districts to participate in providing feedback to potential changes. I believe most teachers and AEA professionals know that something needs to change and I believe they would have a lot of good insights on things that could both help with increasing the effectiveness of services to special ed as well as lowing cost. Please start this process by creating a panel to discuses how to move forward with potential changes. AEA's provide more than just special ed services and we need to make sure teachers and school districts have access to everything they need to improve themselves as well. This is especially true for rural/lower income school districts who don't have the money or means to provide these services themselves. AEA's are needed to fill that gap. Media/Early access/Teacher Training/Counseling services need to stay.Conclusion:We need to find a way to increase the level of services Iowa provides to both general ed and special ed students. We need to do this by working on oversight of the AEA's to reduce cost and give the professionals time back. What I mean is lets reduce the paperwork and overhead that these professionals do and get them more time working with the actual kids. While increasing teacher pay is a step in the right direction to increasing quality teachers, everything else in this bill does not address the quality the kids get. There is potential in this bill to actually do the opposite and reduce the level of care they get. I believe we need to have more talks with the people actually doing this work and get their opinions on what they believe will help and then move forward with a bill that more directly makes a impact on Iowa's education. By allowing these bills to move forward at this time we would be doing a disservice by not know the facts of how it would affect Iowa's kids. Therefore I believe we should not support this bill as written at this time. Thanks.

01-31-2024

Shelly Northway []

I do not support this bill. AEA supports our educators who education our students. Taking away another resource from schools and educators only harms our students. If you want to see Iowa students soar, fulling fund public schools and support Iowa Educators.

01-31-2024

Meagan Ross []

Please do not support this bill as it will not be beneficial to anyone, especially our students in our rural districts who are already struggling. Taking away resources for school districts is not the answer. Come and meet with more of us that are in the trenches to get an idea of what you are proposing and how it impacts everyone. Please listen to your constituents on this as we are not in support of this.

01-31-2024

Margaret Conrad []

This bill appears to be another way to eliminate public education. The AEAs have been the resource for many communities that are isolated through direct service or referrals to additional resources. Please note NO when considering this bill.

01-31-2024

Rosalyn De Koster [American Reformed Church OC]

Increased teacher salaries is a necessity and excellent move. Please leave AEA's alone and instead give them the funds to offer CDL/bus driver training. Our rural communities need the support of the AEA and we need bus drivers and good teachers.Teachers need the resources of the AEA and families need it. Vote no to this bill.

01-31-2024

Lila Sybesma []

As a seasoned educator, I have used the AEAs countless times. We live in rural Iowa and our school systems are small; our schools will never be able to hire the necessary professionals on our own. The AEA's provide a hub, which we all utilize. This bill is asinine and shameful. Bill 542 shows a great lack of understanding for the Iowan's you serve.Our children are our future. Please don't leave us stranded.

01-31-2024

Holly Messenger []

Please vote NO. My concern is that the quality and efficiency of the services currently provided by the AEA will diminish drastically if you pass this bill. Right now, my son has a team who work directly with him regularly in the school building. That team has a supportive, collaborative team within the AEA. My son uses an eye gaze communication device this is about as hightech and unique as they get. When his speech language pathologist, who works directly with him providing speech services, gets stuck or has a question, she has an entire assistive technology team to reach out to. They are experts in high tech communication devices and can provide her the support and education to then turn around and provide my son with the best quality speech services possible. When my son's special education teacher who is a longtime, outstanding educator gets stuck on how to present educational material or assess what my son knows, she has an entire significant disabilities team to consult. They will come in to observe, brainstorm, and collaborate with her, giving my son the best learning environment possible, maximizing his academic growth.You are not going to be able to, efficiently and economically, get that level of collaboration with a cobbled together, piecemeal, fee for service approach. And my sons education will suffer because of it.

