Since 1971, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) has provided high-quality resources, innovative services and programs, and responsible leadership to enrich the educational and social services needs of Berks County children, families, schools, and the greater community.
Our growth and evolution over the past 50 years would not be possible without the outstanding leadership of our Board of Directors, the dedication of our staff members, and the support and collaboration of our constituent schools, elected officials, community partners, and other stakeholders.
This milestone anniversary allows us to honor our past and focus on our future. While much has changed over the years, our organization remains committed to serving and supporting you and the more than 70,000 students in Berks County and across the Commonwealth for many years to come.
Thank you for sharing this journey with us.
Dr. Jill M. Hackman
Executive Director
Since 1971, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) has provided high-quality resources, innovative services and programs, and responsible leadership to enrich the educational and social services needs of Berks County children, families, schools, and the greater community.
Our growth and evolution over the past 50 years would not be possible without the outstanding leadership of our Board of Directors, the dedication of our staff members, and the support and collaboration of our constituent schools, elected officials, community partners, and other stakeholders.
This milestone anniversary allows us to honor our past and focus on our future. While much has changed over the years, our organization remains committed to serving and supporting you and the more than 70,000 students in Berks County and across the Commonwealth for many years to come.
Thank you for sharing this journey with us.
Dr. Jill M. Hackman
Executive Director
Intermediate units were founded in 1971 by the Pennsylvania General Assembly to serve as a liaison between the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and local schools.
Every year, more than 175,000 students and 50,000 educators receive services from one of PA’s 29 intermediate units. Learn more about the role of intermediate units and how they have evolved over the past 50 years.
The BCIU has changed significantly over the past 50 years, but the passion and commitment to serve and support students, families, and the community have remained and continue today.
Take a look at how the BCIU has evolved from changes in leadership to number of employees, to physical locations and operating budgets, and even the services and programs offered.
A picture is worth a thousand words. Take a journey through the first 30 years of the BCIU from its inception in 1971 all the way to the millennium.
Watch as we showcase our visual history through black and white photos, original marketing pieces, changes in facilities, staff bulletins, news article clippings, and more. This visual experience will take you on a trip back in time!
One of the parts of being a member of the BCIU family that I will always carry with me is the organizational leadership’s willingness to extend its deep commitment to education into early childhood education and the work of the PA Key. As a 15 year employee of the Key I’ve seen our scope of work and role within the IU and across the state expand exponentially. BCIU Leadership supported multiple PA Key directors in growing our collective impact for children and families across the Commonwealth. They have recognized our contributions to the IU strategic goals and have embraced us as part of the organization even though most of us live and work far from 111 Commons Boulevard.
I remember my very first All staff meeting. The whole meeting, everyone that presented from the BCIU was so energetic and positive. I loved the energy and the comradery between all of the staff. I felt so very welcome and rejuvenated.
My memory is relatively recent, but in the 11 years I have been with the BCIU, I have never seen the level of coordination, support and connection as I have seen during the pandemic. BCIU and its leadership not only managed the enormous task of getting educators vaccinated, they held up the staff and gave them a sense of security.
Many hours of sitting at Deloitte as the PELICAN system was developed! We were testing it almost as it was built! But it was a great time to get know my new colleagues.
As a superintendent of schools, I appreciated the role the BCIU has played in pupil transportation. With the BCIU preparing competitive bids for bussing services, the contractors in the private sector have had to prepare their bids more competitively, making for improved, more cost-effective services all around.
The hiring, training and changes that have gone on at The Learning Academy at Thomas Ford. In my professional career, I have never worked with such a committed staff that acts as a united from in supporting kids needing guidance, direction and nurturing. I can also attest that, that mentality and perspective comes from the top down. I have never been as happy with an employer as I’ve been with the BCIU 🙂
When I was showing the Board members what a Sign Language Interpreter does in our Program. All the Board members had questions on how this service was used for our students. Seeing it in person, makes one realize how this benefits a deaf student when this service is included in their Individual Education Plan.
Throughout its 50 year history the BCIU has consistently been a leader in providing high quality support for the school districts of Berks County. More recently the BCIU has be a standout at leading the effort state-wide to enhance the availability and delivery of early childhood education.
Although I have many fond memories while working at BCIU, I’d have to say decorating for Snacks with Santa (several years) are among my favorites! Everyone is in good spirits while turning the first floor of the main office into a winter wonderland, for the children of employees and families to come visit Santa the next day. Other great memories include: BCIU’s group at United Way’s Big Cheese Project (approx 5 years), OPDC’s holiday celebrations, when the main office was under construction, Family Literacy Nights hosted by the Act 89 team, and all of the student STEM competitions I’ve helped to host.
Although I have only been with BCIU a relatively short time, I continue to appreciate the way my supervisors and coworkers have made me feel a part of the team.
When Dale Finkbone was tragically killed all the employees lined up along Berkley Road and buses rolled by paying tribute to him and his time spent here working along with his wife Bonnie. The support the drivers and assistant’s and office staff gave her and her family was touching and unforgettable.
My first year with BCIU I helped out with the Breakfast with Santa event, which was super fun. I met co-workers’ families and assisted with their holiday crafts. Warmed my heart!
I have very fond memories of our Non-public Literacy Nights held every year at the BCIU! Here, our students and their families are invited to come and share a fun-filled night in a carnival of reading.
BCIU hosted the Braille Challenge in February 2020. This event brought visually impaired students from all over Pennsylvania to compete with their Braille skills. Members of my department collaborated with school district teachers to put together this great event.
I remember the first Nonpublic Literacy Night and how excited the kids, parents and we were to hold such a fun event promoting reading.
In the past our supervisor made us a luncheon for Christmas! I felt really valued because she made everything herself, and she even made vegetarian options for me personally. We also did a card exchange as a department which was really personal and special.
When I was a new Assistant Superintendent in Exeter Township School District, I attended my first BCCC Meeting, and Dan Richards, the entire OPDC Team, and all the other BCCC attendees were so warn and welcoming.
