The Channel

As we look forward to the 2025-2026 school year, we’re pleased to share the results of our recent negotiations with our employee associations. Your dedication and hard work are the heart of Central Rivers AEA, and we are committed to providing fair and competitive compensation while ensuring the long-term financial health of our agency.

Contract approvals & distribution

The Board of Directors has approved employment contracts for all employee groups (Certified, Classified, NUSS and Administrative) at their April 2 meeting. Electronic distribution of these contracts will occur the week of April 7. Please note the following review and return deadlines:

• Certified Staff: 21 days from receipt.
• Classified, NUSS, and Administrative Staff: 10 days from receipt.

We are also excited to offer a $500 retention bonus to all returning staff who execute and return their 2025-2026 contracts within five (5) business days of receipt, subject to certain conditions. Please refer to the separate article for complete details on the $500 signing incentive.

Navigating financial landscapes

This year’s negotiations goal was to achieve a settlement that exceeded the State Supplemental Aid (SSA) and aimed for a 3% total package increase, demonstrating our commitment to your financial well-being. We also proposed a return to two-year agreements, similar to past practice, to enhance our ability to respond to future financial uncertainties.

Settlement highlights

Certified Staff (CREA – PENDING RATIFICATION):

• A two-year agreement (2025-2026 & 2026-2027) was reached.
• For 2025-2026, a total package increase of 3.13%, representing a $1,062,138 investment, includes a $600 base salary increase, step movement where applicable, and increased employer contributions for health, dental and vision insurance.
• The average salary increase is $2,149, with a mean salary increase of $1,855.
• Certified staff will also receive $120 per year for cell phone reimbursement. No submission or approval is needed. This will now be part of your annual salary.
• Mileage reimbursement will increase from $0.42 to $0.46 per mile (pending Board approval).
• We will begin the multi-year process of transitioning 204 day contracts to 190 day contracts for Educational Services Consultants, Multi Occupation Coordinators and Work-Based Learning Coordinators. We will reduce from 204 to 200 days for the 25-26 school year. We intend for negotiated salary increases to offset this reduction in contracted days.
• The 2026-2027 agreement includes a 2.5% total package increase.

Classified Staff (CWA):

• A two-year agreement (2025-2026 & 2026-2027) was reached.
• For 2025-2026, a 3.64% total package increase, totaling $111,396 includes a $0.70 per hour increase, applied equitably across the salary schedule, and the same insurance contribution adjustments as Certified staff.
• The 2026-2027 agreement includes a 2.5% total package increase.

Non-Union Support Staff (NUSS):

• A 3.00% total package increase, representing $92,059 was agreed upon, along with the same insurance contribution adjustments as Certified staff.

Administrative Staff:

• A 1.19% total package increase was reached, representing $36,325, along with the same insurance contribution adjustments as Certified staff.

Financial Summary

• Estimated new money (X.X% SSA) = $XXX,XXX
  • School Supplemental Aid (SSA) hasn’t been set by the legislature yet. With funding changes, it’s a bit harder to calculate, but this is our best estimate for now.
• Total cost (All funds) = $1,301,918

We truly appreciate everything you do as part of the Central Rivers AEA team. Your hard work and dedication to supporting students, families, and communities does not go unnoticed. Though we’ve faced challenges, we’re confident in a strong future for our agency – thanks to your dedication and hard work!

We’re excited to announce that the Central Rivers AEA Board of Education has approved an early contract signing incentive for all Central Rivers AEA staff members!

This incentive is a direct reflection of the Board’s appreciation for your ongoing dedication and commitment to the students and families we serve. It’s also a way to recognize the exceptional work you’ve done, particularly during the challenging times we’ve navigated together.

