The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) celebrated the opening of the new BCIU Learning Center at Centre Avenue on Thursday, October 22, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, open house, and tours of the facility at 2101 Centre Avenue in Reading. State and local officials joined BCIU leaders, partners, staff members, and guests to mark this important milestone.
Purposefully designed to support early childhood development and strengthen family engagement, the BCIU Learning Center at Centre Avenue features seven classrooms, a therapy and mobility room, and an outdoor playground. The facility serves more than 150 students through Early Intervention, Head Start, and Pre-K Counts programs, providing welcoming spaces where young children can learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for future success.
Beyond its classrooms and learning spaces, the Learning Center demonstrates a significant investment in students, families, staff, and the educational opportunities available throughout Berks County. It reflects the BCIU’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality learning environments that support the educational and developmental needs of young children.
“The opening of the BCIU Learning Center at Centre Avenue represents an exciting new chapter for the children and families we serve,” said Dr. Jill Hackman, BCIU Executive Director. “The facility provides an environment where our youngest learners can grow, learn, and thrive. We are grateful to the community partners and supporters who shared our vision and helped make this Learning Center a reality.”
During the ceremony, Dr. Hackman recognized the BCIU Board of Directors for championing the vision for the Learning Center and supporting the project from concept to completion. She also acknowledged the BCIU leaders, educators, and staff members whose dedication, planning, and collaboration helped prepare the facility to welcome students and families.
The BCIU additionally expressed gratitude to the BCIU Education Foundation Board of Trustees for embracing the Learning Center and supporting future opportunities that will benefit children and families throughout the region.
“The BCIU Learning Center at Centre Avenue reflects our shared commitment to students, families, and creating opportunities for every child to learn, grow, and succeed,” said Gary McEwen, BCIU Board President. “Bringing this vision to life required the dedication and partnership of many individuals and organizations, and we are grateful to everyone who contributed their time, talent, and commitment. Today, we celebrate what the Learning Center will make possible for our students and families.”
Scott Gruber, Chair of the BCIU Education Foundation Board of Trustees, shared remarks on the opportunities the Learning Center will create for children and families and the lasting impact that can be achieved when vision, leadership, partnership, and community support come together. Dr. Christi Weitzel, BCIU Assistant Director of Early Childhood & Student Services, provided an overview of the facility and the programs and services offered at the Learning Center.
Additional remarks were provided by Michael Fromm, property partner, BCIU Education Foundation Trustee, and Campaign Chair. State and local officials also acknowledged the significance of the occasion, offering congratulations and presenting commemorative recognitions. Senator Judy Schwank presented a Certificate of Recognition, and a Citation honoring the opening of the Learning Center was presented on behalf of Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz.
The BCIU also acknowledged the project contributors and supporters, including Senator Judy Schwank, Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, Representative Manuel Guzman, Representative Jacklyn Rusnock, and Michael Fromm of Fromm Electric Supply. Their support and partnership helped advance the Learning Center’s development and expand access to high-quality early childhood learning opportunities for children and families throughout Berks County.
The event further highlighted the expertise and partnership of AEM Architects, Dolan Construction, Fidevia LLC, and Devopar Consulting, whose efforts helped bring the vision of the Learning Center to life. Their work was part of the extensive collaboration among BCIU staff and community partners that made the Learning Center possible.
Following the program, BCIU leaders, elected officials, partners, and guests gathered for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting. Attendees then toured the facility and learned about the educational opportunities it will provide for children and families across the region.
