On January 12, 2026, Dr. Dan Richards, BCIU Director of Professional Learning, testified before the Pennsylvania Senate Majority Policy Committee during a hearing on improving reading outcomes, hosted by Senator Tracy Pennycuick and chaired by Senator Dave Argall at the Daniel Boone Area School District.
Representing the BCIU, Dr. Richards highlighted the Intermediate Unit’s support of 18 public school districts, two career and technology centers, and 79 nonpublic schools serving nearly 70,000 students across Berks County. He emphasized the critical role intermediate units play in helping schools implement evidence-based instruction, build educator capacity, and translate state policy into effective classroom practice.
Dr. Richards addressed ongoing literacy challenges, stressing the need for high-quality instructional materials, early intervention through MTSS, and sustained, job-embedded professional learning. He encouraged continued legislative investment in evidence-based initiatives, educator recruitment and retention, and stable funding that leverages the cost-effective IU infrastructure.
We thank Dr. Richards for his leadership and effective advocacy on behalf of students, educators, and schools across Berks County and the Commonwealth