Webinar: The State of Reading: Oregon’s Literacy Crisis & How SMART is Helping by SMART Reading

| Pacific Time (US & Canada) (GMT -7:00)

About this Webinar

Literacy rates, which were concerning before the pandemic, are even more dire. Right now, over 60% of Oregon third-graders are not meeting reading benchmarks. The good news is that there is a growing movement to align reading instruction with the latest in cognitive science (often referred to as science-based reading). And, community organizations like SMART are doubling down on their efforts to provide kids with proven strategies for reading success.

Join us on Thursday, May 9 at 9 AM for an online webinar focused on understanding the state of literacy in Oregon, how science-based reading strategies provide hope for the future, and how we can all be part of the solution. Plus, we’ll share a sneak peek of the enhanced volunteer training on science-based strategies we’re rolling out this fall!

Jessica Bowersox

Executive Director

Jessica became SMART’s Executive Director in July 2022. She has been with the organization since 2010, as the Communications Director and later the Deputy Director. As a member of the organization’s executive leadership team, she has played an integral role in setting the strategic vision and working with staff and board leadership to fulfill that vision. She also has 17 years’ experience in public relations and marketing within communications agencies and the nonprofit sector. Jessica has Bachelor’s degrees in Public Relations and Magazine Journalism from the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Willamette University.
Rashelle Chase-Miller

Program Director

Rashelle comes to SMART with 20+ years' experience creating equitable, culturally responsive educational experiences for young children as well as leadership in early learning organizations. Most recently, she worked for KinderCare Education, managing the professional development and curriculum strategies for KinderCare’s education programs, which operate in 40 states and serve over 150,000 children. She also has experience as a preschool teacher and administrator. Rashelle has a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Black Studies from Pitzer College and a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from Portland State University.