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
Over 400 school administrators from Berks County’s 18 school districts and two career and technology centers attended the 2024 Berks County Schools and BCIU Administrators’ Conference this morning at Muhlenberg High School.
Organized by the Berks County Intermediate Unit Office of Professional Learning and the Office of the Executive Director, the event featured keynote speaker Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, author and former superintendent of the Fall Creek School District, WI. Dr. Sanfelippo emphasized the importance of recognizing and cultivating leadership traits in oneself and others, regardless of their role. By shifting their mindset to focus on identifying and nurturing leadership potential, individuals can create growth opportunities and foster an environment where everyone has a chance to lead. Furthermore, he demonstrated the importance of storytelling to recognize, acknowledge, and extend the greatness in our school communities.
The conference also included important updates for the upcoming school year and information on upcoming professional development opportunities. Thank you to all attendees, as well as Dr. Joseph Macharola, Superintendent, and the Muhlenberg School District for hosting the event. We are excited to begin the 2024-2025 school year with a renewed focus on leadership and collaboration!
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking full-time Speech and Language Therapists. Positions available for both school-age and early childhood age groups.
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.
Apply today at https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx?AppliTrackPostingSearch=speech%20therapist to start changing lives in Berks County! EOE.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking Building & Grounds Maintenance Workers! The BCIU has full-time positions available, Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. to perform lawn care / snow plowing, assist with custodial / maintenance duties, and perform mechanical / construction trades. Mechanical ability, and ability to operate lawn and snow / salt equipment required. Must be available to be on call for emergencies. Must have valid PA driver's license. High school diploma/GED required. Entry $15.90/hr.
Apply online at https://buff.ly/3TlD7cg. Job ID: 1960. EOE.
The deadline to apply for the BCIU's Fall 2024 Guest Teacher Program is quickly approaching THIS FRIDAY, July 12, 2024! The Berks County Intermediate Unit offers a Guest Teacher Program for individuals who are interested in serving as substitute teachers in Berks County. The program is designed to provide participants with limited or no classroom experience with the necessary training to qualify as day-to-day substitutes.
Anyone possessing a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited college or university is eligible to apply. For more information and to apply, visit https://www.berksiu.org/page/guest-teacher-program.
Applications for fall 2024 close Friday, July 12, 2024.
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 a Part-Time Custodian to maintain, clean, and assume primary responsibility for the St. Luke’s location.
General role responsibilities will consist of cleaning floors, carpets, bathrooms, emptying trash receptacles, and more.
Part-time | 4:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | 17.5 hours / week | 12 months / year.
If interested, please visit https://www.applitrack.com/berksiu/onlineapp/default.aspx.... Job ID: 2033. EOE.
Are you looking to grow professionally in the field of Early Childhood Education? If so, consider a career with the BCIU! We are currently seeking Paraeducators (Teacher Assistants) to provide services related to student instruction, family engagement, and school readiness in our BCIU Head Start, Early Intervention, and Pre-K Counts classrooms.
Not only will you have the chance to improve a child's life, but they will change yours too.
Learn more and apply online: https://buff.ly/3vZFdDx EOE.
Follow along on our Stories to see what is happening at the BCIU! If you need to reach out, DM us or email info@berksiu.org.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit is seeking Building & Grounds Maintenance Workers! The BCIU has full-time positions available, Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. to perform lawn care / snow plowing, assist with custodial / maintenance duties, and perform mechanical / construction trades. Mechanical ability, and ability to operate lawn and snow / salt equipment required. Must be available to be on call for emergencies. Must have valid PA driver's license. High school diploma/GED required. Entry $15.90/hr.
Apply online at https://buff.ly/3TlD7cg. Job ID: 1960. EOE.
Looking for activities for your student this summer? Go outside and try this fun art project! #TipTuesday
Create Melted Crayon Art in a few simple steps:
1. Take the wrapper off the crayons and sharpen them so it creates crayon shavings.
2. Crush the remaining pieces of your crayons so they are in small pieces.
3. Place the collection of crayon shavings on your canvas or paper in any design you want!
4. Place the canvas outside in the sun and watch your crayon art come to life!
Visit https://buff.ly/3Vc7yBg for more information.
Beginning today, Monday, June 24, 2024, through August 9, 2024, the BCIU Main Office will operate on the following summer hours:
Open: Mon-Thu, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Closed: Fridays.
It is not too late! The deadline to apply for the BCIU's Fall 2024 Guest Teacher Program is quickly approaching on July 12, 2024! The Berks County Intermediate Unit offers a Guest Teacher Program for individuals who are interested in serving as substitute teachers in Berks County. The program is designed to provide participants with limited or no classroom experience with the necessary training to qualify as day-to-day substitutes.
Anyone possessing a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited college or university is eligible to apply. For more information and to apply, visit our story highlights. Applications for fall 2024 close on July 12, 2024.
