Helping Iowa’s Youngest Learners Get the Strongest Possible Start
Iowa’s Area Education Agencies (AEAs) provide early childhood services that strengthen instruction and ensure every young child has access to high-quality, inclusive learning experiences.
Grounded in the Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Framework, AEA professional development helps teachers and providers design and deliver effective instruction using evidence-based tools and practices. The goal: to improve outcomes for preschool learners in inclusive classrooms and meet the needs of diverse early childhood learners.
AEA courses highlight the seven recommended practices from the Preparing Young Children for School guide and intentionally weave in Division for Early Childhood (DEC) Recommended Practices—with a focus on instruction, social-emotional growth, math and literacy. This ensures educators have the skills to create classrooms where every child can succeed.
AEAs also promote accessibility and universal learning through support with the Iowa Early Learning Standards, learning progressions, and early childhood frameworks. Systemwide supports include:
- Formative assessment and early identification of developmental needs
- Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Early Childhood Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (EC-PBIS)
- Fine motor skill development
- Preparation for program accreditation
- Training for Head Start and preschool staff
- Technical assistance with Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K®) standards
Through training, coaching, and family collaboration, Iowa AEAs help districts create cohesive, accessible environments where all young children—including those with disabilities—can grow in literacy, math and social-emotional learning.
Modes of Support
- Coaching and consultation
- Classroom modeling and debriefing
- Classroom observations and walkthroughs
- Implementation coaching (leadership or staff)
- Ongoing professional learning with embedded coaching
- Resource integration
- Structured time for planning, reflection, and collaboration
- Leadership teams (district and/or building)
- Teacher teams (PLCs, CLCs, etc.)