Engage in broad stakeholder conversations to identify what AEA services need to be improved, developed or eliminated. 

Provide adequate funding to maintain the ability to provide essential services to students in public and non-public schools 

In any conversation with a legislator, it’s good to anticipate what responses you might hear so you can be prepared to address any outstanding concerns. As you advocate for the AEAs: 

You might hear a misconception that AEAs have significantly expanded their scope of services beyond the core mission of special education service.  

Talking Point: 

• While the AEA is best known for its support of students with special needs, from its inception the AEA system was designed to support all children including those in general education settings. Funding and planning for Iowa’s Area Education Agencies has always reflected an intention to support the needs of the whole child, including those who benefit from special education services.  

You might hear a statement regarding performance gaps among students receiving special education services. 

Talking Points:

• Iowa’s AEAs work closely with educators and families and, together, use many tools to measure the successful outcomes for students. This is a combined focus among everyone in education.  
• Student equity is always a focus of the AEA system and our educational partners. We’re continually engaged in   continuous improvement processes to support our districts with the challenges of supporting our area’s growing population of students in poverty, those with language barriers, and those with special education needs. 

You might hear that it’s time for a comprehensive review of the AEAs so we can assess opportunities for improvement, including more closely aligning AEAs with the Department of Education.

Talking Point: