May 13, 2025

The AESA Executive Council wrapped up a successful and productive meeting last week, closing the spring session with meaningful decisions and leadership updates that reflect the continued strength and direction of the organization.

We extend our deepest thanks to Jan Webster, WRESA (NC), Tom Danehy, ACES and Past President (CT), and Mark Hoffman (not pictured), Bucks County Intermediate Unit (PA), who have concluded their terms on the Council. Their vision, dedication, and leadership have made a lasting impact, and we are sincerely grateful for their service.

A special note of appreciation goes to Jeremy Kovash, Lakes Country Service Cooperative (MN), for his outstanding tenure as Council President. His leadership has guided AESA through a pivotal time, and we thank him for his commitment and steady hand as he passes the gavel.

As we say thank you to outgoing members, we’re also excited to welcome three new leaders to the Executive Council:

• Shanna Downs, West Georgia RESA (GA)

• Jennifer Felker, ESC of the Western Reserve (OH)

• Dave Honish, CESA 8 (WI)

These leaders bring valuable expertise, diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to AESA’s mission. We look forward to the contributions they will make in the years ahead.

Additional highlights from the meeting include:

• Approval of the AESA 2024 Annual Report, celebrating the accomplishments and progress of the past year.

• Approval of the 2025 Legislative Agenda, solidifying AESA’s policy priorities and national advocacy efforts.

• Election of Nancy Hutchinson, KEDC (KY), as President-Elect—congratulations, Nancy!

With strong leadership in place and a clear vision for the future, AESA remains committed to supporting Educational Service Agencies across the country.

As spring brings news of retiring ESA leaders, we have the chance to honor their lasting impact. A tribute gift to the AESA Foundation is a meaningful way to recognize their service while supporting leadership, innovation, and equity in education.

Make your gift online or contact Tina Viletto for assistance—be sure to include the name of the leader you’re honoring.

Rather Snail Mail?

Mail-in donations:
AESA Foundation
c/o Donations
PO Box 404
Cheshire, CT 06410

As conversations around federal funding continue to evolve, it’s important to stay informed and equipped to communicate with your boards and stakeholders. Here are two recent resources that provide valuable insight:

• Summary of the FY26 “Skinny Budget”
  A high-level overview of the administration’s proposed budget, highlighting priorities and implications for education funding.

• Reconciliation vs. Appropriations
  With growing discussion around potential cuts to Medicaid and other critical programs, this resource clarifies the key differences between the reconciliation and appropriations processes—and what each could mean for education.

In addition, the Committee for Education Funding (CEF) offers a wealth of data, talking points, and tools that can support your advocacy and communication efforts.

Stay tuned as we continue to monitor developments and share updates.

School district leaders across the country are raising serious concerns about proposed changes to the E-Rate program, a key source of federal funding that supports affordable internet access in schools. According to a recent K-12 Dive article, the loss of E-Rate would disproportionately impact low-income and rural districts, where students rely heavily on this connectivity to engage in learning. As educational technology becomes increasingly essential, preserving E-Rate is critical to ensuring digital equity for all students.

AESA remains steadfast in its advocacy for policies that promote strong, equitable internet access to ensure that no student is left behind.

AESA members are invited to attend an important upcoming webinar hosted by AASA and the Public Interest Privacy Center (PIPC):

Recent Updates and Compliance with FERPA

Date: May 27, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM ET
Register Here
Note: This webinar will not be recorded.

With the U.S. Department of Education launching new FERPA investigations in California, Maine, and Washington State, now is the time for Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to review and revise their student data privacy policies.

Join Amelia Vance, Chief Counsel of AASA’s Student and Child Privacy Center and President of the Public Interest Privacy Center, for a rapid-response webinar offering clear, actionable guidance on FERPA compliance and practical application in everyday LEA operations. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.

Please feel free to share this opportunity with your colleagues and school districts.

A production of ACES (CT), this exciting podcast series dives into the rapidly evolving role of AI in school operations. Each episode unpacks how AI is being used to streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance decision-making—giving educators and administrators back their most precious resource: TIME.

Have we missed one of your ESA’s stories? Send submissions to csowder@aesa.us to be included in future editions of Online News. 

Thanks to strong advocacy by the Bucks County IU (PA), federal legislators, local leaders, staff, and families, the IU has secured a Head Start and Early Head Start grant extension through the end of the school year!

This short-term funding ensures that 362 children and their families will continue to receive vital services, supported by 85 dedicated staff members. 

While awaiting a decision on their 5-year renewal, this is a meaningful win for early childhood education in the community. Kudos to all involved!