01-31-2024

Hayley Vander Wal []

I am an educator at a local private Christian school, and I am concerned about the proposed HSB 542.Although I do not currently teach in the public school sector, private schools, too, are supported by the work of the Area Education Agency representatives. I am currently working oneonone with my school's math AEA representative on designing, administering, and assessing specific, targeted interventions for students who are struggling in math. Apart from her expertise and training, I would not be nearly as equipped to serve each of my general education students. I do not feel like I, without the support, resources, and knowledge from my local AEA representatives, would be able to adequately provide highquality education to each and every single one of my students.I would appreciate voting in opposition to HSB 542 so that I can continue to provide highquality education for children of Iowa to help them reach their fullest potential through the support of my local AEA.

01-31-2024

Karen Maass [retired PT and recipient of AEA services for my children ]

I am a retired PT who has worked in the public school systems and even more importantly, I am a mother of a son and two daughters who received AEA services at some level. My son was identified as a student at risk when he was in 2nd grade. He was evaluated by a psychologist from Heartland AEA and found to have an IQ in the superior range but was below grade level in reading/writing. The District he was being served in and I had a disagreement in regards to the reading program that was being used. The psychologist and the consultant from AEA and I felt that he needed a more phonics based reading program due to the type of LD he had. They along with a parent advocate from Heartland AEA came to several meetings I had with the teachers up to the Districts Director of Special Education. They helped me obtain the type of program individualized for what he needed. They educated me as to how to work with my sons teachers and the various schools he attended from elementary to high school. They even assisted my son in planning where he would attend college so he would continue to get the accommodations that he needed to be successful. My son graduated from ISU in the Architecture and Design Program. It is a selective program where only a small number of students are selected to enter. I have two other daughters who did not need special education, but had received services in the general education that was provided by the AEAs. Technology support from the AEAs was provided for them and my son since they were in grade school. I know because I attended some of the evening informational meetings since at that time the technology which was being used was new. The elementary school and their classroom teachers needed the AEAs additional support to get started and continue on. I have worked as a PT both in the clinic and also in the school system. They are very different places to work. As a PT in the school I worked directly in the classrooms, also the bathrooms, lunchrooms and anywhere in the building or outside where there was an accessibility issue or problem. I did not pull students out of class unless it was absolutely necessary. I knew the laws that governed special education, 504s and students at risk. As a PT in the clinic prior to the educational setting, I did not have a clue about any of this. It wasnt until after my training by AEAs, that I was able to figure out what the intent of the law was. If the AEAs are not present, who will provide the services that my son and daughters were provided? I not only ran into AEA staff at school, but at outside activities in the community. One sat on the steering committee of the local CHADD (Children with Attention Disorders) and at least 23 others attended local LDA meetings. We developed relationships because they were local. Now this new law wants to change it from local control to centralized control. Please support the AEAs. It is where parents and educators have trust and respect.

01-31-2024

Mark Tschirgi []

I oppose HSB542. Please vote NO. The Governor's proposal and amendment, which are nearly identical despite the outcry against this bill, will do nothing to improve educational outcomes for students. In fact, her "fee for service" model will result in LOWER educational outcomes for ALL students because AEA special education, educational services, and media services will not be sustainable. Local control is moved to Des Moines with approval from the Director of the Dept. of Education deciding if the local school's request for services is valid....This is not local control The voices are loud in opposition to the Governor's proposal. Please get the right voices at the table (parents, teachers, district leaders, AEA staff) and come up with legislation that will address this for the next generation.

01-31-2024

Anne Anderson []

As a proud public school teacher, I am so saddened to see this bill. The AEA is VITAL for all schools and their success. There is a reason there is a huge outcry for you to stop this bill. Listen to the Iowans that work in education. We know whats best for our students. The AEA has helped so many struggling students in the classes Ive taught so ALL students can learn. If one student doesnt get support that the AEA provides now, then they could end up causing the whole class to be disrupted the entire year. How is that helping our kids? We need these resources. Our students need them. Dont take away their chance to be successful.

