Click here to download a document that will help you better understand your W-2. The document provides an explanation of what all those numbers mean! It is archived on the Intranet > Business Office > Payroll Forms > Tips to Better Understand 2011 Form W-2 Wage & Tax Statement.
W-2s were mailed to staff members on January 13, so they should be arriving in your mailboxes this week.
Questions may be directed to Steve Jordan, Payroll Specialist, at ext. 14908 or Michelle Westcott, Payroll Specialist, at ext. 14422.
Monday, January 16, 2012
New Out of Area Travel/Professional Development Form Now Available
After gathering some great ideas and input, the Business Office has updated the Out of Area Travel form. The new Out of Area Travel/Professional Development form is to be used when you have general business travel outside of the Heartland AEA area or when seeking reimbursement for any Professional Development expense. The form has been modified with some additional signature boxes and a few new boxes to serve as reminders for you and for your supervisor to complete. Also a copy of the Travel Memo containing reminders, suggestions and guidelines is attached to the new form. Click here to download the new form. It is also archived on the Intranet > Business Office > Out of Area Travel & PD Form/2011-12 Travel Memo.
The Travel Memo and instructions in the upper right hand section of the new form explain the process to be followed, which is the same as in the past, except now all submissions will be done electronically. When submitting the new form for payment, you will electronically sign the pdf, scan your receipts and e-mail everything to your supervisor. This will do two things: help cut down on the amount of paper being printed and, most importantly, expedite your claim processing. This is another step forward in eliminating location and proximity as constraints in getting our work done in a timely fashion.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact Mary Heaberlin, Accounting Technician, at mheaberlin@aea11.k12.ia.us or ext. 14818. A special thank you to all those who helped with the framework for the new form, especially Terri Barnes and Julie Sypersma for working so diligently to create the electronic form.
The Travel Memo and instructions in the upper right hand section of the new form explain the process to be followed, which is the same as in the past, except now all submissions will be done electronically. When submitting the new form for payment, you will electronically sign the pdf, scan your receipts and e-mail everything to your supervisor. This will do two things: help cut down on the amount of paper being printed and, most importantly, expedite your claim processing. This is another step forward in eliminating location and proximity as constraints in getting our work done in a timely fashion.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact Mary Heaberlin, Accounting Technician, at mheaberlin@aea11.k12.ia.us or ext. 14818. A special thank you to all those who helped with the framework for the new form, especially Terri Barnes and Julie Sypersma for working so diligently to create the electronic form.
Teacher Quality Offerings Have Arrived! Registration Now Open
Below, please find the options for Teacher Quality courses and study groups for 2011-12. These options are open to certified staff only. Registration for TQ will be open through January 31, 2012. You must be registered on or before January 31 in order to participate. There are two types of offerings: study groups and courses. The dates for the courses are listed in the table below. You will register for study groups and then be assigned to smaller groups based on geographic locations. Once you know who is in your group, the group will then set the dates. All Teacher Quality courses and study groups must be completed by July 1, 2012. One person in each study group will need to act as a facilitator. (See frequently asked questions below for more information on the role of the facilitator.)
All TQ courses and study groups have been determined to align to agency priorities and the needs identified by the job-alike lead groups using data from the entire group. Your individual selection should also support the professional growth plan that you have developed with your supervisor.
In the offerings list there are recommendations for which courses or study groups apply to job-alike groups. Even though there are recommendations, almost all courses and study groups are open to individuals from all job-alike groups. (If it designates “only,” it is not open to all.) For descriptions of each course or study group, click on the Activity Number. You will also find answers to frequently asked questions about TQ below.
Special Note: There are two courses that require those who participate to put in additional time beyond the 15 hours of Teacher Quality.
Technology for Online Instruction: Moodle is a 30-hour course. Participants will receive TQ pay after completing the first half of the course. The second half will need to be completed either on the participant’s own time or during the workday with the permission of supervisor.
Survey of Applied Behavior Analysis Principles and Applications is a series of three 15-hour courses. Participants may receive TQ pay for days one and two of the first course. The other four days of the other two courses will either be on the participant’s own time or with supervisor approval for exchange time.
