Delaware County Intermediate Unit

10/16/2026

October is National Principals Month!

This month, DCIU and DCTS proudly recognize and celebrate the outstanding leadership and dedication of our school principals, who work every day to create positive learning environments and opportunities for student success.

Today, we are recognizing two exceptional leaders at Delaware County Technical High Schools:

⭐ Mr. Christian Hansen, Principal, DCTS Aston Campus

⭐ Dr. Keith Pretlow, Principal, DCTS Folcroft Campus

Through their leadership, commitment to students, and support of teachers and staff, these principals help ensure that DCTS students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom, in their future careers, and beyond.

Thank you, Mr. Hansen and Dr. Pretlow, for your dedication to our students, staff, and school communities! Your leadership makes a meaningful difference every day.

10/16/2026

Strengthen Your School's Safety and Crisis Response Preparedness!

DCIU is offering two PREPaRE Workshops designed to equip school personnel with the knowledge and skills to prevent, prepare for, and respond to school crises.

PREPaRE is an evidence-based training model that helps schools establish comprehensive safety and crisis response teams, with a focus on both physical and psychological safety.

PREPaRE Workshop 1: Comprehensive School Safety Planning
📅 November 9, 2026

This one-day workshop focuses on developing, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive school safety and crisis response plans. Participants will learn strategies for building effective crisis teams, conducting vulnerability assessments, and strengthening school and community partnerships.

Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?I=5508056&D=16864

PREPaRE Workshop 2: Mental Health Crisis Interventions
📅 December 3–4, 2026

This two-day workshop equips school mental health professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide immediate mental health crisis interventions for students, staff, and school community members following traumatic events. Participants will also explore strategies that support longer-term, trauma-informed mental health responses.

Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?I=5508061&D=16864

Prepared schools build safer, more resilient communities. Join DCIU to strengthen your school's crisis preparedness and response capabilities.

10/15/2026

Building Stronger Foundations for Early Learning!

Heather Collins, DCIU’s Director of Early Childhood Education, and members of her leadership team recently traveled to Omaha, Nebraska, to participate in the AASA Early Learning Cohort, joining education leaders from across the country to explore innovative approaches to strengthening early childhood education.

Through presentations, collaborative discussions, and visits to Nebraska public schools, the team gained valuable insights into building stronger connections among early childhood programs, families, and K–12 schools. They also heard from the Executive Director of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute about the importance of investing in the early years.

Key takeaways included strengthening kindergarten transitions, expanding access to high-quality early learning opportunities, supporting educators through collaboration, and building partnerships that help children succeed. These insights directly support DCIU’s ongoing work to connect early childhood programs, strengthen our Childcare Directors Network, and expand inclusive learning opportunities throughout Delaware County.

We look forward to bringing these ideas home and continuing to work with our school districts and community partners to give every child a strong foundation for success!

10/14/2026

📢 We're Hiring: Teacher of the Deaf

Make a difference in the lives of students with hearing loss. DCIU is seeking a dedicated Teacher of the Deaf to provide individualized instruction and support that helps students develop the academic, communication, and self-advocacy skills they need to succeed.

In this role, you will:

Provide specialized instruction tailored to students' individual needs and IEP goals.

Support the development of receptive and expressive language, listening skills, and academic achievement.

Collaborate with educators, families, and support staff to create inclusive learning environments.

Help students build confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills.

Integrate assistive technology to enhance communication and access to learning.

Join a team committed to empowering students of all abilities to reach their full potential!

Learn more and apply:https://dciu.schoolspring.com/?jobid=4930822

10/14/2026

DCIU was proud to partner with Girls Spark to host the very first DCIU Middle School Girls Community Summit!

This half-day experience was designed for girls in grades 5–8 to inspire, uplift, and connect participants through interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and meaningful conversations.
We are thrilled that 67 participants took part in engaging workshops and dialogue focused on self-esteem, managing emotions, anti-bullying, building healthy friendships, and establishing boundaries.

These are such important topics at this stage in their lives, and we hope every girl walked away feeling a little more confident, empowered, and support!

10/13/2026

What does it mean to truly listen?

DCTS students in our Medical Careers classes recently explored that question during "Hear to Help," a program presented by the organization Minding Your Mind. Through small-group discussions and real-life scenarios, students learned about active listening, empathy, supporting friends in need, and recognizing when it's important to seek help from a trusted adult.

These are important life skills for everyone, but especially for students preparing for careers in healthcare, where compassion and communication make a meaningful difference every day.

Thank you, Minding Your Mind, for an engaging and impactful presentation!

10/12/2026

Looking for recreation and leisure opportunities for a child with special needs?

Join the Delaware County Right to Education Local Task Force for a special event connecting families with community organizations that offer inclusive activities outside the school setting.

Representatives from Special Olympics, Flyers Power Hockey, cheer programs, and other organizations will be on hand to share information about their programs and how students can get involved.

Come explore the opportunities available and connect with organizations supporting students and families throughout Delaware County on November 5 from 6pm-8pm at DCIU.

Register by November 2:
https://ow.ly/cy3r50ZWWGq

10/12/2026

DCIU in the News! ⚾

We’re proud to see DCIU’s partnership with the Miracle League of Delaware County featured in the Delaware County Daily Times.

DCIU staff and students recently volunteered as buddies, helping athletes participate, build confidence, and enjoy a day filled with teamwork, connection, and fun.

More than 20 members of the DCIU community took part in this meaningful experience, demonstrating the spirit of service and inclusion that makes our community so special.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered and helped make the day memorable for the athletes and families!

Read the story:

All for fun and camaraderie at the Miracle League’s baseball program at the MSI Sports Complex in Upper Chichester.