When there were EI Classrooms in the Main Office Bldg. at Halloween the teachers would parade the children through the cafeteria area for Trick or Treat. Bringing my grandchildren to the Snacks with Santa was always a treat they loved seeing what the stuffed toy would be. Then the oldest graduated to coming and volunteering with crafts.
Observing School Age Child Care teacher on her road to achieving her SAC Credential. Every angle and aspect of being a School Age Child Care professional was met. From the detailed curriculum, to room arrangement, developmentally appropriate materials, and through her pleasant and respectful interactions with her students, they were all thriving. She reflected and learned through her journey and did it through passion.
In my 31 years there are many memories of the IU, but one that sticks out is how quickly we had to set up offices in Harrisburg for The Pennsylvania Key. We had six to eight weeks to find offices and fully outfit it. It was all departments working together a team and we were able to meet all of the deadlines. Over the years we have gotten through many challenges by all hands working together.
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One of the parts of being a member of the BCIU family that I will always carry with me is the organizational leadership’s willingness to extend its deep commitment to education into early childhood education and the work of the PA Key. As a 15 year employee of the Key I’ve seen our scope of work and role within the IU and across the state expand exponentially. BCIU Leadership supported multiple PA Key directors in growing our collective impact for children and families across the Commonwealth. They have recognized our contributions to the IU strategic goals and have embraced us as part of the organization even though most of us live and work far from 111 Commons Boulevard.
I remember my very first All staff meeting. The whole meeting, everyone that presented from the BCIU was so energetic and positive. I loved the energy and the comradery between all of the staff. I felt so very welcome and rejuvenated.
My memory is relatively recent, but in the 11 years I have been with the BCIU, I have never seen the level of coordination, support and connection as I have seen during the pandemic. BCIU and its leadership not only managed the enormous task of getting educators vaccinated, they held up the staff and gave them a sense of security.
Many hours of sitting at Deloitte as the PELICAN system was developed! We were testing it almost as it was built! But it was a great time to get know my new colleagues.
As a superintendent of schools, I appreciated the role the BCIU has played in pupil transportation. With the BCIU preparing competitive bids for bussing services, the contractors in the private sector have had to prepare their bids more competitively, making for improved, more cost-effective services all around.
The hiring, training and changes that have gone on at The Learning Academy at Thomas Ford. In my professional career, I have never worked with such a committed staff that acts as a united from in supporting kids needing guidance, direction and nurturing. I can also attest that, that mentality and perspective comes from the top down. I have never been as happy with an employer as I’ve been with the BCIU 🙂
When I was showing the Board members what a Sign Language Interpreter does in our Program. All the Board members had questions on how this service was used for our students. Seeing it in person, makes one realize how this benefits a deaf student when this service is included in their Individual Education Plan.
Throughout its 50 year history the BCIU has consistently been a leader in providing high quality support for the school districts of Berks County. More recently the BCIU has be a standout at leading the effort state-wide to enhance the availability and delivery of early childhood education.
Although I have many fond memories while working at BCIU, I’d have to say decorating for Snacks with Santa (several years) are among my favorites! Everyone is in good spirits while turning the first floor of the main office into a winter wonderland, for the children of employees and families to come visit Santa the next day. Other great memories include: BCIU’s group at United Way’s Big Cheese Project (approx 5 years), OPDC’s holiday celebrations, when the main office was under construction, Family Literacy Nights hosted by the Act 89 team, and all of the student STEM competitions I’ve helped to host.
Although I have only been with BCIU a relatively short time, I continue to appreciate the way my supervisors and coworkers have made me feel a part of the team.
When Dale Finkbone was tragically killed all the employees lined up along Berkley Road and buses rolled by paying tribute to him and his time spent here working along with his wife Bonnie. The support the drivers and assistant’s and office staff gave her and her family was touching and unforgettable.
My first year with BCIU I helped out with the Breakfast with Santa event, which was super fun. I met co-workers’ families and assisted with their holiday crafts. Warmed my heart!
I have very fond memories of our Non-public Literacy Nights held every year at the BCIU! Here, our students and their families are invited to come and share a fun-filled night in a carnival of reading.
BCIU hosted the Braille Challenge in February 2020. This event brought visually impaired students from all over Pennsylvania to compete with their Braille skills. Members of my department collaborated with school district teachers to put together this great event.
I remember the first Nonpublic Literacy Night and how excited the kids, parents and we were to hold such a fun event promoting reading.
In the past our supervisor made us a luncheon for Christmas! I felt really valued because she made everything herself, and she even made vegetarian options for me personally. We also did a card exchange as a department which was really personal and special.
When I was a new Assistant Superintendent in Exeter Township School District, I attended my first BCCC Meeting, and Dan Richards, the entire OPDC Team, and all the other BCCC attendees were so warn and welcoming.
When there were EI Classrooms in the Main Office Bldg. at Halloween the teachers would parade the children through the cafeteria area for Trick or Treat. Bringing my grandchildren to the Snacks with Santa was always a treat they loved seeing what the stuffed toy would be. Then the oldest graduated to coming and volunteering with crafts.
Observing School Age Child Care teacher on her road to achieving her SAC Credential. Every angle and aspect of being a School Age Child Care professional was met. From the detailed curriculum, to room arrangement, developmentally appropriate materials, and through her pleasant and respectful interactions with her students, they were all thriving. She reflected and learned through her journey and did it through passion.
In my 31 years there are many memories of the IU, but one that sticks out is how quickly we had to set up offices in Harrisburg for The Pennsylvania Key. We had six to eight weeks to find offices and fully outfit it. It was all departments working together a team and we were able to meet all of the deadlines. Over the years we have gotten through many challenges by all hands working together.
1965 – The Pennsylvania General Assembly of 1965 mandated that the State Board of Education prepare a plan to consolidate 67 county superintendent of schools offices into 29 intermediate units.
1965 – The Head Start Program in Berks County began in 1965 with a summer program of 267 children with a federal grant of $42,000.
