Building Strong Foundations: Engaging Parents for Early Literacy Success

In this episode of Science of Reading Leadership, Dr. Raashad Fitzpatrick, Superintendent of Lancaster County Schools, joins us to highlight some of the district’s initiatives aimed at accelerating reading achievement. Learn why Lancaster County Schools prioritizes:Data-driven interventionEarly literacy support to get students ready for kindergartenPartnering with community organizations such as Head Start and Early StepsEngaging parents in supporting early literacy developmentIn this episode:00:00 Lancaster County Schools Introduction01:13 Strategies for Accelerating Reading Achievement02:23  Initiatives for Early Literacy  (infant - 3 years old)03:50 Overcoming Challenges 06:16 Advice for School Leaders“We strongly believe in early literacy and getting the students ready [for kindergarten]. A lot of the students that are considered at risk... It's not because they aren't as smart as other students. It's because they hadn't had print-rich environments, academic conversations that build vocabulary, or anyone to read to them. If we can work with our parents [of kids from birth to three years old], I think we'll help all our kids be successful.” Dr. Raashad FitzpatrickConnect with Dr. Raashad Fitzpatrick: LinkedInIf you liked this episode, listen to this one with Dr. John Hutton, Associate Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of General and Community Pediatrics, next.