Here are the key details regarding this incentive:

• Amount: $500 per eligible staff member.
• Payment Date: This incentive will be paid out as a separate deposit in June 2025. Please note that standard taxes will be withheld from this payment.
• Eligibility: To receive this incentive, you must:
  • Accept and return your employment contract within five business days of receiving it. (Please note: You still have the standard 10 days for Classified, NUSS and Administrative staff and 21 days for Certified staff to sign your contract/NOC, but only five business days to receive the incentive).
  • Have received an employment contract/NOC during the 2024-25 school year and remain employed with CRAEA through the 2025-2026 school year.
• Proration: The $500 incentive will be prorated based on your FTE for the 2025-2026 school year, if you work less than 1.0 FTE.
• Ineligibility: Staff members who have received an early notification incentive are ineligible for this retention incentive.
• Recoupment: If you receive this incentive but do not complete your 2025-2026 contract, we will recoup a prorated amount for each month you did not work.

To confirm your understanding of these requirements and to receive the incentive, please sign and accept your contract within the five-day time frame. If you choose not to receive the incentive, please wait until after the five-day time frame to sign your contract, or communicate your decision to the Human Resources Office.

We understand that you will have to wait until June for the incentive to be paid out, but hopefully, it comes at a time that can help you enjoy the summer! We are truly grateful for your continued commitment to our agency.

Central Rivers AEA is launching a new way to sign contracts and Notices of Conditions (NOCs). Moving forward, all signing will take place through Web Link, where you can securely access, sign and store your documents for future reference.

To help you navigate this new process, we’ve attached a step-by-step instruction guide and a video tutorial. Please review the instructions carefully, especially the sections highlighted in red, as they contain key details. If you need extra support, this tutorial video will walk you through how to access, view and sign your contract in Web Link.

You’ll receive an email notification when your contract is ready for signing. If you run into any issues, contact the help desk at helpdesk@centralriversaea.org or call 319-273-8231. Thank you for your attention and cooperation with this new process!

An all-staff meeting and retirement celebration will be held on Thursday, May 22 in Cedar Falls, beginning at 9:00 am. Social time begins at 8:30 am and lunch will be provided to staff. After lunch, staff members assigned to a region will meet at the Cedar Falls office, while all other staff may return to their worksites. If you have questions about what your schedule looks like that day, please reach out to your supervisor for clarification. More details to follow in the May edition of The Channel, including a list of your retiring colleagues!

The open enrollment period for insurance* begins Monday, April 28 and ends on Friday, May 23. *All benefit-eligible employees must enroll or waive coverage, even if you have no changes or are resigning/retiring! Some other important details to note:

• Beginning Monday, April 28, you will have access to EASE via the employee dashboard in ClassLink.  
• Updates to insurance will be shared during the benefits insurance presentation for all staff, held virtually on Tuesday, April 29 at 4:00 pm.
• We will allow time for questions during the Zoom, or you can email your questions in advance to benefits@centralriversaea.org.
• The meeting will be recorded and posted on our benefits website for staff that cannot attend.
• Zoom link: https://centralriversaea.zoom.us/j/92611601851

If you have questions regarding your insurance, please contact Kevin Klobassa, Benefits Specialist, at (319)-273-8202 or via email at benefits@centralriversaea.org.

After a decade of service at Central Rivers AEA, Cari Teske has announced that she will be leaving her role as Director of Media Services at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

“Working at Central Rivers AEA has been an incredible privilege. I’m grateful for the amazing colleagues and the opportunity to support educators and students across our region.”

Cari will be transitioning to a new role as the Elementary Principal at Hubbard-Radcliffe Elementary, beginning July 1. While we will miss her leadership, we are grateful for her many contributions and wish her the very best in this next chapter!

Plans for the transition of leadership in Media Services will be announced in the near future. In the meantime, please join us in thanking Cari for her hard work and commitment to supporting students, teachers and schools.

We would like to welcome an incoming school psychologist and speech-language pathologist for the 2025-26 school year!

If you’re leaving the agency, please make sure to return all tech items issued to you during your employment. This includes:

• iPads
• Portable and stationary monitors
• Presentation clickers
• Extra laptop chargers
• Laptop bags
• Any other related equipment

Where to return items

• Cedar Falls office: Help Desk
• Marshalltown office: Terry Davis
• Clear Lake office: Front desk – Patsy Luker or Laura Rinnels

Additional notes

• Hotspots: Return directly to Laura Rinnels at the Clear Lake office.
• Laptops & chargers:
  • Most staff: Include your laptop with your tech return.
  • River Hills & Youth Shelter/Detention Center staff: Return laptops directly to your supervisor.
• Other items (e.g., fobs, keys): Return to HR at the Cedar Falls Office or your closest AEA office.

