This week, Iowa House Republicans held a subcommittee on the Governor’s AEA proposal. It was a packed room with standing room only. I was fortunate to have Steve Haberman, former Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Middle School Principal join me at the sub-committee. Steve was one of those who presented their views before the sub-committee. His message was clear and concise and greatly helped the committee vote to not move the current bill forward at this time.
The subcommittee’s decision to not advance the bill to the full committee cited the need for more research on the matter.
It has become clear that after taking feedback from Iowans, there is not the support in the House to move this bill forward in its current form.
I share the Governor’s goal of improving special education outcomes in Iowa. As I’ve learned more about this topic, it is clear some improvements can be made to our current system. We will continue to work with stakeholders and other Iowans to ensure that anything we pass in the House will truly help improve special education in our state.
This particular topic obviously needs a more methodical approach, and it appears that will be the direction taken. There are other subjects that need our attention, and I’m hopeful we will advance to other issues in the coming weeks.
