Transforming ESAs with Customized, Scalable Solutions
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At AESA, we know that no two ESA are exactly alike. Each one operates within a unique context serving distinct communities, facing different challenges, and pursuing diverse opportunities. That’s why our services are not one-size-fits-all. We offer flexible, fee-based solutions tailored to your agency’s priorities, whether you're strengthening leadership, launching a strategic initiative, or improving day-to-day operations.
Designed With You, For You
We collaborate closely with ESA leaders to co-design strategies that are practical, scalable, and aligned with your goals. Our customized support focus areas are the following:
- Strategic Design, Planning, and Organizational Alignment
AESA supports agencies in refining or reimagining their strategy to reflect current priorities and long-term goals. Agencies turn to AESA for organization-wide work and redesigns of divisions or service areas. This work often includes facilitating executive retreats, working with design teams, guiding goal-setting processes, and developing implementation frameworks.
- Leadership Development and Succession Planning
When preparing for leadership transitions or strengthening internal capacity, AESA provides executive coaching and succession planning tailored to agency needs. These services help foster sustainable leadership pipelines and ensure organizational continuity during periods of change.
- Program Evaluation and Reviews
AESA conducts targeted evaluations of programs such as technology, communications, or specialized service areas. These reviews include stakeholder feedback and operational audits to identify strengths, uncover gaps, and offer actionable recommendations to improve performance and align offerings with strategic objectives.
- Operations and Policy Consultation
Agencies seeking guidance on operational or governance matters can engage AESA for expert consultation. Areas of focus include legal and policy compliance, contract and agreement review, and strategies for effective policy implementation. These services help agencies strengthen internal systems and navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
- Facilitation Services
AESA facilitates strategic meetings, leadership/board retreats, and workshops to support collaborative planning, priority alignment and professional learning. These sessions are designed to clarify vision, build consensus, and move teams toward actionable outcomes.
Let’s Build Something Together
If your agency is facing a big decision, preparing for a leadership shift, or planning its next phase of growth, AESA is ready to help. Contact Sheila King, Chief Strategy Officer, at sking@aesa.us to explore how we can support your vision.
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Have You Explored the 2025 Fall Program Guide?
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Have you had a chance to leaf through AESA’s newly released 2025 Fall Program Guide? We’re proud to share this comprehensive resource, packed with upcoming events, professional learning opportunities, and innovative ways to stay engaged with AESA throughout the year.
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Big News for Public Education: Around $5 Billion in Federal Funding Released
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After weeks of uncertainty, the Trump administration recently released approximately $5 billion in federal funds that were previously withheld from public schools. The freeze, which began June 30, drew widespread criticism from states, school districts, and advocates concerned about disruptions to essential education services just ahead of the new school year. Legal challenges helped prompt the administration to act.
While the administration plans to implement “guardrails” to ensure funds align with its priorities, ESAs remain steadfast in their mission to provide flexible, responsive support tailored to local needs. The timely release of these funds is a crucial step in helping districts avoid layoffs, sustain programs, and continue effectively serving students.
As discussions about the federal role in education continue, AESA stands ready with its members to support schools, districts, and policymakers in ensuring that every dollar advances meaningful, equitable outcomes for students nationwide.
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Puzzling Over Declining Academic Achievement
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A new working academic paper examines how much of pandemic “learning loss” can be attributed to pre-COVID declines in student achievement.
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Welcome AESA’s Newest Members: ROE #21, ROE #30, and LABBB Collaborative!
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AESA is thrilled to welcome three outstanding educational service agencies to our national network: Regional Office of Education #21 (IL), Regional Office of Education #30 (IL), and LABBB Collaborative (MA). These organizations bring a wealth of experience, innovation, and commitment to student success. We’re excited to have them join our community of leaders shaping the future of education!
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Regional Office of Education #21
Serving the southern Illinois counties of Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson, ROE #21 is committed to fostering high-quality educational communities through collaborative leadership, professional support, and student-focused services. The agency is led by Regional Superintendent Lorie LeQuatte.
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Regional Office of Education #30
Based in Murphysboro, IL, ROE #30 is recognized for its innovative programs and strong focus on student engagement, including signature events like the annual Brain Games Competition. The agency is led by Regional Superintendent Matthew Hickam.
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LABBB Collaborative
Serving the communities of Lexington, Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, and Bedford, the LABBB Collaborative offers comprehensive special education and transition services for students with diverse needs. Based in Burlington, MA, and led by Executive Director Pam Girouard, LABBB is widely respected for its inclusive practices and strong, collaborative partnerships with local school districts.
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Please join us in giving a warm AESA welcome to these new members! We’re excited to learn from their experiences, amplify their voices, and collaborate on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
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KEDC Launches Mobile AI Lab to Inspire Students Across Kentucky
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The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC) is excited to share with the AESA community the launch of their Mobile AI Lab — a state-of-the-art, traveling classroom bringing hands-on AI experiences directly to students across Kentucky.
Designed to spark curiosity and show real-world applications of artificial intelligence, the Mobile AI Lab offers an interactive way for students to explore the technology shaping our future.
KEDC looks forward to inspiring students statewide and sharing this innovative journey with the AESA network.
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Spotlight on Ingham ISD: Taking Action on School Safety
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A recent news story from FOX 47 highlights how Michigan schools are preparing for a new law that takes effect this fall, requiring every school district and ISD to establish a behavioral threat assessment team. These teams aim to identify potential safety concerns and intervene before violence occurs.
AESA member Ingham ISD was featured in the story for its early efforts to establish a team of counselors, social workers, administrators, and safety professionals who work together to support students and promote school safety. “We work to get students off the path to violence—before it escalates,” said Noelle Duval, a member of Ingham’s team.
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DPO Download: A New Podcast for K-12 Data Privacy Leaders
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Cybersecurity is a team effort—and in New York’s K-12 schools, no one has to face it alone. That’s the spirit behind the DPO Download, a new monthly podcast brought to you by the RIC One Data Privacy and Security Service Team, a collaboration among New York’s 12 Regional Information Centers.
Each 15–20 minute episode features expert interviews, updates on the latest cybersecurity threats, and peer spotlights to support school district Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across the state.
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Thanks for the Shoutout, EdAdvance!
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A big thank you to our members at EdAdvance and the ChatEDU podcast team for the kind shout-out to Ann Fiene and AESA at the start of their recent episode! We truly appreciate your support and partnership.
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Correspondence Address:
PO Box 404, Cheshire, CT 06410
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Remittance Address:
Department 3990, PO Box 986500, Boston, MA 02298-6500
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