The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) celebrated its Board of Directors for their dedication and service during the January board meeting on Thursday, January 16, 2025, as part of School Director Recognition Month.
Across Pennsylvania, school directors devote an average of 10 volunteer hours each month to their responsibilities, according to the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA). Their work encompasses adopting policies, approving budgets, evaluating curriculum changes, conducting long-term planning, and making key hiring decisions. Additionally, school directors stay informed about issues impacting public education and explore innovative solutions to better serve students.
BCIU board members serve dual roles, contributing not only to the BCIU board but also to their home school district boards. Collectively, the 18 current members of the BCIU Board of Directors have nearly 85 years of service on the BCIU Board and over 170 years of service on their respective school districts’ boards.
Recognizing Exceptional Commitment
Every January, the BCIU recognizes the vital contributions of its board members. These individuals champion public education and play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for students across Berks County and beyond. Their decisions directly impact the lives of more than 70,000 local students and approximately two million students statewide.
For the past eight years, the BCIU has personalized its recognition efforts through the BCIU Annual Student Artwork Showcase. This year’s theme, “What do you see when you look out of your window? Reflections of your school district,” features artwork created by students from all 18 Berks County high schools. These pieces will be displayed in the BCIU boardroom throughout the year and showcased in a virtual gallery and video on the BCIU’s website: berksiu.org/page/student-artwork-showcase.
A Message of Gratitude
Dr. Jill M. Hackman, Executive Director of the BCIU, shared her appreciation:
“On behalf of the BCIU, I express my sincere gratitude to the BCIU Board of Directors for their leadership, vision, and ongoing commitment to the students and communities we serve. Their guidance and support enable us to fulfill our mission and create meaningful impact every day. Recognizing these individuals during School Director Recognition Month is a small gesture of our appreciation.
This year’s Student Artwork Showcase beautifully highlights the creativity and talent of our high school students while serving as a testament to the educational opportunities made possible through the dedication of our school directors. As part of our recognition, each BCIU board member receives a framed piece of artwork representing their district—a lasting reminder of the difference they make.”
BCIU board members include Gary McEwen, President, Twin Valley; Elizabeth Huhn, Vice President, Brandywine Heights Area; Linda Lash, Treasurer, Schuylkill Valley; James Ulrich, Secretary, Governor Mifflin; Rebecca DiSarro, Antietam; James Brophy, Boyertown Area; Bret Sabold, Conrad Weiser Area; Russell Jirik, Daniel Boone Area; John Fidler, Exeter Township; Lisa Bogacki, Fleetwood Area; Ryan Gebely, Hamburg Area; Daniel Wismer, Kutztown Area; Miguel Vasquez, Muhlenberg; Candice Corle, Oley Valley; Jonathan Tinoco, Reading; Christopher Heck, Tulpehocken Area; Dr. Amy Kennedy, Wilson; and David Hershey, Wyomissing Area.
The Berks County Intermediate Unit serves as the premier education services provider in Berks County and across the Commonwealth. Our mission is to provide high-quality resources, innovative services and programs, and responsible leadership to enrich the educational and social services needs of our children, families, schools, and the greater community.