🎉 Happy 50th Anniversary, IDEA! 🎉

We celebrate 50 years of progress, equity, and empowerment made possible by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). From its pivotal landmark in 1975 to now, IDEA has transformed lives—ensuring that students with disabilities receive the free appropriate public education they deserve.

✨ Why this milestone matters:

Opened doors for millions of students with disabilities across the nation.

Championed inclusive classrooms, personalized support, and individual education plans.

Continues to unlock potential, foster independence, and build brighter futures.

Dive into this inspiring video to relive the impact, achievements, and heartwarming stories that IDEA has shaped over half a century:
https://youtu.be/89_PTxKGVbI?feature=shared

Here's to the advocates, educators, families, and students whose perseverance and passion have driven meaningful change every step of the way. Cheers to 50 years of inclusion—and to many more years of growth, opportunity, and empowerment! 🥂✨

#IDEA50 #InclusionForAll #SpecialEducation #Empowerment #EducationalEquity
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
happy 50th anniversary IDEA. 4 diverse people smiling
We're hiring a GSRP Preschool Third Teacher! 🎉
Join our team and help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment for four-year-old children. In this role, you’ll work alongside the Lead and Associate Teacher to support learning, growth, and development in alignment with GSRP standards.

✨ Top Requirements:

High school diploma required (Early Childhood certification preferred)

CPR/First Aid certification (required)

Background check clearance (required)

Passion for supporting children’s academic, social, and emotional development

📍 Location: Local School District
📅 Contract: 1280 Hours/Year (90%)

If you’re dedicated to making a difference in early childhood education, we’d love to hear from you!
Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/136585
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We are looking for a GSRP Preschool Third Teacher
🤗🧩 Attendance Strengthens Support Systems 🧩🤗 When students attend school regularly, they build strong friendships, feel connected to their peers, and become part of a supportive learning community. Showing up isn’t just about academics — it’s about feeling included, supported, and surrounded by people who care. 💬💛 #AttendanceMatters #EveryDayCounts #SupportiveSchools #FriendshipAndLearning #StrongerTogether #BelongAndThrive
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Attendance strengthens support systems. 2 children hugging and smiling
🌟 We’re Hiring – School Social Worker 🌟

Location: Hillside Learning Center, Allegan Area ESA
Contract: 187-day school year
Reports To: Associate Director / Hillside Principal

About the Role:
As a School Social Worker, you’ll play a vital role in supporting students’ success by helping them navigate personal, emotional, and social challenges that may impact their learning. You’ll provide therapeutic interventions, conduct evaluations, participate in IEP meetings, and serve as a key link between schools, families, and community agencies.

What We’re Looking For:
✔️ Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW)
✔️ Michigan licensure (LMSW or LLMSW) and full approval—or temporary approval—by the Michigan Department of Education as a School Social Worker
✔️ Experience with special populations, functional behavior assessments, and positive behavioral supports preferred

Why Join Us?

Make a direct impact on student growth and well-being
Collaborate with a team of caring educators and professionals
Engage in meaningful, challenging, and rewarding work every day

Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/131517

Know someone who’d be a great fit? Tag them below or share this post!
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We're looking for a school social worker
We’re Hiring – Specialized Instruction Paraeducator

Location: Hillside Learning Center, Allegan Area ESA
Schedule: 188-day school year | 7 hours 15 minutes per day
Starting Wage: $15.50 per hour (plus comprehensive benefits per collective bargaining agreement)

Why Join Us?
Become an essential part of a supportive, dynamic team dedicated to fostering student success. In this role, you'll:

Provide individualized instruction and support to students with identified needs

Help maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive classroom environment

Prepare instructional materials, assist with assessments, and support therapists and teachers

Aid students with communication tools, personal care needs, and transitions—including van transport and classroom supervision

Ensure accuracy with documentation, progress reports, and communications with families

What We’re Looking For:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree preferred

Credentials: Substitute teaching permit preferred or willingness to obtain one

Experience: Preferably in Positive Behavioral Supports or working with students with disabilities

Skills: Patience, strong interpersonal communication, adaptability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team

As a Specialized Instruction Paraeducator, your compassion, patience, and commitment will help our students achieve greater independence and success.

Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/101322

Spread the word! Know someone who’d be a great fit? Tag them or share this post. Let’s build a brighter future together, one student at a time.
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We are looking for a specialized instruction paraeducator
🚍 We’re Hiring!
Join our team as a Bus Attendant and play an important role in supporting students with special needs during their daily commute.

As a Bus Attendant, you’ll:
✅ Ensure safe boarding and exiting
✅ Assist with student needs during transport
✅ Foster a positive, supportive environment
✅ Partner with drivers, teachers, and families to keep students safe and comfortable

📍 Location: Wayland
📅 Contract: Workdays follow the school/program calendar
🎓 Qualifications: High School diploma/GED required; Special Education training/experience preferred

If you’re caring, dependable, and want to make a difference in students’ lives, this could be the perfect fit for you!

