PORTLAND — The Reading League-Maine is one of seven new chapters of The Reading League, a Syracuse, N.Y., nonprofit that aims to advance the awareness, understanding and use of evidence-aligned reading instruction.

The board and its advisory council consist of educators, consultants and school leaders from across Maine. The Maine branch will be led by Sarah Perle, literacy lead teacher at Yarmouth Elementary School and a Topsham resident. Sanford resident and reading specialist Jennifer Cyr will be the group’s vice president. Jennie Smith-Brock, special education teacher in School Adminstrative District 51 (Cumberland/North Yarmouth) and a resident of Cape Elizabeth, will be treasurer.

The board and advisory council consists of a knowledgeable group of educators who believe in the strength and problem-solving powers of Maine teachers. They hope to work together to overcome the learning losses that occurred following the pandemic, according to a news release from Karen Fream with the league.

This chapter will serve the local community by offering resources, training, and support for educators, parents, and students. The Reading League-Maine will also advocate for practices aligned with the science of reading, which has been around for more than 50 years, Cyr said.

The Reading League-Maine will host events and workshops throughout the year. The first event is a webinar slated for Thursday, March 27, featuring Dr. Molly Ness and focused on delivering high-impact read-alouds to elementary students.

A second event for secondary-level teachers in grades 6-12 will occur is set for Thursday, April 10.

People can join the organization and register for events at me.thereadingleague.org.

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