June 24, 2025

Join us in Washington, D.C., September 17–19 for AESA’s Advocacy in Action Conference — a one-of-a-kind opportunity for ESA leaders to engage directly with the legislative process. This conference is intentionally designed to be responsive to the moment, adapting to the most pressing federal education issues and the availability of congressional leaders.

Led by AESA’s legislative advocacy team, the event delivers up-to-the-minute insights on emerging and pending federal policies that impact educational service agencies and the school districts they serve. Attendees will hear directly from policy experts, gain valuable context, and walk away with the tools to advocate effectively—both in D.C. and in their home states.

Capitol Hill in Action: Dedicated time is built into the schedule so you can meet with your federal legislators and elevate the issues that matter most to your region.

Pre-Conference Option

Kick off your Advocacy in Action experience with our pre-conference session on the afternoon of September 17. This optional session focuses on state-level advocacy—a perfect opportunity for newcomers to advocacy or anyone looking to sharpen their state engagement strategies. 

To accommodate additional Summer Leadership Conference attendees, AESA has secured a courtesy room block at the Austin Marriott Downtown, conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from the JW Marriott Austin.

The discounted group rate of $269 per night (plus applicable taxes and fees) is available for a limited time and will expire on Monday, June 30, 2025.

Please note: Conference shuttle transportation to Region 13 will depart from the JW Marriott Austin as planned.

If you have not yet registered for the conference, we encourage you to do so promptly. Hotel booking details will be provided in your registration confirmation email.

A recent Supreme Court decision sided with students with disabilities, overturning a lower-court ruling and making it easier for families to seek monetary damages for discrimination under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Earlier this month, a press conference was held about the diverting of public funds to private institutions that would come under the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA). A few hours later, Republican leaders and school choice advocates held their own event nearby. Coverage of both on K-12 Dive.

A group of principals from across the country met with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and federal lawmakers earlier last week to make one specific request—to continue the flow of funds and support that help schools recover from school shootings and other violent incidents, as well as damage from natural disasters. Coverage on EdWeek.

The latest Kids Count report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation shows that national education indicators for children and teens have largely worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, with declines in preschool participation and student achievement that were offset only by a modest increase in graduation rates.

This EdWeek article dives into the confusion and chaos many district leaders are facing about what may be in store for federal funding come July 1—the day when states and districts every year begin receiving federal funding in advance of the federal fiscal year that starts October 1.

This article examines the impact of NSF funding cuts across the education system, from K–12 classroom projects and pathways initiatives to long-standing university research and mentorship programs.

The East Central Educational Service Center (ECESC) is proud to present "Forge Your Future", a powerful podcast series that celebrates the educators making a lasting difference in the lives of students and communities across East Central Indiana.

Each episode offers a compelling look into the lives and leadership of the region’s school and district leaders—educators who go above and beyond to help students dream big and achieve even more. Through personal interviews and meaningful conversations, Forge Your Future highlights the passion, innovation, and service that define the spirit of education in this region.

• Districts with 2,501+ students receive a 10% discount on CoSN membership dues.
• Districts with fewer than 2,500 students receive complimentary membership.

Join AASA and NSAA on July 11 at 12:00 pm ET for an insightful webinar exploring the latest and most significant U.S. Supreme Court cases affecting K-12 public education. In this session, Sonja Trainor, executive director of the National School Attorneys Association (NSAA), will break down key decisions from the current and recent terms, providing context, analysis, and practical takeaways for superintendents. Register here!