Click here for the list of TQ offerings. (The list contains links to the UR for each study group/course. After you click on the link, it will take a few seconds to load.
* Click on the activity number for a description of the course or study group. If you want to see course objectives, assignments etc, scroll to the bottom of the description and click again on syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I looked online and can’t find the options for TQ.
A: Because the options are not open to anyone (only Heartland certified employees), they are not listed on the online catalog. You will need the activity number to go online and register through the Heartland website.
Q: Can I do more than one activity?
A: Yes, you can do more than one activity, however, you will only be paid for one activity.
Q: I took a class last year; can I retake the class this year?
A: TQ is intended for new learning. Participants can only be paid for classes or study groups they have not taken or earned credit for before. Also, if you are using the course for renewal of your license, you cannot use the same course (or one with the same title) if you have used it in the past. Please check course descriptions if you have questions. Some titles look similar to those from previous years, but are advanced learning of the content. You may be paid in these situations.
Q: What if the TQ class is full or does not have enough participants?
A: If a TQ offering is full, we will try to get an additional section set up for participants. If this is not possible, you will have the option to enroll in a different offering that is not full. So that we can determine if another section is needed, please sign up for the offering as a wait list participant. You must be signed up for a course before the deadline to be eligible for TQ pay. If what you sign up for is full or doesn’t go because of lack of interest you will have an opportunity to change to a different course or study group. (Even if it is after the deadline.)
Q: What do we need to do in order to form a study group (this is not the case for “classes” as those have instructors, dates and times already set)?
A: Study groups need to have at least four people involved (one person to be the facilitator and three people as participants). Once registration is closed (Jan. 31), sections will be established based on geographic regions. Participants will then be notified about the membership of their group(s) sometime in mid February. At that time, groups will need to collaborate on choosing a facilitator (who cannot earn credit) and when and where they will meet.
Q: What are the responsibilities for Study Group Facilitators?
A: If you are leading a study group, you still need to register. You will receive an extra $50 for being the study group facilitator. If participants in the study group take the course for Drake credit, you will also earn the Drake stipend. You will not be able to receive credit. Facilitators are responsible for making sure the study group follows the plan that has been developed. Facilitators will also be responsible for ensuring the group completes meeting logs, the final concept paper and addendum pay forms. They also must determine and issue grades and record those in the web-based instructor center. If you are facilitating a study group, you can participate in other TQ options, but you would only be paid for the one you are facilitating. As a facilitator you do not need to be a content expert, but must be able to facilitate the group learning. You must also have a vitae on file with Professional Development.
Q: Can I earn TQ pay and use the credit to move on the salary schedule?
A: Yes. The credits from TQ offerings can be used to move on the salary schedule, and you can receive pay for participating. You will also need to pay the appropriate fees for credit if you are using it to advance. Please make sure that you review the procedures outlined in the Heartland Staff Handbook about advancement on the salary schedule. Supervisors need to approve all classes that are used.
Q: Can I participate in a TQ activity for which I am not being paid during contract time and still use the credit to move on the salary schedule?
A. No, you must be off contract time to use the credit to advance on the salary schedule. You also must pay the appropriate registration fees for the credit.
Q: May I receive TQ pay for participating during contract time?
A: No. You must be off contract to participate in Teacher Quality if you are receiving TQ pay. If the activity you want to participate in is offered on a day your current calendar reflects as a workday, you must formally exchange the day using the leave online system and have your supervisor’s approval. If you participate in a TQ activity and are not being paid, you may be on contract. In that situation, you should still request professional leave using the leave online system to gain your supervisor’s approval.
Q: Can I teach a TQ course, be paid and be paid for participating in another course or study group?
Yes. If you are asked to teach a TQ course, you will be paid your per diem for the time you are teaching and you may still participate in a different course or study group for TQ pay. This is to give you an opportunity for your own learning.
Q: Can I facilitate a TQ study group, be paid and be paid for participating in another course or study group?
No. If you are a facilitator of a study group, you are considered a participant, and it is assumed that you chose a course that meets your learning needs. The $50 you receive is to compensate you for your time with the extra tasks assigned to facilitators.