1968 – Head Start became a full year or school year program.
1970 – Under Act 102, lUs were mandated to create a broad program of essential educational services to be offered to public and nonpublic schools, many of which continue today. In addition, the proposed Program of Services for the new Berks County Intermediate Unit included special education services and vocational and technical education programs.
1972 – Creation of Title IVA Funding Agreement between Berks County Commissioners and the BCIU resulted in a large comprehensive child care program.
1974 – In the spring of 1974, ESEA Title II funded the Supplemental Instructional Multimedia Curriculum Approach (SIMCA). This provided wooden cases with diorama-type displays of mostly natural history topics and accompanying resources for teachers and students. This service continues today.
1975 – The first fee-for-service of the Berks County Intermediate Unit started in the Instructional Materials Services Program with typewriter repair service in 1975.
Mid 1970’s – During major school district reorganization, it was recognized that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that the newly formed school districts did not have enough resources, so the Regional Instructional Materials Centers (RIMC) were formed.
1975 – August 1, 1975, the General Assembly passed Act 89 which provided for remedial services for nonpublic schools.
1976 – IMS staff collaborated with local cable companies to establish closed circuit cable network, known as the Instructional Network (I-Net). These links provided live, as well as prerecorded programs to schools in the Berks Cable coverage area. The network was a major innovation at the time and was considered a model in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
1979 – All offices consolidated to the Antietam Valley Shopping Center.
June 30, 1980 – The passage of Act 80 on June 30, 1980, allowed up to 20 board members to serve on intermediate unit boards. The new law enabled all schools in Berks County to be represented on the BCIU Board; consequently, seating 5 additional districts: Twin Valley, Exeter Township, Kutztown Area, Tulpehocken Area, and Daniel Boone Area.
1980s – Data processing started as an in-house-only service.
1984 – The Educator Internship Program was developed. Fun Fact: Today, the program continues under the Office of Professional Development & Curriculum – “inside BERKS business”(iBb) – a five-day learning experience for educators.
Mid-1980 – The transportation of students with special needs was assumed by the BCIU from Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) with a fleet of 32 vehicles.
1986 – Act 117 of 1986 allowed intermediate units to own real estate. A facilities committee was formed to evaluate options ultimately landing on building an intermediate unit office and conference facility at its current Main Office location.
1988 – The first entrepreneurial initiative for IT began based on the needs Berks County schools and the in-house development of an interactive, COBOL-based tax billing application. The initial client-base consisted of about 15 school districts.
1989 – Construction started in 1989 for the River’s Chase facility, known today as the BCIU’s main office building.
1980-1992 – Berks County Intermediate Unit experienced phenomenal growth between 1980 and 1992. Two major program areas that accounted for this growth were Special Education, the largest program of the BCIU; and the BCIU Enterprise Services (fee-for-service) Fun Fact: The Special Education program began as a $900,000 program, and grew to about $5 million by 1980, plus funding from special grants.
Early 1990s – BCIU was an official learning site of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Educator Resource Center (ERC) at the Goddard Space Flight Center. Through this partnership, BCIU staff members provided training to educators about how to utilize NASA resources and materials in the classroom.
Late 1992 – The number of children in the Head Start program had grown to 151, while the budget doubled to approximately $800,000. An increased allocation of federal monies funded increased services to families.
1996 – The IU took entered the regular education student transportation business by signing a 4-year contract with the Reading School District. Fun Fact: In 1996, the IU was the only intermediate unit in the commonwealth to provide regular education student transportation services.
1996 – Total reorganization of the BCIU that emphasized changing job titles from traditional education model to a corporate model and restructuring office departments.
Late 1990’s – Office of Special Education changed to Student Instructional Services.
2007 – The Pennsylvania Key was created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) with approximately 30 staff members and a focus on professional development and coordination efforts as well as monitoring of grants.
2007 – Pre-K Counts began in November of 2007 with 6 classrooms in collaboration with BCAP (Berks Community Action Program).
2011 – Berks Online Learning enrolls its first students. This provided opportunities for students to complete courses at home while still being registered students of their home districts.
2016 – The BCIU Grant allowed an expansion to the Pre-K Counts program that included 7 additional classrooms. Today, there are 15 classrooms total, as well as 2 Partner sites (Touching the Future and The Children’s Journey).
2021 – The IU transports approximately 25,000 students with a fleet of 302 vehicles. Programs and Districts served: Early Intervention, Head Start and Special education programs for Antietam School District, Muhlenberg School District, Reading School District and Tulpehocken Area School District.
2021 – The Head Start Program serves 695 children in a center-based program with a federal grant of $6,736,599.00 and a state grant of $722,500.00.
2021 – The BCIU Early Intervention Program serves over 2,500 preschool-age students with developmental delays or disabilities across 20 specialized classrooms and over 202 locations across Berks County.
2021 – The Office of Information Technology currently administers a Regional Wide Area network that serves 16 Berks County school districts, 2 CTC’s and all BCIU offices and sites. They provide internet service, student information systems, financial and human resource management systems, and a variety of web applications to BCIU and several schools throughout Berks County.
2021 – The work of The Pennsylvania Key has shifted to managing the workforce data system and professional development calendar, as well as supporting the entire Early Childhood Education profession. The number of staff members increased by 82 for a total of 112 due to the addition of the Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation team.
2021 – Berks Online Learning (BOL) provides high-quality online learning with superior local support from BCIU personnel to over 1,500 grade K-12 students.
1965 – The Pennsylvania General Assembly of 1965 mandated that the State Board of Education prepare a plan to consolidate 67 county superintendent of schools offices into 29 intermediate units.
1965 – The Head Start Program in Berks County began in 1965 with a summer program of 267 children with a federal grant of $42,000.
1968 – Head Start became a full year or school year program.
1970 – Under Act 102, lUs were mandated to create a broad program of essential educational services to be offered to public and nonpublic schools, many of which continue today. In addition, the proposed Program of Services for the new Berks County Intermediate Unit included special education services and vocational and technical education programs.
