During National School Psychology Week (November 3–7), we celebrated the outstanding school psychologists within the BCIU’s Office of Early Childhood & Student Services (ECSS) – School-Age Special Education (SASE).
This year’s theme, “Finding Your Path,” highlights the vital role school psychologists play in helping students and families navigate their unique journeys toward learning, growth, and well-being. Our school psychologists bring expertise, compassion, and a genuine heart to their work, providing essential support to students, families, and educators throughout Berks County.
Meet the Team:
Ms. Kristen Bender – In her third year with the BCIU and 17th year as a school psychologist, Kristen says, “The best part of being a school psychologist is having the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives.”
Mr. Jeff Laubach – With 13 years at the BCIU, Jeff values the “wide variety of experience” his role provides.
Dr. Stacy Schober – A school psychologist for 15 years, including 8½ with the BCIU, Stacy enjoys “interacting with young children!”
Dr. Danielle Smyre – In her 12th year as a school psychologist and nearly fourth with the BCIU, Danielle loves “helping teams support student achievement and success across all areas of student well-being and development.”
Dr. Bridgette Vecchio – With 25 years in the field and service across multiple BCIU programs, Bridgette finds joy in “working one-on-one with students and collaborating with school teams and families to help students be successful.”
Ms. Holly Weyer – At the BCIU since 2000 with 25 years of experience, Holly enjoys “interacting with students and working with teachers, parents, and other professionals to discover a student’s strengths and needs.”
Ms. Crysten Campbell – A school psychology intern nearing the end of her first year, Crysten says, “The best part of being a school psychology intern is applying what I’ve learned in real-world settings and seeing how my work directly supports students’ growth.”
Finding Your Path: Early Intervention Scavenger Hunt
In celebration of this year’s “Finding Your Path” theme, the BCIU Early Intervention
Team hosted an engaging scavenger hunt! Staff from multiple sites participated,
including classroom teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and
paraprofessionals, all contributing to a fun and collaborative experience.
Highlights included:
· A hands-on turkey painting activity that encouraged student engagement and fine motor development.
· A warm and inviting preschool classroom prepared to welcome young children.
· “Road” visuals designed to help students practice fine motor skills through play.
· A bright main hallway in our Education Centre.
· A garden path at our Pine Forge location, lined with rocks thoughtfully painted by students.
Spotlight on Leadership:
In October, the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) launched its 2025-2026 campaign, “The Many Hats of a School Psychologist.” The first feature spotlighted Dr. Michelle Reichard-Huff, BCIU Director of Early Childhood and Student Services, who reflected on her role as a “Systems Change Agent.”
“This role is meaningful to me because it keeps students at the heart of every decision. I am driven by the belief that every student deserves the chance to reach their fullest potential, no matter their path or challenge. By creating systems that remove barriers and strengthen supports, I can help ensure students have the opportunities, services, and environments they need to thrive. Supporting educators in this work is equally important, as their impact shapes daily learning. Knowing that my leadership helps open doors for students and creates brighter futures is what motivates me every day.”
We thank Dr. Reichard-Huff, along with our ECSS–SASE team and Early Intervention staff, for their dedication, expertise, and commitment to helping students and families find their path to success, growth, and well-being.