Today is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The BCIU extends sincere appreciation to our local law enforcement partners for the important work they do every day to help keep our students, staff, and families safe! #ThankYou
#DidYouKnow that school directors devote an average of 10 hours each month to Board responsibilities? January is School Director Recognition Month! Please join us in thanking these dedicated individuals for their tireless efforts, vision, leadership, and guidance that shape the future of our schools. We sincerely appreciate the unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions of our Board members to education! #SchoolDirectorRecognition #SchoolDirectorMonth
The BCIU Main Office will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025.
The BCIU Early Intervention program will operate through a teleintervention model (remote/virtual instruction).
The BCIU Head Start program will be closed.
The BCIU Pre-K Counts Programs at the Learning Center at the Education Centre, St. Daniel’s, St. Paul’s, and Immanuel will be closed. Classrooms within school district buildings should follow the decision of the district for weather delays, closures, or flexible instructional days. Please check Class DoJo for additional information.
Did you know, Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille code, was born on January 4, 1809? Tomorrow, we honor his remarkable legacy and the transformative impact Braille continues to have on millions of lives by celebrating World Braille Day.
The BCIU provides vision support services to students ages 5 through 21 who are visually impaired from various Berks County schools. Join us in celebrating the power of touch and connection! Braille is more than a system of raised dots; it is a bridge to literacy, independence, and empowerment for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. To learn more, visit https://nfb.org/celebrate-world-braille-day
"The notifications for possible snow started at 4:30 a.m. Custodians were preparing to ensure the parking lots and sidewalks were safe for staff, students, and families. The potential delay also initiated discussions in food services to ensure students would arrive at school and meals would be available. Secretaries were also on point, sending communications about delay schedules, answering phones and making sure that parents were greeted with a warm welcome."
In this Superintendents’ Forum, Dr. Cathy Taschner, Schuylkill Valley School District Superintendent, describes how food service workers, custodians and secretaries make great contributions to our schools.
To read the full article, visit: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1943030
Staff and students from the BCIU’s Deaf & Hard of Hearing classrooms, along with other students receiving hearing itinerant and educational interpreting services through the BCIU, enjoyed a roller-skating party at the Fantasy Roller Skating Center on Friday, December 13. The event brought together 20 students and 20 staff members, who enjoyed skating to music, socializing, pizza, and a special visit from “Signing Santa.”
The party also welcomed several visitors, including Dr. Michelle Reichard-Huff, Director of the Office of Early Childhood and Student Services (ECSS); Dr. Sara George, Assistant Director of ECSS; Dr. Tom Clouse, retired Assistant Program Administrator; and Stephanie Fains, a representative from Keystone Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services—a local agency offering services, resources, social opportunities, education, and advocacy for the deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing communities in Berks and surrounding counties.
The event was a wonderful opportunity to continue connections, celebrate community, and create cherished memories!
The Berks County Intermediate Unit wishes you a happy and healthy holiday season!
The Special Education / School Age program at the Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking multiple positions:
In search of a full-time Speech and Language Therapist. Job ID 1742. EOE
Speech and Language Services include evaluations, development of Individualized Education Plans (IEP), direct therapy, and consultation to teachers, parents, or appropriate staff under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), PA Chapter 14, and Act 212. Starting salaries range from $49,919 to $95,005.
In search of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Job ID 2074. EOE.
Are you passionate about student success? The Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking a full-time, 10 months/year Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
In this role, the BCBA is responsible for supporting individuals, families, and school personnel by coordinating and providing services in Applied Behavior Analysis, functional analysis and assessment, behavior intervention planning and implementation, and adaptive life skills. Starting salaries range from $49,919 to $95,005.
Pennsylvania Certification in Special Education preferred; Master’s Degree and Certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Required.
In search of an Itinerant ESL Teacher. Job ID 2142. EOE.
In this role, the Itinerant ESL Teacher is responsible for supporting the fundamental concepts and practices of English as a second language instruction for English language learners.
Pennsylvania Instructional Certification and English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist, K-12 certification required. Master’s Degree in a related field preferred. Starting salaries range from $49,919 to $95,005.
To learn more and apply online, visit berksiu.org/jobline. EOE.
"As we make our resolutions and look eagerly toward the new year, I want to take this opportunity to showcase the myriad of opportunities and services public education provides our students and communities."