Important

Label each item with your name on a sticky note. If you have any questions, contact the Help Desk or call (319) 273-8231.

All Central Rivers AEA offices will be closed on April 18, in observance of Good Friday. Please update your voicemail and set an out-of-office email reply to let others know about the closure.

Voicemail example:

Hello, this is (your name). All Central Rivers AEA offices are closed on April 18 in observance of Good Friday. Please leave your name, number and a brief message and I will get back to you when offices reopen Monday, April 21. Thank you.

Email “away” message example:

Thank you for your email. All Central Rivers AEA offices are closed on April 18 in observance of Good Friday. I will respond to your email upon my return when offices reopen on Monday, April 21. Thank you.

A communication about the Universal Protocol for Accommodations in Reading (uPAR) was recently sent to school leaders through Leadership Connections and Regional Administrators. We want to ensure you’re informed in case you receive questions from districts. If schools reach out with inquiries, please direct them to Sarah Nelson, Director of IT/Special Programs, or Tesha Moser-Zimmerman, Executive Director of Ed Services.

The Iowa Department of Education has procured uPAR for statewide use at no cost to districts, and Central Rivers AEA is offering support services to help districts implement uPAR and maximize its impact.

What is uPAR?

uPAR is a protocol that helps determine whether students comprehend text better through reading visually or listening auditorily. The uPAR can be administered to any or all students (Grades 3 and above) as part of the MTSS process.

What are the benefits of uPAR?

• Presents objective insights: Provides unbiased insights into students’ reading comprehension strengths.
• Saves time: A quick, digital protocol that can be completed with individuals or entire groups in under 30 minutes.
• Promotes universal accessibility: Suitable for all students, including those with learning differences.
• Utilizes a research-based approach: Backed by educational research to ensure accurate and reliable results.

What are the benefits of using the uPAR data?

• Empowers students: Encourages self-awareness and independence in choosing the best reading method.
• Improves student outcomes: Helps match students with the right support, leading to improved comprehension and learning outcomes.
• Informs decision-making: Guides educators in determining who needs accommodations and what type.
• Provides data insights: Provides teachers with actionable data to personalize instruction and accommodations effectively.

How do I learn more about uPAR or get a quick refresher? 

• Watch the recording (timestamp 3:46-24:00) from the March 7 Curriculum Directors’ meeting, where MeLissa Lawson discusses uPAR and the DE’s procurement of this tool for all Iowa districts.
• Watch this five-minute Intro to uPAR video.

How does my district get started using uPAR?

Complete the District uPAR Deployment form to sign up for access to uPAR at no cost to your district. What support services does Central Rivers AEA offer to help districts implement uPAR and use its data to the fullest extent? We are offering a comprehensive uPAR Implementation Support Package. See the flyer for package pricing and details.

• Session 1: Introduction to uPAR: An implementation action plan (two-hour virtual session)
• Session 2: Making sense of uPAR results (four-hour in-person session)
• Session 3: Using uPAR data to drive instruction and build an inclusive classroom with assistive technology (four-hour in-person session)
• Session 4: Reflect, plan and sustain: A continuous improvement approach to uPAR implementation (two-hour virtual session)

Webinar series at a glance

• Part 1: Iowa’s Access for ALL (April 23 | 12 pm CT)
• Part 2: Deep dive into uPar (May 7 | 12 pm CT)
• Part 3: Data-based decision making with uPar (May 21 | 12 pm CT)

Central Rivers AEA recognizes that artificial intelligence (AI) can help improve educational services and make work more efficient. AI tools can automate tasks, provide helpful insights and streamline processes — but they also raise concerns about data privacy and security. To help staff use AI responsibly, the agency has put together clear guidelines.

Why AI guidelines matter

AI tools are changing how we work, but they come with risks. Protecting sensitive information, especially student and staff data, is a top priority. These guidelines will help you understand how to use AI tools safely while maintaining privacy and security.

