The Mississippi Department of Education will host a series of nine regional literacy meetings across the state from Sept. 9–23 for families of students in kindergarten through third grade. Two of these meetings will take place in the Jackson Public School District.

At each meeting, families will receive an overview of the Literacy-Based Promotion Act (LBPA)—the state law addressing literacy and assessment—along with practical strategies to help children improve their reading skills at home. The LBPA emphasizes prevention and intervention to ensure students develop the reading proficiency needed for success in fourth grade. Family engagement is a vital part of this effort.

Jackson Meetings:

• Sept. 9: Bates Elementary, 3180 McDowell Road Extension, Jackson

• Sept. 18: Shirley Elementary, 210 Daniel Lake Boulevard, Jackson

All sessions will be held from 6–7 p.m. No registration is required.

Families from surrounding communities are welcome to attend. For additional resources, visit strongreadersms.com.

For more information, contact Dr. Amanda Malone, State Literacy Director, at ammalone@mdek12.org.