Posts by csowder@aesa.us
EPA Lead Testing Rule for Schools Finalized
EPA Lead Testing Rule for Schools Finalized Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule creating the first-ever national requirement to test for lead in schools that rely on water from public utilities. The regulation, called the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, mandates that water systems screen all elementary and child-care facilities, where those who…
Read MoreUpdate on USAC and the 5th Circuit Court Case
Update on USAC and the 5th Circuit Court Case Refresher: In June, AASA led an amicus brief in a case in the 5th circuit, responding to the Molak v FCC case in the fifth circuit in support of the FCC. The Molak case asserts the FCC is overstepping its authority in its recent move to allow…
Read MoreHow Educational Service Agencies Can Support English Learners
This document highlights seven key ways Educational Service Agencies (ESAs) can enhance support for multilingual learners (MLs) in U.S. schools. It provides guidance on legal responsibilities, translation services, equitable evaluations, early education multilingualism, specialized programs, professional development, and culturally responsive teaching. The focus is on asset-based approaches to foster the academic and social success of MLs, benefitting the educational landscape for all students.
Read MoreGuest Post: Uncapped Federal Funding for Healthy, Efficient Schools
Guest Post: Uncapped Federal Funding for Healthy, Efficient Schools This guest post comes to us from UndauntedK12 about taking advantage of clean energy opportunities through the Inflation Reduction Act. The Inflation Reduction Act is accelerating the clean energy transition throughout America’s public schools—creating healthy and efficient learning environments for students. A new national map of School Investments in Clean Energy highlights over 300…
Read MoreWhat to Expect from the Lame Duck Congress
What to Expect from the Lame Duck Congress Written by Tara Thomas, AESA Policy Analyst On September 25, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded until December 20 and adjourned for recess until after the election. When members return on November 12, the House and Senate will have a long to-do…
Read MoreSeptember 2024: AESA State Examiner
This month’s report for September 2024 examines school vouchers and related private school choice legislation. It also stresses the importance of personal stories and narratives to help make advocacy efforts more relatable, memorable, and ultimately, more effective.
Read MoreCISA Announces New K-12 School Security Guide for School Business Officials
CISA Announces New K-12 School Security Guide for School Business Officials Recently, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the K-12 School Security Guide Companion Product for School Business Officials, a new resource to help school business officials support physical security planning and implementation initiatives in K-12 schools and school districts. This new companion…
Read MoreNew USED Resources for Districts to Support Students with Mental Health Disabilities
New USED Resources for Districts to Support Students with Mental Health Disabilities In September, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued four new resources for schools, stakeholders, students with disabilities, and their families. These documents outline the rights of students with mental health disabilities and the responsibilities of elementary and…
Read MoreMAISA, MDE, and Partners Roundtable with the U.S. Department of Education
MAISA, MDE, and Partners Roundtable with the U.S. Department of Education I wanted to take a moment to share an incredible opportunity Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators (MAISA)Â had this week with the U.S. Department of Education. During a roundtable with our many partners, we tackled some of the most pressing challenges facing schools across…
Read MoreUSED Releases Resources for Key Aspects of ESEA Implementation
USED Releases Resources for Key Aspects of ESEA Implementation This week, the U.S. Department of Education has released three documents to assist chief state school officers with implementing key aspects of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). School improvement guidance for public comment: designed to support States in identifying schools for additional support, partnering…
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