Opinion: Heartland AEA is an important part of state’s valued education system

By Cindy Yelick

Gov. Reynolds and her administration have made it a priority to make Iowa the best place to raise a family and grow a business. A strong education system is a key asset in attracting new families and businesses in our state. Heartland Area Education Agency (AEA) is proud to have been a part of that strong K-12 educational system for almost 50 years.

Since 1975, Heartland AEA has served a vital role in ensuring that every student in central Iowa has equal access to a high-quality education. In fact, Heartland AEA serves 11 counties, 53 school districts, 32 accredited non-public schools, one charter school and, most importantly, 147,000+ children and youth in central Iowa.

What is an AEA? Heartland AEA is one of nine AEAs in Iowa, each assigned to a region of the state. AEAs are public entities funded by federal and state aid and local tax dollars. Heartland AEA employs specialists who are assigned to local communities, school districts and non-public schools to provide a host of services. AEA staff members serve children in your community from birth (through direct services in the home to children who may be experiencing developmental delays) to high school (and some high school students with special needs up to the age of 21), families and educators.

In fact, well over 80 percent of Heartland AEA’s services involve directly supporting students who have been identified as having a disability. Speech-language pathologists, school psychologists, physical therapists, audiologists and other specialty staff are assigned to support students with disabilities as directed by their Individualized Education Plans (IEP). Without these services, many children would experience barriers to their learning that would greatly affect their ability to thrive.

In addition to special education services, Heartland AEA provides professional learning opportunities and consultant services for general educators. Consultants in math, reading, science, digital learning and other curriculum areas go into schools daily to provide support to teachers through training and consultation. We provide a vast library of children’s and professional books for check out as well as digital resources for students to use for research projects and presentations. Schools can order printing, graphic design, lamination and vinyl graphics through our Creative Services department at a low cost. Finally, technology support is available including networking support, Internet filtering and cybersecurity tools and consultation.

Iowa has long been a state that prides itself on its strong sense of community, a commitment to education and a determination to provide every child with a chance to succeed. Heartland AEA has stood as a shining example of this commitment for almost 50 years. Strong area education agencies will ensure that Iowa continues to be the best state to raise a family and grow a business.

Dr. Cindy Yelick, Ed.D. is the chief administrator of Heartland Area Education Agency (AEA), based in Johnston. Learn more about Heartland AEA at www.heartland aea.org.