Special Services
Carla C. Herrnberger
Director of Special Education
Carla C. Herrnberger serves as the Director of Special Education for the Charleroi Area School District, where she leads the planning, implementation, and oversight of special education programs and services for students from kindergarten through age 21. She works collaboratively with families, educators, related service providers, and community agencies to ensure that every student receives the individualized supports needed to achieve academic, social, and post-secondary success.
With more than 30 years in education, including extensive experience as both a special education teacher and administrator, Mrs. Herrnberger is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments where all students are valued, challenged, and empowered to reach their full potential. She believes in building strong partnerships with families and fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and high expectations.
Mrs. Herrnberger oversees a comprehensive continuum of special education services, including gifted education, early intervention transitions, evaluation and eligibility processes, individualized education programs (IEPs), Section 504 services, related services, transition planning, and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Pennsylvania Chapter 14 regulations. She also supports the district's Charleroi Online Learning Academy by ensuring students with disabilities receive the necessary services and accommodations for success in a virtual learning environment.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Herrnberger has been recognized for her commitment to educational excellence and student advocacy. She was honored as a Washington County ATHENA Award Finalist for her leadership and dedication to serving students and families. She has also championed innovative initiatives, including the development of sensory and calming spaces that promote student well-being and self-regulation.
Mrs. Herrnberger's philosophy is simple: every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in an environment that recognizes their unique strengths and abilities. She is proud to serve the Charleroi Area School District and remains committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality, equitable education that prepares them for lifelong success.
Special Education Change 2023
Policy Revision PDE has revised its guidance pertaining to INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT PART B POLICIES AND PROCEDURES UNDER 34 CFR §§ 300.101—300.176 as follows: www.education.pa.gov/
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ensures that all children with disabilities ages 3 years through 21 years residing in Pennsylvania have the right to a FAPE, including children with disabilities who have been suspended or expelled from school. The commonwealth shall make FAPE available to a child with a disability eligible under IDEA until the student turns 22.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a child eligible under IDEA who attains the age of twenty-one (21) years may remain enrolled in their resident district free of charge until their 22nd birthday.
PDE’s webpage contains the Amended Age-Out Policy, (attached), the Notice Letter (attached), and the Penn Link Communication (attached) on their websites.
The Charleroi Area School will provide FAPE in accordance with IDEA.
Questions or requests for assistance to RA-PDESPECIALED@pa.gov.