Why Community, Identity, and Representation Matter in Literacy—and What Educators and Families Should Know

How Libraries Expand Literacy Access for Families

In this episode of ODRD RewirED, host Kristin Allen talks with representatives from the Connecticut State Library about a statewide effort to expand access to dyslexia and literacy resources in all 191 public libraries across Connecticut. Together, they explore how libraries serve as trusted community hubs, connecting families, educators, and students with high-quality literacy supports, curated dyslexia resources, and services through the Connecticut Library for Accessible Books (CT LAB). The conversation highlights the power of collaboration between schools, families, libraries, and state agencies in ensuring that literacy resources are accessible to all learners. Listeners will also learn about statewide literacy initiatives, professional learning opportunities for librarians, and the role libraries play in supporting literacy development from early childhood through adulthood. This episode offers valuable insights for educators, families, librarians, and community leaders working to create more equitable access to literacy across Connecticut.

This Icy Experience Makes Reading More Meaningful

In this episode of RewirED, the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Office of Dyslexia and Reading Disabilities explores how community partnerships can extend literacy beyond the classroom. Featuring a conversation with John Jones of the Springfield Thunderbirds, the episode highlights how initiatives like Dyslexia Awareness Night and the Stick to Reading program create meaningful, engaging opportunities for students and families. Together, they discuss how connecting reading to real-world experiences—through sports, community events, and shared celebration—can motivate students, build confidence, and reinforce the message that all learners belong. The episode underscores the importance of collaboration across schools, families, and community organizations in creating inclusive environments where students can see themselves as capable, confident readers. This conversation offers practical insight for educators, families, and community leaders working to make literacy more accessible, engaging, and connected to students’ lives.

Why Community, Identity, and Representation Matter in Literacy—and What Educators and Families Should Know

In this inspiring episode, Malik Champlain shares how a deeply personal experience as a father grew into Pages with Pops, a community-driven literacy initiative designed to engage fathers and father figures in their children’s reading journeys. Through powerful reflections on identity, belonging, and representation, Malik explores how literacy extends beyond skill-building to shape confidence, connection, and self-worth. His insights offer educators and families a compelling look at how aligning schools, families, and community partners can transform literacy into a joyful, relational experience—one that helps every child see themselves as a reader and a leader.

“This Is What Changed Everything”: A Student on Dyslexia, Access, and Assistive Technology

In this powerful episode, student advocate Eleanor Farquhar speaks openly about growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia, the emotional toll of struggling in school, and the moment assistive technology opened the door to learning. Her story offers families and educators an authentic look at why early, individualized access to tools can shape not only academic success, but self-worth and belonging.

What Educators and Families Should Know About the EL/ML Framework—and Why It Matters

Developed through years of collaboration with educators and families, the Connecticut State Department of Education's EL/ML Framework offers clear guidance for improving instruction and systems for multilingual learners, including those with dyslexia. In this episode, Maribel Olivero and Megan Alubicki, the CSDE leaders who developed the framework, explain its guiding principles, how districts will be supported in implementation, and what this work means for families and educators seeking more coherent, evidence-based literacy supports.