Today, Friday, September 27, middle and high school students from Brandywine Heights Area School District, Muhlenberg School District, and the Pathways to Adult Living (PAL) program took part in “Tinker Day #1” at Penn State Berks. With help from PSU’s FiERCE mentors, they explored how toys work and began designing adaptive switches for students with special needs.
Thank you to Dr. Charles Stricker and Dr. Marietta Scanlon, Engineering Professors at Penn State Berks, for guiding students through this hands-on experience. This opportunity allowed for student collaboration, problem solving, and sharing different perspectives. Stay tuned for more on this year’s Toy Adaptation Day initiative with Tinker Day #2 on November 1 and Build Day on December 6! #STEM #AdaptiveTech
"The conditions for real change have arrived. For years, educators, parents, and community stakeholders have advocated for a more flexible, personalized approach to learning. School districts have been gradually introducing flexible career and learning options."
In this week’s Superintendents’ Forum, Christian Temchatin, Kutztown Area School District Superintendent, offers a vision for the future. To read the full article, visit: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1789475.
Happy Human Resource (HR) Professionals Day! Today, we celebrate our amazing HR professionals. By supporting employees, fostering a culture of belonging, guiding career growth, and so much more, HR teams are the backbone that keep our offices running smoothly.
A special thank you to the BCIU Office of Human Resources for your dedication and commitment to making our organization such a wonderful place to work.
To HR professionals in schools across the county, your support strengthens the learning experience for both students and staff. Thank you for the difference you make each day! #HRProfessionalsDay
Today, Wednesday, September 25, Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) staff welcomed members of the Boyertown Area School District (BASD) Board for a tour of the newly established BCIU Learning Center at Pine Forge, previously Pine Forge Elementary School. The center now hosts Preschool Early Intervention classrooms and services.
As a gesture of appreciation, the BCIU presented the BASD Board with a framed historic photograph, commemorating its legacy as Douglass Township Grade School, established in 1928, Pine Forge Elementary School in 1957, and now the BCIU Learning Center at Pine Forge in 2024. We are grateful for our partnership with the BASD and are thrilled to see students and staff filling the halls of this historic building once again.
A new season welcomes new opportunities. Choose to ‘fall’ in love with a new career path and expand your horizons by joining the Berks County Intermediate Unit! Explore available opportunities at www.berksiu.org/jobline.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is pleased to announce that Jay Worrall has been selected as the 2024 BCIU Outstanding Community Partner!
Established in 2014, this annual award is given to a leader and advocate within the Berks County community who demonstrates an understanding of the importance and role of the BCIU, believes strongly in the value of education services, and demonstrates that commitment through their actions over time. Jay Worrall was honored by the BCIU Board of Directors and administration at the September 19, 2024 BCIU Board meeting.
Learn more about Mr. Worrall and the BCIU Outstanding Community Partner Award at: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1775070 #FeatureFriday
Do you want to grow professionally in the field of Early Childhood Education? If so, consider a career with the BCIU! We are currently seeking Teachers and Paraeducators (Teacher Assistants) to provide services related to student instruction, family engagement, and school readiness in our Berks County Head Start classrooms.
Not only will you have the chance to improve a child's life, but they will change yours too. Visit www.berksiu.org/joinourteam to learn more and apply online.
Happy IT Professionals Day! Today, we celebrate the incredible IT professionals who keep our technology running smoothly and support our educational mission.
Thank you to the BCIU Office of Information Technology for your dedication and expertise. Your contributions are crucial to our organization’s daily operations and overall success. To IT professionals in schools across the county, your support enhances the learning experience for students and staff alike. Thank you for all you do to make a difference every day!
The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is seeking an Interventionist for our Nonpublic Schools Program to provide supplemental support in reading, math, and/or English language development. The ideal candidate should possess a strong understanding of reading fundamentals and demonstrate proficiency in teaching literacy to K-12 students. This individual must be skilled in assessing students, interpreting their strengths and challenges, and designing targeted lessons based on their needs.
In addition to literacy support, the candidate should be able to evaluate English language development and offer instructional recommendations to educators. The role requires both independent work and collaboration with BCIU staff, nonpublic school staff, and families.
Candidates must hold appropriate certification as a Reading Specialist, with preference given to those who also hold an ESL Program Specialist certification. The position is full-time, 37.5 hours/week, 10 months/year. Salary is established per BCIUEA Collective Bargaining Agreement. Apply online: www.berksiu.org/jobline. Job ID: 2067. EOE.
Sunday, September 15, is Online Learning Day. As we continue to embrace the power of technology, online learning shines as a beacon of innovation, making education more accessible and fostering a global learning community.
Discover how the Berks County Intermediate Unit is leading the way with online learning options for both students and professionals. Explore Berks Online Learning (BOL) for student opportunities: https://buff.ly/3RrMoin, and check out our Flexible Learning Environments for Excellence (FLEX) Professional Learning for career development: https://buff.ly/3jNN16Z.
“The 2024-2025 school year is upon us, and, like many other districts, the Conrad Weiser Area School District held an opening day in-service with our entire staff as a kickoff. This is one of my favorite times of the year because rarely can we have the entire district gather at once, and the energy in the room is amazing."
