We last updated you on the status of the Regional Education Centers (RECs) in April, so we would like to provide you with an update of what is currently happening in relation to the RECs and co-location opportunities within our schools.
The Agency is in the process of implementing an REC model to improve service delivery to our school districts and to utilize our financial resources more effectively. In addition, the Agency is exploring co-location opportunities within schools to increase efficiencies relating to staff service delivery.
During the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Directors approved the Agency’s plan for five RECs (Johnston, Adel, Newton, Ames and the West side of the Agency) with the goals of reducing financial resources committed to facilities and reducing the square footage footprint of the Agency.
On March 1, 2009, the REC committee (RECC) provided its Phase I report with recommendations to the Executive Council. The report cited data sources, general recommendations, location-specific recommendations and proposed timelines. Executive Council approved the Phase I report, which serves as the source document for Phase II.
From April-August 2009, various REC committees/subcommittees and co-location subcommittees were formed to assess and analyze opportunities in Newton, Adel, Knoxville and Ankeny. Based on feedback from these subcommittees, revision of the original Phase II REC commissioning document was necessary to provide further guidance, especially regarding co-location opportunities. Phase II (revised) encompasses FY 2009-2010 planning and implementation of REC and co-location opportunities.
The revised REC and co-location timeline for FY 2009-2010 is:
• Newton REC – completion NLT (no later than) July 31, 2010
• Adel REC – prioritization moved to FY 2010-2011
• Johnston REC – completion NLT December 31, 2010
• Knoxville co-location – NLT June 30, 2010
• Ankeny co-location – NLT June 30, 2010
Implementation of the REC model and co-location concept is a complex task because of systemic ramifications. Facility re-location and/or reconfiguration impact financial and staffing resources, service delivery and distribution systems.
Next steps will be to continue regular updates to stakeholders, implement the revised timeline and plan for Phase III.
If you have any questions or comments about these plans, please contact Steve Prall at ext. 14423 or at sprall@aea11.k12.ia.us.
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