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.
  • Mileage & expense reimbursements are due July 7

    To help our team provide the best support possible, we kindly ask that you submit your mileage claims on a monthly basis. This regular schedule allows our staff the necessary time to review and approve claims efficiently. Looking ahead, please keep in mind that all mileage and expense reimbursements through June 30, 2026 must be…

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  • Mileage policy update for 2026-27

    As we continue to navigate changes across the AEA system, we know that travel and mileage are top-of-mind for many of you. While statewide leaders are still working toward a unified approach to travel compensation, a final decision hasn’t been reached for the upcoming school year. To support you in the meantime, our Central Rivers…

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  • Monthly Zoom updates for CRAEA staff

    If you missed the all-staff update on Tuesday, April 14 via Zoom, the slide deck and recording information can be found below. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 12, from 4:00-4:30 pm. Resources from 4/14/26:

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  • In-person Artificial Intelligence (AI) training is coming in August

    We are hosting a series of in-person training sessions focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) this August at the Cedar Falls office. These sessions are designed to be a collaborative space where we can learn together how AI might serve our mission of empowering educational partners. We want to ensure everyone feels confident and prepared as…

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  • Thank you to the Central Rivers AEA Board of Directors

    Join us in thanking our amazing board members during School Board Recognition Month! Serving almost 62,000 students, 5,000 educators and over 500 staff members, these nine dedicated volunteers are the backbone of the agency, setting the course for all we do! Help us thank them for their dedication and commitment to Iowa’s students and our…

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  • Welcome aboard: meet the newest Central Rivers AEA team members

    We would like to welcome incoming staff for the 2025-26 school year! Creative Services welcomes Mark Sabotta, Web Developer/Programmer! Please give a warm welcome to Central Rivers AEA Creative Services’ newest team member, Mark Sabotta! Mark joined our team on April 13 as a Web Developer/Programmer. He is based out of the Cedar Falls office.…

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  • Returning agency-issued tech: What you need to know

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

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  • What is the Phish Alert Button (PAB) in our Gmail accounts?

    The Phish Alert Button (PAB) is a powerful tool integrated into your Gmail account that empowers you to report suspicious emails directly to the security experts. When to use the PAB Use the PAB for suspicious emails or potential phishing attacks, but not for spam or marketing emails. There is a separate “report spam” button…

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  • Work smarter, not harder: check out the staff tech hub!

    Let’s be honest: technology moves fast, and it can be tough to keep up. That’s why Central Rivers AEA and Keystone AEA teamed up to create the Staff Tech Hub – your go-to cheat sheet for all things digital! Think of it as your monthly “tech upgrade.” What’s the latest for this month’s tips? Assistive…

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  • Updates with Special Education

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

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  • Updates with Educational Services & Media

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

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  • What’s new with INspired Leadership?

    Microcredential incentive deadline is this month Central Rivers AEA is offering a $250 incentive to staff members who complete one leadership micro-credential focused on well-being by May 8, 2026. To learn more about microcredentials, review the Micro-credential Explanation document. To learn about and/or register for a microcredential you are interested in, choose and select: 1)…

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  • 2026-27 All-Staff Kick Off will be held on Wednesday, August 26

    Please save the date on your calendar for our All-Staff Kick Off on August 26, 2026. While we are still finalizing the official location and details, we look forward to this time of connection and preparation. Keep an eye on your inbox for a full schedule and official details coming soon!

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  • All Central Rivers AEA offices are closed on Monday, May 25

    All Central Rivers AEA offices will be closed on Monday, May 25 in observance of Memorial Day. 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 will be closed on Monday, May 25 in observance…

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  • Condolences on the passing of David Giese, former board member

    We extend our sympathy to the family and friends of David Giese, former Central Rivers AEA Board member, who passed away on April 14 at the age of 84. David dedicated his career to education as a language arts and speech/theatre teacher in Mason City, where he was known for inspiring students, leading academic programs,…

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