1972 – Creation of Title IVA Funding Agreement between Berks County Commissioners and the BCIU resulted in a large comprehensive child care program.
1974 – In the spring of 1974, ESEA Title II funded the Supplemental Instructional Multimedia Curriculum Approach (SIMCA). This provided wooden cases with diorama-type displays of mostly natural history topics and accompanying resources for teachers and students. This service continues today.
1975 – The first fee-for-service of the Berks County Intermediate Unit started in the Instructional Materials Services Program with typewriter repair service in 1975.
Mid 1970’s – During major school district reorganization, it was recognized that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that the newly formed school districts did not have enough resources, so the Regional Instructional Materials Centers (RIMC) were formed.
1975 – August 1, 1975, the General Assembly passed Act 89 which provided for remedial services for nonpublic schools.
1976 – IMS staff collaborated with local cable companies to establish closed circuit cable network, known as the Instructional Network (I-Net). These links provided live, as well as prerecorded programs to schools in the Berks Cable coverage area. The network was a major innovation at the time and was considered a model in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
1979 – All offices consolidated to the Antietam Valley Shopping Center.
1980 – The passage of Act 80 on June 30, 1980, allowed up to 20 board members to serve on intermediate unit boards. The new law enabled all schools in Berks County to be represented on the BCIU Board; consequently, seating 5 additional districts: Twin Valley, Exeter Township, Kutztown Area, Tulpehocken Area, and Daniel Boone Area.
Early 1980s – Data processing started as an in-house-only service.
1984 – The Educator Internship Program was developed. Fun Fact: Today, the program continues under the Office of Professional Development & Curriculum – “inside BERKS business”(iBb) – a five-day learning experience for educators.
Mid-1980 – The transportation of students with special needs was assumed by the BCIU from Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) with a fleet of 32 vehicles.
1986 – Act 117 of 1986 allowed intermediate units to own real estate. A facilities committee was formed to evaluate options ultimately landing on building an intermediate unit office and conference facility at its current Main Office location.
1988 – The first entrepreneurial initiative for IT began based on the needs Berks County schools and the in-house development of an interactive, COBOL-based tax billing application. The initial client-base consisted of about 15 school districts.
1989 – Construction started in 1989 for the River’s Chase facility, known today as the BCIU’s main office buildin
1980-1992 – Berks County Intermediate Unit experienced phenomenal growth between 1980 and 1992. Two major program areas that accounted for this growth were Special Education, the largest program of the BCIU; and the BCIU Enterprise Services (fee-for-service) Fun Fact: The Special Education program began as a $900,000 program, and grew to about $5 million by 1980, plus funding from special grants.
Early 1990s – BCIU was an official learning site of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Educator Resource Center (ERC) at the Goddard Space Flight Center. Through this partnership, BCIU staff members provided training to educators about how to utilize NASA resources and materials in the classroom.
Late 1992 – The number of children in the Head Start program had grown to 151, while the budget doubled to approximately $800,000. An increased allocation of federal monies funded increased services to families.
1996 – The IU took entered the regular education student transportation business by signing a 4-year contract with the Reading School District. Fun Fact: In 1996, the IU was the only intermediate unit in the commonwealth to provide regular education student transportation services.
1996 – Total reorganization of the BCIU that emphasized changing job titles from traditional education model to a corporate model and restructuring office departments.
Late 1990’s – Office of Special Education changed to Student Instructional Services.
2007 – The Pennsylvania Key was created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) with approximately 30 staff members and a focus on professional development and coordination efforts as well as monitoring of grants.
2007 – Pre-K Counts began in November of 2007 with 6 classrooms in collaboration with BCAP (Berks Community Action Program).
2011 – Berks Online Learning enrolls its first students. This provided opportunities for students to complete courses at home while still being registered students of their home districts.
2016 – The BCIU Grant allowed an expansion to the Pre-K Counts program that included 7 additional classrooms. Today, there are 15 classrooms total, as well as 2 Partner sites (Touching the Future and The Children’s Journey).
2021 – The IU transports approximately 25,000 students with a fleet of 302 vehicles. Programs and Districts served: Early Intervention, Head Start and Special education programs for Antietam School District, Muhlenberg School District, Reading School District and Tulpehocken Area School District.
2021 – The Head Start Program serves 695 children in a center-based program with a federal grant of $6,736,599.00 and a state grant of $722,500.00.
2021 – The BCIU Early Intervention Program serves over 2,500 preschool-age students with developmental delays or disabilities across 20 specialized classrooms and over 202 locations across Berks County.
2021– The Office of Information Technology currently administers a Regional Wide Area network that serves 16 Berks County school districts, 2 CTC’s and all BCIU offices and sites. They provide internet service, student information systems, financial and human resource management systems, and a variety of web applications to BCIU and several schools throughout Berks County.
2021 –The work of The Pennsylvania Key has shifted to managing the workforce data system and professional development calendar, as well as supporting the entire Early Childhood Education profession. The number of staff members increased by 82 for a total of 112 due to the addition of the Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation team.
2021 – Berks Online Learning (BOL) provides high-quality online learning with superior local support from BCIU personnel to over 1,500 grade K-12 students.
While leadership has changed over the years, the passion and commitment to serve and support students, families, and the community has remained and continues today.
I have been especially appreciative of BCIU under the leadership of Dr. Hackman. They are always willing to answer inquiries and provide insight into the educational issues that affect the families of Berks County. Educational excellence gives us hope for our future as students are trained to be leaders. I congratulate the BCIU on their 50th Anniversary and look forward to many great accomplishments ahead.
I’m amazed at the number of people who benefited from the services provided by the Berks County Intermediate Unit during the past 50 years. It is impossible to measure the extremely beneficial impact the Berks County Intermediate Unit has had in the lives of local residents for the past five decades. I thank the people who worked at the Berks County Intermediate Unit for the past five decades and wish the organization another 50 years and more of continued success.
