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BCIU and Our City Reading leaders were pleased to welcome Ryan Aument, State Director, and Chris Quinn, Regional Director for Southeastern Pennsylvania, from the office of U.S. Senator Dave McCormick, for a conversation about projects supporting the City of Reading and its continued revitalization.

A main point of discussion highlighted the proposed transformation of 450 Penn Street into a comprehensive BCIU Learning Center that would bring early childhood education, early intervention, and family support services together in one downtown location, serving more than 220 children each year. We appreciate Senator McCormick’s staff for taking the time to discuss shared priorities that strengthen children, families, and the City of Reading.

Pictured from left: Scott Gruber, Executive Director of Economic Development at Our City Reading and BCIU Education Foundation Chair; Chris Quinn, Regional Director for Southeastern Pennsylvania for U.S. Senator Dave McCormick; Ryan Aument, State Director for U.S. Senator Dave McCormick; Jim Boscov, CEO of Boscov’s Department Stores and Chairman of Our City Reading; Dr. Jill Hackman, BCIU Executive Director; Dr. Michelle Reichard-Huff, BCIU Director of Early Childhood & Student Services; and Chris Shellhammer, President of Reading Hospitality and DoubleTree by Hilton Reading.
about 21 hours ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Standing in front of 450 Penn building
For thousands of Berks County students, the school bus ride is the first and last part of the school day. A commitment to safety at every stage of the journey helps ensure students arrive ready to learn and return home safely each afternoon.

Throughout National School Bus Safety Week, we are highlighting daily safety reminders from Julie Van Lear, BCIU Transportation Program Administrator.

Today's Tip: Every Ride, Every Child, Every Day.

Mrs. Van Lear reminds us, "School bus safety is everyone's responsibility. Drivers, students, parents, and community members all play a role in keeping children safe.”

Whether behind the wheel, at the bus stop, or supporting student transportation operations, every action contributes to a culture of safety. By working together and staying attentive around school buses, we can help protect students and support safe transportation for every child, every day.
3 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
National School Bus Safety Week Tip: Every Ride, Every Ride, Every Day.
This week, we recognize the vital role school buses play in safely transporting students and the dedicated transportation professionals who make it possible.

National School Bus Safety Week serves as an important reminder that student safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are a driver, parent, educator, or community member, everyone plays a role in helping students travel safely to and from school.

Each day, transportation professionals across Berks County work diligently to provide safe, reliable transportation services for students. Throughout National School Bus Safety Week, we will be sharing daily safety tips from Julie Van Lear, BCIU Transportation Program Administrator, to help raise awareness and promote safe practices in our communities.

Today’s Tip: Eyes Up, Phones Down

Mrs. Van Lear reminds us, "Whether you are driving or walking, distractions can be dangerous. Stay alert around school buses. A moment of attention can make a lasting difference in keeping students safe."
4 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
National School Bus Safety Week: Eyes Up, Phones Down
On October 12, 2026, the Berks County Intermediate Unit's Office of Professional Learning (OPL) coordinated countywide professional learning opportunities that served approximately 1,140 educators throughout Berks County.

Through a combination of in-person, district-based, and virtual learning experiences, educators participated in high-quality professional development designed to strengthen instructional practices, enhance student support services, and promote collaboration among educational professionals.

The BCIU is proud to facilitate opportunities that promote professional growth and collaboration among educators throughout the region. Thank you to all who participated!
9 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
educators standing around an instructor at a car shop
Today, educators, administrators, school safety team members, counselors, law enforcement personnel, mental health professionals, and community leaders gathered for the Keeping Kids Safe Symposium at the Berks County Intermediate Unit Main Office to learn about one of today’s most pressing school safety challenges: Artificial Intelligence and Deep Fakes.

Attendees heard from keynote presenter Ryan Klingensmith, LPC, NCC, Founder of Shape the Sky, who shared practical tools, resources, and strategies to help schools, families, and communities better understand the evolving digital landscape and keep students safe online.

The symposium also featured insights from Bryan Boughter, Assistant District Attorney for the County of Berks; Robert Cariola, FBI Special Agent and Regional Threat Management Coordinator; and Cpl. Andrew McCloskey, Community Anti-Threat Officer (CATO) with the Caernarvon Township Police Department, highlighting the importance of partnerships in addressing emerging threats impacting youth.

