August/Back to School 2026 Newsletter
August/Back to School 2026 Newsletter
Embedded Files
Featured Events
Featured Events
PAstatewideBookStudy_Invite_BCIU- no registration.pdfPASCL Statewide
Book Study
PASCL Statewide
Book Study
Join educators from across Pennsylvania for a free virtual book study of Teaching Students to Drive Their Learning. Through four interactive Zoom sessions, you'll explore practical strategies for fostering student ownership, increasing engagement, and building independence in the classroom.
This book study is FREE for BCIU member school districts and CTC Educators
Connect with fellow educators, reflect on your current practices, and gain actionable ideas you can implement immediately. Designed with busy educators in mind, this book study offers relevant, manageable learning that can be applied across grade levels and classroom settings.
First 40 Berks County district employees will recieve a free copy of the book via interroffice mail!
3 exciting days to choose from!
Open to ALL!
FREE for BCIU member school districts and CTC Educators
Open flyer above for registration links!
For Educators
For Educators
Common In-Service Day
Common In-Service Day
Check out the Common In-service website for information about all of the job-alike groups you can join for a day of learning
STEM Pioneers Regional Educator Workshop
STEM Pioneers Regional Educator Workshop
Targeted Audience: 4th and 5th Elementary Educators
Date: Saturday, November 7th , 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
FREE Kit and Lunch Provided!
Learn more and Contact Jen Gossert with questions
You're invited! Reach out to Kendy Schiffert if interested!
BCIU FLEX Courses
BCIU FLEX Courses
Did you know that Berks IU Office of Professional Learning offer MANY online, asynchronous courses? Courses cover a wide range of topics and offer Act48 hours. These courses are FREE for BCIU member school districts and CTC Educators.
Math Matters
Math Matters
Math Community of Practice
Math Community of Practice
Dates: 9/14, 11/16, 1/25, 3/15, 5/3
Time: 1-3pm
Reach out to Jennifer Joyce for details
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Mini-Grants are open to students ages 11–25 worldwide who are leading or developing projects that address the root cause of plastic pollution. Projects can take place in your school, neighborhood, or broader community. Each Student Mini-Grant provides $500 to support their unique, solutions focused projects. Each applicant must also identify an adult advisor who can provide guidance and support along the way.
Exploring Our Environment:
Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Exploring Our Environment:
Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Join us Tuesday, September 22 at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center for a hands-on workshop exploring environmental literacy and sustainability in Berks County.
Register today!
EnviroSeries_082726.pdfBack to Nature:
An Environmental Literacy + Sustainability Series
Educators are invited to join us for 1, 2 or 3 workshops to learn more about EE in Berks County
You can scan the QR codes or there are links embedded in the PDF
Thursday, September 24, 2026
4:00 - 5:00 PM EST
Whether you’re a classroom teacher or a nonformal educator, PAEE will break down what STEELS are, why it matters for environmental education, and how PAEE’s resources and programs can support your work all year long.
For Students
For Students
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
October 28 – Keystone Competition (5th-8th grade)
November 20 – Invention Convention (K-12)
Both are being held at BCIU’s Main Office
Reach out to Jillian Darlington with questions!
Reading Aviation Career Fair
Reading Aviation Career Fair
Friday, October 9
9am - 2pm
Friday, October 9
9am - 2pm
Esports
Esports
Are you an Esports Coach or Leader looking for your community? No matter what league you play for, you are invited to Join PSEL's Educator Network!
Are you looking to start or enhance an Esports club or team in your school- join us! You can also reach out to Kendy Schiffert for support and connections!
or attend our Esports 101 Workshop
October 27 9-11am
PSEL Fall Season Date Saver
PSEL Fall Season Date Saver
Pre-Season/Registration on Rally Cry: Now - 9/18
Fall Coaches' Meeting: Tues 9/15 3:30-4:30
Southern PA Coach Meet-up: Tuesday 10/14 3-3:30
Fall Season: 9/21-11/13
Playoffs: 11/16-11/24
Finals in Harrisburg (tentative): 12/8 & 12/9
PSEL Titles for Fall Season
PSEL Titles for Fall Season
Mondays- Rocket League 3v3 (HS/MS)
Tuesdays- Fortnite 2v2 (HS)
Wednesdays- Smash 3v3 (HS/MS)
Thursdays- Marvel Rivals 6v6 (HS)
Unified Mario Cart- Asynchronous weekly trials
All PSEL Matches take place starting at 3:30pm
Minecraft Edu Educator Training
Minecraft Edu Educator Training
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Portrait of an AI Graduate
Portrait of an AI Graduate
Check out ISTE+ASCD's
Portrait of an AI Graduate
Do you use Claude?
