Rep. Sannicandro Invites Parents to Early Literacy Night Discussion

Framingham and Ashland State Rep. Tom Sannicandro (D-Ashland), in collaboration with the Pittaway Elementary School in Ashland, is hosting an early literacy night for Framingham and Ashland parents tomorrow, Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pittaway School, 75 Central St.

The focus of the free event is a 6-person panel on early literacy: Dr. Sherri Killins, Massachusetts Commissioner of Early Education and Care, Pat White, director of Pittaway Elementary, Betsy Salomone, Early Education Coordinator for Ashland Public Schools, Kelly Kulsrud, director of reading proficiency at Strategies for Children, Liz Zigmont, staff member of the Boston University Early Childhood Learning Lab, and Sannicandro.

“Early education lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning,” said Sannicandro in a press release. “This July, we passed legislation to try and make sure all of our kids can read by third grade. We are working together at all levels to ensure that every parent has the tools needed for their children to succeed.”

Research shows that from birth to 9 years of age are the most essential years for literacy growth, and subsequently a child’s entire educational career. Schools and parents have a vital role to play in the development of literacy skills of children.

Parents who read to their children and foster a love of reading in the home build a strong base from which children grow. Parents need the skills to engage their children from the beginning, which is why partnerships between state government and educators have a vital role to play in providing the necessary tools for parents to help their child succeed.

The panel of experts for the Early Literacy Night is a partnership to provide the most recent research on early literacy and methods for parents to prepare their children for a lifetime of learning.

Parents, especially those who children in grades Pre-K to third, are encouraged to attend this free event.