01-31-2024

Brenna Griffin []

Please, please, do not support this bill.Is there potential for waste in our AEA system? Of course. Let's do a thorough comprehensive review and look for improvements that can be made. As a taxpayer, parent, and public school teacher, this review would help us provide better services to students and teachers.However, supporting this bill will lead to vast disruption of services for both special education students and general education students, districts, and teachers. Our AEAs help support schools in so many ways that public will not understand until they are pulled out from under us: psychological support for students in times of crisis, printing needs for districts to keep their costs down, media resources, science kits, consultants to help navigate the neverending compliance needed as a result of new legislation. AEAs allow our rural districts to remain their own proud, local entities while receiving the support they need.The need to analyze the AEA and its efficiency can be done without this widesweeping bill.

01-31-2024

Amanda Phaydavong []

I do NOT support HSB 542. I'm a mother of two boys attending public schools and one of them has been using AEA services since he was 2.5 years old. He would not be where he is today without the hard work and collaborative efforts of AEA and his teachers! I dont see solutions being proposed in the bill to implement for students to achieve higher scores. Im only seeing the list of services that will no longer be provided to teachers who do the instruction. Please look at what IS working for all students and their families.I would like to see the teacher salary portion separated into a bill of its own and address other school staff pay. Too many are not getting paid enough for the hard and important work they do for our children and are vital for student success.

01-31-2024

Claire Larson []

I teach special education in a level II classroom. The support the AEA gives me on a regular basis is crucial to my classrooms success. I could not do my job without the inperson support Im given from the AEA and all the resources they provide. Please vote no on this bill so I can continue to teach to the best of my ability with the resources I need.

01-31-2024

Kathy Whitney []

I am writing to ask you to oppose HSB542. I worked with AEA's as a teacher in three different Iowa school districts and saw the many ways they assist teachers, families, and children. I don't know why we might be listening to outside resources. Do we think they know more about our educational systems than we do? Are we worried about money? control? test scores? Have those making decisions spent months and months visiting with all the stakeholders? How do you determine the success of an AEA, especially its special education services? Through test scores? NO! Let me give you a better example. I worked the last of my career with a student who had a severe traumatic brain injury at age 16. He had a cadre of AEA specialists who helped him, his family, and me, his oneonone teacher/tutor. No, he didn't particularly test wellwhich is understandable. But today he has a job, owns and maintains his own home, pays taxes, and is loved and respected by the people in his community. He once even helped to pass a new Iowa safety law. That's how you help test what success is, one individual at a time. And there are a lot more like him out there and living in your districts, each striving to live up to their potentials, and each helped by their area's AEA's. There are probably better ways that you can truly help the children of Iowa than by totally disrupting the our AEA's.

01-31-2024

Deborah Weiss []

I believe it is extremely shortsighted to modify/eliminate our AEAs at this time and so quickly. My own son benefitted so much from speech therapy he received from Kindergarten through third grade due to hear losses he sustained from repeated ear infections. To think that so many of the services that AEAs provide could begin to be covered in regular school districts is ludicrous. The AEAs can provide shared inventories, provisions, and services that school districts do not have. I cannot understand why you're even considering trying to fix something that is not broken. Don't you have better ways to spend your time?

01-31-2024

Heather Monat []

Dear Subcommittee,As a Speech Language Pathologist in Iowa schools, I greatly urge you to vote NO for this bill. As it currently stands, this bill has the potential to dismantle not only our AEAs, but our entire educational system. I have worked in many smaller school districts who would be negatively impacted by this bill, no longer having access to the services they currently have. This bill will undoubtedly wreck havoc on students education across Iowa, especially those in rural districts. Please, I urge you to listen to your constituents and vote NO for this bill.