Do you use Claude?
Claude is offering a FREE paid version for teachers. Learn more here
Summer 2026 Newsletter
Summer 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
3 exciting days to choose from!
Open to ALL!
Open flyer above for registration links!
For Educators
For Educators
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Join us Tuesday, September 22 at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center for a hands-on workshop exploring environmental literacy and sustainability in Berks County.
Register today!
PAstatewideBookStudy_Invite_BCIU- no registration.pdfPASCL Statewide
Book Study
PASCL Statewide
Book Study
Join educators from across Pennsylvania for a free virtual book study of Teaching Students to Drive Their Learning. Through four interactive Zoom sessions, you'll explore practical strategies for fostering student ownership, increasing engagement, and building independence in the classroom.
Connect with fellow educators, reflect on your current practices, and gain actionable ideas you can implement immediately. Designed with busy educators in mind, this book study offers relevant, manageable learning that can be applied across grade levels and classroom settings.
First 40 Berks County district employees will recieve a free copy of the book via interroffice mail!
PA Science Teachers Association Conference
PA Science Teachers Association Conference
75 years of Discovery:
Inspiring the Future of Science Education
Summer Administrator & School Leader Session
Summer Administrator & School Leader Session
Following up on our summer administrator sessions in June, one additional administrator session has been scheduled to continue discussing STEELS implementation updates, share guidance, and answer questions to support sustained implementation during the 2026-27 school year. The session will begin with updates and guidance, followed by an open Q&A.
PETE&C is preparing for a great conference in 2027!!!
Do you have something to share that is innovative, collaborative, or future-focused?
PETE&C presenters will have the unique opportunity and privilege to share their expertise with conference attendees.
If you are interested in presenting, please complete the Request For Proposal Form by August 15!
For Students
For Students
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
October 28 – Keystone Competition (5th-8th grade)
November 20 – Invention Convention (K-12)
Both are being held at BCIU’s Main Office
Reach out to Jillian Darlington with questions!
May 2026 Newsletter
May 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
ALL are invited! Join us June 18th at Berks Nature Center for an interactive day of learning with a blend of fresh content, collaborative problem-solving, and space for educators to share their successes and challenges.
For Educators
For Educators
Inside Berks business (iBb), is a three-day program designed to inform Berks County educators of the skills and competencies students must have to be successful in their future careers.
Receive 40 Act 48 hours, an iBb completion certificate, and a $500 stipend.
Here is additional information about the opportunities offered by iBb, as well as a brochure.
Space is limited to 40 participants; register here!
Common Inservice Day
Common Inservice Day
October 12, 2026
More details to come!
October 12, 2026
More details to come!
3 exciting days to choose from!
Open to ALL!
Open flyer for registration links!
Ag in the Classroom
Ag in the Classroom
Five unique opportunities for public school educators to get FREE professional development AND free hardware shipped right to your door. Whether you're brand new to coding or a seasoned tech teacher, there's something for you this summer.
Why Pathfinders Summer Institute?
FREE PD & FREE Hardware (yes, really!) for US-based teachers and coaches in public schools, public charter schools, or public libraries
5 course choices from CodeJoy
LIVE learning online with flexible scheduling to fit your summer
Limited spots available — register ASAP! (word on the streets has it that they are closing in a week or so!)
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
SCL_June2026Wkshp_Invite_102325.pdfThe Student-Centered Classroom: Voices, Choice and Agency
Conference
June 15th, 2026
8:30-2:30pm at CLIU in Schnecksville
Join us for an inspiring workshop focused on transforming classrooms into spaces where students are empowered to lead their own learning. This event will bring together educators, leaders, and practitioners to explore real-world strategies, share successes and challenges, and build a community committed to student-centered practices.
