January 14, 2024

 
 

AESA News

Selecting the Right CEO for Your ESA: A Partnership for Success 

The most critical role of any ESA board is selecting the right CEO—a leader who will guide the organization with vision and purpose. AESA’s Executive Search Service transforms the hiring process into a valuable learning experience, offering a highly customized and flexible approach to meet your unique needs. 

 

What sets our service apart? At AESA, we’ve been there. Leveraging our extensive network and proven methods, we go beyond traditional recruitment to identify visionary leaders who align with your values and goals. 

 

Here’s what we bring to the table: 

  • ESA-Centered Professionalism: Our tailored approach ensures a seamless leadership transition that meets the needs of both the board and the CEO. 

  • Data-Driven Decisions: We use comprehensive data to guide the process, matching candidates with your ESA’s mission and vision. 

  • Customized Training and Support: We provide specialized training programs to empower your board members with the skills and knowledge needed for success. 

Take the first step toward securing your ESA’s future. Contact John Bass, Chief Operating Officer, at jbass@aesa.us to learn more about our Executive Search Service. 

 

AESA Partners with CoSN and Others to Build Capacity for AI in K-12 Education

The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) has been awarded a significant grant to support the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 school districts. This initiative aims to empower education leaders with the tools, strategies, and knowledge necessary to integrate AI effectively and responsibly into schools. 

 

AESA is excited to join CoSN and a coalition of partners in this groundbreaking effort. Together, the partnership brings diverse expertise and perspectives to ensure the initiative addresses critical issues such as equity, privacy, and student outcomes while equipping schools to navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption. 

 

Through this collaboration, AESA will leverage its extensive network of educational service agencies (ESAs) to provide critical support for districts across the nation, ensuring the benefits of AI are accessible to all. 

 

AESA Welcomes New Executive Council Members

We are thrilled to announce that Shanna Downs (GA) has won the election for the Southern Region AESA Executive Council member. The vote tally was exceptionally close, reflecting the incredible strength and dedication of both candidates who participated in this important election.

 

Additionally, the AESA Executive Council approved two exceptional leaders to serve on the Council last fall. Dave Honish (WI) was appointed to represent the Central Region, and Jennifer Felker (OH) was selected to represent the Eastern Region. Both candidates ran unopposed and, in accordance with our bylaws, were approved without requiring an election.

 

We are excited to welcome these outstanding individuals to the AESA Executive Council and look forward to their contributions to advancing our mission. Congratulations to Shanna, Dave, and Jennifer!

 

Welcome Jill Jackson, AESA's New Director of Meetings and Events! 

We are excited to welcome Jill Jackson as AESA’s newest team member! With over 27 years of experience in event management and 20 years as a Certified Meeting Professional, Jill brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her background spans association, government, and corporate events, making her a seasoned leader in creating exceptional experiences. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Jill is passionate about travel, music, and making memories with loved ones. Welcome, Jill! 

 

Please update your records and share this information with your finance department. 

 

Remittance Address (Payments Only):

      Association of Educational Service Agencies

      Department 3990

      PO Box 986500

      Boston, MA 02298-6500

 
Correspondence Address (Non-Payment Mail):
Use this address for sending invoices, cards, regular mail, or other non-payment correspondence:
     Association of Educational Service Agencies,
      P.O. Box 404,
      Cheshire, CT 06410
 

Federal Advocacy Updates

Presidential Transition & Inauguration Resources: C-SPAN Classroom

C-SPAN offers a robust set of resources to school and classroom leaders. Their program, called C-SPAN Classroom, offers free education resources featuring CSPAN's programs including current events videos, Lesson Plans, Bell Ringers, Constitution Clips and ‘On This Day’ in History events.

 

New Guidance Released for Title I Preschool Programs

USED and HHS have released joint guidance for local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools using Title I funds to support high-quality preschool programs. This guidance emphasizes implementing Head Start Performance Standards to ensure developmentally appropriate and evidence-based early education. It is a valuable resource for LEAs and schools as they plan for the 2025-26 school year, especially in leveraging funding options, including those from the American Rescue Plan.

 
 

Biden Administration Withdraws Medicaid Parental Consent NPRM

The Biden Administration has withdrawn its proposed rule to streamline Medicaid reimbursement for schools, which would have simplified parental consent for Medicaid billing related to IDEA services. The decision follows concerns from disability rights groups about the broader impact on Medicaid services outside schools. 

 

CISA: Virtual Training on Assessing and Responding to Anonymous Threats of Violence in the K-12 Environment

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will provide virtual training that will feature a facilitated discussion with school and district leaders on their experiences with managing anonymous threats – such as hoax calls, threats received on social media or via email, and notes found on school grounds – and maintaining the safety of their communities.

 

ECR Cross Post: It’s 2025, but the 2020 Title IX Rule is Back

This ECR Cross Post explores the reimplementation of the 2020 Title IX regulations in 2025. It provides insights into the implications for schools and districts, highlighting compliance challenges and potential impacts on educational institutions. The article examines key aspects of the rule, offers context for its return, and discusses strategies for navigating these changes effectively.

 

Member News

From Coast to Coast: Amplifying ESA Voices Through Podcasts  

From coast to coast, ESAs are leading impactful conversations, sharing innovative ideas, and providing valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of education. Now, we’re bringing all those voices together in one place to make them accessible to our entire community. Visit our ESA Podcasts webpage to explore the growing list of member podcasts. 

 

Don't see your ESA’s podcast listed?  

  • Send us the link to your podcast and a brief description (1-2 sentences) about what it covers. 
  • Submit your podcast details to Claire Sowder at csowder@aesa.us 

Let’s amplify the voices of our ESA community and create a resource hub for shared learning and inspiration. We look forward to hearing from you! 

 

National Headlines

 

Business Partner News

Happy New Year from UBC!

Those of us at Universal Benefits Consortium extend our wishes for a happy, healthy, and successful 2025! As we turn our attention to the second half of this school year, talk of budgets, employee recruitment and retention, and finding creative ways to earn revenue for your service agencies are likely front and center.  

 

How can you be a champion for your employees and member districts as it relates to providing top-tier medical benefits? Watch the video and meet UBC’s Managing Director Mark Woolery as he shares UBC’s commitment to putting care back in healthcare. 

  

Please take a moment to scan the QR code at the end of the video or submit a questionnaire if you’d like to learn more. 

 
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