On Saturday, October 14, 2006, “A Way with Words: Inspiring South Carolina’s Students Toward Reading Success,” will be held at the Greenville Marriott in Greenville, SC. The event is the second annual summit of Parents and Adults Inspiring Reading Success (PAIRS), a project of South Carolina’s daily newspapers, which is administered by the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee (EOC).
The purpose of the day-long event is to provide a forum to discuss best practices in effective extended learning programs and literacy lessons. Individuals, programs, parents, and interested persons are invited to attend.
According to Dana Yow, PAIRS Coordinator, “The event is a wonderful opportunity for people to learn how to be involved in improving the reading performance of children in their homes and communities.”
Ron Rash, renowned Southern author of Saints at the River and The World Made Straight, will be the keynote speaker for the event, which includes a luncheon. Mr. Rash’s latest novel was featured recently on the National Public Radio program, Radio Reader. The Open Book, an independent bookstore in Greenville, will sponsor a book signing following Mr. Rash’s remarks.
Breakout sessions will occur throughout the day focused on literacy development for students and preparation and support for reading programs. Topics will include creative ways to bring books to life, what works when children struggle to read, using newspapers in the teaching of reading, incorporating technology in the teaching of reading, and fundamentals of grant writing.
Panel discussions will focus on approaching and working with funders, engaging the faith community in literacy efforts, and community efforts in family literacy.
The goal of PAIRS, which was launched in February 2005, is to help existing groups, organizations and individuals ensure that every child in South Carolina is given the opportunity and the skills to read at the level recommended for his or her grade through one-on-one interaction with parents, mentors and tutors.
For more information or to register, call (803) 734-6164 or visit the PAIRS website at www.SCPAIRS.org.