Envisioning the future roles and functions of Pennsylvania's intermediate units

Abstract

This doctoral study investigated [Stephens and Turner's (1991)] anticipated dimensions for education services agencies across the United States in view of their advisability for Pennsylvania?s Intermediate Units (IUs), as recommended by the three survey groups: IU executive directors, local school district superintendents, and Pennsylvania?s policymakers. The principal instrument used, the Pennsylvania Intermediate Unit Survey, was a 50-item, five-point questionnaire. Data analysis included correlations and ANOVAs. Based on the results of this study, all respondent groups concurred that IUs should expand and extend services related to cost-effective delivery of education to local school districts, coalition building between/among human service agencies, and provision of state-level information to local school districts. Also, direct instructional support should continue to be provided to low-incidence disabled students. Furthermore, efforts should be made to gain state level support for including urban IUs and instructional support centers in interdistrict IUs. While increased state funding for programs and services directly related to new state priorities is indicated, no consideration should be given to granting categorical regional taxing power to IUs. Optional district services should be contracted, if adequate local superintendent support can be obtained. Clearly, strong support for IU programs and services exists within the three respondent groups. Better communications would enhance regional decision making.