Math Matters
Math Matters
Thinking Classrooms in Action
Thinking Classrooms in Action
Designed specifically for educators who attended our March training or have prior experience implementing Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC), this session is the next step in your professional journey. We will begin by reconnecting as a community of practice to debrief our spring experiences-sharing what worked, what challenged us, and the aha moments that occurred when our students started standing at the boards. In the second half of this hands-on workshop, grade-level teams will dive back into the framework to architect a concrete start-of-the-year launch plan. Using the BTC Task Book, you will work alongside colleagues to curate a high-impact collection of non-curricular tasks designed to establish routines and build a culture of thinking from Day 1. You will leave with a refined roadmap and a toolkit of strategies to ensure your students spend the year engaging with mathematics in meaningful, collaborative ways. Participants will receive a copy of Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom for their grade level band. The enrollment fee can be waived for anyone that already has a copy of the book. Please contact Jennifer Joyce for more information on waiving the fee.
Leading for Mathematical Impact
Leading for Mathematical Impact
Registration is Now OPEN! - click here
This one-day virtual event, hosted by BLaST IU 17 and Carbon Lehigh IU 21, is designed to strengthen mathematics instructional leadership across Pennsylvania. Presenters include representation from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Intermediate Units across the
Commonwealth.
Participants can expect presentations that cover the following themes:
· Understanding the Math Classroom and Continuum
· Effective Math Instructional Leadership
· Data-Driven Conversation and Action-Planning
· Formative Feedback for Teacher Growth
· Math Curriculum Leadership
For Students
For Students
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
October 28 – Keystone Competition
November 20 – Invention Convention
Both are being held at BCIU’s Main Office
Esports
Esports
Are you an Esports Coach or Leader looking for your community? No matter what league you play for, you are invited to Join PSEL's Educator Network!
Are you looking to start or enhance an Esports club or team in your school- join us! You can also reach out to Kendy Schiffert for support and connections!
April 2026 Newsletter
April 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
K-12 Educators- join us for a hands-on learning experience on May 18th from 9am-2pm at Colonial Intermediate Unit in Easton, where educators build computational thinking skills through engaging board games, hear fresh insights from Kutztown University and local district partners, and walk away with fun, ready-to-borrow games and classroom-ready ideas. This event is sponsored by Remake Learning Days!
K-12 Educators- join us for a hands-on learning experience on May 18th from 9am-2pm at Colonial Intermediate Unit in Easton, where educators build computational thinking skills through engaging board games, hear fresh insights from Kutztown University and local district partners, and walk away with fun, ready-to-borrow games and classroom-ready ideas. This event is sponsored by Remake Learning Days!
Berks STEM Ecosystem Event
Berks STEM Ecosystem Event
This event brings together educators and local business leaders to explore how AI is used in schools and industry, understand workforce needs for high‑school graduates, and build connections that strengthen the future workforce in Berks County.
For Educators
For Educators
Inside Berks business (iBb), is a three-day program designed to inform Berks County educators of the skills and competencies students must have to be successful in their future careers.
Educator Interns will:
Choose a pathway of interest
Visit 3-6 different businesses, in their chosen pathway, over 3 days under the direction of a business mentor.
Create a visual slide presentation describing the iBb program and outcomes.
Write two (2) lessons describing how career awareness activities will be integrated into your program.
Receive 40 Act 48 hours, an iBb completion certificate, and a $500 stipend.
Here is additional information about the opportunities offered by iBb, as well as a brochure.
Space is limited to 40 participants; register here!
You're invited to come check out the Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) Challenge!
You're invited to come check out the Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) Challenge!
Challenge Day is set for Thursday, April 30, 2026, held at Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC), West Campus in Leesport, PA. Details can be found on the SEAL website.
Common Inservice Day
October 12, 2026
More details to come!
Common Inservice Day
October 12, 2026
More details to come!
Released items for Science PSSA and Keystone Biology are now available via DRC’s testing portal. Click on Item Samplers to view items.
Resources curated here for you from Lyn Hilt: Assessment
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) invites you to buckle up and get ready for takeoff at its 113th Annual Dinner.
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) invites you to buckle up and get ready for takeoff at its 113th Annual Dinner.
