On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) honored 21 exceptional individuals during the annual Annie Sullivan Award Ceremony, held at the BCIU Main Office. Among the nominees, Tracey Miller was named the recipient of the 2025 Annie Sullivan Award.
Named in honor of Annie Sullivan, the award recognizes individuals who champion the understanding and inclusion of students with diverse abilities in their schools or communities. Annie Sullivan, known for her work with Helen Keller, overcame her own challenges to become a lifelong educator and advocate for accessible learning.
This year’s ceremony celebrated the 21 nominees, representing each of the 18 Berks County school districts, two career and technology centers, and the BCIU. Surrounded by colleagues, friends, and family, the nominees were recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to supporting students with disabilities.
The 2025 Annie Sullivan Award recipient, Tracey Miller, Life Skills Support Teacher at Governor Mifflin High School, has made a difference in the lives of Governor Mifflin School District (GMSD) students for close to 30 years.
In a nomination form, colleagues of Tracey Miller shared, “Tracey has consistently demonstrated dedication to supporting students with disabilities, creating innovative programs, and fostering inclusion. She continues to give back, balancing her work with a deep commitment to her family and community. Her passion, creativity, and compassion make her an ideal candidate for the Annie Sullivan Award. Through her remarkable contributions, Tracey has positively impacted countless lives and is a true advocate for all students.”
In addition to her teaching, Tracey has been a catalyst for inclusion, coaching Unified Sports Bocce, advising the Unified Mustangs club, and guiding future special educators. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, as she organized and led a county-wide Job Skills Olympics and remains an active community volunteer and frequent platelet donor. Starting with the district in 1995, Tracey developed the middle school life skills support program and later expanded her efforts at the high school level by establishing a simulated house setting for independent living skills. She also created and still manages a school-run thrift store, diner, and coffee shop, providing students with real-world job skills. Through these initiatives, Tracey has equipped students with the tools, confidence, and experiences to thrive both academically and personally.
In addition to Tracey Miller, the 2025 Annie Sullivan Award nominees were:
• Anna Legg, Life Skills & Autistic Support Teacher, Antietam SD
• Susan Schwartz, Service Occupations Instructor, Berks Career & Technology Center
• Cheri Heebner, Early Intervention Lead Teacher, Berks County Intermediate Unit
• Edith Bennett, Physical Therapist, Boyertown Area SD
• Rita Kayhart, Paraprofessional, Brandywine Heights Area SD
• Winston Kendell, Custodian, Conrad Weiser Area SD
• Rachel Christman, Learning Support Teacher, Daniel Boone Area SD
• Kaisha McCulley, Director of Transportation, Exeter Township SD
• Melissa Majewski, Student Services Administrative Assistant, Fleetwood Area SD
• Nicholas Adams, Emotional Support Teacher, Hamburg Area SD
• Elizabeth Wessner, First Grade Teacher, Kutztown Area SD
• Elizabeth Chapman, Special Education Coordinator, Muhlenberg SD
• Kelly Herrmann, Special Education Teacher, Oley Valley SD
• Elizabeth Allen, Paraprofessional, Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center
• Keesha Scott, Paraprofessional, Reading SD
• Christine Nguyen, Special Education Paraprofessional, Schuylkill Valley SD
• Hanna Woolf, Life Skills & Autistic Support Teacher, Tulpehocken Area SD
• Regine Glass, Life Skills Teacher, Twin Valley SD
• Monica Lawrence, Autistic Support Teacher, Wilson SD
• Jillian Disla, Special Education Paraprofessional, Wyomissing Area SD
Congratulations to Tracey Miller and all the nominees on this outstanding achievement!