Please join the Berks County Intermediate Unit in congratulating and celebrating the May 2025 BCIU Employee-of-the-Month, Cody Snyder! Cody is a Level VI Program Secretary, Transportation, in the Office of Operations and has worked at the BCIU for a year. “Mr. Snyder consistently goes above and beyond in his role, demonstrating exceptional dedication, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude that uplifts everyone around him,” said Julie Van Lear, Assistant Program Administrator for Transportation. “He approaches every challenge with professionalism and a solutions-focused mindset. Mr. Snyder exemplifies our core values of teamwork, integrity, and innovation, and his impact on the team and organization is truly appreciated.” #FunFact: Cody serves as Vice President of the Schuylkill Valley Youth Soccer Executive Board and Secretary of the Schuylkill Valley Education Foundation!
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
IU14 Employee Spotlight graphic featuring Cody Snyder as the May 2025 Employee of the Month. The image includes a professional headshot of Cody Snyder, who is smiling and wearing glasses and a light-colored shirt. The background has dark blue curtains with a spotlight effect highlighting the portrait.
The BCIU celebrated our Project SEARCH Intern Award Ceremonies on Wednesday, May 14, and Monday, May 19. We are proud to share that all 12 of our interns have successfully secured employment following completion of the program! Congratulations to each of them — we wish you continued success in your new roles!
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Project SEARH Penn State Health St. Joseph interns pose with teachers next to balloons.
Project SEARCH DoubleTree of Reading interns pose with teachers.
At the May 15 BCIU Board Meeting, Ella Damiani, a talented sophomore from Wilson High School in the Wilson School District, was recognized for her exceptional artistic talents! Each year, the BCIU selects one piece of student artwork from the Annual Secondary Art Exhibition to add to its permanent collection at the BCIU Main Office. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this meaningful tradition, with artwork dating back to 1995. Ella’s piece was selected for its creativity, technical skill, and expressive quality—earning a well-deserved place in the BCIU’s distinguished collection. Congratulations, Ella!
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Mr. Gary McEwen, BCIU Board president, Ella, her art teacher, and Julie Bunnick, BCIU Creative Team Coordinator, pose for photo with Ella holding award.
Ella's artwork. A landscape piece of a trail leading down to water, with flowers lining the trail.
At last night’s BCIU Board Meeting, five outstanding BCIU transportation drivers were honored with BCIU Champion Awards for placing in the top ten of the BCPTA School Bus Safety Competition! Wilma Herrera, Sharon Kissinger, Yolanda Moultrey-Whyte, Alicia Kachel, and Max Devlin will represent the BCIU at the state championship this June. We are proud to recognize their dedication to school bus safety and their commitment to excellence. Best of luck at states!
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
BCIU transportation champions pose for group photo!
At Camp Connect, children and teens (ages 6-16) will: Be with others their age who are also grieving Learn to identify and express painful emotions Develop new skills to cope with their loss This free four-day camp is designed to support kids on their grief journey. Camp Dates: June 16-19 & August 4-7 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon Sign up or learn more: berksiu.org/campconnect
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
A group of smiling children and adult volunteers wearing bright green Camp Connect t-shirts hold a banner with the Camp Connect logo. The banner reads “Camp Connect,” featuring a graphic of two hands shaking in blue and green. Text on the image promotes a free bereavement camp for children and teens ages 6–16 who have experienced the death of someone close to them. The dates and locations are June 16–19, 2025 (Temple/Muhlenberg area) and August 4–7, 2025 (Spring Township/Mohns Hill area). The words “YOU ARE NOT ALONE” appear in bold white letters on the left side.
This #NationalPoliceWeek, we are proud to honor and thank our dedicated law enforcement partners for their dedication to school safety.‍‍ We are grateful for your partnership and the impact you make in our schools and communities. Thank you for all you do—today and every day!
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
police officer with students in classroom
It is okay to ask for help. Whether you are managing anxiety, facing challenges, or supporting someone else, there are resources available to guide you. The Berks County Mental Health Resources Webpage offers access to trusted support services throughout the community. View the available resources here: https://www.berksiu.org/page/berks-county-mental-health-resources
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
two pairs of hands holding green ribbon
Are you looking for a career that would make a difference in the lives of children and families in Berks County? The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to make an impact on the 70,000+ students and their families in Berks County. If you have a heart to serve, we encourage you to explore career opportunities with the BCIU! The Dispatcher maintains efficient communications and route assignments among the fleet of vehicles operated by the BCIU Transportation Program, while also performing relief and/or back-up duties as a driver or transportation assistant. This part-time, 12-month position offers a starting hourly rate of $23.61 (effective 7/1/25). Schedule: 4 hours/day, 44 weeks/year; 3.5 hours/day, 8 weeks over summer. Learn and apply online at: https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx EOE. Job ID: 2217
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Graphic with a school bus illustration and text that reads: “BCIU (Berks County Intermediate Unit) is hiring a Transportation Dispatcher – Field and Sports Trips. Part-time. Hourly rate: $23.61. 4 hours/day, 44 weeks/year; 3.5 hours/day, 8 weeks over summer.” A red button says “Apply Now at berksiu.org/jobline.” Equal Opportunity Employer.