The team at BCIU provides an invaluable connection between the emergency services and the education community in Berks County. The ability to touch so many people in our county through their connections with education is too beneficial to be ignored. The team at BCIU brings the needed nexus among the emergency services and the education world.
The first student that I interpreted for back in 1996 has become very successful. Graduated High School and went on to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, transferred over to Rochester Institute for Technology, graduated and is now one of the biggest computer technology wizards. This student has achieved one of his dreams. I still keep in touch with this student and his career achievements. If not for his Interpreting Services I wonder would he have succeeded as far as he has. Thank You BCIU for allowing me to be a part of this through my employment.
BCIU services and programs have had particular impact in the areas of special education, pupil transportation, before and after school care, early childhood education, and continuing professional and paraprofessional education.
In my 35+ years of service I can think of a dozen different ways that BCIU has impacted School Districts by assisting with technology initiatives – either county-wide or individualized school needs. For example, in 2006 the first Regional Wide Area Network was designed, constructed and overseen by members of the BCIU IT team. While the participants and services of this initiative have changed, ultimately it is a service that provides 14 school districts and 2 CTC’s with high-speed broadband connectivity to the internet and each other at consortium pricing that is further discounted through Erate subsidies managed by the BCIU IT Erate team.
A student I worked with who graduated in 2020 has decided to go into the field of education for students with visual impairment.
By shining a light in lives that seem dark. Giving the youth in Reading an opportunity to see past what they can and believe anything is possible.
More pre-K students are experiencing quality programs as a direct result of BCIU activities.
BCIU’s services impact far more children than I can even imagine! BCIU has helped tiny children with speech and learning development skills. School-aged children have received online learning services, transportation, learning support, career guidance, and much more – all from BCIU.
In my job, we are helping incarcerated men and women get their high school credential.
As an educator, I have seen so many students grow and develop into the young people they are meant to be. They build confidence and self-advocacy as they move forward and onto greater successes.
Working as an intervention specialist, I see how the BCIU’s services and programs have a daily impact on my students and their families.
The Act 89 Nonpublic Program, as do many of the BCIU programs, touches children every day in its mission to help students become better readers and I am proud to be a part of it.
The Kempton New Church School has a teacher who, 5 years ago, advocated for students by requesting reading support. She and I worked together to improve reading for all students there and specific students. We collaborated to improve the school’s reading program. They were able to barrow resources from the BCIU curriculum library, so they could decide what programs to buy. We worked to support specific students who were underserved, and created an entirely new reading program to ensure all their students would be better served in the future. She was able to access the professional development, materials, and support from professionals she needed to positively impact her school through the BCIU.
The school bus drivers impact the students everyday and the community by being a huge presence and traveling throughout Berks County transporting students to all the surrounding districts safely.
The BCIU is a professional organization that strives to provide the best services for students throughout Berks County. Supporting the 18 school districts through professional development, offering necessary services and providing professional guidance is one of the most valued and appreciated components of the organization. The outstanding leadership and staff have helped to codify those core tenants and should be complimented for all their hard work, dedication and vision for the county. Congratulations on 50 years of service to Berks County and all the students impacted over the years.
The BCIU supports the work of the Pennsylvania Key, and OCDEL, by ensuring all children in the commonwealth are in programs that continually strive to meet hiqh quality practices.
As a former Board Member, you could see how BOL made an impact during covid. As an Administrator in Transportation, when you speak to parents you quickly realize without a bus driver, students have no other way to and from school which for some is the best part of their day.
I have been especially appreciative of BCIU under the leadership of Dr. Hackman. They are always willing to answer inquiries and provide insight into the educational issues that affect the families of Berks County. Educational excellence gives us hope for our future as students are trained to be leaders. I congratulate the BCIU on their 50th Anniversary and look forward to many great accomplishments ahead.
I’m amazed at the number of people who benefited from the services provided by the Berks County Intermediate Unit during the past 50 years. It is impossible to measure the extremely beneficial impact the Berks County Intermediate Unit has had in the lives of local residents for the past five decades. I thank the people who worked at the Berks County Intermediate Unit for the past five decades and wish the organization another 50 years and more of continued success.
The team at BCIU provides an invaluable connection between the emergency services and the education community in Berks County. The ability to touch so many people in our county through their connections with education is too beneficial to be ignored. The team at BCIU brings the needed nexus among the emergency services and the education world.
BCIU services and programs have had particular impact in the areas of special education, pupil transportation, before and after school care, early childhood education, and continuing professional and paraprofessional education.
A student I worked with who graduated in 2020 has decided to go into the field of education for students with visual impairment.
By shining a light in lives that seem dark. Giving the youth in Reading an opportunity to see past what they can and believe anything is possible.
More pre-K students are experiencing quality programs as a direct result of BCIU activities.
BCIU’s services impact far more children than I can even imagine! BCIU has helped tiny children with speech and learning development skills. School-aged children have received online learning services, transportation, learning support, career guidance, and much more – all from BCIU.
In my job, we are helping incarcerated men and women get their high school credential.
As an educator, I have seen so many students grow and develop into the young people they are meant to be. They build confidence and self-advocacy as they move forward and onto greater successes.
Working as an intervention specialist, I see how the BCIU’s services and programs have a daily impact on my students and their families.
The Act 89 Nonpublic Program, as do many of the BCIU programs, touches children every day in its mission to help students become better readers and I am proud to be a part of it.
The school bus drivers impact the students everyday and the community by being a huge presence and traveling throughout Berks County transporting students to all the surrounding districts safely.
The BCIU is a professional organization that strives to provide the best services for students throughout Berks County. Supporting the 18 school districts through professional development, offering necessary services and providing professional guidance is one of the most valued and appreciated components of the organization. The outstanding leadership and staff have helped to codify those core tenants and should be complimented for all their hard work, dedication and vision for the county. Congratulations on 50 years of service to Berks County and all the students impacted over the years.
The BCIU supports the work of the Pennsylvania Key, and OCDEL, by ensuring all children in the commonwealth are in programs that continually strive to meet hiqh quality practices.
