Restructuring Proposal

How can we structure our agency to provide administrative support to our AEA staff and our LEA partners so we can optimize our effectiveness in positively impacting children, families and educators?

Background Information Several years ago we studied the possibility of restructuring and discussed the following options: a.Eight sectors b.Five sectors c.Four sectors

So Why Now? Currently there is a great sense of urgency to help each and every child achieve at high levels and eliminate the achievement gaps!!! Educational reform – Governor’s Blueprint Dissolution of the instructional pool Administrative resignation and retirements Financial resources Rationale for Restructuring

Rationale continued Opportunity to equalize assignments for special education administrators Opportunity to better align with Educational Services and Information Technology personnel Data from focus groups conducted by Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Horn

What’s the Ideal Outcome We develop a restructuring plan that meets the following criteria: A structure that will work for at least 5-10 years. A structure that allows flexibility in meeting the needs of our districts and our staff. A structure that can adapt to unexpected circumstances.

Ideal Outcome continued A structure that provides equitable assignments for administrators. A structure that facilitates alignment with other service areas. A structure that will allow effective and efficient use of agency resources.

Restructuring Plan Divide the AEA into four geographic sectors Establish Administrative FTE needed to provide effective services and divide among the four sectors Implement a co-leadership model Special Schools included in the sectors

Factors Considered Birth to 5 population PreK-12 population (including non-public) Number of districts and buildings (including non-public) Number of preschool sections Special Schools Number of staff assigned Alignment with Educational Services and Information Technology personnel

Process for Developing Plan Discussions with Administrative Cabinet Discussions with Special Education Administrative Team Discussion with Special Education Leadership Team Discussion with LEA Special Education Advisory Committee Discussion with Agency Administrative Team

Questions Addressed What are the strengths and benefits of the restructuring plan? What are the challenges of the restructuring plan? What are potential unintended consequences? What resources are needed to effectively implement the restructuring plan?

Plan of Action Develop communication plan for all stakeholders. Develop guidelines for shared administrative responsibilities within each sector. Develop plan to align with Educational Services and Information Technology personnel. Develop plan to address changes with AEA staff.

Anticipated Questions Who will be my line administrator? What impact will the restructuring have on my assignment? What impact will the restructuring have on my travel?