The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) provides a series of free public films, in partnership with the Fell Trust and Milner Library. This partnership expands to include a new community partner for another fall offering. Everyone Reading Illinois will co-present the film Right To Read on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at the Normal Theater.
Illinois’ poor reading scores, which have remained stagnant for over 17 years, demonstrate that children with dyslexia are not the only children in Illinois schools who are struggling to learn to read under current instructional methods. The Right to Read documentary follows Oakland NAACP activist, Kareem Weaver, who believes literacy is our most important civil right. With a focus on Black and brown children, Weaver demands Oakland schools bring in science-based reading instruction.
First-grade teacher Sabrina Causey becomes one of his most critical allies. Despite heated debates on reading instruction, parents and advocates work to increase literacy rates throughout the country. In Virginia Beach, Teresa trains parents in oral language skills to prepare their children for kindergarten. In rural Mississippi, where only 21% of children can read, Melinda looks at educational technology to help her child receive vital reading skills.
This film is a call for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of our nation to join the fight for every child’s right to read. Please attend this film to understand the importance of science-based reading instruction in our local communities. Contact CSD staff member Tricia Larkin if you would like more information or need accommodations for this film presentation. Contact the Eckelmann-Taylor Speech and Hearing Clinic if you want more information on language-related services that are critical for strong readers and writers.