As a former Board Member, you could see how BOL made an impact during covid. As an Administrator in Transportation, when you speak to parents you quickly realize without a bus driver, students have no other way to and from school which for some is the best part of their day.
I have literally been supported by the BCIU almost my whole life. I moved from being a graduate of the Reading School District, where I was advantaged through the BCIU enrichment programs and technology support programs, almost immediately to a role in the emergency services where BCIU has been a constant partner in supporting our involvement with education at an all community level. Then I was fortunate enough to have my daughter be able to receive care from the incredible teachers and assistants in the Early Childcare Program and now she has begun her public education journey which I can only hope will be intertwined with the services of the BCIU because I am very confident that, had I not been able to access those enrichment programs, I would not have developed the zest for life-long learning that I have today.
The BCIU was my first teaching job after being home for 8 years raising my children. Working here is a source of pride because of the help we give to so many children in the county.
The BCIU has provided me with the opportunity to help individuals build their self-confidence by learning how to read which, in turn, strengthens our community.
I came to BCIU with only one year of experience under my belt and have spent 35 years growing into the position I now hold. Over that time, I was fortunate to be able to complete by Bachelor’s degree through BCIU Tuition Reimbursement program. I have worked in all aspects of IT and the thing I love the most about my job in the public education sector is that, not only am I a part of bringing the latest technology solutions to BCIU and our clients, but I get to see the fruits of our labors in action. This is something that I think an IT career in the private sector often lacks. I feel blessed to have been part of the BCIU family as I built my own family, the comradery and support system that I have in my IT family has been invaluable to me over the past 30 years through many personal and professional trials. I am proud to have dedicated my career to working for BCIU, a true servant to students, family, schools and community.
I have family members who were diagnosed with learning disabilities at a very early age and saw how BCIU services helped them tremendously, which allowed them to attend public school when they reached that age.
I feel more motivated and engaged in my work than I ever have thanks to the commitment of caring demonstrated by the BCIU and my team.
BCIU’s commitment to the Pennsylvania Key gave me a place to learn and grow as a professional, and as a leader. Over the years its approach to supporting work life balance has provided me with an opportunity to further my career and support the evolving needs every family faces.
Through the relationships I have made
BCIU has helped me grow personally and professionally, in so many ways! I am so thankful that BCIU gave me these opportunities, including expanding my knowledge by attending college, while BCIU provided me with tuition reimbursement, inspiration, and emotional support along the way. BCIU has provided challenging tasks to help me learn on the job. I have gained an enormous amount of wisdom from my colleagues, some who have been employed at BCIU for 20+ years. BCIU has personally allowed me to make a life for myself that another employer might not have done; my home, my family, my health, my overall well-being – all benefit from me working in such a wonderful place.
As a stay-at-home mom the job of School Bus driver appealed to me because I could actually drive the bus my sons rode and be off when they were off during the school year and in the summer. This enabled me to keep eyes on them at all times and be there for them as they grew into the successful young gentlemen that they are today. I am forever grateful for that. Also it lead to me securing a full-time position once my children were old enough to get themselves off to school.
BCIU has impacted the overall quality of life in Berks County while improving student outcomes.
I have had the privilege to work with wonderful coworkers and students.
BCIU has provided me with an opportunity for professional growth and development through my involvement with the PA Key fiscal department.
The BCIU has facilitated interactions with fellow educators, in particular, in my case, superintendent to superintendent, and held numerous forums for interaction within the larger community.
I really enjoy watching the light bulb turn on. When a student is struggling with a concept and when this concept is interpreted to them the light bulb turns on and a big smile shows on their face. Knowing that I had a part in this, and the student becomes successful at what they do.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit has provided me the opportunities to grow as a professional, and offer a higher level of quality support to government and community partners, as well as families and children.
I have worked at the BCIU in early intervention for 15 years. 3 years ago my own son started receiving services with the IU for a speech sound disorder. I have always been a strong advocate for early intervention and I have seen the impact it makes for children who receive these services early over and over again; however, participating in early intervention from the parent side of the table was a totally different experience. I loved my time as an EI mom and I will be forever grateful to the amazing SLP who worked with my son for nearly 3 years. My son is now in kindergarten and flourishing! I am convinced his success is due to the support of all the SLPs in his life, from infant-toddler to EI and now school age. I think being an EI mom has given me a different perspective and has made me a better special education teacher.
I am grateful to have a job I love and where I have been able to grow professionally.
This has been a great place to work – I love the job, the people I work with and the support received from the PA Key and BCIU
As the leader of the Pennsylvania Key, I can honestly say I could not have done my job without the support of the BCIU Leadership Team, the Business office, the Human Resource office or the IT Department.
Two years of speech services in elementary school helped me outgrow an impediment, and 31 years later I would never guessed the BCIU would become my only career so far and another family.
The BCIU has provided me with a professional atmosphere in which to conduct my work. In addition, as a single mom, I was able to maintain my career and reap the excellent, affordable health benefits, sick time off and an abundance of vacation time to balance my life.
My grandson was in an Early Intervention classroom and it helped him tremendously. He will be graduating from High School this year and entering college. His parent say it was the best thing for preparing him for school.
i also have a granddaughter who attend Pre-K Counts at the Ed Centre. She is now 9 and if we drive by the Ed Centre she still remembers that she went to school there.
BCIU has impacted me personally by being a support structure. As a new Superintendent, knowing that Dr. Hackman and/or anyone on her team are there any time you need something means so much.
The BCIU was my first teaching job after being home for 8 years raising my children. Working here is a source of pride because of the help we give to so many children in the county.
The BCIU has provided me with the opportunity to help individuals build their self-confidence by learning how to read which, in turn, strengthens our community.
I have family members who were diagnosed with learning disabilities at a very early age and saw how BCIU services helped them tremendously, which allowed them to attend public school when they reached that age.
I feel more motivated and engaged in my work than I ever have thanks to the commitment of caring demonstrated by the BCIU and my team.
