Child literacy remains a persistent challenge in Syracuse. According to 2019 data from the Early Childhood Alliance, only 22% of SCSD students are reading on grade level by the 3rd grade. Guests Laurie Black and Dr. Maria Murray are each tackling this challenge from different angles: As Community Education Director for the United Way, Laurie Black has grown their Book Buddies program to reach over 600 students annually. Her network of 500 volunteers provides ongoing education, support, and encouragement to children from kindergarten through 3rd grade. Dr. Maria Murray, CEO of The Reading League, focuses her efforts on providing teachers with evidence-based practices for improved literacy education. Her organization studies the science of reading and works with educators nationwide to improve outcomes for students.

On this episode of It’s Happening Here, Laurie Black and Dr. Murray join hosts Maximilian Eyle and Dr. Roosevelt “Rick” Wright to discuss the relationship between literacy and poverty, the resources available in Onondaga County for parents and children, the Book Buddies program, and ways to improve your own child’s reading development.

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Editor's Note: This podcast reflects the opinions and perspectives of the host and guests and is not a product of our editorial staff, including Central Current's editors and reporters. The program may be edited in post-production for length and clarity.

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Central Current is a nonprofit, nonpartisan newspaper for people building a life in Central New York. Our "It's Happening Here" podcast explores how local news, local government, and local civic engagement impacts our democracy as a whole.