Rep. Brodeur Addresses Children's Literacy Forum

The following was provided by the office of State Rep. Paul Brodeur:

State Representative Paul Brodeur (D-Melrose) recently addressed a forum on third grade reading proficiency sponsored by Strategies for Children and its Early Education for All campaign.  The event at the Federal Reserve Bank in Boston highlighted the importance of development of early literacy skills to future academic and career success.  The event also celebrated passage of An Act Relative to Third Grade Reading Proficiency, a bill sponsored by Senator Katherine Clark (D-Melrose) and Representative Marty Walz (D-Boston).  Representative Brodeur stressed the success of early learning programs in his district and commended advocates for recognizing parents as vital partners in helping our children develop the skills they need to become life-long learners.

Ralph Smith of the national Campaign for Grade-level Reading was the keynote speaker, explaining the importance of reading proficiency and designating Massachusetts as a Pacesetter state in recognition of the state’s commitment early education.  Over 100 attendees including early educators, advocates, business leaders also heard from Early Education and Care Commissioner Sherri Killins, Co-chair of the Joint Committee on Education Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley), Strategies for Children CEO Carolyn Lyons, and Amy O’Leary, director of the Early Education for All campaign.