01-31-2024

Jenni Ochsner []

Hello,I do not understand why we want to gut a system that works. Why would we want to take these services away from people? The school systems, especially the rural systems, will not be able to take on and replicate all of the services offered by the AEA. So many people will be affected, especially special needs children, children who are autistic, nonverbal, preemies, deaf, blind. Children who need OT services. Mental health services! Our state government is failing Iowans who need mental health services. I know teens who have their lives because of the AEA and their mental health services.We need a better educated public for a better Iowa. To deprive people of education and services that the AEA offer will cripple our state. It will inevitably lead to more people dependent on the welfare system. When we had our premature daughter, she was born at 3 lbs. Premature babies, especially underweight babies, are known to develop slower than other children. AEA reached out to us. They came to our house routinely. Marcia from the AEA helped asses our daughter Luna each time she came and gave us tools to help her develop and catch up to other kids her age. We would not have had this service if it weren't for the AEA. On top of that how do you expect the schools to pay new teachers more? Will this mean that all teachers get an equivalent raise? What is to keep our current teachers here?There are so many things the AEA does that schools cannot afford to replace! Cyber security? OT services? Our schools are already stretched thin. Especially our special ed programs. There is no way you will be able to give equal services after the AEA is gone. Also, all research that was done is jaded. And it was done by a researcher that isn't even in our state. This bill is bogus and has bogus reasoning behind it. This bill will destroy Iowa. And believe me, none of us see the amended bill as good either. It needs to go. Iowans see you, we are watching what you are doing. And we will find someone to run against you and vote you out of office if you keep this up.Please, we are all begging you, do not push this bill forward. Let it die here.A disappointed Iowan:Jenni OchsnerMother of two

01-31-2024

Naomi Sharp [Green Hills AEA]

Please vote NO!! This bill will not help children, families, educators, and/or school districts. We need to think about how we can best serve our children while supporting families, educators, and school districts. Eliminating and or changing AEA support will only hinder them all. There are far too many changes suggested and so much responsibility and time spent solving how to best serve all students will come back on districts. School administrators are already overloaded with so many tasks. This bill will only add more to their plates. Plus deciding what services are important and what is affordable will be daunting. How do you decide what children's and or educators' needs must go by the wayside? They should not have to.Please vote No!! Find a better way to help AEAs be more effective if that is the end game.

01-31-2024

Jennifer Beck []

This bill is appalling. As an educational researcher, I am very concerned at the cherrypicked metrics that were taken out of context to justify actions that will undoubtedly reduce the quality of K12 education across the state of Iowa. You don't have to be a mathematician to realize that sharing resources across districts is more costeffective than duplicating the same services at each district. Districts would not be able to provide the same level of educational support to students in both special and general education without the AEAs.

01-31-2024

Alanna Chuprevich []

Hello my name is Alana. I am calling to share with you my story. I am a chicagoan who taught in the Chicago public school system for 16 years. I needed to resign because we did not receive enough support. 30 kids 1st grade no IEPs beucase there is a waiting lsit, 805 ESL 3 kids in diapers, 5 kids that could not speak . I told my husband he nd a job anywhere and he found one here in Iowa. I was reluctant but realized later on that this was the perfect place for us. I am a teacher here in the school district with two kids with disabilities I need to let you know all of the services and how aea is and saved my family's sanity my oldest who is now 12 began when he began preschool two weeks before it started completely lost his ability to speak. He was head banging biting putting things in his mouth. I was beside myself I have never seen anything like this. the preschool teacher came and visited us and she said no problem. we could help when my child went to school they taught him how to communicate speak they gave him strategies to calm himself. they gave him physical training so he could learn how to do things. ided me sanity I live in Iowa City and I know how lucky we are to have all these resources it is one of the loneliest things to be as a caregiver of a person with disabilities I cannot fathom how it would be for parents that live in smaller communities with zero resources it normally takes 2 years to get evaluations and Medicaid is not accepted every aspect of aea assists parents and teachers for the journey to help persons with disabilities without them I don't think I would have my sanity please call me if you need to talk to me about all the services thank you for your time

01-31-2024

Debra Robin []

Please vote No on HSB 542. All organizations should be reviewed and make the necessary changes to improve. However an outside review of AEAs without including our educators, parents, and AEA administrators seems wrong. I worked for GWAEA for 39 years as a speechlanguage pathologist. I worked in urban and rural settings and saw first hand how the many services of an AEA were utilized by the schools. My own children benefited from the materials and services provided by the AEA when they were in school. Please vote No.

