The main entrance of the Engle Education Center
Monday, August 25 marked a significant milestone for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) as the newly revitalized Engle Education Center welcomed approximately 233 students on its first official day. The new building houses several programs including K–12 special education programs such as autistic support, emotional support, life skills support, and multiple disabilities support; preschool special education for ages three to five; and Head Start and Early Head Start.
Earlier this month, school-age learners and families had a sneak peek at the new campus during a community Ice Cream Social. Anticipation has been growing in the lead-up to the 2025–26 school year, with students, staff, families, and administrators excited to explore and learn in their new environment.
“This building means so much to our students,” said Dr. Shannon Brown, principal of the Child and Career Development Center (CCDC) Engle location. “Its thoughtful and inclusive design was created with our learners at the heart. With the opening of a second CCDC location, we’re proud to continue collaborating with districts across the southern region and beyond to serve these exceptional students and support their families with the utmost dignity.”
Tamara Acuna, CCIU assistant director of student services, shared her joy in seeing the youngest learners settle in. “They were all smiles! Between the natural light streaming through the wide windows and the brand-new playground, there’s a lot to love,” said Acuna. She expressed special excitement for families now able to access programs like Head Start and Early Head Start in their own neighborhood. “Helping families reach their goals — that’s what motivates us every day.”
The Engle Education Center is the result of extensive renovations to the former Fred S. Engle middle school, and it operates in partnership with the Avon Grove School District, housing their new administrative offices on-site. This project was made possible in part by a generous grant from community partner CCRES, which provided over $180,000 for the new accessible playground.
Now that classes are underway, the learners and staff are looking forward to the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for September 17 to coincide with the September CCIU Board Meeting. This celebratory event will mark the official launch of the Engle Education Center as a vibrant hub for educational services in the region.
To learn more about the Engle Education Center or to inquire about enrollment opportunities, please visit www.cciu.org/about/campus-expansion.