Q: Can Classified Staff participate in Teacher Quality offerings?
A: Classified staff can participate in TQ offerings but are not able to be paid out of TQ money.
Q: How much money will I receive for participating in TQ this year?
A: After registration closes and we know how many people are participating, we will be able to determine the amount of money people will receive for TQ. We are anticipating that the amounts will be similar to last year.
Q: What are the deadlines?
A: Registration for TQ courses and study groups begins today and goes through January 31, 2012. Classes and study groups will take place between March 1, 2012 and June 30, 2012. All learning opportunities must be completed by June 30, 2012, the end of the fiscal year.
If you have further questions about Teacher Quality, contact Sue Schirmer at sschirmer@aea11.k12.ia.us or Sharon Kurns at skurns@aea11.k12.ia.us or your job-alike facilitator lead.
All TQ courses and study groups have been determined to align to agency priorities and the needs identified by the job-alike lead groups using data from the entire group. Your individual selection should also support the professional growth plan that you have developed with your supervisor.
In the offerings list there are recommendations for which courses or study groups apply to job-alike groups. Even though there are recommendations, almost all courses and study groups are open to individuals from all job-alike groups. (If it designates “only,” it is not open to all.) For descriptions of each course or study group, click on the Activity Number. You will also find answers to frequently asked questions about TQ below.
Special Note: There are two courses that require those who participate to put in additional time beyond the 15 hours of Teacher Quality.
Technology for Online Instruction: Moodle is a 30-hour course. Participants will receive TQ pay after completing the first half of the course. The second half will need to be completed either on the participant’s own time or during the workday with the permission of supervisor.
Survey of Applied Behavior Analysis Principles and Applications is a series of three 15-hour courses. Participants may receive TQ pay for days one and two of the first course. The other four days of the other two courses will either be on the participant’s own time or with supervisor approval for exchange time.
Click here for the list of TQ offerings. (The list contains links to the UR for each study group/course. After you click on the link, it will take a few seconds to load.
* Click on the activity number for a description of the course or study group. If you want to see course objectives, assignments etc, scroll to the bottom of the description and click again on syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I looked online and can’t find the options for TQ.
A: Because the options are not open to anyone (only Heartland certified employees), they are not listed on the online catalog. You will need the activity number to go online and register through the Heartland website.
Q: Can I do more than one activity?
A: Yes, you can do more than one activity, however, you will only be paid for one activity.
Q: I took a class last year; can I retake the class this year?
A: TQ is intended for new learning. Participants can only be paid for classes or study groups they have not taken or earned credit for before. Also, if you are using the course for renewal of your license, you cannot use the same course (or one with the same title) if you have used it in the past. Please check course descriptions if you have questions. Some titles look similar to those from previous years, but are advanced learning of the content. You may be paid in these situations.
Q: What if the TQ class is full or does not have enough participants?
A: If a TQ offering is full, we will try to get an additional section set up for participants. If this is not possible, you will have the option to enroll in a different offering that is not full. So that we can determine if another section is needed, please sign up for the offering as a wait list participant. You must be signed up for a course before the deadline to be eligible for TQ pay. If what you sign up for is full or doesn’t go because of lack of interest you will have an opportunity to change to a different course or study group. (Even if it is after the deadline.)
Q: What do we need to do in order to form a study group (this is not the case for “classes” as those have instructors, dates and times already set)?
A: Study groups need to have at least four people involved (one person to be the facilitator and three people as participants). Once registration is closed (Jan. 31), sections will be established based on geographic regions. Participants will then be notified about the membership of their group(s) sometime in mid February. At that time, groups will need to collaborate on choosing a facilitator (who cannot earn credit) and when and where they will meet.
Q: What are the responsibilities for Study Group Facilitators?
