I was fortunate to attend The Reading League’s 8th annual conference in mid-October. There were over 2,500 classroom teachers, principals, school psychologists, and teacher preparation attendees. All 50 states, one district, and seven countries were represented as we gathered in Charlotte, NC for two full days of connection and learning centered around evidence-based reading instruction. It was inspiring to know that so many educators are passionate about helping students develop strong literacy skills.
Brother Robert Smith recently wrote an article for Saint Mary’s Today regarding the meaning behind “Together and By Association”. This statement and the history behind it resonated with me as I reflected on my time in North Carolina. The Reading League’s theme was, “It takes a league.” Teaching, at any level, really does take a league. It is an all hands on deck venture to ensure our learners succeed. With literacy at the forefront of education, it is more important than ever that educators work together for a common purpose. As Brother Robert stated, “To and for the global Lasallian family, at its core, ‘together and by association’ is about fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. It underscores the idea that we are stronger and more effective when we join forces, sharing our resources, knowledge, and skills.”
I’d like to leave you with few key takeaways:
- The power of community: The conference brought together educators from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating the strength of a united community.
- Literacy as a shared responsibility: The focus on literacy underscores the importance of collaboration among teachers, administrators, and support staff.
- The Lasallian spirit: Together and By Association connects the conference theme to the Lasallian values of community and service.
My hope is that this article inspires you to:
- Build stronger relationships: Seek out opportunities to connect with colleagues and share ideas.
- Embrace collaboration: Work together to create innovative solutions and improve student outcomes.
- Prioritize literacy: Make literacy a central focus in our educational efforts.
By working together, we can create a brighter future for our students.
