As a non-profit organization committed to fostering classroom equity, Open Up Resources recently had the privilege of attending the 68th Annual Michigan Reading Association Conference. Centered around the theme of JOY, with a focus on celebration through storytelling, the conference was a rich tapestry of learning experiences, collaboration, and inspiration.
One session that particularly resonated with us was “Reclaiming and Celebrating Our Names through a Joy-Filled Elementary and Middle School Partnership.” Led by Christina M. Ponzio, PhD, and her team, this session highlighted a heartwarming partnership between an elementary school and a middle school in Metro Detroit. Through shared literacy coaching endeavors, students delved into their “name stories,” exploring the cultural significance and personal connections behind their names. This session not only emphasized the importance of culturally sustaining pedagogies but also showcased the power of collaboration and community in education.
Another standout session was “Together We Can Do Great Things: The Journey of One Small County Doing Big Things in Literacy,” presented by Kristal White. In this session, we learned about the transformative journey of Lapeer County’s literacy team, demonstrating how intentional planning and collective action can drive meaningful change in literacy education. This session highlighted the profound impact of collaboration and a shared vision on improving literacy outcomes, from grade-level cohorts for professional learning to innovative initiatives like instructional rounds.
Sharon Walpole, author of Bookworks K-5 Reading and Writing, and Ashley Karkkainen, our Bookworms Community Coach, led the session “Building Fluency = Building Joy.” The session provided practical strategies for cultivating fluency in students. By incorporating engaging grade-level texts and evidence-based repeated reading routines, Walpole and Karkkainen emphasized the connection between fluency and joy in literacy learning.
The conference also featured inspiring keynote speakers, including Vera Ahiyya, who led a session on “Rebellious Read Alouds.” Ahiyya’s passionate advocacy for diversity and representation in children’s literature emphasized the critical role of culturally relevant teaching practices. Through interactive read alouds and thought-provoking discussions, we gained valuable insights into fostering inclusivity and celebrating diversity in our classrooms.
As we reflect on our experience at the Michigan Reading Association Conference, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with fellow educators. We leave inspired and empowered to continue our journey of creating joyful and empowering literacy experiences for all students.