Key guidelines

• Use AI to support our mission: AI should be used to improve services, boost efficiency and align with the agency’s goals.
• Protect confidential information: Don’t upload or share sensitive data, including student information, into AI tools. This includes names, addresses and personal identifiers.
• Check security before using AI: Review the tool’s privacy policy and terms of service. Make sure the tool won’t use or share data without permission.
• Be transparent: Let others know if you’re using AI in meetings, educational services, or decision-making. If someone isn’t comfortable, you should disable the AI tool.
• Follow security practices: Use strong passwords, update software regularly, and keep shared data limited to only those who need it.

Stay safe & informed

If you’re unsure about using an AI tool or have questions about security, reach out to the technology team. By following these guidelines, we can make the most of AI while keeping our data safe. If you have any questions, contact the Help Desk or call (319) 273-8231.

The power of voice-controlled assistive technology

Voice-controlled technology is making life easier and more accessible for people with disabilities. Devices like smart speakers and virtual assistants (Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Assistant) allow users to control lights, adjust the temperature, manage schedules, and make calls – without needing to press buttons or use touchscreens.

Beyond convenience, these tools enhance safety. Voice commands can set alarms, call for help, or contact emergency services in case of a fall. They also work with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, helping individuals with speech or mobility challenges communicate more effectively.

As these technologies improve, they continue to expand independence – handling tasks like reading messages, managing smart home systems, and providing real-time health updates. With ongoing advancements, voice-controlled devices are opening new doors for people with disabilities, making everyday life more accessible and empowering.

Check out these articles for more examples of how voice-controlled assistive technology can support individuals with disabilities. 

• How AI and Voice Assistants Are Revolutionizing Accessibility
• 10 Ways Assistive Technology, Such as Smart Speakers, Promote Independence for People with Disabilities
• Empowering Lives: The Role of Voice-Controlled Devices for Individuals with Disabilities

Flexible assessment: supporting diverse learners through Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

One key idea in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is giving students different ways to show what they know. Standard tests, like written exams, don’t always capture every student’s abilities. Using flexible assessments helps create a more inclusive classroom where all students can succeed.

Examples of flexible assessment in action

• Multimodal projects: Allow students to create videos, infographics or podcasts instead of traditional essays.
• Oral presentations: Give students the option to verbally explain concepts rather than writing a report.
• Performance-based assessments: Use role-playing, skits or simulations to demonstrate learning.
• Student choice in assessments: Let students choose from a menu of options to demonstrate their understanding in a way that works best for them.

How to get started

You don’t need to completely change your curriculum to use flexible assessments. Start small by giving students a choice in how they complete one assignment, then adjust based on their feedback. This approach helps students stay engaged, feel supported and have a fair chance to show what they’ve learned.

Check out these articles for additional information on flexible assessment in the UDL model. 

• UDL Tips for Assessment (CAST)
• How to Use Universal Design for Learning to Create Assessments

Take 30 minutes for yourself with Express Coaching

Struggling to find time for your well-being? In just 30 minutes on April 15, join a small group for Express Coaching and gain clear action steps to tackle a challenge – big or small. Three sessions are available throughout the day. Sign up online for the time that works for you!

Earn $250 for building your leadership skills

Central Rivers AEA is offering a $250 incentive for staff who complete one INspired Leadership micro-credential. Choose from:

1. Awareness of Internal Energy
2. 4 Key Mindsets
3. Overcoming Internal Energy Blocks* (*new – requires the first two as prerequisites)

All are available in our On-Demand Library. Submit your evidence for review by Dr. Leslie Moore. Need help? Schedule a 15-minute session with Dr. Moore.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! The Iowa’s Healthiest State Initiative Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit is available for download. Central Rivers AEA is a Make It OK organization. Wear green on May 15 to show your support for Mental Health Awareness Month!

Let’s Make It OK to talk about mental health

Mental illness affects one in five Americans – more than diabetes or left-handedness. It can impact anyone, yet stigma keeps many from seeking help. The Make It OK campaign encourages open conversations to change that. The sooner someone gets support, the better their chances of recovery.