A: If you are leading a study group, you still need to register. You will receive an extra $50 for being the study group facilitator. If participants in the study group take the course for Drake credit, you will also earn the Drake stipend. You will not be able to receive credit. Facilitators are responsible for making sure the study group follows the plan that has been developed. Facilitators will also be responsible for ensuring the group completes meeting logs, the final concept paper and addendum pay forms. They also must determine and issue grades and record those in the web-based instructor center. If you are facilitating a study group, you can participate in other TQ options, but you would only be paid for the one you are facilitating. As a facilitator you do not need to be a content expert, but must be able to facilitate the group learning. You must also have a vitae on file with Professional Development.
Q: Can I earn TQ pay and use the credit to move on the salary schedule?
A: Yes. The credits from TQ offerings can be used to move on the salary schedule, and you can receive pay for participating. You will also need to pay the appropriate fees for credit if you are using it to advance. Please make sure that you review the procedures outlined in the Heartland Staff Handbook about advancement on the salary schedule. Supervisors need to approve all classes that are used.
Q: Can I participate in a TQ activity for which I am not being paid during contract time and still use the credit to move on the salary schedule?
A. No, you must be off contract time to use the credit to advance on the salary schedule. You also must pay the appropriate registration fees for the credit.
Q: May I receive TQ pay for participating during contract time?
A: No. You must be off contract to participate in Teacher Quality if you are receiving TQ pay. If the activity you want to participate in is offered on a day your current calendar reflects as a workday, you must formally exchange the day using the leave online system and have your supervisor’s approval. If you participate in a TQ activity and are not being paid, you may be on contract. In that situation, you should still request professional leave using the leave online system to gain your supervisor’s approval.
Q: Can I teach a TQ course, be paid and be paid for participating in another course or study group?
Yes. If you are asked to teach a TQ course, you will be paid your per diem for the time you are teaching and you may still participate in a different course or study group for TQ pay. This is to give you an opportunity for your own learning.
Q: Can I facilitate a TQ study group, be paid and be paid for participating in another course or study group?
No. If you are a facilitator of a study group, you are considered a participant, and it is assumed that you chose a course that meets your learning needs. The $50 you receive is to compensate you for your time with the extra tasks assigned to facilitators.
Q: Can Classified Staff participate in Teacher Quality offerings?
A: Classified staff can participate in TQ offerings but are not able to be paid out of TQ money.
Q: How much money will I receive for participating in TQ this year?
A: After registration closes and we know how many people are participating, we will be able to determine the amount of money people will receive for TQ. We are anticipating that the amounts will be similar to last year.
Q: What are the deadlines?
A: Registration for TQ courses and study groups begins today and goes through January 31, 2012. Classes and study groups will take place between March 1, 2012 and June 30, 2012. All learning opportunities must be completed by June 30, 2012, the end of the fiscal year.
If you have further questions about Teacher Quality, contact Sue Schirmer at sschirmer@aea11.k12.ia.us or Sharon Kurns at skurns@aea11.k12.ia.us or your job-alike facilitator lead.
Save the Date For Statewide Special Education Seminar
The Iowa Department of Education will host “Pursuing the Promise,” a three-day seminar in June that will bring together special educators and parents with state and federal policymakers, school administrators and community partners. The seminar is set for June 11-13 in Des Moines.
Keynote speakers will focus on students with disabilities coming to school ready to learn, going through school in safe and caring environments, achieving at high levels and leaving school ready for life. Presenters will include Iowa Department of Education director Jason Glass and state director of special education Martin Ikeda.
Additional details, including speakers, programming, accommodations and registration will be available on the Department’s website at a later date. Please mark your calendars and join the Department as we work together to discuss the future of our children’s education.
Keynote speakers will focus on students with disabilities coming to school ready to learn, going through school in safe and caring environments, achieving at high levels and leaving school ready for life. Presenters will include Iowa Department of Education director Jason Glass and state director of special education Martin Ikeda.
Additional details, including speakers, programming, accommodations and registration will be available on the Department’s website at a later date. Please mark your calendars and join the Department as we work together to discuss the future of our children’s education.
