"She brings a depth of experience with the statewide AEA system and has tremendous passion for the work Iowa’s AEAs do across the state..."
Heartland AEA’s Board president, Pete Evans*
Dr. Cindy Yelick was invited to serve as the new Chief Administrator for Heartland Area Education Agency (AEA) in Iowa and will assume the role on July 1, 2023. The Heartland AEA provides a multitude of state-required services to children, families, schools, and communities in the greater DesMoines area. Dr. Cindy Yelick will oversee 735 employees who provide specialized services impacting 150,000 students and 11,000 educators throughout the counties that are served by the agency. HYA associate John Perdue states, “Heartland is a leader in the state of Iowa for best educational practices with a very high caliber professional staff.”
Having previously performed under the title of Deputy Chief Administrator at Heartland AEA, the board is eager for her return to the Agency. “She brings a depth of experience with the statewide AEA system and has tremendous passion for the work Iowa’s AEAs do across the state,” said Heartland AEA’s Board president, Pete Evans.* Since 2017 Dr. Yelick has been serving as chief administrator at Great Prairie AEA. With previous administrative roles involving instructional services, curriculum, assessment, special education, and general education, Dr. Cindy Yelick has an extensive background in leadership. She has expressed her enthusiasm for returning to Heartland AEA and stated, “Heartland AEA staff members have a sense of clarity about their work and a commitment to their mission.”*
HYA associates John Perdue and Ted Blaesing led an efficient, timely, and successful recruiting process, presenting a highly qualified slate of candidates to the Heartland Area Education Agency. “The experience base of the Board brings forward institutional knowledge, expanded understanding of the mission of member school districts and modeling to newer Board members,” acknowledged John Perdue of HYA. “They were a delight to work with during all phases of the search.”
*https://www.heartlandaea.org/news/2022/11/yelick-next-chief-admin/
