By discussing literacy in the historical context of liberation and in Black literacy societies, Dr. Muhammad reminds us that literacy and intellectual pursuits are powerful tools for change. I felt inspired by her framework of "cricitality," in which young people can address dynamics of power and oppression, and make decisions that reduce harm and focus on repair and joy in their classroom communities.

Last, Hollie outlines some strategies that I will be using in my read-alouds, which I incorporate into my counseling lessons. I want to ensure I'm using culturally relevant texts, so I will use the responsive dots chart to evaluate texts, as well as the booklist in the back of the textbook. I will project the book, rather than just read at the front of the class, so that kids can engage with the text, and use choral reading, call and response, and radio reading. In my SEL lessons as the school counselor, I can continue to ensure that students have access to relevant materials and see the power in their pursuit of literacy.

Write out grocery list and cards

Family reading time

Discuss their learning pursuits and their identity as a reader and writer (how they use it in their every day life and work)

When so many people rely on technology to store their writing it's harder for kids to see the purpose of handwriting and there is the loss of skill, but also the beauty and express that comes with creating written work on paper and I would love to encourage families to model that in their own homes.