Check Out the Latest Issue of Our Educator Connection Newsletter
Last week the Communications Department sent out the latest issue of its Educator Connection newsletter. It was e-mailed to all educators in the Heartland area and is intended to keep our educators better connected to the Agency and to the programs and services we offer. Click here to download the newsletter. We’ve heard some positive feedback and requests for information to be included in the next issue. We'd to hear your thoughts and suggestions as well! If you have any comments, please e-mail them to the Communications Department at comms@aea11.k12.ia.us.
Stay Connected With Facebook & Twitter
Remember you can stay up-to-date with news and information when you ‘Like’ Heartland on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/heartlandaea and ‘Follow’ us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/HeartlandAEA! Do it today and pass on the word!
Public Meetings Set For Input on NCLB Waiver Request
The Iowa Department of Education will give Iowans a chance to weigh in on a plan to request a waiver from requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) during a statewide series of public meetings from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9.
Department leaders will visit all nine AEAs, starting with AEA 267 in Cedar Falls on Jan. 31 and ending with Northwest AEA in Sioux City and Prairie Lakes AEA in Pocahontas on Feb. 9. (Click here for a complete schedule of meeting dates, times and locations.) Heartland’s meeting will be held on Feb. 7.
The Department will present details about Iowa’s waiver request and plans to develop a new accountability system that puts student achievement first but also focuses on student growth and assessments that align with the Iowa Core standards. In September, the U.S. Department of Education invited states to apply for flexibility from specific requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act in exchange for rigorous and comprehensive state-developed plans. Iowa’s application will be submitted by Feb. 21.
States must address the following principles in their waiver applications: college and career-ready expectations for all students; state-developed systems for differentiated recognition, accountability and support; and support for effective instruction and leadership, including new guidelines for local teacher and principal evaluation and support systems.
In a new video, Iowa Department of Education director Jason Glass addresses the purpose of Iowa’s waiver request.
Iowans who are unable to attend the public meetings can submit comments in writing to wilma.gajdel@iowa.gov until 4 p.m. on Feb. 1.
Department leaders will visit all nine AEAs, starting with AEA 267 in Cedar Falls on Jan. 31 and ending with Northwest AEA in Sioux City and Prairie Lakes AEA in Pocahontas on Feb. 9. (Click here for a complete schedule of meeting dates, times and locations.) Heartland’s meeting will be held on Feb. 7.
The Department will present details about Iowa’s waiver request and plans to develop a new accountability system that puts student achievement first but also focuses on student growth and assessments that align with the Iowa Core standards. In September, the U.S. Department of Education invited states to apply for flexibility from specific requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act in exchange for rigorous and comprehensive state-developed plans. Iowa’s application will be submitted by Feb. 21.
States must address the following principles in their waiver applications: college and career-ready expectations for all students; state-developed systems for differentiated recognition, accountability and support; and support for effective instruction and leadership, including new guidelines for local teacher and principal evaluation and support systems.
In a new video, Iowa Department of Education director Jason Glass addresses the purpose of Iowa’s waiver request.
Iowans who are unable to attend the public meetings can submit comments in writing to wilma.gajdel@iowa.gov until 4 p.m. on Feb. 1.
Last Chance to Save Big on Microsoft Products for Home/Personal Use
For several years the Iowa Educators Consortium (IEC), in partnership with Microsoft and JourneyEd, has provided teachers, students, faculty and staff (including AEA staff) with discounts on Microsoft Office and Windows software for home use. (Example: Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2010, retail $499, IEC price $89.95). The IEC price is significantly less than what you’d find in retail stores.
The IEC has recently been notified that Microsoft will be discontinuing this program effective March 2012.
If Microsoft software is in your future for your home/personal computer, order today to ensure you get the best price possible. Orders can be placed online by going to www.JourneyEd.com/Select.
JourneyEd will continue to provide education pricing on many other software titles and computer products, however we do not anticipate that pricing on Microsoft products will ever be this low again.
The IEC has recently been notified that Microsoft will be discontinuing this program effective March 2012.
If Microsoft software is in your future for your home/personal computer, order today to ensure you get the best price possible. Orders can be placed online by going to www.JourneyEd.com/Select.
JourneyEd will continue to provide education pricing on many other software titles and computer products, however we do not anticipate that pricing on Microsoft products will ever be this low again.
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