Archive for October 2024
October 2024: AESA State Examiner
The October 2024 State Examiner reviews state legislation and trends impacting ESAs and their schools, focusing on early learning, childcare, and key policy issues. The monthly tip guides AESA members in building partnerships to strengthen K-12 advocacy and clarify the ESA’s role.
Read MoreEPA 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 are the most vulnerable to lead’s effects…
Read MoreUpdate 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 E-Rate dollars to be used for Wi-Fi on…
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
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 IRA reimbursement-eligible projects in nearly 40 states, with district…
Read MoreWhat 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 list, including some bills that they must pass,…
Read MoreCISA 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 product uses guidance and best practices outlined in CISA’s existing K-12 School…
Read MoreNew 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 secondary schools, as well as colleges and universities under Section 504 of…
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