The Pennsylvania Association of Intermediate Units (PAIU) represents Pennsylvania’s 29 intermediate units and helps them to collaborate and share resources to better serve learners in their counties. Each year, a different IU hosts the annual PAIU conference to bring together IU staff from across the Commonwealth. The AIU hosted the 2026 annual conference, which was held in Hershey.

The conference events, keynote speakers, and breakout sessions featured professionals from across Pennsylvania to speak on topics such as community partnerships, safety and security, leadership, and more. The conference theme, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” honored famous Pittsburgh resident Fred Rogers and his contributions to education. Keynotes and “Fred Talks” discussed the importance of kindness, community, and connection in learning.

IU staff from across the state dressed in colorful cardigans as a nod to the Mr. Rogers-inspired theme. Students from AIU schools and member districts created their own take on the famous trolley to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Conference attendees voted for their favorite designs — with the AIU-operated Mon Valley School coming out on top. Attendees also raised funds for the Band Together and The Education Partnership non-profit organizations through the 50/50 and basket raffles.

The AIU’s Marketing & Strategic Communications and Technology Services departments helped make the conference a success with signage, materials, and audio/visual support. We extend our thanks to the sponsors and vendors that supported this year’s event and to the PAIU event staff and our IU friends for bringing our neighborhood together.