CLIU opens school year, highlights IDEA 50th and student programs; IU director to retire
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Summary
Dr. Whitney reported that the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit opened its school year across five sites and adopted a theme marking the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Dr. Whitney reported that the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit (CLIU) opened its school year Aug. 11 across five sites in Carbon and Lehigh counties and adopted the theme "individually united" to mark the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The CLIU has emphasized succession planning in special education and hosted two Bloomsburg College master's students for job-shadowing on July 29 as part of efforts to prepare future special-education supervisors, Dr. Whitney said. The IU also hosted a legislative event Aug. 14 with Senator Linda Culver, chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee, cohosted with IU 29.
Dr. Whitney described a partnership with the Girl Scouts of the USA called the G Club, which provides opportunities for young women served by the IU to attend summer camp. This year, four campers — including two from the East Penn district — attended a four-day session at Camp Moseywood for activities such as boating, archery, swimming and zip lining.
The IU presented its annual Annie Sullivan award to Heather Zoke, recognized for creating "technology rich pathways" to broaden curriculum access, Dr. Whitney said. The IU board also approved the retirement of Mark Scott, director of special programs and services; Dr. Whitney said Scott will remain on staff until at least January and possibly as late as July 2026 while the IU conducts a search for his replacement.
Ending
Dr. Whitney concluded that the IU is focusing on staff development and legislative engagement while preparing to fill a senior special-programs role; the East Penn board acknowledged the report with appreciation.