01-31-2024

Malorie Thompson []

As an Iowa educated parent of Iowa students, and AEA staff member, Im deeply concerned about the ramifications this bill could have. Ive seen firsthand the benefits of AEAs and their services. Ive used various services as a student, parent, and professional. I urge you not to allow this bill to continue any farther. Instead, Id ask you to take the time to be in the schools, visit the small districts, meet with parents, teachers, and professionals to hear how positively impacting AEA services are. Moving forward with this bill will impact our students in small rural districts the most. These are districts with many families in poverty as it is. It is not ok for our students to not receive fair and appropriate public education. As a professional, my services are strengthened by the support of colleagues around me. Moving forward on this bill will chase educators away from Iowa at a time that we are already struggling with a teacher shortage. Please vote NO.

01-31-2024

Adam Sitzmann []

The Iowa AEA has made numerous impacts on my life as a student. From the math bees to science fairs they were always a highlight of my education. In addition i have been able to see the tremendous work they have been able to do for my peers with learning disabilities. To lessen their services would be a tragedy to the state of Iowas education standards.

01-31-2024

Melanie Van Dyke []

I am writing to ask you to vote NO on this bill. Please stop this bill from moving forward. We moved to Iowa 10 years ago. I was an educator in another state. We were so pleased with the education system in Iowa and with the access and opportunities that children had at school. Things that were not available in another state. Over the last 10 years, we have watched the school system decline with continued funding cuts and huge teacher shortages. My own children have benefited from the AEA services. My son was on a 504. When the school was not following the 504 as written, the AEA was there to support us and our son. My daughter is currently part of the Talented and Gifted program that receives support from the AEA. I fear that with the changes this bill are making, rural schools will see a loss of services that are so important for children, families and schools. Please slow down, take the time to know and understand what Iowa schools need and include stakeholders in the conversations. Take the time to understand! Please vote NO on this bill.

01-31-2024

Jenna Weiland []

I worked in the Early Childhood Education field for over 10 years; child care centers and Headstart. As we all know, there is a huge child care shortage; many centers have waitlists and many centers struggle to find staffing. In my years of working in the field, the amount of children who struggle with meeting milestones, struggling to talk, challenging behaviors, mental health illnesses, etc. continually grew. The AEA has been such an ESSENTIAL NEED for these children and for educators. If the AEA resources are pulled from educators, our children will suffer tremendously. You talk about how the AEA has failed many children.. let me share just a few examples of how the AEA has helped children THRIVE...A pair of twins were born prematurely, the AEA was involved around at 4 months old of age helping these babies learn how to roll over, sit up, how to eat, how to talk, how to interact with others until they were around 18 months. Now, these girls are chatter boxes, love running and playing with others. Without the services of the AEA, they would not be thriving.A toddler who was two, couldn't babble which is a milestone most 45 month olds can reach. A speech pathologist met with this child once a week, helping him to learn the basics of talking. This toddler also had a biting problem because he didn't have the ability to form words. He worked with the speech pathologist for a few months and is now forming FULL SENTENCES and hasn't bit in over a year!!!A preschooler was having a hard time in the classroom and was unable to regulate his emotions, share any toys, communicate when he was upset, became aggressive when angry, etc. All of these things caused problems in the classroom and made it difficult for staff to manage the overall classroom. An early access education specialist came in and helped provide resources for this child and the classroom staff. She helped teach the child about being angry and how to reroute his feelings. A speech pathologist met with him a few times a week and he began being able to use words instead of becoming aggressive. They also worked with the child's family to utilize resources at home. This family had their child on a waitlist with 3 different play therapists and were never able to get an appointment. Once the AEA became involved for a few months, the child did not need to see a play therapist because they were seeing results with the AEA staff WHO CAME DIRECTLY INTO HIS CLASSROOM AT THE CHILD CARE CENTER!! This child went from having 45 outbursts a day to maybe one a month!! In summary, I could sit here and write all the success stories on how useful and essential the AEA is. It is very evident that none of you have stepped foot into a classroom and observed the success of the AEA and the children they serve or simply talked to families who were beyond grateful for their services. If you think the AEA is "failing" students, just wait until you take it away. It will be detrimental to our students and our education system. You say you care about Iowans but yet you want to take away a very important part of our educational system? Shame on you!!!

