Bucks IU Launches Advocacy Committee To Address Critical Funding Challenges

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Bucks County Intermediate Unit Board of School Directors has formed a new advocacy committee to address concerns about funding for critical educational programs.

The board, which is comprised of representatives from each of Bucks County’s 13 public school districts, engaged in an in-depth discussion in January with community members focused on funding challenges, particularly for early childhood programs. In response, the board voted in February to form the Bucks IU Ad Hoc Committee on Advocacy for State and Federal Programs.

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The committee will focus on identifying and supporting funding streams for a range of Bucks IU services, including Early Intervention, Pre-K Counts, Early Head Start, Head Start, Nonpublic School Programs, School Age Special Education services, Adult Services, and services for students experiencing homelessness.

“This effort is about ensuring our advocacy is both student-centered and data-informed,” said Dr. Mark Hoffman, Bucks IU Executive Director. “We want to clearly communicate how these funding sources support programs across our organization and ensure continuity of services.”

State Rep. Tim Brennan with I.U. Executive Director Dr. Mark Hoffman and members of the Intermediate Unit School Board.

Board President John D’Angelo emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy efforts. “Effective advocacy is essential to maintaining and growing funding at appropriate levels,” D’Angelo said. “It ensures that resources are used efficiently and that we can continue delivering high-quality services to students and families.”

Following expressions of interest from several board members, the committee was formed with Jill Waldbieser of Neshaminy serving as chair, alongside Dana Foley (Central Bucks), Nicole Khan (Council Rock), and Karen Winters (Bensalem).

Waldbieser said she is honored to lead the initiative. “I am learning a lot. I am proud of the work the IU does and excited to support efforts that strengthen its impact,” she said.

Committee member Nicole Khan echoed that sentiment, noting the importance of supporting families. “This gives me an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way, especially as parents look for guidance and support,” said Khan, who also serves as President of the Council Rock Board of School
Directors.

The committee has already begun its work, meeting regularly before monthly board sessions. In March, members joined Bucks IU administrators in Harrisburg for the Pennsylvania Association of Intermediate Units’ annual “Day on the Hill,” advocating directly with state legislators.

State Senator Steve Santarsiero with Bucks IU Ad Hoc Committee on Advocacy members Jill Waldbieser and Nicole Khan, and Bucks IU Deputy Executive Director/In-House Legal Counsel Rebecca Roberts-Malamis and Special Education Supervisor Dr. Timothy Clarke.

“Our role as educational leaders is to ensure legislators understand the needs of our students, families, and also our staff,” said Deputy Executive Director Rebecca Roberts-Malamis. “We are fortunate to have responsive legislators, and these conversations help strengthen that partnership. Our legislators really do their best to support Bucks County school programs.”

Participants described the experience as valuable and impactful. Dr. Timothy Clarke, a Bucks IU Supervisor of Special Education, noted the importance of engaging directly with policymakers.

“It was valuable to share our perspectives face-to-face and gain a better understanding of the legislative process,” Clarke said. “Ongoing communication helps build stronger relationships and better outcomes.”

In addition to advocating for increased funding, the Bucks IU team discussed key policy issues, including the need for a timely state budget, updates to meeting notice requirements, and greater local control over IU instructional facilities.

Currently, intermediate units are prohibited from owning school properties for instructional space, often resulting in costly facility modifications for leased spaces. Leaders emphasized that increased flexibility could improve efficiency and enhance service delivery.

“It is critical to invest in center-based programs where students can access comprehensive services in one location,” said Dr. Monay Legette, a Bucks IU principal who participated in the Harrisburg visit. “Our goal is to provide the best possible support so our students can thrive and become active members of society.”

Community members interested in attending future committee meetings are encouraged to visit the Bucks IU website for meeting dates and times.