In this week’s Superintendents’ Forum, Dr. Ryan Giffing, Conrad Weiser Area School District Superintendent, offers a positive message to start the year. To read the full article, visit: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1760346
Yesterday, on World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10, 2024, Berks County middle and high school students had the incredible opportunity to hear from Kevin Hines, a nationally recognized speaker and suicide attempt survivor. The lunchtime event, which took place at the Miller Center for the Arts at the Reading Area Community College, focused on Kevin’s powerful story of hope and resilience, emphasizing the importance of mental health and human connection.
The event, hosted by the Berks MH/DD Program, Threshold Rehabilitation Services Inc., and the Berks County Intermediate Unit, also gave student-led mental health clubs a chance to showcase their vital work in their schools and our community.
For the suicide and crisis hotline, dial 988, or Berks County residents can contact Berks County Crisis Services at 610-379-2007.
On this Patriot Day, we honor the memory of the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to the bravery of the first responders, the resilience of survivors, and the unity of our nation.
Let us take a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifice shown that day and to recommit ourselves to the values of hope, freedom, and compassion that define us. #NeverForget
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, a day to raise awareness, spread hope, and show support to those who may be struggling. Together, we can break the stigma, start the conversation, and remind everyone that help is always available.
We encourage you to utilize and share the Berks County Community Mental Health Resources Webpage, a site designed to support individuals with tools and information regarding mental health, as well as listings of local hotlines, agencies, resources, and more in Berks County. Please visit https://www.berksiu.org/o/bci-14/page/berks-county-mental-health-resources.
You are not alone. Reach out, listen, and offer a hand. For the suicide and crisis hotline, dial 988. #WorldSuicidePreventionDay
Yesterday, September 8, was International Literacy Day! Literacy is the key that empowers individuals, unites communities, and opens doors to endless possibilities. It is an opportunity to honor the educators, writers, and organizations dedicated to promoting literacy around the world. Celebrate by diving into a good book this week!
Pictured: Dr. Hackman, Executive Director, reading "The Dot" to an Exeter School District classroom.
#Flashback to Thursday, August 1: The Reading Fightin Phils honored the PA Dream Team of Berks County as a FirstEnergy Neighborhood Champion! This recognition is given to organizations that help bring the community together at each home game.
The PA Dream Team, a program where young professionals in STEM-related manufacturing careers visit K-12 students, inspired 4,500 students in the 2023-2024 school year through 94 classroom presentations and community events. For more details, visit https://www.whatssocool.org/pa-dream-team/berks-county/. Congratulations to the PA Dream Team of Berks County! #FeatureFriday
What an incredible August we have had at the BCIU! We started the month with the BCIU Administrator's Conference, attended by nearly 400 Berks County school administrators. This was followed by a BCIU-sponsored Reading Fightin’ Phils game, where we strengthened our community connections and promoted opportunities for employment. In addition, partnering with multiple local organizations, BCIU representatives participated in the Back-to-School Resource Fair in Reading to give back to local families and prepare students for the school year. We also held Start of the Year | State of the Unit office and program meetings, setting the stage for an exciting and impactful year ahead. As the 2024-2025 school year begins, we are energized and ready to make a difference! #FeatureFriday
Are you looking for a career that would make a difference in the lives of children and families in Berks County? If so, consider a career with the BCIU!
We are seeking an Itinerant Emotional Support Teacher to provide direct, systematic instruction for students with special needs that will focus on helping students acquire academic skills, social skills, and coping skills at their levels of ability.
Valid PA certification in Special Education PK-12 required; certification in secondary subject area or dual certification in elementary/secondary education preferred. Excellent oral and written communication skills with youth and adults.
Minimum of five (5) years of teaching experience preferred. Previous successful experience with children who demonstrate at risk behaviors preferred.Learn more and apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx?AppliTrackPostingSearch=itinerant%20emotional%20support%20teacher Job ID 2076. EOE.
The BCIU anticipates an opening for an Interventionist in our Nonpublic Schools Program. This position involves providing supplemental support in reading, math, and/or English language development.
The ideal candidate should be an expert in reading instruction for K-12 students, skilled in assessing student performance, and capable of delivering targeted lessons. Experience in evaluating English language development and working both independently and collaboratively is essential. Certification as a Reading Specialist is required, with preference for those also certified as an ESL Program Specialist.
This is a full-time position, scheduled for 37.5 hours per week over 10 months. Salary is established per the BCIUEA Collective Bargaining Agreement. To apply, please visit www.berksiu.org/jobline and reference Job ID 2067. EOE.
On Sunday, August 4, the BCIU proudly sponsored a Reading #FightinPhils game at FirstEnergy Stadium. We extend our thanks to all the BCIU and The Pennsylvania Key staff, families, and friends who came out to support us and cheer on the Fightin Phils!
We are also grateful to the Fightin Phils for their partnership and continued support.
To learn more about job opportunities and join our dedicated team at the BCIU, visit berksiu.org/JoinOurTeam. #JoinOurTeam
