MAR LIN — The Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 has welcomed a new executive director, Anthony Serafini, who is eager to implement innovative approaches for the benefit of students and school districts in Schuylkill County. Serafini, who officially assumed his role on September 15, 2025, brings a wealth of experience from his previous position at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit 16, where he spent 16 years in various educational roles.
Serafini’s extensive background includes serving as a special education teacher, an educational consultant, and a supervisor of special education programs. His career has focused on enhancing classroom programming for students with complex support needs. In addition, he has directed professional development initiatives aimed at improving educational practices across school systems.
Bridging Educational Gaps
With a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology and audiology, a master’s degree in exceptionalities/special education from Bloomsburg University, and a doctorate in education administration from Immaculata University, Serafini is well-equipped to address the challenges faced by local schools. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among districts to ensure that all students have access to quality educational resources.
“I tend to think about things a little bit differently than your typical school administrator,” Serafini remarked. “Just because something’s been done a certain way doesn’t mean that’s the way it’ll always be done.” His philosophy centers on exploring new methods and solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the community.
Serafini has previously worked with the Schuylkill IU to support professional development for regional superintendents, and he expressed a strong commitment to maintaining these relationships. “Listening to the needs of our districts is something that’s very important to me,” he stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit among local educational leaders.
Addressing Challenges in Education
One of Serafini’s main priorities is to address the ongoing teacher shortage that schools across the country are experiencing. He acknowledged that the decreasing number of individuals entering the education field, particularly in general and special education, is becoming a significant challenge. “There’s definitely a decrease in the number of people who are entering the field,” he noted, pointing to the increasing number of educators retiring or transitioning to other professions.
To combat this issue, Serafini plans to leverage his experience in recruiting high school students into teaching careers. He aims to inspire the next generation of educators and ensure that local schools are adequately staffed to meet the needs of their students.
Serafini also commended the work of Shannon Brennan, the Assistant Executive Director, who led the IU during the two-year period prior to his appointment. He described the staff at Schuylkill IU 29 as passionate and dedicated. “It takes a very special kind of person to work in this world,” he remarked, acknowledging their commitment to supporting all students, including those with disabilities.
With a vision rooted in collaboration and innovation, Serafini is poised to make a significant impact on education in Schuylkill County. His approach aims not only to enhance the quality of education but also to ensure that all students, regardless of their district, have access to equitable learning opportunities.