01-31-2024

Ann Reicher []

Please read all of these detailed and very well articulated comments in OPPOSITION to HSB542/SSB3073. The comprehensive services provided by our AEAs are valued by schools, teachers, superintendents, students and families. Dismantling them instead of working with AEAs to address concerns and support the development of our children from birth through high school is completely irresponsible and counter to the goal of educational progress and excellence in our state. Your constituents do not support this bill! VOTE NO!!

01-31-2024

Kristine Warford-Henry []

I am a retired School Social worker who worked in: Washington, Iowa, Benton, Jones, Cedar, Johnson and Linn counties during my 35 years at the AEA. I know how critical all of the services are to help equalize and provide a up to date, quality education in rural communities commensurate with that of the larger communities.. Dont let this bill pass if you care about Iowa kids and education! We need to keep the AEAs and as always, they will happily give input about efficiencies that wont decrease services for children and rural schools. AEA needs to be at the table to discuss any changes.Are teacher pay raises supposed to make this pill easier to swallow? Iowa Needs AEAs and teachers need higher pay!

01-31-2024

Kacie Aistrope []

As a constituent and someone who has worked directly with countless district staff and AEA staff the last 9 years, I am asking that you vote no to this bill and current amendment. While this has been promoted as giving more power to the schools, the original bill gave power to the department of ed, and the amendment takes the power even further away from schools by giving to to the appointed director of the department of ed. Additionally, marketing graphics promoted by Governer Kim Reynolds continue to solely place the blame for 'failing students with disabilities' on the AEA, while AEAs do not hire special education teachers that provide the majority of special designed instruction for students on IEPs. Furthermore, if students with disabilities were performing at the same level as their peers, I would be concerned that the student is receiving special education supports in the first place and were overqualified. Please do your research, read between the lines, and vote no on the bill.

01-31-2024

Olivia Patton []

Please accept this comment in opposition to the proposed HSB 542. We should not be taking the authority for AEA services out of the hands of the local AEAs and its board of directors. The State should not be authorizing approval of these vital services for our schools and students. The bill appears to be designed with the sole purpose of limiting funds and services available to our schools and students. If we keep limiting the funds, resources and programs of our public schools, Iowans will have no incentive to keep their young families in our state. Devaluing our public schools and the services they provide will result in young families fleeing the state for more supportive states.

01-31-2024

Nila Clark []

I am asking you to vote no to this bill. We need to protect and support all areas of the AEA not tear it apart. Our children are going to suffer tremendously if this passes. You all need to think hard about this. If you yourself had a child with special needs that the now AEA provides, would you what to wait for the Department of Education to accept or decline the request for help for your child or would you want an agency such as AEA who specializes in helping our children get the help that your child needs as soon as possible? So please vote no to this bill. It is going to do more harm to our children and education system than good. I support the AEA and pray that you will too!Thank you!

01-31-2024

Becky Martin [Grandparent & Taxpayer]

Vote no to HSB 542A life saved! Because of the early intervention provided by professionals/experts at my Local AEA, my nephew is learning and progressing at a normal rate. He is on grade level in all subjects. A life saved? Yes, he was struggling in early childhood and preschool. He had limited interaction with other children. It took the experts at the LOCAL AEA to determine a hearing issue and provided not only, needed services, but also support as his parents worked through the processes with medical diagnosis and treatment. How long would it have taken without local support? How long before the Iowa Department of Education would have given permission for him to get help and support? Would help even be provided? How far behind would he be in reading? How about taking a step back to collect stakeholder input and implementing a study.Local oversight and local AEA boards are critical.Vote NO to HS B542.

