Highlights

July 2009 School Leader Update

icon July 2009 School Leader Update

This month's School Leader Update addresses crisis planning, Healthy Kids Act guidance process, AYP reporting, and more.

View previous School Leader Update newsletters.

Statement on Aplington-Parkersburg's Ed Thomas

Iowa Department of Education Director Judy Jeffrey extends her deepest sympathy to the Aplington-Parkersburg School District community on the death of Ed Thomas.

"This is a school district that has suffered much in the last several months with the loss of its high school due to a tornado last spring and now the loss of a beloved teacher, coach, and mentor. The community's love and respect for Coach Thomas is a profound example of the impact a teacher and outstanding individual can have not only on students in a school, but an entire community. My thoughts are with the staff, students, and families of Aplington-Parkersburg."

Iowa Honored for Work on 21st Century Skills

Today Iowa received the 21^st Century Skills Practice of the Year Award, which is sponsored by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills and commemorates the country's preeminent state-led education reform initiatives. Specifically, the award recognizes states that are incorporating knowledge and 21st century skills into classrooms.

First Allocation of Iowa Stabilization Funds Approved

Governor Chet Culver announced today the U.S. Department of Education has approved Iowa's application for the first $316 million in State Fiscal Stabilization Funds available for public education through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Iowa Joins 49 States in Common Core Standards Initiative

Iowa has joined the Common Core State Standards Initiative, a state-led process to develop common English-language arts and mathematics standards. The Common Core State Standards Initiative will be jointly led by the NGA Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) and the Council of Chief State School Officers ( CCSSO ).

Priority Links

Resources