Join GRCA as it welcomes Mike Massimino, former NASA Astronaut, as its keynote speaker. Massimino will present “Be Ready for the Future: Change is Inevitable, Accept and Embrace It.”
Join GRCA as it welcomes Mike Massimino, former NASA Astronaut, as its keynote speaker. Massimino will present “Be Ready for the Future: Change is Inevitable, Accept and Embrace It.”
It is almost time for
Remake Learning Days!!
It is almost time for
Remake Learning Days!!
The concept of this event is for local organizations (including schools) to create and facilitate student learning experiences for the children in our communities. Events are intended to be hands-on, interactive, and fun, and the events are enhanced because of the connection formed between your organization and the participation of families in your community.
RLDAA is region-specific. Events to be included in this year’s Southeast region of Pennsylvania will run from May 1 to May 23, and we hope your organization can design and facilitate an event for students and their families during this timeframe.
Events can include topics such as:
• The Arts
• Makerspaces Activities
• Outdoor Learning
• Science
• Technology
• Youth Voice
• …and Educator Professional Development
If you have an event coming up that fits one of these topics- add it to the Remake Learning website and let's celebrate together!
So many events to check out already, such as...
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Check out the new
Check out the new
SE ELIT Hub!
SE ELIT Hub!
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
Join us June 18th at Berks Nature Center for an interactive day of learning with a blend of fresh content, collaborative problem-solving, and space for educators to share their successes and challenges.
Also check out the PA State Parks
Looking for an Earth Day Resource?
Looking for an Earth Day Resource?
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
SCL_June2026Wkshp_Invite_102325.pdfThe Student-Centered Classroom: Voices, Choice and Agency
Conference
June 15th, 2026
8:30-2:30pm at CLIU in Schnecksville
Join us for an inspiring workshop focused on transforming classrooms into spaces where students are empowered to lead their own learning. This event will bring together educators, leaders, and practitioners to explore real-world strategies, share successes and challenges, and build a community committed to student-centered practices.
Giving students opportunities to utilize voice, choice or agency in YOUR classroom?
Please come share!
Request for proposals is open and we want to celebrate YOU and the ways you are empowering students here in Berks County- big or small!
Sign up here to receive:
Invitations to quarterly PASCL network meetings
Monthly Newsletters
Other SCL Opportunities and Resources!
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Designing Critical Thinking Assessments in the Age of AI: Prompt and Context Engineering Workshop
Designing Critical Thinking Assessments in the Age of AI: Prompt and Context Engineering Workshop
Register and Details on the SMILE Framework Website
For Students
For Students
Celebrate Science Day
SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026
1 PM - 5 PM
READING REGIONAL AIRPORT
Celebrate Science Day
SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026
1 PM - 5 PM
READING REGIONAL AIRPORT
Explore the science of flight in all its forms along with interactive STEM activities, soaring live demos, food trucks, themed characters, and fun for the whole family!
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
STEM Student Competition Dates 2026-2027
October 28 – Keystone Competition
November 20 – Invention Convention
Both are being held at BCIU’s Main Office
Math Matters
Math Matters
Two professional learning “toolkits” developed by the Regional Educational Laboratory Central through the Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. Both support the implementation of evidence-based recommendations and were shared by Kevin Mauro from PDE.
Two professional learning “toolkits” developed by the Regional Educational Laboratory Central through the Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. Both support the implementation of evidence-based recommendations and were shared by Kevin Mauro from PDE.
This toolkit is designed to support algebra educators in implementing evidence-based recommendations described in the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Teaching Strategies for Improving Algebra Knowledge in Middle and High School Students) practice guide.
This toolkit is designed for increasing student understanding of fractions from the What Works Clearinghouse practice guide Developing Effective Fractions Instruction for Kindergarten Through 8th Grade.
Esports
Esports
Super Smash Brothers Tournament
May 16 at Conrad Weiser HS
Super Smash Brothers Tournament
May 16 at Conrad Weiser HS
Are you an Esports Coach or Leader looking for your community? No matter what league you play for, you are invited to Join PSEL's Educator Network!
Are you looking to start or enhance an Esports club or team in your school- join us! You can also reach out to Kendy Schiffert for support and connections!
March 2026 Newsletter
March 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
Experience some of the STEM that Berks County has to offer! Join us for our final STEM Educators Network Meeting.
