Right to Education Task Force: IU 14 (Berks)

Right to Education Task Force: IU 14 (Berks)

The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) Special Education Network serves as Berks County’s Right to Education Local Task Force. This network provides a collaborative forum for parents, family members, educators, and community partners to support and advocate for students with disabilities.

Membership includes parents and caregivers of children with disabilities (who make up at least 51% of the group), representatives from the Berks County Intermediate Unit, local school districts, and community agencies that provide special education and related services.

The purpose of the Local Task Force is to:

• Provide education, resources, and networking opportunities for families and professionals
• Share information about local, regional, and statewide special education services and supports
• Foster collaboration among schools and community agencies
• Identify local needs and concerns and communicate them to the State Task Force
• Review and make recommendations to improve special education programs and services
• Support the implementation of the Right to Education Consent Agreement

Meetings include opportunities for resource sharing, networking, and discussion of current topics in special education, along with presentations based on member interest and community needs.

Who Should Attend?
You are encouraged to attend if you:

• Are a parent or caregiver of a child receiving special education services
• Work in education or a related service field
• Represent a community agency or organization
• Have questions or concerns about the special education system
• Want to connect with families and professionals
• Are interested in learning more about special education processes (e.g., evaluations, IEPs, NOREPs)
• Would like to share resources or learn about supports available in the community

All are welcome, and meetings are free.

Meeting Information (2025–2026):
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. Participants must register in advance by emailing SpecialEdNetwork@berksiu.org by the Friday prior to the meeting. A Zoom link will be shared the day before the meeting.

Scheduled Meeting Dates (Tuesdays):

• October 7, 2025 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• December 2, 2025 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• February 3, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
• April 7, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
• May 19, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Topic suggestions are always welcomed and encouraged. The Local Task Force continues to provide a meaningful space for collaboration, learning, and advocacy to support students with disabilities and their families across Berks County. Download the annual flyer: SpecEdNetwork_Overview_031726