The Keeping Kids Safe Symposium provides an important opportunity to explore current issues affecting children and families, strengthen community partnerships, and learn actionable strategies to create safer and more supportive environments for our students.

The BCIU is pleased to facilitate meaningful collaboration that supports the well-being and safety of children throughout Berks County. Thank you to all who attended, presented, and helped make this important event a success.
10 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Conference room with attendees watching presentation
Now Hiring: Fiscal/Data Specialist – The Pennsylvania Key

The Pennsylvania Key is seeking a Fiscal/Data Specialist to provide operational support to OCDEL and Pennsylvania Key program initiatives by ensuring accurate, timely data entry across program systems and monitoring, reviewing, and ensuring compliance for all budget and fiscal operations associated with assigned programs.

Key Responsibilities:
• Support Pennsylvania Key and OCDEL staff in managing grantee finances by assisting with fiscal documentation, monitoring activities, and the ongoing oversight needed to ensure programs meet financial and compliance expectations.
• Provide comprehensive fiscal and data support to grantees by ensuring meaningful spending, accurate financial reporting, and responsive technical assistance to address fiscal or data issues that arise throughout the year.
• Conduct on-site fiscal support and compliance monitoring visits, including collecting and reviewing program fiscal policies, procedures, and internal practices, and providing feedback to strengthen operations and ensure alignment with PKC/HSSAP requirements.
• Monitor quarterly expenditures for accuracy and ensure spending aligns with budgeted targets across all funding categories

Qualifications:
• Minimum of Bachelor's Degree, preferred in technology or business.
• Two years experience in working with databases.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).
• Strong verbal, written, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate and work with a variety of people with different skill levels in the field.

Does this sound like a great fit for you? Visit https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=General+The+Pennsylvania+Key to learn more and apply today!

JobID:2463
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
14 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Fiscal/Data Specialist
#FeatureFriday: Members of the Early Intervention team and our EI Family Ambassador had the opportunity to support the 23rd Annual Walk for Autism and Acceptance on Sunday, September 20, where they enjoyed sharing resources, collaborating with community partners, and reconnecting with our students and their families.
28 days ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Group of staff standing in front of a red BCIU Berks County Intermediate Unit tablecloth
Every school day begins with a safe ride and your route to a meaningful career starts here. Find your seat on our team.

Current opportunities include:
CDL Drivers: $25.90–$31.00/hour
Van Drivers: $21.40–$26.55/hour
Transportation Assistants: $17.95–$22.25/hour

Enjoy paid training, flexible schedules, and meaningful work that supports local students and families.

Hiring Event on October 14, 2026! Learn more and apply online today at: https://www.berksiu.org/page/transportation-careers
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Find your seat on our team. begin a rewarding career this fall!
The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is proud to announce Mr. Scott L. Gruber as the recipient of the 2026 BCIU Outstanding Community Partner Award.

Presented annually, the award recognizes an external partner whose leadership, advocacy, and collaboration have helped advance the BCIU's mission and made a meaningful difference for the students, families, educators, and communities it serves. Mr. Gruber was formally recognized by the BCIU Board of Directors during its September 17, 2026, Board Meeting, where Board members and BCIU Administration acknowledged his outstanding contributions and longstanding commitment to the children, families, schools, and communities of Berks County.

“Mr. Gruber’s dedication to collaboration, service, and community engagement exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional community partner,” said Dr. Jill M. Hackman, BCIU Executive Director. “His leadership, generosity, and commitment to improving opportunities for children and families have made a lasting impact throughout Berks County. Through his support of early childhood education, community partnerships, and the BCIU Education Foundation, he has helped create opportunities that will benefit Berks County for years to come.”

The BCIU congratulates Mr. Gruber on this well-deserved recognition and extends its sincere appreciation for his leadership, partnership, and dedication to helping build a brighter future for the children, families, and communities of Berks County.


Photo, L to R: Elizabeth Huhn, Vice President, BCIU Board of Directors; Gary McEwen, President, BCIU Board of Directors; JoAnn Gruber; Scott L. Gruber, BCIU Outstanding Community Partner; David Hershey, Secretary, BCIU Board of Directors; Linda Lash, Treasurer, BCIU Board of Directors; Dr. Jill Hackman, BCIU Executive Director
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Photo, L to R: Elizabeth Huhn, Vice President, BCIU Board of Directors; Gary McEwen, President, BCIU Board of Directors; JoAnn Gruber; Scott L. Gruber, BCIU Outstanding Community Partner; David Hershey, Secretary, BCIU Board of Directors; Linda Lash, Treasurer, BCIU Board of Directors; Dr. Jill Hackman, BCIU Executive Director
Congratulations to Malery Meck, Early Intervention Program Secretary, who was named as the September 2026 Employee of the Month!