How can you Make It OK? Start talking.

Mental illnesses are treatable, just like physical conditions such as diabetes. When we talk openly about them, we create a culture of understanding and support. Not sure what to say when someone shares their experience? Try some of these responses:

• “Can I drive you to an appointment or bring you a meal?”
• “I’m here for you whenever you need me.”
• “How are you feeling today?”

For more ideas on what to say, visit https://makeitok.org/.

Take the pledge

One way to help is by taking the Make It OK pledge. By signing, you commit to speaking up against stigma and encouraging open conversations. Print it, share it and keep it visible as a reminder to be part of the change.

Reminder – extended school year updated process: To improve how services are documented, a new process for AEA support staff providers will be used this year. All providers must complete the Google Form by April 25 to identify students eligible for ESY. This memo explains the ESY expectations and should be reviewed before filling out the form. Please mark your calendar to complete this on time and avoid repeated reminders. ESY services are part of your regular contract, so plan your schedule accordingly to ensure coverage. If you have any questions, contact your regional administrator.

Documenting AEA services & activities: This video was created after gathering input from more staff. Please take a few minutes to watch this overview (you may be able to speed it up to 1.5x). This topic will be discussed further during discipline meetings in the fall. Here is a link to the document for anyone who would like to take notes.

Recruitment update: The hiring process continues for qualified candidates to join the special education team. There are still openings for SLPs, School Psychologists, School Social Workers and Special Education Consultants (PK-12). Efforts are also underway to post positions for BCBAs. If you know strong candidates for any of these roles, please encourage them to apply. River Hills School is also hiring teachers and paraeducators. It offers a supportive environment and a great opportunity to develop expertise in working with students with significant disabilities.

LEA admin updates: Please check out the April updates so you know what we’ve shared with them.

Important update: Change impacting your access to Iowa Department of Education Portal

Action steps/key points: Everyone with an active account in the Iowa Education Portal (EdPortal) has received an email regarding the transition to using Okta (id.iowa.gov) instead of A&A when logging into EdPortal beginning April 7, 2025. Next steps:

• Before April 4, 2025: Confirm that your email address in EdPortal is up-to-date. If it needs to be updated, view the instructions.
• Confirm or create an Okta account on id.iowa.gov with your current email address. View the instructions.
  • Video: ID.iowa.gov set up when no account
  • You may choose whatever sign-in and verification method works best for you – above is just an example.
• EdPortal will be unavailable* the weekend of April 4-6 for the transition – this means you will not be able to get into ACHIEVE.
• Monday, April 7, go to portal.ed.iowa.gov as normal. Use your Okta login credentials (email address and password for id.iowa.gov) to log into the EdPortal.

Have questions? Contact EdPortal support at (515) 725-2040 or visit https://portal.ed.iowa.gov/.

*An additional note that is not listed in the email, the portal will likely be down from sometime on April 4 (the exact time not confirmed) until it comes back up on April 7 with the Okta login. A notification will be posted in EdPortal closer to the date but we know sometimes folks work on IEPs over the weekends, so wanted to let people know. If someone has an April 7 meeting, it may be best not to wait until that weekend to work on it.

Live documents, helpful resources and guides can be found on our staff website.

• Special Education Updates
• Updates with CRAEA Special Education doc (this will include every update from editions of The Channel)

End of third quarter: The third quarter ended on March 31, and all Harvest entries should be up to date, with March entries completed by April 8. Third-quarter reports are expected to be sent to schools by late April.

Professional development approvals: The Iowa Department of Education provided feedback on the PD entries from the second window. An updated list of approved PD is available on the Iowa Department of Education website.

Implementation science follow-up: During the Educational Services meeting, the team discussed implementation science in greater depth, with several members expressing interest in a podcast for further learning.

Thank you for all you do for our area students, schools and the agency. You are appreciated.

Live documents, helpful resources and guides can be found on our staff website.

• Ed Services/Media Updates
• Updates with CRAEA Ed Services & Media doc (this will include every update from editions of The Channel)