We wanted to provide you with an exciting update on the status of the relocation of the Newton office and its transformation into a Regional Education Center (REC).
As you know, during the 2007-2008 school year, the Heartland Board of Directors approved the Agency’s plan for five RECs, including one located in Newton. In pursuing a new location for the Newton REC, the Agency found an appropriate space at the Iowa Telecom building in Newton. A proposed layout of the space had been completed and negotiations were underway when the Newton Community School District school board voted to close Emerson Hough Elementary in Newton. The closure of Emerson Hough brought Heartland’s negotiations for the Iowa Telecom space to a halt, as the Agency is required by Iowa Code to inquire with school districts for possible office space before pursuing agreements for commercial space.
Since the announcement of the closure of Emerson Hough, the Agency worked closely with Newton Schools superintendent Steve McDermott to determine if Emerson Hough would have appropriate space and accommodations for the Newton REC. It was determined that the building has suitable space for the REC, including space for a room suitable for professional development classes and agency meetings.
At its meeting on July 26, the Newton school board voted to approve a lease agreement between the district and Heartland for the Agency to occupy office space in the Emerson Hough building. Heartland will use the building’s former library and adjoining offices for general office space and staff workstations. Future negotiations will take place for an agreement for professional development space in the building. The lease with the Newton Schools is for five years and is at a significantly lower price than a commercial space.
Effective August 3, the Heartland AEA Newton branch office has relocated to the former Emerson Hough Elementary School building at 700 N. 4th Ave. E. in Newton. The AEA office at 301 1st Street S. will close upon the move to Emerson Hough. All other contact information for the office and its staff will remain the same.
Relocating the Newton office to Emerson Hough presents a great opportunity for Heartland to partner with the Newton Schools. We realize that the process to open a new Newton REC has been lengthy and complex, and we greatly appreciate the understanding and patience everyone has shown during this time.
If you have any questions about the office relocation, please contact Steve Prall at sprall@aea11.k12.ia.us or ext. 14423.
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