Malery was selected for her exceptional dedication, reliability, and commitment to supporting students, families, and colleagues throughout the Early Intervention program. During her three years as a Level V Secretary, Malery has become a trusted resource for staff at the Pine Forge site.

Known for her positive attitude, responsiveness, and willingness to help, she plays an important role in supporting daily operations, assisting families and staff, navigating processes and systems, and contributing to the Early Intervention Transition Committee. Her colleagues consistently describe her as dependable, resourceful, and someone who goes above and beyond to ensure others have the support they need.

When asked about the best part of her job, Malery shared that she enjoys helping others and strives to be someone her colleagues can trust and rely upon. That commitment to service is evident in her daily work and is one of the many reasons she is deserving of this recognition.

Congratulations, Malery, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for the positive impact you make on the BCIU community each day.
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
IU Employee Spotlight: Malery Meck September 2026 BCIU Employee of the Month
During this morning’s Berks County Committee on Legislative Action (COLA) meeting at the BCIU Main Office, members had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Sherri Smith, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA). Dr. Smith provided a timely overview of key legislative priorities and PASA updates for the 2026-2027 school year.

Thank you to Dr. Smith for sharing her expertise and to all who participated in the discussion. These conversations help COLA members stay informed as they advocate for students, educators, and school communities in Berks County and across Pennsylvania. We look forward to continuing this important work.
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Group of individuals who attended the COLA meeting smiling at the camera
We Are Hiring: Assistant Director for Finance

Are you a strategic financial leader with a passion for supporting educational programs and organizational excellence? We are seeking an Assistant Director for Finance to help oversee the daily financial operations of the Berks County Intermediate Unit while supporting sound fiscal management and long-term organizational success.

In this role, you will:
• Assist in overseeing daily financial and accounting operations for the BCIU
• Support budget development, financial reporting, and year-end closing activities
• Coordinate accounting functions, audits, and compliance reporting requirements
• Assist with revenue acquisition, grant-related fiscal processes, and financial studies
• Collaborate with banking, investment, and lending institutions
• Supervise and support fiscal department staff while fostering professional growth
• Help develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Partner with leadership to support strategic financial planning and risk management initiatives

We are looking for someone who is analytical, collaborative, and detail-oriented, with strong leadership skills and a commitment to supporting educational services through effective financial stewardship.

Qualifications include:
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field required
• Advanced degree and/or CPA preferred
• Minimum of five years of experience in a business or financial setting
• Strong knowledge of financial management, accounting, cash flow, and investments
• Experience supervising or developing staff in a business or school environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage confidential information and work effectively with multiple stakeholders

If you are ready to use your financial expertise to make a meaningful impact in education, we encourage you to apply.

Learn more and apply:
https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Admin+Business+Office

Job No. 2471
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Assistant Director for Finance
Congratulations to our 2026 Milestone Award recipients!

The Berks County Intermediate Unit is pleased to recognize employees who have reached significant service milestones and whose dedication, expertise, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve.

We are honored to recognize the following employees for 2026.

25 Years of Service
Karen Allen | Early Intervention
Jamie Brango | Transportation
Kelli Fogarty | Early Intervention
Shari Hassler | Purchasing and Logistics
Melody McCulley | Pre-K Counts
Denise Stephens | Early Intervention
Donna VanKirk | Purchasing and Logistics
Holly Weyer | Special Education

30 Years of Service
Christina Argentati | Early Intervention
Rebecca Curry | Early Intervention
Robyn Zikmund | Early Intervention

Thank you for the difference you make every day and for the years of service you have devoted to supporting students, families, schools, and colleagues.

Please join us in celebrating these dedicated staff members!
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
As schools across Berks County begin the 2026-2027 school year, a new chapter begins for thousands of students, families, and their school communities.

The Berks County Intermediate Unit extends best wishes for a successful and rewarding 2026-2027 school year. We look forward to partnering with our schools and communities throughout the year to support student achievement, growth, and success!
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Welcome back to school. Have a great year!
Today, the BCIU's Office of Early Childhood & Student Services and the Office of Human Resources met to network and plan for the 2026-2027 school year.