Experience some of the STEM that Berks County has to offer! Join us for our final STEM Educators Network Meeting.
March 26th 9:00-2:00
Berks STEM Ecosystem Event
Berks STEM Ecosystem Event
This event brings together educators and local business leaders to explore how AI is used in schools and industry, understand workforce needs for high‑school graduates, and build connections that strengthen the future workforce in Berks County.
For Educators
For Educators
Remake Learning Days is excited to invite 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms to participate in discoverED, a free statewide design challenge launching Remake Learning Days 2026 across Pennsylvania!
Remake Learning Days is excited to invite 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms to participate in discoverED, a free statewide design challenge launching Remake Learning Days 2026 across Pennsylvania!
Educators can register their interest here.
Interest Form closes March 21
K-12 Educators- join us for a hands-on learning experience on May 18th from 9am-2pm at Colonial Intermediate Unit in Easton, where educators build computational thinking skills through engaging board games, hear fresh insights from Kutztown University and local district partners, and walk away with fun, ready-to-borrow games and classroom-ready ideas. This event is sponsored by Remake Learning Days!
K-12 Educators- join us for a hands-on learning experience on May 18th from 9am-2pm at Colonial Intermediate Unit in Easton, where educators build computational thinking skills through engaging board games, hear fresh insights from Kutztown University and local district partners, and walk away with fun, ready-to-borrow games and classroom-ready ideas. This event is sponsored by Remake Learning Days!
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Check out the new
Check out the new
SE ELIT Hub!
SE ELIT Hub!
Visit the hub to learn more about:
Students Project Grants
Teaching Green Symposium in June
Also check out the PA State Parks
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
Join us June 18th at Berks Nature Center for an interactive day of learning with a blend of fresh content, collaborative problem-solving, and space for educators to share their successes and challenges.
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Sign up here to receive:
Invitations to quarterly PASCL network meetings
Monthly Newsletters
Other SCL Opportunities and Resources!
SCL_June2026Wkshp_Invite_102325.pdfThe Student-Centered Classroom: Voices, Choice and Agency
Conference
June 15th, 2026
8:30-2:30pm at CLIU in Schnecksville
Join us for an inspiring workshop focused on transforming classrooms into spaces where students are empowered to lead their own learning. This event will bring together educators, leaders, and practitioners to explore real-world strategies, share successes and challenges, and build a community committed to student-centered practices.
Giving students opportunities to utilize voice, choice or agency in YOUR classroom?
Please come share!
Request for proposals is open and we want to celebrate YOU and the ways you are empowering students here in Berks County- big or small!
Esports
Esports
Are you an Esports Coach or Leader looking for your community? No matter what league you play for, you are invited to Join PSEL's Educator Network!
Are you looking to start or enhance an Esports club or team in your school- join us! You can also reach out to Kendy Schiffert for support and connections!
Join us on Friday, April 24, for an exciting day of events that will immerse
you in Harrisburg University’s esports culture, programs, and academic
offerings!
Join us on Friday, April 24, for an exciting day of events that will immerse
you in Harrisburg University’s esports culture, programs, and academic
offerings!
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Designing Critical Thinking Assessments in the Age of AI: Prompt and Context Engineering Workshop
Designing Critical Thinking Assessments in the Age of AI: Prompt and Context Engineering Workshop
Register and Details on the SMILE Framework Website
For Students
For Students
The ASM International Lehigh Valley Chapter is excited to offer a free annual Student Materials Camp for rising high school juniors and seniors, taking place July 6–10 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM at Lehigh University’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering. 16 selected students will engage in hands-on lab experiments, attend dynamic presentations, connect with professors and industry professionals, and receive daily transportation from the Reading area.
The ASM International Lehigh Valley Chapter is excited to offer a free annual Student Materials Camp for rising high school juniors and seniors, taking place July 6–10 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM at Lehigh University’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering. 16 selected students will engage in hands-on lab experiments, attend dynamic presentations, connect with professors and industry professionals, and receive daily transportation from the Reading area.
Students can find more details and the application form here:
Materials Camp – ASM International Lehigh Valley Chapter
They also host a teachers camp!