BCIU’s commitment to the Pennsylvania Key gave me a place to learn and grow as a professional, and as a leader. Over the years its approach to supporting work life balance has provided me with an opportunity to further my career and support the evolving needs every family faces.
Through the relationships I have made
As a stay-at-home mom the job of School Bus driver appealed to me because I could actually drive the bus my sons rode and be off when they were off during the school year and in the summer. This enabled me to keep eyes on them at all times and be there for them as they grew into the successful young gentlemen that they are today. I am forever grateful for that. Also it lead to me securing a full-time position once my children were old enough to get themselves off to school.
BCIU has impacted the overall quality of life in Berks County while improving student outcomes.
I have had the privilege to work with wonderful coworkers and students.
BCIU has provided me with an opportunity for professional growth and development through my involvement with the PA Key fiscal department.
The BCIU has facilitated interactions with fellow educators, in particular, in my case, superintendent to superintendent, and held numerous forums for interaction within the larger community.
I really enjoy watching the light bulb turn on. When a student is struggling with a concept and when this concept is interpreted to them the light bulb turns on and a big smile shows on their face. Knowing that I had a part in this, and the student becomes successful at what they do.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit has provided me the opportunities to grow as a professional, and offer a higher level of quality support to government and community partners, as well as families and children.
I am grateful to have a job I love and where I have been able to grow professionally.
This has been a great place to work – I love the job, the people I work with and the support received from the PA Key and BCIU
As the leader of the Pennsylvania Key, I can honestly say I could not have done my job without the support of the BCIU Leadership Team, the Business office, the Human Resource office or the IT Department.
with a summer program of 267 children with a federal grant of $42,000.
Today, BCIU’s Head Start Program serves 695 children in a center-based program with a federal grant of $6,736,599.00 and a state grant of $722,500.
Mid-1980s we assumed transportation of students with special needs from the Berks Career & Technology Center.
In 1996, the BCIU began transportation of regular education students in the Reading School District. Now, the BCIU transports approximately 16,000 students.
The first county spelling bee was held in Kutztown Area School District and was sponsored by the Reading Eagle-Times newspaper.
The winner was sponsored by the newspaper to compete nationally at the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee. The BCIU was responsible for all arrangements and logistics.
It was typewriter repair service for the Instructional Materials Services program.
A facilities committee was formed to evaluate options ultimately landing on building an intermediate unit office and conference facility at its current Main Office location.
Construction started in 1989, with settlement and occupancy occurring in July and August 1990. Staff input was used in naming the rooms after notable educators.
I have the greatest admiration and respect for the work the Berks County Intermediate Unit does each day. As a state legislator, I’m required to take a lot of important votes on educational programming and resources. When making these difficult decisions, I often look to the BCIU for expert guidance because it understands better than anyone what our local students and teachers need. For decades, the BCIU has provided the leadership we need to meet the educational challenges we face as a community. I’d like to thank every member of the BCIU team past and present for 50 years of outstanding service!
Congratulations BCIU for your 50 year milestone. It has been our pleasure to be a business partner with you for 24 of those 50 years. Your leaders and staff have always shown great integrity. They truly care about our community and making it better. Wishing you much success in the next 50 years.
I am so very proud to be a member of this organization. BCIU staff has created an organization that not only supports and cares about their staff and well-being, but also supports and cares about all of the clients that they serve. I am proud to be a part of the 50th anniversary, may all of the successes we have made continue on for the next 50 years.
Congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit on its first 50 years of providing exceptional educational services to both students and teachers. BCIU is dedicated to creating the best possible learning environment in our local schools, and for that we say, ‘thank you.’
Congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit #14. There are many success stories in the past, and may there be many more stories to hear in the future.
May the BCIU continue to hold up the children, families and schools in the county and across the state in the same compassionate manner it has demonstrated over the last 50 years!
The BCIU enjoys a well-earned reputation for commitment to education in Berks County and beyond, a firm basis on which to build in the years ahead.
In 50 years, we’ve brought positive impact to thousands of children, families. staff and programs through thoughtful insight, forward thinking and intentionality…let’s keep it going!
Our mission statement is a solid representation of the course we need to continue to follow, but in my 35 years it has become abundantly clear that to truly embrace the mission and vision of the organization we will always need to be prepared to adapt and change in order to thrive!
I hope that BCIU can continue to be a leader in education services in Berks County and beyond.
My hope is that the next 50 years of the BCIU will be as impactful as the previous 50 years.
Dr. Hackman and her staff continue a critically important legacy of service and support to our communities. I am grateful for what BCIU does day-in and day-out for our communities! 50 years of success, and on behalf of all of my colleagues at Tompkins VIST Bank, wishing you many, many more years of success! Thank you! Our communities would not be the same without you!
The Berks County Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities Program extends our congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. Partnership and collaboration have been the hallmark of our relationship throughout the years as we strive to Keep Kids Safe and emotionally well. We look forward to participation in future projects with the BCIU!
BCIU is an important and powerful community leader and is top of mind when considering strategic partnerships that will result in effective action.
Congratulations on your 50th Anniversary! Reading Area Community College looks forward to our continued partnership with the BCIU.
Berks Nature is proud of its long time partnership with the BCIU. The IU has helped us connect with school administrators, principals, curriculum officers and students. This relationship helps us in reaching thousands of Berks County children each year through field trips, programs and summer Eco-camp, because Nature is essential to our quality of life.
I look forward to what the next decade (and more) brings, and I’m excited to grow more as an employee at BCIU.
Thank you for the high level of professionalism!
Thank you BCIU for all the support, encouragement, professional staff and atmosphere that you create that motivates me each day to want to be better at helping our kids.
Keep up the excellent work of improving the lives of so many families in and around Berks County.
I hope the BCIU continues to excel in their forward thinking and providing opportunities to the many students they will impact over the next 50 years.
I hope the BCIU continues to enrich the lives of the people in our community by guiding us toward a productive and thriving environment.
The future of the BCIU is bright, and because of it, so many children in Berks County can look forward to a brighter future.