Mental health matters every day—and together, we can help break the stigma. The BCIU is proud to stand with Berks County in supporting mental health awareness by wearing green this May. Join us in showing your support and building a culture of understanding and care. Wear green, snap a photo, and tag #BerksGoesGreen to be part of the movement. Learn more about how the BCIU is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month: https://www.berksiu.org/article/2193921
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Green background with green ribbon. Text reads: #BerksGoesGreen and the BCIU logo is in the top right corner.
You are invited to the BCIU’s Early Childhood Exploration Day THIS Saturday, May 17, 2025! Bring your little learners (ages 3–5) for a fun-filled day of discovery, connection, and hands-on excitement! Families will explore interactive learning stations, connect with local resources, and engage in meaningful conversations with early childhood professionals. Learn more and register here: berksiu.org/grow
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Colorful promotional graphic for Early Childhood Exploration Day hosted by IU14. The text reads: “Engage + Grow – Early Childhood Exploration Day / Día de Exploración de la Primera Infancia. Saturday, May 17, 2025, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.” The background features a vibrant, multicolored floral and wave design with rays emanating from the center. IU14's logo is positioned in the top left corner.
Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this week is Mental Health Awareness Week? Mental Health Awareness Week is an important time to recognize that mental health is just as vital as physical health. The Berks County Intermediate Unit is committed to supporting the well-being of students, families, and staff across our community. To explore local support services, visit the Berks County Mental Health Resources Webpage: https://www.berksiu.org/page/berks-county-mental-health-resources
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
text says "mental health awareness week" with a map of the world in the background, and two green ribbons.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is hiring a Transportation Supervisor for the Kutztown Area School District. Join a mission-driven team making a difference for over 70,000 students and families in Berks County. The Transportation Supervisor maintains efficient communications for operation and route assignments, among a fleet of vehicles under the Berks County Intermediate Unit Transportation Department. This full-time, 12-month position offers a salary of $58,499 - $79,145 based on experience and education. (Salary effective 7/1/25) If you are a strong leader with a heart to serve, we encourage you to apply. Learn more and apply online at: https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx EOE. Job ID: 2215
about 1 month ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Graphic reads: "BCIU (Berks County Intermediate Unit) is hiring a Transportation Supervisor. Kutztown Area School District. Full-time, 12 months/year. $58,499 - $79,145 based on experience and education." A yellow and red background features a 3D cartoon-style yellow school bus. Text at the bottom says: "Apply now at berksiu.org/jobline. EOE."
Join us for an empowering afternoon with Dr. Barbara Sorrels, nationally recognized expert and CEO of Connected Kids, Inc.! Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Time: 1:00–2:30 p.m. Location: Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College Discover strategies to better understand and respond to your child’s challenging behaviors—because all behavior is a form of communication. A 30-minute Q&A will follow the session! Limited space available—register now: https://bit.ly/BCIU_May27
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
A flyer announcing an event titled "Understanding and Responding to Challenging Behaviors" presented on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Miller Center for the Arts Reading Area, Community College, 4 N 2nd Street, Reading, PA 19601. The flyer features a photograph of the presenter, Dr. Barbara Sorrels, CEO/Founder of Connected Kids, Inc. Text on the flyer states, "All behavior is a form of communication. This session will provide strategies to understand why your child is demonstrating challenging behavior and how you can respond to improve the behavior. There will be 30 minutes following the session for Q&A." It also indicates "Limited availability, register today!" with a QR code and a link: https://www.google.com/search?q=https://bit.ly/BCIU_May27. The event is hosted by the Office of Early Childhood & Student Services | ECSS. The background of the flyer features a close-up image of a purple flower.
A flyer in Spanish announcing an event titled "Comprender y Responder a los Comportamientos Desafiantes" (Understanding and Responding to Challenging Behaviors) presented on martes, 27 de mayo de 2025, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Miller Center for the Arts Reading Area, Community College, 4 N 2nd Street, Reading, PA 19601. The flyer includes a photograph of the presenter, Dra. Barbara Sorrels, CEO/Fundadora de Connected Kids, Inc. Text on the flyer states, "Todo comportamiento es una forma de comunicación. This session will provide strategies to understand why your child is demonstrating challenging behavior and how you can respond to improve the behavior. There will be 30 minutes following the session for Q&A." It also indicates "¡Disponibilidad Limitada, regístrese hoy!" (Limited availability, register today!) with a QR code and a link: https://www.google.com/search?q=https://bit.ly/BCIU_May27. The event is hosted by the Office of Early Childhood & Student Services | ECSS. The background of the flyer features a close-up image of a purple flower.
The BCIU is hiring Head Start Teachers and Paraeducators! Looking for a rewarding job? Join a team making a difference in early childhood education. Competitive starting hourly rates based on your qualifications: Teacher Pay Rates: • Associate Degree – $27.59+ • Bachelor’s Degree – $29.65+ • Bachelor’s + Early Childhood Certification – $31.04+ • Master’s Degree – $33.10+ • Master’s + Early Childhood Certification – $34.47+ Paraeducator Pay Rates: • High school diploma/GED + CDA (within 18 months) – $16.45 • High school diploma/GED + CDA – $17.80 • Associate Degree (education/related) – $19.18 • Bachelor’s Degree (education/related) – $20.57 Apply now at berksiu.org/JoinOurTeam. EOE.
