Iowa

Earlier this month when a gunman opened fire at Perry High School in Iowa, killing a sixth-grader named Ahmir Jolliff and wounding seven others, Heartland AEA responded that day with a crisis team, sending 50 school counselors to be available to families, students and staff.

Amy Knupp, executive director of special education at Central Rivers AEA in North-Central Iowa, said the bill could eliminate the agencies’ ability to have these crisis teams. “They’re not getting recognition for all the work they’ve put in,” said Knupp, who has been in touch with Heartland AEA leaders since the shooting.

“We’re boots on the ground every day,” Knupp said. “We know the parents, we know the teachers, we know the administrators, and we’re out there working hard.”