You exemplify servant leadership. Continue to be that beacon and pillar of service and support to the 18 school districts and two CTCs within Berks County.
Congratulations on 50 years of great work within our community. We should all be proud of the work we are doing to help our community.
Keep placing your heart for the employee first- It matters
Whenever there is an unexpected need in education in Berks County, districts look to the BCIU for guidance, I see that continuing throughout our next 100 years, not just 50.
Congratulations BCIU for your 50 year milestone. It has been our pleasure to be a business partner with you for 24 of those 50 years. Your leaders and staff have always shown great integrity. They truly care about our community and making it better. Wishing you much success in the next 50 years.
I am so very proud to be a member of this organization. BCIU staff has created an organization that not only supports and cares about their staff and well-being, but also supports and cares about all of the clients that they serve. I am proud to be a part of the 50th anniversary, may all of the successes we have made continue on for the next 50 years.
Congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit on its first 50 years of providing exceptional educational services to both students and teachers. BCIU is dedicated to creating the best possible learning environment in our local schools, and for that we say, ‘thank you.’
Congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit #14. There are many success stories in the past, and may there be many more stories to hear in the future.
May the BCIU continue to hold up the children, families and schools in the county and across the state in the same compassionate manner it has demonstrated over the last 50 years!
The BCIU enjoys a well-earned reputation for commitment to education in Berks County and beyond, a firm basis on which to build in the years ahead.
In 50 years, we’ve brought positive impact to thousands of children, families. staff and programs through thoughtful insight, forward thinking and intentionality…let’s keep it going!
Our mission statement is a solid representation of the course we need to continue to follow, but in my 35 years it has become abundantly clear that to truly embrace the mission and vision of the organization we will always need to be prepared to adapt and change in order to thrive!
I hope that BCIU can continue to be a leader in education services in Berks County and beyond.
My hope is that the next 50 years of the BCIU will be as impactful as the previous 50 years.
Dr. Hackman and her staff continue a critically important legacy of service and support to our communities. I am grateful for what BCIU does day-in and day-out for our communities! 50 years of success, and on behalf of all of my colleagues at Tompkins VIST Bank, wishing you many, many more years of success! Thank you! Our communities would not be the same without you!
The Berks County Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities Program extends our congratulations to the Berks County Intermediate Unit on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. Partnership and collaboration have been the hallmark of our relationship throughout the years as we strive to Keep Kids Safe and emotionally well. We look forward to participation in future projects with the BCIU!
BCIU is an important and powerful community leader and is top of mind when considering strategic partnerships that will result in effective action.
Congratulations on your 50th Anniversary! Reading Area Community College looks forward to our continued partnership with the BCIU.
Berks Nature is proud of its long time partnership with the BCIU. The IU has helped us connect with school administrators, principals, curriculum officers and students. This relationship helps us in reaching thousands of Berks County children each year through field trips, programs and summer Eco-camp, because Nature is essential to our quality of life.
I look forward to what the next decade (and more) brings, and I’m excited to grow more as an employee at BCIU.
Thank you for the high level of professionalism!
Thank you BCIU for all the support, encouragement, professional staff and atmosphere that you create that motivates me each day to want to be better at helping our kids.
Keep up the excellent work of improving the lives of so many families in and around Berks County.
I hope the BCIU continues to excel in their forward thinking and providing opportunities to the many students they will impact over the next 50 years.
I hope the BCIU continues to enrich the lives of the people in our community by guiding us toward a productive and thriving environment.
The future of the BCIU is bright, and because of it, so many children in Berks County can look forward to a brighter future.
You exemplify servant leadership. Continue to be that beacon and pillar of service and support to the 18 school districts and two CTCs within Berks County.
Congratulations on 50 years of great work within our community. We should all be proud of the work we are doing to help our community.
Keep placing your heart for the employee first- It matters
Whenever there is an unexpected need in education in Berks County, districts look to the BCIU for guidance, I see that continuing throughout our next 100 years, not just 50.
Our priority at the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is to serve our students and educators, support our schools and community, and share resources and information with our partners in Berks County and across the Commonwealth.
As we turn our focus to the future, we can think of nothing more worthy of our time, energy, and resources than building on the successes that the past 50 years have brought our organization and the students, families, educators, and communities we serve.
If I had a crystal ball, I’d say that the next 50 years will bring many opportunities for BCIU and its employees to continue to innovate and serve the Berks County community and the greater education community across the state.
I hope the BCIU can continue to grow in its expertise and its presence in the community. I hope that the BCIU continues to be a model for educational excellence in the future.
Over 50 years, the BCIU has grown and developed into a necessary component in the function of our local education system. Their role will become larger as the community progresses into the future.
More outreach, more impact, more positive seeds planted.
Continuing its positive impact and influence on the lives of Berks County citizens
I imagine there will be some new initiatives that come by the request of our schools, students, families, and from the State. I envision there will be more staff updates, as individuals retire and a new set of employees arrive. I imagine the BCIU will continue to provide services as they have for the last 50 years, while helping people in the community.
Leadership in education and shared services for our Berks County schools and youth.
Growing, growing, growing, we are such a huge part of Berks counties community with the services we provide from Special Needs Transport and Schooling, and the many services we provide families throughout Berks and beyond.
The BCIU needs to maintain a leadership position at reshaping the delivery of instruction to students in ways that dramatically improve outcomes and reduce the overall cost of instruction delivery.
The intermediate units were originally conceived to be a temporary bridge to consolidate school districts. BCIU has stayed relevant beyond that original mission by being creative and meeting the evolving needs of the community.
Continuing to serve children and families with the uppermost quality programs, resources, and education.
I am hopeful that the BCIU can be helpful to school districts in focusing on points of prek-12 transition: summer before kindergarten; early childhood grade three; middle level grade 8; and senior year of high school, grade 12.
Providing many more services that are needed in the community.
Continually progressing with the context of need within society, while staying convicted to its’ mission and vision
To continue serving our County and School Districts to the best of our abilities and grow to be able to serve more families.