Education is an essential part of the residential treatment program at The Barry Robinson Center (BRC). To help ensure BRC’s educational approach meets residents’ needs, Eric Krumich recently joined the team as vice president of education. He brings an impressive background with both military and educational experience.
Krumich served nearly 22 years on active duty in the U.S. Army. As he prepared for retirement from the military, he completed a master’s degree in teaching. He has taught special needs and regular education students in public schools in Virginia and Maryland for 18 years
“As a military veteran, parent of another veteran, and now a grandparent, I have a keen interest in BRC’s mission,” Krumich said. “I certainly understand the rigors and trials experienced by military families as they navigate their careers. This position is a great opportunity to give back to a community that I respect and love so much.”
While teaching, Krumich said he saw many children in crisis who received treatment under “cursory” models that appeared to help quickly stabilize them. Often, these children declined again after returning home. However, children who received more comprehensive, longer-term treatment like BRC provides typically had more favorable outcomes.
“BRC’s residential treatment program is really tremendous,” he said. “We want to grow and innovate our school services to continue to provide the best possible education for our children and teens.”
Krumich said he’s working with the educational team to ensure all academic services align with treatment plans. The school will provide rigorous instruction that’s creatively organized and delivered for each resident. They’re evaluating technology and scheduling options to help achieve this goal.
“We want to see our school become a model for all residential treatment centers,” he added.
During Krumich’s time in the Army, he served at numerous duty stations. He earned the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal, among other recognitions and designations.
After retiring from the Army as a musician and supervisor, Krumich began teaching in Hampton (Virginia) City Schools in a self-contained autism classroom. During this time, he discovered how much he enjoyed teaching students with disabilities. Besides a master’s in teaching from Christopher Newport University, Krumich went on to earn a postgraduate endorsement in special education from Shenandoah University.
He is licensed with endorsements to teach Specific Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, and Emotional Disturbance K-12 in Virginia. He is also licensed with endorsements to teach regular education PreK-6 and English as a Second Language in Virginia.
Previously, Krumich was an adjunct professor of music at Christopher Newport and the College of William & Mary. He was an accomplished trumpet player in the Army and also played for a season with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
In his spare time, Krumich said he enjoys “spoiling” his grandchildren and spending time outdoors camping.
Learn more about BRC’s Education program.