October 8, 2024

 
 

AESA News

Advocacy in Action Conference Handouts Now Available

Were you unable to attend a session during the Advocacy in Action Conference, or do you want to revisit key points from the presentations? Never fear—the conference handouts are now available!

 

Included in the listing is the Advocacy Toolkit! This comprehensive guide is designed to help ESAs navigate the complex landscape of education policy and funding. 

 

Attendees: We also need your feedback! Please complete the survey that was emailed today and submit your responses by Monday, October 21, 2024. Your insights are invaluable in helping us improve future events!

 

 

AESA Events

Meet Our Annual Conference Keynote Speakers

We’re excited to announce this year’s exceptional keynote speakers, who are leaders in their fields and passionate advocates for innovation in education. Their insights will inspire you to elevate your agency's impact!

 

In our commitment to accessibility, we’re also pleased to share that all keynote speaker sessions will include closed captioning. This ensures that everyone can fully engage with the inspiring insights and innovative ideas shared by our incredible speakers.

Abran Maldonado: Co-founder of Create Labs

Abran is a leading AI expert and co-founder of Create Labs, a startup revolutionizing AI and metaverse design. With a background in entertainment and educational technology, he is dedicated to advancing diversity in tech. As one of the first AI prompt engineers of the GPT era, Abran’s work focuses on creating authentic, AI-powered immersive experiences that bring culture and innovation to life.

Mary Strain: Lead Strategist for AI & Machine Learning, AWS

Mary leads the AI and machine learning strategy for U.S. education at AWS. With experience as a middle school teacher and in leadership roles across education and public sector technology, she advises on innovative policies and practices that drive success. Her insights will be invaluable for educators seeking to enhance their strategies.

Jason Latimer: Science Educator and World Champion of Magic

Join us for an inspiring presentation by Jason Latimer, the Grand Prix World Champion of Magic and creator of the Impossible Science™ program. With degrees in mathematics and economics, he combines magic and science to ignite curiosity in STEM education. Jason's motto, “The right question changes everything,” reflects his mission to inspire students to explore the unknown.

Register Now!

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from these innovative leaders and engage with fellow educators passionate about transforming learning experiences. Secure your spot today and be part of a movement that inspires wonder, innovation, and collaboration in education!

 

Early bird registration ends on October 18, 2024! Secure your spot now to lock in early bird pricing and ensure you're part of one of the year's most anticipated events.

Business Strategy Framework 1.0  

October 28-29, 2024  |  Johnston, Iowa  

   

Business Strategy Framework 2.0: Managing Strategic Resources  

(Pre-Conference to AESA Annual Conference)  

December 2-3, 2024  |  Orlando, Florida  

 
 

Federal Advocacy Updates

What to Expect from the Lame Duck Congress

On September 25, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded until December 20 and adjourned for recess until after the election. When members return on November 12, the House and Senate will have a long to-do list, including some bills that they must pass, and some bills that AESA would like for them to pass. Learn more.

 

USED Releases New Resources to Support Students with Mental Health Disabilities

USED issued four new resources, which outline the rights of students with mental health disabilities and the responsibilities of elementary and secondary schools. The resources specifically address students with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, depression, and bipolar disorder. Learn more.

 

White House Announces Executive Order to Improve School-Based Active Shooter Drills

The U.S. Department of Education is providing schools, school boards, and policymakers with a new tool to promote safe gun storage in their communities. Following up on its initial safe storage actions, the Department of Education is publishing an interactive website that highlights examples of state, community, and school district actions across the nation that promote safe gun storage within school communities. The website includes a map with state safe storage laws, examples of how schools are communicating with parents about safe storage, and examples of local policies on safe storage education.

 

50-State Comparison: School Accountability Systems

Education Commission of the States (ECS) created a  50-State Comparison that offers comprehensive information on state systems for federal accountability — as captured in state ESSA plans and state education agency resources — and identify states that maintain a separate accountability system. Each state’s accountability system is unique, so some nuances may not be represented in this 50-State Comparison.

 

Who Pays for Special Education?

This new report Who Pays for Special Education? An Analysis of Federal, State, and Local Spending by States and Districts sheds light on the proportional roles of federal, state, and local funds in paying for special education services within and across states. 

 

Member News

 

National Headlines

 

Business Partner News

Simplifying K-12 School Purchases: AEPA’s Co-op Basics 

The K-12 purchasing process is much more complex than typical consumer buying. School officials must adhere to strict laws to ensure wise use of taxpayer funds, particularly for expenses over a state's bid threshold, often taking months. Purchasing cooperatives like the AEPA simplify this process, letting schools concentrate on education. Check out AEPA’s Co-op Basics for more on streamlining the purchasing process. 

 

Are you a good fit?

AEPA is hiring a Director of Solicitations to oversee solicitation processes, collaborate with committees and vendors, and ensure federal compliance. This remote role offers competitive pay ($75K–$105K), PTO, and a benefits stipend. Ideal candidates have experience in procurement, project management, and leadership. Find this job posting along with great opportunities on AESA's Job Central.

 

Navigating the AI Landscape in Education

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been heralded as a transformative force in education, with promises of personalized learning and streamlined administrative tasks. However, the reality has often fallen short, revealing practical challenges such as high costs, security concerns, and a lack of emotional intelligence. AI systems can automate tasks and generate insights, but they stumble when it comes to nuanced student interactions and emotional cues, which human tutors manage adeptly.
 

One major concern is the emotional intelligence gap. AI cannot replicate the empathy and motivational skills that are crucial for tutoring. Effective education involves recognizing and responding to students' psychological needs—something AI is not equipped to handle. Furthermore, studies indicate that reliance on AI might even hamper long-term learning, as students may struggle once the AI support is withdrawn, suggesting that AI often serves more as a crutch than a genuine educational tool.

 

High-dosage, in-person tutoring exemplifies where AI falls short. Personal interaction remains crucial, allowing tutors to adapt to each student's unique emotional and educational needs. For more insights into how HeyTutor leverages human expertise and technology to provide comprehensive education solutions, book a call today.
 
 
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