Brenau University Inc.
11/04/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/04/2024 15:44
College of Education promotes literacy, science of reading
Four faculty members in the College of Education can now use their knowledge of the science of reading literacy programs to train future educators.
Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling, called LETRS, is a statewide training program offered through Pioneer Regional Service Agency, or RESA.
"We're also participating in a departmental wide book study on the science of reading, and every faculty member in the college is required to complete professional development hours," Natasha Iszard, associate professor and chair of Brenau's College of Education Initial Certification Programs, said. "We also hope to coordinate with our Teacher Education Accreditation Council partners in the state to expand our reach in this program."
The Georgia Literacy Act, which was introduced in 2022 and became law last year, created requirements for educators teaching literacy with consistent support from governmental programs, including the Georgia Department of Education. The law also established literacy standards and universal screenings to catch struggling readers.
College of Education faculty and students on Georgia Reads Day
Brenau's College of Education also continues to promote literacy through a variety of campus and community events, including Georgia Reads Day on Sept. 30. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp declared the special event, and faculty, staff and students in the college encouraged the community to enjoy reading, specifically to children, and participated in a "live reading" event.
"We had a breakfast for our Women's College students and shared an overview of the Science of Reading program and Georgia Reads Day," Iszard said. "We enjoyed a live reading with athlete-turned-author Malcom Mitchell. We also had people across the university join us at our Photo Booth Party with their favorite book and submit photos of reading with a loved one."
Teacher education faculty also shared important literacy data with their networks, embraced the science of reading, and helped amplify Georgia Reads messages.
In the spring, the college will continue literacy community programs with Read Across America Day in March, and the annual Tiger Tales book program.
Additionally, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission approved Brenau's application for a developmental review to consider allowing the College of Education to offer a new Speech-Language Associate degree - a four year Bachelor of Science degree program. The review is expected to take place in November.
College of Education faculty on Georgia Reads Day College of Education faculty and students on Georgia Reads Day College of Education students and Brenau staff members on Georgia Reads DayAll photos by AJ Reynolds for Brenau University
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