National Educational Thought Leaders Assemble at American Reading Company

American Reading Company, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, hosted its distinguished Academic Advisory Board this past Monday at corporate headquarters. Led by Jane Hileman, Founder and CEO, the group was tasked with helping American Reading fully understand the shifts and challenges taking place in the education space.

The Board comprises many luminaries in the education field. Dr. Richard Allington is former president of the International Reading Association and arguably the national spokesperson for the prevention of summer reading loss, an avoidable setback for economically challenged students. Dr. Pedro Noguera, a frequently published scholar and urban sociologist from New York University, is a frequent advisor to policymakers on the topic of educating boys of color. Dr. Irvin Scott, Deputy Director of Education for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, brings focus to the equity and access discussion. Dr. Alma Flor Ada and Isabel Campoy are renowned authors and experts in language acquisition theory. The work of Drs. Leo and Richard Gómez, founders of the Dual Language Training Institute, has greatly impacted Texas policy changes in dual language education. Stephen Peters, noted speaker and Oprah guest, has published on the topic of building relationships with students. Ron Walker is a true pioneer now serving as the Executive Director of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color, which identifies the critical role of leadership. The recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Angela Peters is a professor and serves as Chair of the Chemistry Department at Chaflin University. Dr. Anne McGill-Franzen, author and professor/researcher at the University of Tennessee, is nationally recognized for her expertise in the education of beginning readers.

“The trust and insight of these brilliant educators helps us understand the real challenges our partnership districts are facing and how American Reading’s services and solutions can be effective,” states Megan Maloney, ARC’s Chief Academic Officer.