👉 Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/136001

#WereHiring #StudentSupport #JoinOurTeam #SafeTransportation
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
we're hiring
📢 Important Update for Our Community

The superintendents of Allegan County have come together to share a joint letter regarding the impact of the state budget on our schools and students. Their message highlights key concerns and the importance of strong, sustainable funding for education.

We encourage our families, staff, and community members to take a few minutes to read this letter and stay informed about how these decisions affect our classrooms.

Together, we can advocate for the resources our students deserve. 💙📚
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
August 21, 2025      Dear Families and Staff,      As we start the 2025-26 school year, I want to update you on a critical issue in Lansing that could impact Allegan County students, staff, and programs in the coming months.      State law mandates that lawmakers approve a K-12 school funding budget by July 1 each year so districts like ours can plan and operate with certainty. That deadline has passed, and no agreement has been reached. Without a budget, there's a risk of a state government shutdown on September 30, which could delay funding that schools depend on to operate.       At the heart of the deadlock is a proposal to redirect dollars from the School Aid Fund – the fund voters were promised would be dedicated to K-12 education – to other priorities, including road repairs. Many believe this violates the original intent of the system voters approved in 1994 to provide fair, statewide funding for public schools.       If the Legislature does not pass a budget, districts will miss their first scheduled state aid payment on October 20, 2025. For all schools, that payment is a major part of the resources we rely on to:     • Compensate teachers and staff who work directly with students.   • Maintain class sizes and student support services.   • Maintain bus operations, fund academic programs, arts, athletics, and student activities.       We cannot operate indefinitely without these resources. The solution is simple: lawmakers should approve a K-12 budget that safeguards School Aid Fund dollars for their original purpose – educating Michigan’s children.      Please join me in urging our elected officials to reach a quick agreement and keep K-12 funding secure.                                  You can contact your state lawmakers at:   https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Legislature/Legislators and explain why timely, protected school funding is important to you and your family.      Our students and families deserve a stable, fully funded school year. Together, we can guarantee their learning proceeds without interruption.
🏫💙 Attendance Fosters Community 💙🏫 When students show up regularly, they feel like a valued part of their classroom. Consistent attendance builds a sense of belonging, connection, and shared purpose — helping every child feel seen, supported, and included. Let’s build community through presence! 🤝✨ #AttendanceMatters #EveryDayCounts #ClassroomCommunity #Belonging #StrongerTogether #ShowUpAndBelong
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Attendance fosters community
🌟 Summer Recap: Ready for a New School Year! 🌟

This summer has been full of learning, collaboration, and growth across our programs. From professional development and planning sessions to preparing classrooms, buses, and buildings, our staff have been hard at work making sure everything is ready for an incredible year ahead.

We’re excited to welcome students and staff back for a year of discovery, connection, and achievement. 📚✨

Here’s to a fantastic start to the 2025–26 school year! 🎉

#BackToSchool #Teamwork #WeAreReady #AlleganAreaESA
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Admin Council team photo
3 leaders working on laptops
two leaders reviewing document
4 leaders discussing article
📈📝 Attendance Leads to Higher Test Scores 📝📈 Students who attend school every day — or miss no more than one day a month — consistently score higher in reading and math. Consistent attendance sets the stage for stronger academic performance and greater confidence in the classroom. Let’s aim for success, one day at a time! 🎯📚 #AttendanceMatters #EveryDayCounts #TestSuccess #StrongerScores #AcademicAchievement
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Attendance leads to higher test scores Studetns taking a test with paper and pencil
🚌 Safety First on the Road! 🦺

Today, transportation bus drivers and attendants from across all local districts in Allegan County came together for a collaborative Safety Training session. As the new school year approaches, ensuring the safety of our students—both on and off the bus—remains our top priority.

A big thank you to all the dedicated transportation staff who attended and committed their time to keeping our students safe every day. Your care, professionalism, and preparation make a world of difference! 💛 #SchoolBusSafety #AlleganCounty #TeamworkForStudents
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
5 school buses parked in parking lot
A group of drivers prepare for training to begin
Facilitator explains the scenario to participants on bus
Bus driver smiles as passenger/trainee steps onto bus
🚨 We’re Hiring – 2 CTE Paraeducators! 🚨
Join our Tech Center team and make a real impact in Teacher Education or Vet Tech! 🐾📚

As a CTE Paraeducator, you’ll play a vital role in supporting high school students’ learning and success. From helping in labs and classrooms to reinforcing employability skills, you’ll be part of shaping tomorrow’s leaders in education and animal care.

📍 Location: Allegan Tech Center
📅 Contract: 188 Days
👩‍🏫 Who we’re looking for:

Associates degree preferred (HS diploma or equivalent required)

Strong interpersonal skills with patience and professionalism

Ability to model workplace skills and uphold industry standards

Passion for student achievement and safety

✨ If you love working with students, are organized, and want to be part of a hands-on, career-focused environment — we’d love to hear from you!