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
BCIU is hiring Head Start Teachers and Paraeducators. Apply at berksiu.org/JoinOurTeam. Colorful megaphone graphic on a navy and red background.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit congratulates Beth Quigg, Level II Custodian at the BCIU Main Office, on being honored with a BCIU Champion Award today! Beth was nominated for this award by Mary Ellen Ebeling and Julia Snyder, teachers from the Pathways to Adult Living (PAL) Program, for the incredible impact she makes each day. Beth goes above and beyond in her role as custodian—welcoming PAL students with kindness, teaching them valuable custodial skills, and making meaningful connections that brighten their day (and hers!). Students love working with her and often race in each morning hoping to be on “Team Beth.” Thank you, Beth, for showing us all the power of compassion, mentorship, and what it truly means to be a #BCIUChampion!
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
PAL students and BCIU staff pose with Beth and her champion award and flowers.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is hiring an English as a Second Language (ESL) Supervisor! Join a mission-driven team making a difference for over 70,000 students and families in Berks County. The ESL Supervisor leads the development and delivery of high-quality, culturally responsive programs for English learners across PreK–12. This full-time, 12-month position offers a salary of $77,224–$90,850 based on experience and education. If you're a strong leader with a heart to serve, we encourage you to apply. Learn more and apply online at: https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx?AppliTrackPostingSearch=ESL EOE. Job ID: 2210.
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Promotional graphic from the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) announcing a job opening for an English as a Second Language (ESL) Supervisor. The text reads: “BCIU is hiring a English as a Second Language (ESL) Supervisor. Reading School District. Great Benefits. Full-time, 12 months/year. $77,224–$90,850/year based on experience and education. Apply now at berksiu.org/jobline. EOE.” The background features bold red and yellow colors with 3D blue and yellow speech bubbles in the bottom right corner.
Please join the Berks County Intermediate Unit in congratulating and celebrating the April 2025 BCIU Employee-of-the-Month, Amanda Bentz! Amanda is a Project SEARCH Instructor in the Office of Professional Learning and has worked at the BCIU for almost 3 years. “Amanda is a leader for our transition to adult life team. She is proactive in checking in and maintaining connections with our teaching staff for each of our programs,” said Jessica Head, Program Administrator in the Office of Early Childhood and Student Services. “Amanda is a go-getter. If a student or team member has an idea that needs to come to fruition, she makes it happen! Not only is she a leader with her own internal team, but she is also a leader in supporting new Project SEARCH teachers throughout our region. ” #FunFact: Amanda loves camping, nature, and being in the trees!
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
IU14 Employee Spotlight: Amanda Bentz April 2025 Employee of the month. Photo of Amanda in center.
Today, Antietam School District (ASD) celebrated our amazing BCIU transportation drivers who proudly serve ASD for School Bus Driver Appreciation Day! Thank you to school bus drivers, van drivers, and bus / van assistants in Berks County and across the Commonwealth for your dedication, safe driving, and the care you show our students every day.
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
BCIU transportation driver holding gift
BCIU transportation driver holding gift
BCIU transportation driver holding gift
BCIU transportation driver holding gift
BCIU transportation driver holding gift with another woman
BCIU cake that says “thank you for all that you do!” with the BCIU logo
BCIU bus on cake and text says “happy school bus driver appreciation day!"
Join us for an empowering afternoon with Dr. Barbara Sorrels, nationally recognized expert and CEO of Connected Kids, Inc.! Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Time: 1:00–2:30 p.m. Location: Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College Discover strategies to better understand and respond to your child’s challenging behaviors—because all behavior is a form of communication. A 30-minute Q&A will follow the session! Limited space available—register now: https://bit.ly/BCIU_May27
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
Promotional flyer for an event titled “Understanding and Responding to Challenging Behaviors” with Dr. Barbara Sorrels, CEO/Founder of Connected Kids, Inc. The event takes place Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 1:00–2:30 p.m. at the Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College in Reading, PA. The flyer features a close-up image of a blue and purple flower and a photo of Dr. Sorrels. It states that the session will provide strategies to understand challenging behavior and includes 30 minutes for Q&A. Hosted by the Office of Early Childhood & Student Services at BCIU. A registration QR code and link (https://bit.ly/BCIU_May27) are included.
Losing a loved one is never easy, especially for children and teens. Camp Connect provides a safe, supportive space for grieving youth (ages 6-16) to connect, express their emotions, and build coping skills. This free bereavement camp is open to children in Berks County. Camp Dates: June 16-19, 2025 (Temple/Muhlenberg Area) August 4-7, 2025 (Spring Township/Mohns Hill Area) Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon Register or learn more: berksiu.org/campconnect
about 2 months ago, Berks County Intermediate Unit
camp connect, you are not alone. photo of therapy dog with owner and child.