In this Superintendents’ Forum, Aaron Weston, Oley Valley School District Superintendent, describes variety of services provided to students and communities.
To read the full article, visit: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1933386
The Head Start and Pre-K Counts programs at the Berks County Intermediate Unit are seeking multiple positions. For more information / to apply please visit berksiu.org/jobline.
The Head Start program at the BCIU is seeking a full-time Head Start Education Supervisor.
The ideal candidate cares about children and is dedicated to coordinating and ensuring the effective implementation of the Education component of the Head Start program. This includes supervising and training staff, conducting site visits, assisting with curriculum development, and collaborating with families and childcare providers.
A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education related field and a minimum of three (3) years of work experience with young children are required. Job ID 2155. EOE.
Seeking a 10-month Head Start Family Engagement Worker. The Head Start Program works to support children and families by helping prepare them for the transition to kindergarten and beyond.
This position is paramount in helping families to be an active part of their child’s education. As a Family Engagement Worker, you will not only have the opportunity to work as part of a dynamic team but also collaborate directly with families and community agency partners.
An associate degree, credential, or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling, or a related field is required. Bilingual/Spanish speaking preferred.
Job ID 2147. EOE.
In search of full-time Paraeducators (Teacher Assistants) in our Head Start and Pre-K Counts classrooms to provide services related to student instruction, family engagement, and school readiness. Not only will you have the chance to change a child's life, but they will change yours too. Job ID 1762. EOE.
The starting hourly rates for Head Start Paraeducators:
• High School diploma/GED and obtain CDA within 18 months - $16.45
• High School Diploma/GED plus CDA - $17.80
• Associate Degree in education/related field - $19.18
• Bachelor’s Degree in education/related field - $20.57
The starting hourly rates for Pre-K Counts Paraeducators:
• CDA, Para Credential, 2 years post-secondary study or Associate degree – $17.96
• Bachelor's degree or proof of RBT Certification – $19.31
The Early Intervention program at the Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking multiple positions:
In search of full-time and part-time Speech and Language Therapists (Job ID 2089/PT; FT – Job ID 2012, and Job ID 1689):
Speech and Language Services include evaluations, development of Individualized Education Plans (IEP), direct therapy, and consultation to teachers, parents, or appropriate staff under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), PA Chapter 14, and Act 212.
Starting salaries depend on education level and years of experience. They range from $49,919 to $95,005.
In search of full-time Paraeducators (Job ID 1761 – openings at various locations):
We are currently seeking Paraeducators (Teacher Assistants) to provide services related to student instruction, family engagement, and school readiness in our Early Intervention classrooms.
The hourly rate is based on education level and years of experience, ranging from $16.96 to $25.66.
Not only will you have the chance to improve a child's life, but they will change yours too!
Learn more and apply for these positions online at berksiu.org/jobline EOE.
Reminder! The deadline for school teams to register for the BCIU's STEM Design Challenge is quickly approaching. Please visit https://buff.ly/47F7xuV for more information and to register by Thursday, December 19.
WEATHER ALERT: December 16, 2024: Emergency Weather Updates – Delays and Cancellations
Early Intervention: There will be no AM transportation for students within the following school districts: Brandywine Heights, Hamburg Area, Kutztown Area, and Tulpehocken Area. The morning session of the specialized classroom at the Learning Center at Hamburg (Child Development Center 9) will be canceled. All other services and appointments will be held as planned.
Head Start: The BCIU Head Start Classroom at the Learning Center at Hamburg and the Learning Center at St. Daniel’s will operate on a two-hour delay.
Pre-K Counts: The BCIU Pre-K Counts Classroom at Tilden Elementary Center will operate on a two-hour delay.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is hiring! The BCIU Office of Early Childhood and Student Services (ECSS) is seeking talented individuals to join our team. Explore these exciting opportunities:
ACESS & Contracted Services Coordinator:
Requirements: Associate’s Degree in Business or related field or a minimum of five years’ experience related to management of funding and contracts.
Key Responsibilities: Research and maintain contacts with contract provider agencies. Research information, develop reports, and make recommendations to programs regarding contract and ACCESS revenue and accounts.
Bilingual Secretary
Requirements: High School diploma or equivalent required with three years clerical/secretarial or related experience preferred. Bilingual skills required (English/Spanish) within offices where this support is needed to serve the BCIU community.
