Heartland AEA Receives Full Accreditation From State Board of Education

At the July 16 Iowa State Board of Education meeting, the Board voted to fully accredit Heartland AEA following the Agency’s accreditation visit in April 2025. An accredited status indicates that an AEA has met all requirements for services designated by Chapter 72 of the Iowa Administrative Code. 

The accreditation report noted a number of our strengths, including:

Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

• District staff reported satisfaction with the curriculum adoption process, which assisted districts in selecting HQIM and in considering the accessibility of materials for learners. 
• District special education directors indicated that connections made between SDI, interventions and universal instruction were helpful in meeting student needs. 

Special Education Services & Support 

• The Early ACCESS liaison role has been instrumental in supporting Early ACCESS staff at the agency, maintaining the relationships with DMPS, and has contributed to positive outcomes in Early ACCESS. 
• The AEA engaged community locations in the Child Find process for preschool-age learners. 

Technology Planning Services

• The AT Team was reported to be a great support to core team members and IEP teams. 

Learning Environment

• The AEA showcased timely response to crisis situations and assisting with crisis planning. 
• The HEART therapeutic classroom program expanded the continuum of services available to area schools and built the capacity of the resident team. 

AEAs undergo an intensive review of services to ensure that we meet all requirements for accreditation. The process includes interviews with local school personnel and parents, as well as agency staff and board members. 

“This outstanding result is a direct reflection of our staff members’ dedication, professionalism and commitment to serving students, educators and communities,” said Cindy Yelick, Heartland AEA Chief Administrator. “Accreditation is a meaningful affirmation of the quality, impact and integrity of the work our staff do every day. Our strengths are a testament to the culture we’ve built at Heartland AEA—one rooted in service and continuous improvement.”