Led by Dr. Michelle Reichard-Huff, the Office of Early Childhood & Student Services provides a wide range of programs and supports that help children, students, and families succeed. From early childhood education and family engagement initiatives to student services and behavioral health supports, this team works every day to create opportunities that foster growth, well-being, and success at every stage of a learner's journey. A special thank you to this morning’s Keynote Speaker, Charle Peck, for sharing practical tips for educators to support both personal and student wellness.


The Office of Human Resources, under the direction of Mary Franciscus, Director, helps build and support the talented workforce behind the BCIU’s mission. Through recruitment, onboarding, employee support, professional resources, and organizational initiatives, the Human Resources team helps to ensure that the BCIU continues to attract, develop, and retain highly skilled employees dedicated to serving our students, schools, and communities.


As these teams prepare for the year ahead, we thank them for their ongoing commitment, expertise, and hard work in making a positive impact across Berks County.
2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Guest speaker, Charle Peck
Make every mile matter. When you join the BCIU Transportation Team, you're doing more than driving a route or assisting students—you're helping create a safe and positive start to each school day.

Now hiring:
CDL Drivers: $25.90–$31.00/hour
Van Drivers: $21.40–$26.55/hour
Transportation Assistants: $17.95–$22.25/hour

Enjoy paid training, flexible schedules, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of making a difference in students' lives.

Find your seat on our team and help keep students moving toward success. Learn more and apply today: https://www.berksiu.org/page/transportation-careers
2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Find your seat on our team, begin a rewarding career this fall
Today, BCIU Transportation and Office of Professional Learning staff officially kicked off the 2026-2027 school year.

Transportation staff gathered to prepare for the thousands of student trips that will take place throughout the year. Through training, collaboration, and careful planning, they help ensure students travel to and from school safely, efficiently, and reliably each day.

BCIU Professional Learning staff and educational consultants also began laying the groundwork for another year of supporting educators across Berks County. Through workshops, conferences, coaching, and instructional support, they help strengthen teaching, learning, and student success.

From ensuring safe transportation to providing educators with the tools and resources they need to succeed, these teams make a meaningful impact every day.

Thank you to our Transportation Services and Professional Learning staff for your dedication, expertise, and commitment as we begin another school year!
2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Today, more than 400 educational leaders from Berks County's school districts, career and technology centers, and the Berks County Intermediate Unit came together for the annual Berks County Schools and BCIU Administrators' Conference.

As we prepare to begin the 2026-2027 school year, administrators gathered to welcome new school administrators, strengthen connections, explore professional learning opportunities, and receive important updates that will support students, staff, and school communities throughout the year.

Keynote speaker Manley Feinberg challenged participants to think differently about leadership and commitment. Through engaging stories and practical lessons, he encouraged attendees to build momentum through change, stay focused on their purpose, invest in strong relationships, and help others to reach their next summit. His message highlighted the importance of trust, teamwork, and shared commitment to excellence in serving students and schools.

A special thank you to the Muhlenberg School District for hosting this year's event and to everyone who helped make this year’s conference a meaningful and inspiring start to the new school year.
3 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
group of individuals smiling in front of stage
The BCIU is here for you! Through leadership support, regional collaboration, and professional learning opportunities, the Berks County Intermediate Unit helps educational leaders navigate change, share best practices, and plan for the future.

Throughout the year, the BCIU connects administrators through conferences, advisory groups, training programs, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen schools and support student achievement across Berks County. By bringing leaders together and providing valuable resources, the BCIU helps schools stay focused on what matters most: student success.

Learn more about the programs and services available through the BCIU: https://www.berksiu.org/o/bci-14/page/administrators

#BCIUforYou
3 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
BCIU for You

The BCIU is here for you! Through the Berks County Head Start Program, children and families receive educational opportunities, family support services, and resources designed to promote school readiness and lifelong success.

Head Start focuses on the development of the whole child while providing families with tools and supports that strengthen learning both at home and in the classroom. Together, we are helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Now Enrolling for Fall 2026! Learn more about Head Start at https://www.berksiu.org/page/berks-county-head-start

#BCIUforYou

3 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
The BCIU is Here for You: Early Childhood Education, Berks County Head Start