The Channel - a blog for Central Rivers AEA staff and board members 

Our Mission: To Deliver High-quality, evidence-based, and strategic services to our education partners that meet the diverse needs of iowa's learners (birth-21_), educators, and school Communities.

Author: Beth Strike

  • Resources now available to support insurance open enrollment decisions

    The open enrollment period for insurance will be April 22 through May 12. Even if you do not take insurance, you must go through the open enrollment process. Tools to help you make an informed decision, including the interactive scenario tool, Alex, will be available on the staff portal in the near future. Look under My Benefits>2019-20 Insurance Information.

    Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Michael Kalvig or Karl Kurt.

  • Thank you to our administrative professional staff

    colorful backdrop with the words Thank You over the top

    Help celebrate Administrative Professionals Day on April 24 by taking the time to recognize our outstanding office support staff. We couldn’t do what we do without them! 

  • Important meeting dates calendar

    The calendar of meeting dates for 2019-20 is now available on our staff website under Resources, along with the office calendar for the new year. Be sure to look it over and mark down the dates relevant to you.

  • Remote Work Site applications

    The Remote Work Site (RWS) application will be available beginning Monday, April 8 for 2019-20.  Only those working remote on a regular basis need fill out the application form. More details and the updated program guidelines will be sent in an email from Human Resources on Monday, April 8.

  • Save the date

    An all-regions meeting will be held on May 22 and will include a retirement celebration to recognize this year’s retirees. Watch for details in the May issue of The Channel.

    reminder orange speech bubble isolated on white

  • Upcoming spring events from the Climate & Culture Committee

    summer meadow with red poppiesSpring has sprung and the Climate & Culture Committee have planned a couple of fun ways to celebrate!

    Texas Roadhouse in Cedar Falls generously donated a gift basket valued at over $30 for one lucky staff member to win. All staff are eligible to enter the drawing. Just drop your name in the basket at the front desk of the Cedar Falls office or email Kathy Barfels (kbarfels@centralriversaea.org) to put your name in for you. The deadline to enter is April 17 and the winner will be drawn and announced on April 18.

    On Monday, April 22 everyone is invited to join in the fun of an outdoor Easter egg hunt in the Cedar Falls office. Those wishing to participate should gather in Central Perk at 2 p.m. for instructions before kicking off the hunt. Collect as many plastic eggs as you can find for a chance to win prizes! In the event of bad weather or muddy conditions, the egg hunt will be relocated indoors.

  • Climate & Culture’s New Year’s resolution results

    Graphic with the words "Own it!"Almost 150 staff members signed up for the option to earn an extra $5 gift card for completing their New Year’s Resolution and of those a whopping 123 completed their resolution! Those who did not complete their resolution held up their end of the bargain and donated $5 to a cause of their choice.  

    The following organizations received their donations: church & youth missions, Alternatives, American Heart Association, Children’s Discovery Center, Corey Brown ARL fund, food pantries, humane societies, MDA, National Wildlife Federation, Quota International, Special Olympics, Student Connection, Fire Departments, UNI Dance Marathon, and the Waterloo Hospitality House.

    A huge thank you to everyone who participated in this activity – it’s great to see how even one small donation can make a huge difference in the communities we live and work in!

  • Board recap

    The Central Rivers AEA Board of Directors met on Monday, April 1 with the three area community colleges. Board agendas and minutes can be found online.