Poster contest info.pdf2026 Conservation Poster Contest for grades K-6
Did you know...
BCIU runs a variety of student competitions every year!
These include:
PA Invention Convention (K-12)
STEM Design Challenge (4-8)
SEAL Challenge (9-12)
Keystone Competition
To learn more, reach out to
Jillian Darlington
or
Keep your eyes on this section of our newsletter!
Math Matters
Math Matters
This event will feature a screening of the Counted Out documentary, Q&A session with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and a World Café discussion on equitable math experiences
Resource Alert!
Resource Alert!
UT Math SPIRAL provides coaching and professional learning for Grades 4–5 math educators to strengthen evidence‑based instruction and small‑group interventions, accelerating post‑pandemic math gains for students with or at risk for disabilities.
Message from Jen Joyce about this resource: "They have a TON of videos that explain how to support students with specific concepts. I would point folks towards the multiple representations under Resources to see various methods that can help develop a conceptual understanding of the skills at 4th and 5th grades"
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
February 2026 Newsletter
February 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
PA public schools now have free access to Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels, a short educational documentary originally produced for IMAX theaters and science museums. The film aligns with STEELS Standards for grades 3–12, is available in 20- and 40-minute versions (including a Spanish-language option), and is accompanied by a complimentary Educator Guide with hands-on STEM activities developed by the Kamin Science Center. I encourage you to review the attached materials and share this opportunity with educators in your districts. Teachers can sign up for access to the film using this link.
For Educators
For Educators
OER Commons has a whole set of STEM Resources for Educators!
Check them out if you haven't yet!
CS in PA Newsletter- Look inside for opportunities such as:
Capture the Flag Cybersecurity Workshops- Stipend for Educators
Quorum Game Design- Accessible CS Pathway for Educators
CyberBytes Webinar Series
FAA Pathway
2026 PA- CSTA Unconference - registration is open!
IES12251032 LEGO® Education Science Workshop Save the Date (2).pdfRET flyer final.pdfEnvironmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Environmental Literacy and Sustainability/ Environmental Ed
Check out the new
Check out the new
SE ELIT Hub!
SE ELIT Hub!
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Join us February 27th at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center for a hands-on workshop exploring environmental literacy and sustainability in Berks County. Register today!
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
Join us June 18th at Berks Nature Center for an interactive day of learning with a blend of fresh content, collaborative problem-solving, and space for educators to share their successes and challenges. Register on Frontline
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Student - Centered Learning: Benefitting ALL Classrooms!
Sign up here to receive:
Invitations to quarterly PASCL network meetings
Monthly Newsletters
Other SCL Opportunities and Resources!
SCL_June2026Wkshp_Invite_102325.pdfGiving students opportunities to utilize voice, choice or agency in YOUR classroom?
Please come share!
Request for proposals is open and we want to celebrate YOU and the ways you are empowering students here in Berks County- big or small!
For Students
For Students
Congratulations to Governor Mifflin SD for moving on to Invention Convention FINALS in Chicago this summer!
BCIU is proud to serve as leaders in this event, and are thrilled to see our STEM Lending Library resources being utilized so perfectly!
The BCCD is proud to announce the annual scholarship application is OPEN as well as the Don Hartman Leadership School Scholarship. Last year the BCCD awarded over $20,000 in scholarships!
The Don Hartman Scholarship is a great opportunity for the BCCD to pay summer “camp” tuition for students looking for field experiences. One of those experiences is the Wildlife Leadership Academy. Normally a $600 tuition, the BCCD pays 90% of the tuition, allowing students more opportunities to explore their interest in a variety of outdoor fields.
Scholarship application information can be found here.
Poster contest info.pdf2026 Conservation Poster Contest for grades K-6
Did you know...
BCIU runs a variety of student competitions every year!
These include:
PA Invention Convention (K-12)
STEM Design Challenge (4-8)
SEAL Challenge (9-12)
Keystone Competition
To learn more, reach out to Jillian Darlington
or
Keep your eyes on this section of our newsletter!