🔗 Apply here: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA?locations=Allegan+Area+ESA
#NowHiring #CTE #CareerTechEd #Paraeducator #EducationJobs #VetTech #TeacherEducation #JoinOurTeam #AlleganAreaESA
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We're Hiring
🎓 We’re Hiring: Early College Career Coordinator 🎓

Join the Allegan Tech Center and help guide students toward academic and career success!

📍 Location: Tech Center
📅 Contract: 187 Days
✨ Role Highlights: Advise and mentor Early Middle College students, foster essential college and career skills, collaborate with high schools on Educational Development Plans, and serve as a liaison between high schools and college partners.

✅ Requirements:

Associate’s degree (Bachelor’s in education, counseling, or related field preferred)

Experience supporting high school students and working with diverse populations preferred

Strong relationship-building and communication skills

Help students take the next step toward their future with confidence and success!

💻 Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/133857
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We're Hiring
🤝💬 Attendance Builds Social Skills 💬🤝 Students who attend school regularly don’t just grow academically — they also learn to collaborate, communicate, and build meaningful relationships with their peers. Being present helps kids feel connected, confident, and part of a community. Let’s show up and grow together! 🌟👫 #AttendanceMatters #SocialSkills #EveryDayCounts #ConnectedClassrooms #StudentGrowth #ShowUpAndShine
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Attendance builds social skills. 5 students huddling with hands in
👩‍🏫 We’re Hiring: CTE Paraeducator 👨‍🏫

Join the Allegan Tech Center team and help students succeed in their career and technical education programs!

📍 Location: Tech Center
📅 Contract: 188 Days
✨ Role Highlights: Provide classroom and lab support, assist students with skills development, supervise hands-on learning, and help prepare the next generation of skilled professionals.

✅ Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s degree preferred)

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to model professional, workplace-ready behaviors

Be part of a team that empowers students to achieve their career goals!

💻 Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/133793
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We're Hiring
🔧 We’re Hiring: Classroom Instructor – Manufacturing Careers Technology 🔧

Do you have a passion for manufacturing and shaping the future workforce? Join the Allegan Tech Center team and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals!

📍 Location: Tech Center
📅 Contract: 187 Days
👨‍🏫 Role: Teach and mentor high school students in manufacturing careers, deliver engaging CTE instruction, and connect students to hands-on experiences that prepare them for success in both college and the workforce.

✅ Requirements:

Valid Michigan Secondary Teaching Certificate or 4,000 hours of recent, relevant work experience in manufacturing

Experience in CTE curriculum and employability skills preferred

Passion for building industry connections and guiding students toward their career goals

Make an impact where education meets innovation!

💻 Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/126731
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
we are looking for a instructor - manufacturing
🌟 We’re Hiring: Temporary Occupational Therapist 🌟

Join our team at Hillside Learning Center and make a difference in the lives of students!

📅 Contract: October 2025 – January 2026
📍 Location: Hillside Learning Center
👩‍⚕️ Role: Support students by identifying and addressing motor issues that impact learning. Provide direct services, collaborate with staff and families, and help students develop the skills they need to thrive in their educational programs.

✅ Requirements:

Valid Michigan Occupational Therapy License

Full Approval per MDE Special Education Rules

Experience with individuals with disabilities preferred

Be part of a team that supports students in achieving their full potential!

💻 Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/133179
4 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
We're Hiring
🧸 Preschool season is coming up fast! Live in Allegan County and have a child between ages 3–5? Our team is here to help you find the right fit for your family. 💛🎓 ✅ Explore your options and enroll today: 🔗 https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3 #StartStrong #AlleganESA #PreKEnrollment #EarlyEd #PreKForAll #PreschoolMatters
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Children who start ahead, stay ahead
📅🚨 Attendance Impacts Long-Term Learning 🚨📅 Did you know? Half of all students who miss just 2–4 days in September end up missing nearly a month of school over the entire year. Early absences can add up and make it harder to keep up with lessons and learning. Every day counts — let’s start strong and stay strong all year long! 💪🎓 #AttendanceMatters #EveryDayCounts #StayInSchool #LongTermSuccess #EarlyAttendance
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Attendance impacts long-term learning. Student holding a drum
📅 Save the Date! 🎬

The Allegan Area ESA Parent Advisory Committee invites you to a free community screening of Forget Me Not — a powerful documentary that explores the fight for inclusive education through the eyes of one family navigating the special education system.

This event is especially for parents of children with IEPs in Allegan County, but additional seats may become available closer to the date.

📍 M-89 Cinema
🗓️ Wednesday, September 25, 2025
🕒 5:00 PM
🎟️ Free Admission with Registration
🧸 Free childcare available at the Transition Center with Registration
🎥 Forget Me Not follows one family's journey through the special education system and invites us all to rethink how we support students with disabilities.

➡️ https://forms.office.com/r/XQXEa0nkwv
#ForgetMeNotFilm #InclusionMatters #SpecialEducationSupport #PACAlleganESA #AlleganCountyFamilies
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Community screening flyer