Do not cut $12 Million from Iowa AEA!

Do not disregard my letter. I voted for Trump and have always thought Republicans were the party that supported public schools and family values. I’m writing as a concerned parent and constituent to express my strong opposition to the recent $12 million funding cut to Heartland Area Education Agency (AEA). This decision will have devastating consequences for Iowa’s children, especially those with special needs—like my own child. Heartland AEA plays a critical role in supporting students who rely on specialized services to thrive. These aren’t just numbers on a budget sheet—these are the lifelines that help children communicate, learn, and grow. The proposed cuts will result in the loss of 45 full-time positions, drastically reducing access to essential special education services across our state. This will place an unbearable strain on families who are already navigating complex systems to secure the basic support their children need. For families like mine, this isn’t political—it’s personal. These services aren’t luxuries; they are fundamental to my child’s development, education, and future. Redirecting funds directly to school districts without the infrastructure, expertise, or resources that AEAs provide will leave many students without the support they depend on. Iowa should be investing in our children, not abandoning them. We need leaders who will stand up for the most vulnerable among us. I urge you to oppose these reckless cuts and fight to restore funding to Heartland AEA. Our children’s futures depend on it. I will be watching your votes closely. Please do the right thing. Voters of all parties need these services, and the strain this puts on us all will not be forgotten quickly.