Key Responsibilities: Provide secretarial support for the daily operations of the Office of ECSS – coordinating, organizing, maintaining daily staff schedules, scheduling appointments, serving as receptionist for program/office, organize incoming and outgoing correspondence, maintain an efficient and effective filing system, and maintain inventory of office supplies.
The BCIU United Way Committee is thrilled to announce that the BCIU | United Way Designer Bag Bingo fundraiser raised a grand total of $8,584.73! This incredible success was made possible by the generosity of local businesses, individual donors, and our dedicated Bingo attendees. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this event’s success.
Tina Blatt, Chair of the BCIU United Way Committee, and Nicole Abreu, Committee Member, proudly presented a check for $8,584.73 to Tammy White, President of United Way of Berks County, and Abigail Goldberg, Relationship Manager of United Way of Berks County. These proceeds will positively impact our community, and the BCIU is honored to support such an important cause. #FeatureFriday
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 the heart to serve, we encourage you to explore career opportunities with the BCIU!
Summary of position: The classroom specialist assists the professional staff to conduct an effective educational program, to provide support for at-risk students, and to provide for a safe and orderly environment.
Qualifications: Pennsylvania certification or Bachelor’s Degree and ability to acquire Emergency Permit through participation in the BCIU Guest Teacher Program.
Experience with children and youth who are neglected, abandoned, or abused and have emotional, learning, and social problems.
Full-time, 35 hours/week, 10 months/year. View full job description and apply online at www.berksiu.org/jobline. JOB ID 2086. EOE.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is hosting a Transportation Hiring Event TOMORROW, Wednesday, December 11, 2024, with immediate openings for school bus drivers, van drivers, and bus/van assistants in Berks County schools.
Bus drivers can earn up to $30.10 per hour, depending on experience. Van drivers can earn $20.60. Bus/van assistants can earn up to $17.25.
Have your CDL and proper endorsements? Receive a $1,500 bonus!
Interested in learning to drive a school bus? Receive paid training.
Learn more or RSVP for the event by calling 610-987-8471 or visiting berksiu.org/drivers.
Registration is preferred, but not required. Walk-ins welcome!
EVENT DETAILS:
When: Wednesday, December 11, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: Berks County Intermediate Unit Main Office (1111 Commons Blvd, Reading, PA 19605)
Thank you to Senator Judy Schwank, Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, and Representative Mark Gillen, for joining Berks County school district superintendents, career and technology directors, business officials, and BCIU leadership for the BCIU’s Annual Meeting with State Legislators this morning at the BCIU Main Office. Representatives from the offices of Senator Judy Schwank, Senator Scott Martin, Senator Tracy Pennycuick, Senator Katie Muth, Representative Cepeda-Freytiz, Senator Chris Gebhard, and Representative David Zimmerman also attended.
The meeting was a valuable platform to share information, exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and foster positive dialogue. Highlights included important legislative updates, a comprehensive overview of priority advocacy areas and State Mandates, an insightful panel discussion, and an engaging Q&A session between school administrators and legislators.
We sincerely thank all attendees for their participation and contributions. Together, we look forward to sustaining and enhancing collaborative efforts to support our students, educators, and schools by providing the essential resources and assistance needed for success.
"The last 20 years have seen so many changes. Technological advancements continue to push humanity into new and uncharted territory. The field of education in the United States has not been insulated from the progressive drumbeat. It has been marked by a parade of initiatives. No Child Left Behind. Race to the Top. Every Student Succeeds."
In this Superintendents’ Forum, Dr. Timothy Matlack, Antietam School District Superintendent, discusses how we should invest in the individuals who work with students.
To read the full article, visit: https://www.berksiu.org/article/1907851
December 5, 2024: Emergency Weather Updates – Delays and Cancellations
Early Intervention: There will be no AM transportation for students within the following school districts: Brandywine Heights, Hamburg Area, Kutztown Area, and Tulpehocken Area. The morning session of the specialized classroom at the Learning Center at Hamburg (Child Development Center 9) will be cancelled. All other services and appointments will be held as planned.
Head Start: The BCIU Head Start Classroom at the Learning Center at Hamburg will operate on a two-hour delay.
Pre-K Counts: The BCIU Pre-K Counts Classroom at Tilden Elementary Center will operate on a two-hour delay.