01-31-2024

Diedra Tompkins []

This bill walks back vital support needed in the rural communities that need access to mental health and educational support. This bill will strip funding, removes oversite, removes access, and shifts the power to unqualified individuals. Iowa children deserve access to these services regardless of income or location. Not providing this support will cause immeasurable harm to innocent children. Vote no to HSB 542.

01-31-2024

David Keane []

Area Education Agencies are an essential part of Iowa's educational system. They provide quality support services for LEA students, teachers and administrators. Smaller rural schools will be unable to obtain the quality of services they receive now if required to use their district flowthrough funding to arrange them on their own. The AEAs not only provide special education services to our students but support for general education students including those identified as Talented and Gifted, teachers and administrators in the areas of professional development, initiative implementation, programs or strategies. The AEAs also provide quality media services which in rural Iowa are not be available to many schools. These media services are far more important than what they are being described as. They provide visual materials at a reasonable cost in a reasonable timeline for classroom support materials, event programs, graduation programs, and motivational media. I would ask that there be more information gathered from local school districts and families, particularly in rural areas, before any changes are made to this system. Education is a customer service profession and AEAs are vital partners in helping LEAs meet the needs of their customers, the children of Iowa.

01-31-2024

Penny Gourley [Pinecrest Community School]

Dear Subcommittee Members: I know this is late, but I have to comment on this bill that is "helping our special education students" in the state of Iowa. I have been an educator for over 21 years and the services that were provided for me have dwindled yearafteryear. I currently am serving Iowa's kids as a School Counselor and have to say that not all children in Iowa are thriving. It's easy to point the finger at organizations within the system to blame for thisbut the truth is, this is a cultural shift on the value placed on families, work, school, and the value of receiving an education. Sweeping changes to take local control and put it at the state level, have never, and will never work. Iowa is made up of small communities and those communities are made up of families. Kids simply aren't getting their basic needs met through their family. Needs like adaquate food, sleep, hygeing, medical care, love, attention, ect. are having a negative impact on our kids. I feel that Iowa needs to support child care for children attending school that consists of closing the achievement gap for all kids. I love teaching in Iowa and I love being a School Counselor. It's very fulfilling. I think those at the state level writing laws need to listen to teachers because we live in the "trenches" everyday. Thanks for taking the time to read this email and please don't let the few run the whole. We need more collaboration before drastic measures are taken.Penny Gourley

01-31-2024

Brittinae Nelson []

The following is found on pg. 109 of the billl! This is such an insult to ALL children! Children are CHILDRENthere are no normal children. Centers established pursuant to this section may contain classrooms and other educational facilities and equipment to supplement instruction and other services to children with disabilities in the regular schools, and to provide separate instruction to children whose degree or type of educational disability makes it impractical or inappropriate for them to participate in classes with NORMAL children.Iowa lawmakers this is wrong on so many levels and if Im being point blank, a HUGE lawsuit waiting to happen! DO BETTER for ALL current and future Iowans.

01-31-2024

Becky Gardner []

This has to be one of THE most ludicrous bills in the history of this state. Why attack education and our students? Who comes up with these ideas? Iowa used to be a leading state in education but now, instead of leading, we are lagging. To me,this bill seems to support a rhetoric that only straight,smart white people are Iowans. I encourage any of the bills sponsors to visit an AEA, see what they offer and what role they play in shaping young Iowans!

02-04-2024

Brittinae Nelson []

If you have a K8 student in Allamakee, Central, Dubuque, Eastern Allamakee, EdCo, Maquoketa Valley, MFL MarMac, New Hampton, Oelwein, Riceville, South Winneshiek, Starmont, West Central, West Delaware, Western Dubuque, Aquin, St. Teresa of Calcutta, or LaSalle, the proposed legislation will directly impact science education in Iowa! Are your kids in ones of these districts? Do you know kids in any of the above districts? Science materials are provided by the AEA for those districts in my area! Say no to the proposed bill! It hurts current and future Iowans!