DES MOINES – Reform for Area Education Agencies (AEAs) is close to reality as a bill handing the hot button topic passed the Iowa Senate today, and Governor Kim Reynolds can smell victory over those who are panicking over the proposed overhaul.
The Senate, House and Governor – all under Republican control – all had slightly different versions of an overhaul of Iowa’s AEAs. Teachers will likely get a pay raise if a bill is signed which is ultimately likely. There will be more oversight of AEAs and pay for admins will be capped.
Governor Kim Reynolds responded to the Senate passing their version of the bill today:
“I want to thank the Senate for their commitment to improving special education and acknowledging that the AEA system needs reform. I now look forward to working with the House and Senate to reach a compromise that will bring transparency, accountability, and consistency to the AEA system while most importantly improving outcomes for students with disabilities. At the same time we must recognize the important role of teachers in the classroom by increasing minimum salaries for both starting and experienced teachers.”
Iowa Democrats and foes of education reform in Iowa are crying foul over the reforms, saying this is an attempt to underfund the agencies or possibly privatize the services eventually.
