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2025 AESA Award Recipients Announced!
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We are proud to announce the recipients of our prestigious 2025 awards, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and contributions to the field of education. These individuals exemplify the mission and values of AESA through their dedication, vision, and impact on educational service agencies nationwide.
Excellence in Executive Leadership Award
Dr. Dale McCall, Executive Director, CO BOCES Association
Dr. McCall is honored for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing educational opportunities across Colorado. His strategic guidance has strengthened collaboration among BOCES and elevated the role of ESAs in shaping statewide education policy.
Outstanding Individual Achievement Award
Tere Masiarchin, Senior Director, Licensing, Evaluation and Support Center of Excellence, CESA 2
Tere Masiarchin receives this award for her exceptional contributions to educator licensing and evaluation. Her work has enhanced professional standards and support systems, ensuring quality education for students and empowering educators across Wisconsin.
Outstanding Achievement in ESA Writing and Research Award
Tracey Goldner, Communications Manager, Northwest Regional ESD
Tracey Goldner is recognized for her compelling writing and insightful research that amplify the voice and value of ESAs. Her publications have informed policy, inspired innovation, and strengthened community engagement throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Exemplary Service and Innovation for Technological Advancement Award
Dwight R. Levens, Jr., Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Oakland Schools ISD
Dwight Levens is celebrated for his transformative work in educational technology. His leadership has driven cutting-edge solutions that enhance learning environments, streamline operations, and expand digital equity across Michigan.
Women of Inspiration in Leadership Award
Dr. Carolyn Castillo, Deputy Director, ESC Region 20
Dr. Castillo is honored for her inspirational leadership and advocacy for equity and excellence. Her mentorship and strategic initiatives have empowered women in education and fostered inclusive practices throughout Texas.
AESA congratulates these outstanding leaders and looks forward to celebrating their achievements at the 2025 AESA Annual Conference & Expo. Register by Friday, October 17, to secure the Early Bird Rate and join us in honoring these remarkable educators!
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We’re excited to welcome Barnabás Novák as our new intern! Originally from Hungary, Barnabás graduated magna cum laude from California State University – Los Angeles with a degree in computer science and a minor in real estate. He brings leadership experience from the Battery Workforce Challenge, co-founded the Hungarian Youth Professional Engagement (HYPE) network, and has built over ten AI projects as a Headstarter Fellow. We’re thrilled to have him on board!
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We’re Going Global—Are You Coming? Join AESA Global’s 2026 Summer Field Studies!
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In last week’s Professional Learning Newsletter, we shared an exciting opportunity to travel, explore, and learn with fellow ESA leaders!
Choose your journey (each happening June 15–23, 2026)
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Video created by AESA Intern, Barnabás Novák.
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Vietnam–Japan
Experience Hanoi’s traditions and Japan’s dynamic classrooms.
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Program Cost & Payment Policy
- Total Program Cost: USD $5,200 per participant (includes airfare, hotel stays, most meals, and admission fees)
- Registration Deadline: November 5, 2025
- Deposit: USD $1,200 per participant (non-refundable) due before December 1, 2025.
- Remaining Balance: USD $4,000 per participant due before April 15, 2026.
- ESAs may reserve seats in groups of three ($15,600 total), with the option of adding additional participants if space permits.
Please contact Jason Hiruo, Chief Global Officer, or Meimei Zou, Director of Projects, with any questions or to begin the reservation process.
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AESA proudly welcomes the Rock Island County Regional Office of Education, led by Regional Superintendent Tammy L. Muerhoff, as our newest member! Serving schools across Rock Island County, the ROE provides vital programs in early childhood education, professional development, truancy prevention, and educator support. Superintendent Muerhoff’s leadership reflects a strong commitment to collaboration, innovation, and educational excellence. We’re excited to have RIROE join the AESA network and look forward to learning from their work and partnering to advance our shared mission of supporting schools, educators, and students nationwide.
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Reaffirming Our Shared Commitment to Children and Youth with Disabilities
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AESA and AASA reaffirm our support for the Shared Principles developed by COPAA and CASE, underscoring our collective commitment to ensuring that children and youth with disabilities receive the education and support they deserve. We invite all state associations and ESAs to join us in this important effort by adding your organization’s name by Friday, October 17, 2025.
Sign the Shared Principles
You can review the full list of principles here:
View the Shared Principles
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Collaborating Partner News
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ISTE+ASCD Instructional Leaders’ Summit
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Join education leaders in San Diego, January 16–19, for the inaugural Instructional Leaders’ Summit—a 2.5-day experience designed exclusively for school and district leaders. Explore specialized tracks tailored to your team’s needs, collaborate on real challenges, and return with strategies that drive results. Bring your leadership team to amplify your impact! Register by October 31 to save—seats are limited!
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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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