The Pierson Library is pleased to announce its upcoming screening of the thought-provoking LeVar Burton-produced documentary "The Right to Read." This event is scheduled for Thursday, December 14, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at 5376 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482

From the directors: "The Right to Read shares the stories of an activist, a teacher, and two American families who fight to provide our youngest generation with the most foundational indicator of life-long success: the ability to read. That's why Oakland-based NAACP activist Kareem Weaver believes literacy is one of the greatest civil rights issues of our time and is fighting for better reading instruction. "What good is winning the right to vote if we can't even read the ballot?" Fed up with the bleak reading scores in his own community, Kareem files a petition with the Oakland Unified School District demanding change."

Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion with local experts who are deeply invested in the field of early literacy education. The panelists include:

Matthew DeBlois - Principal at Vergennes Union Elementary School in Vergennes, Vermont, with ten years of experience in the Addison Northwest School District. DeBlois holds degrees in French Language and Literature and Curriculum and Instruction, and he is passionate about collaborating with students, teachers, staff, and families.

Abby Roy, NCSP, C.A.G.S. - Nationally-certified school psychologist with over ten years of professional experience. Roy specializes in assessing individual learning needs, with a focus on uncovering language-based learning disabilities. She holds an associate-level certification from the Orton-Gillingham Academy, promoting a structured literacy approach to teaching reading and writing.

Laurie Quinn, Ph.D. - President of the Stern Center for Language and Learning, bringing expertise in nonprofit strategy, educational leadership, and innovative programs. Dr. Quinn earned her Ph.D. in English Literature and is dedicated to supporting the Stern Center's mission of helping every learner to succeed.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Dr. Laurie Quinn, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to delve into the challenges and explore solutions for enhancing early literacy education in our community.
This event is open to adults and requires no advance registration. We encourage everyone to join us for this crucial conversation that aims to inspire positive change in our community's approach to early literacy education.

For more information, please contact Michael Hibben at (802) 985-5124.

Event Info

Jul 6, 2024, 9 to 10 AM

Jul 9, 2024, 5 to 6:30 PM

Jul 9, 2024, 5:30 to 7:30 PM