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Math Matters
Math Matters
ME-SBG Flyer (2).pdfMathematics Empowerment Through
Standards-Based Grading
A U.S. Department of Education-Funded Research Study
Audience: Grades 6-8 Math educators and leaders
Introduction to Building Thinking Classrooms
This workshop offers insight into some of the results of 20 years of research into how teachers can transform their classrooms from a space where students mimic to where students think. The practices discussed will intertwine with, and make extensive references to, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics (Grades K-12): 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning.
Waitlist Open
Esports
Esports
Are you an Esports Coach or Leader looking for your community? No matter what league you play for, you are invited to Join PSEL's Educator Network!
Are you looking to start or enhance an Esports club or team in your school- join us! You can also reach out to Kendy Schiffert for support and connections!
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
January 2026 Newsletter
January 2026 Newsletter
Featured Events
Featured Events
Authentic STEELS Assessments 2026.pdfAuthentic Steels Assessment Workshops
Authentic Steels Assessment Workshops
Join Lyn Hilt to explore features of high-quality STEELS assessments. Register for the Elementary Session or the Secondary Session
Student-Centered Learning Meet-Up
Student-Centered Learning Meet-Up
Headed to PETE&C? All are invited to join us at the Hershey Hotel Monday at noon for networking, discussion and a free raffle of STEM/SCL prizes!
For Educators
For Educators
Flyer - 2026 Pitton PA Teachers Tech in the Wild.pdfMassive FREE Opportunity for PA Educators: "Tech in the Wild: STEELS and the BBC micro:bit"
Massive FREE Opportunity for PA Educators: "Tech in the Wild: STEELS and the BBC micro:bit"
CodeJoy has partnered with Pittcon and the PAIUs to offer "Tech in the Wild"—a massive, state-wide initiative designed to give PA educators everything needed to confidently implement the new STEELS Standards. Don't miss this opportunity to bridge the gap between technology and the new STEELS framework. Registration closes January 31st!
Learn more and sign up today: https://go.codejoy.org/pittcon25
Join us for our final STEM Educators Network Meeting
Join us for our final STEM Educators Network Meeting
March 26th 9:00-2:00
Statewide Shift to Student-Led Book Study
Statewide Shift to Student-Led Book Study
Explore practical strategies to transform classrooms into student-centered learning environments that foster agency, engagement, and deeper learning
Register by January 29th to get a FREE copy of the book!
Check out the new
Check out the new
SE ELIT Hub!
SE ELIT Hub!
Visit the hub to learn more about:
Students Project Grants
Teaching Green Symposium in June
Also check out:
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Exploring Our Environment: Local Issues, Lasting Lessons
Join us February 27th at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center for a hands-on workshop exploring environmental literacy and sustainability in Berks County. Register today!
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
What's Next? Advancing Your MWEE & Environmental Literacy Practice
Join us June 18th at Berks Nature Center for an interactive day of learning with a blend of fresh content, collaborative problem-solving, and space for educators to share their successes and challenges. Register on Frontline
New Grant Opportunity Announcement!
New Grant Opportunity Announcement!
Chemistry Outreach Awards Grants
Chemistry Outreach Awards Grants
The SACP & SSP are dedicated to educating members of the scientific community, students, and teachers about chemistry, spectroscopy, and science in general. We achieve this goal by providing schools in need with equipment necessary to educate students.
On their website they advertise a variety of K-12 Science Grants. Check them out!
Opportunities for Students
Opportunities for Students
SEAL Challenge- School registration is open!
SEAL Challenge- School registration is open!
The Sea Air and Land Challenge is a STEM initiative in which teams of high school or middle school aged students learn about the engineering process through the design and build of a robotic system. The systems are then used to compete in challenges relevant to the Department of Defense which mimic missions encountered by the military, national security agencies and first responders.
If interested in participating:
Sign up your high school soon!
Challenge Day is set for Thursday, April 30, 2026, held at Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC), West Campus in Leesport, PA. Details can be found on the SEAL website.
Reading Berks Science and Engineering Fair
Reading Berks Science and Engineering Fair
This event is held at Albright College in March. You can view more details on this flyer.
This month's Berks STEM Connection Newsletter is a mini-version as we begin to ramp up for 2026!
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
This month's Berks STEM Connection Newsletter is a mini-version as we begin to ramp up for 2026!
We continue to refine our newsletter to meet WCAG Accessibility guidelines and appreciate your patience and feedback.
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