July 15, 2025

On June 30, the U.S. Department of Education (USED) quietly announced it would withhold FY25 grant funding for several major education programs—including Title I-C, Title II-A, Title III-A, and Title IV-A/B—pending a review by the new administration. These programs represent more than $6 billion in support that districts have already budgeted for critical services and staffing. As of mid-July, that funding remains unavailable, sparking widespread concern and urgent advocacy, however important updates and technical clarifications have emerged. Read the update.

Sasha Pudelski, a key member of AESA’s advocacy team, recently joined CNN This Morning Weekend to spotlight urgent funding delays impacting after-school programs, staffing, and student support—especially in high-poverty communities. Watch the segment.

In a ruling yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Trump administration’s authority to proceed with its plan to dismantle the Department of Education. The decision permits the executive branch to begin restructuring or eliminating the department, including measures such as laying off approximately 1,400 employees. The Court found that the administration acted within its legal authority, rejecting challenges that argued the move exceeded executive powers or violated statutory protections.

The School District of Omro’s partnership with AESA member CESA 6 demonstrates how strategic collaboration—rather than additional resources—can lead to meaningful student success. Through CESA 6’s New Horizons program, Omro developed personalized learning environments that foster both academic growth and social-emotional development for students requiring alternative placements. Their approach offers a replicable model for other districts: prioritize clarity over complexity, leverage external expertise, maintain a long-term focus, and ensure every stakeholder is engaged and informed throughout the journey.

AESA applauds the work of CESA 6 and the School District of Omro as they demonstrate that excellence is not about having more—it’s about making what you have work smarter, together.

Phoebe Bailey, Executive Director of the Southwest Arkansas Education Cooperative, shares her powerful perspective on school crisis response in a recent episode of The Opinions, a New York Times podcast.

In the wake of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Congress passed the most significant bipartisan gun legislation in decades—with a focus on expanding mental health services in schools. Bailey recounts the urgent need for support in rural districts and reflects on how these federal programs made a difference. But in April, the Trump administration abruptly cut $1 billion in funding for these initiatives—and silence followed.

Hear the full episode, featuring Bailey and NYT Senior Producer Jillian Weinberger, as they unpack how the legislation came together, why it unraveled, and what it reveals about the state of policymaking today.

The WIU Pulse features in-depth looks at the impactful work of Westmoreland Intermediate Unit (PA). This vibrant educational service agency plays a critical role in supporting schools across its region through innovative programs and services.

A special thank-you to WIU for welcoming Dr. Joan Wade, AESA’s Executive Director, and Sheila King, Chief Strategy Officer, to the conversation. Joan and Sheila shared how AESA champions the work of educational service agencies nationwide—including WIU—and how this support strengthens our collective ability to serve students, educators, and communities more effectively.

AESA is pleased to welcome back the DuPage Regional Office of Education (ROE) in Illinois as a returning member! Under the leadership of Ms. Amber Quirk, DuPage ROE serves one of the most populous and diverse counties in the state, providing vital services to students, educators, and districts.

DuPage ROE is known for its strong commitment to innovation, equity, and leadership development across the educational landscape. From licensure and educator support to student wellness and school improvement, their impact is far-reaching.

We’re excited to have them back in the AESA community and look forward to sharing ideas, resources, and solutions together once again.

Please join us in welcoming Marsh McLennan Agency as AESA’s newest business partner! With deep experience in the public sector—including municipalities and the K-12 market—MMA brings valuable insight and expertise to our national network. We’re thrilled to have Mike Bannon and Jay Dill representing MMA and engaging with our members at the upcoming Summer Leadership Conference in Austin and the Annual Conference & Expo in December. 

As AI continues to reshape the world, educators are rethinking how computer science (CS) is taught. TeachAI and the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) have released new guidance to help schools navigate this shift. The latest briefs explore essential questions, including:

• What foundational AI experiences should every student have?

• How can AI support creativity and inclusive learning in CS?

• How might CS instruction evolve in an AI-powered world?

These practical, research-informed resources offer classroom examples and actionable steps to help educators integrate AI thoughtfully into CS education.

AESA’s Joan Wade and Sheila King serve on the TeachAI Advisory Committee, contributing to this critical work shaping the future of learning.