Over the course of the spring semester, a meaningful new partnership took root between Kutztown University (KU) and the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU)’s Learning Academy at Thomas Ford (LATF). This collaborative pilot program was developed to provide KU’s Special Education Department students with valuable clinical experience while fostering a supportive, engaging learning environment for middle and high school students enrolled at LATF.
The idea for the program came to life through the collaborative efforts of Dr. Tabetha Bernstein-Danis, Chair of Kutztown University’s Special Education Department, and Zachariah Milch, Principal of LATF. Together, they designed a pilot to prepare KU students for their future roles as educators and inspire LATF students through meaningful one-on-one interactions that promote academic and personal growth.
Under the guidance of Laura Johnston, English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher at LATF, KU students were individually paired with LATF students to explore and apply academic and behavioral strategies to improve classroom success. KU students worked closely with LATF’s teaching staff, who developed lesson plans to implement in their sessions. The activities emphasized creativity, communication, and relationship-building, allowing KU students to practice real-world teaching skills. The result was an enriching experience for all involved and a strong foundation for future collaboration!
Feedback from students at The Learning Academy reflects the heart of the program:
“I loved the Kutztown program. My Kutztown partner was the best. His name was Austin, and he gave me the best strategies for math. And, he was pretty bad at playing Uno—but it’s okay, maybe one day he’ll be better. But not better than me.”
— Maricely, Grade 7
“It was fun to talk with someone around my age and help them with their learning. I want to say thanks because they helped me, too. They showed me so much and taught me a better way to learn ELA.”
— Carlos, Grade 10
“I really liked the Kutztown program because they are very nice and helpful. I liked how they helped me with my math.”
— Jesus, Grade 8