media Mar 29, 2023

Perspective | Early childhood development through reading aloud

National Read Aloud Month occurs annually in March. The majority of young children’s brains are formed in their early years, and experiences that center around nurturing from a caregiver help support this healthy development. Read more»

media Mar 10, 2023

Empowering Minds: 9 Best Literacy Charities Worldwide (Full List with Details)

Literacy is a fundamental skill that empowers individuals to succeed in life. Unfortunately, millions worldwide lack basic literacy skills, hindering their access to education and job opportunities. Read more»

release Jan 31, 2023

National nonprofit launches bold new vision for equity

The National Center for Families Learning is seeking partners to build equitable communities and is offering mini-grants to seed innovative approaches to co-designing family learning systems. LOUISVILLE, Ky. – (January 30, 2023) When the world shut down in the spring of 2020, Katlyn Rivera, a single mother living in Yuma, Arizona, lost her job and took on the role of teacher for her children.

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media Jan 17, 2023

What role should parents play in schools? Five Colorado districts are teaming up to include them.

The pandemic changed the way parents are involved in their kids’ education. A new family engagement center shared by five districts will better incorporate their input into schools. Read more»

media Jan 12, 2023

Students become published authors through after-school program backed by Toyota

Toyota partners with 826 Dallas Project and National Center for Families Learning to provide students with the opportunity for creative expression. Read more»

media Dec 13, 2022

Summit on Adult Literacy Convenes Multisector Group of Leaders at Sunnylands

Washington, D.C. – December 13, 2022 – Last month, representatives from the corporate, philanthropic, government and education sectors convened at the historic Sunnylands estate in Rancho Mirage, California for a Summit on Adult Literacy. Read more»

release Dec 2, 2022

Students and teachers across the country receive a special delivery from Toyota

NEW YORK (December 2, 2022) – Long-time partners NCFL and Toyota are teaming up with Kids In Need Foundation to donate school supplies to five under-resourced school districts nationwide, impacting more than 15,000 students.

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media Dec 1, 2022

Toyota Spreads Kindness and Joy This Holiday Season

PLANO, Texas (Dec. 1, 2022) – With the holidays upon us, Toyota is celebrating the joy of the season with a special message about spreading kindness. “Like No One’s Watching,” the first of two Toyota holiday ads, debuted last night during NBC’s primetime special, “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” with a personalized throw from a show host. Read more»

release Nov 17, 2022

Service-learning model for families receives Congressional Resolution

WASHINGTON (November 17, 2022) – Creating a community garden; making the route to school safer for pedestrians; organizing donation drives to benefit elderly community members—the common thread that is woven throughout these projects is that they were all carried out by families using a service-learning model developed by the National Center for Families Learning.

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media Nov 11, 2022

Ms. Selcer Honored for Dedication to Families

Sit down for a conversation with Dae Selcer and right away you’ll sense her enthusiasm and passion for her work. Selcer is a multilingual learner teacher and program coordinator at Prodeo Elementary Academy in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. Described by her colleagues as a “stalwart advocate for multilingual learners and their families,” Selcer is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive classroom that is co-designed in partnership with families. Read more»

media Oct 26, 2022

Arizona educator receives national honor for her family engagement efforts

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ivonne Ortiz of Mesa, Arizona, knows the power of positive thinking when it comes to achieving goals. She is a cheerleader for the students in her family literacy program, helping them to build confidence in themselves and to realize their educational and career goals. Read more»

release Oct 25, 2022

Arizona educator receives national honor for her family engagement efforts

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (October 26, 2022) – Ivonne Ortiz of Mesa, Arizona, knows the power of positive thinking when it comes to achieving goals. She is a cheerleader for the students in her family literacy program, helping them to build confidence in themselves and to realize their educational and career goals. Her ability to work with students to turn their aspirations and dreams into action helped earn her the title of 2022 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year, a national designation that recognizes outstanding educators who are exceptional in engaging families in learning.

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release Sep 28, 2022

National family education nonprofit announces research advisory council

National Center for Families Learning convenes researchers from prominent organizations to inform family learning evaluation, practices, and policy context

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media Sep 23, 2022

Federal grant will expand Colorado family engagement in schools

When Luis Murillo started leading parent academies as a principal in Center, he prepared presentations on how school boards work and where school funding comes from — the things he thought parents needed to know. Read more»

media Sep 15, 2022

Department Awards Over $7 Million to Eight Organizations to Highlight Parent Voices and Support Families Informing Student Development and Academic Recovery

Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced awards totaling over $7 million to eight statewide organizations under the 2022 Competitive Grants for the Statewide Family Engagement Centers (SFEC) program, underscoring the Biden-Harris Administration's ongoing efforts to enhance and increase parent and family engagement in local education. As the 2022-23 school year begins, and to help drive academic recovery, the Department is redoubling its commitment to providing states and communities with additional resources to support student learning and parental and family engagement. Read more»

release Sep 13, 2022

Statewide Family Engagement Center to launch in Colorado

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The U.S. Department of Education has selected the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) to create and lead the Colorado Statewide Family Engagement Center (CO SFEC). In partnership with Colorado Education Initiative (CEI), the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), the Colorado Statewide Parent Coalition (CSPC), and the Black Parent Network (BPN), the CO SFEC will build the capacity of families, schools, and communities to address learning recovery and related impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as implement practices and systems to improve student development and family well-being.

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media Jun 1, 2022

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: OPPORTUNITY THROUGH EDUCATION

For more than 25 years, Dr. Felicia Cumings Smith has helped Kentuckians harness the power of education to improve their and their families’ lives. It’s a calling she’s pursued in a variety of roles: from her early days as a Louisville elementary school teacher, to her leadership within the Kentucky Department of Education and the Jefferson County School District, and more recently as the president of the non-profit organization, National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media May 6, 2022

Making Skills Visible for Students and Teachers

Based at Lenape Technical School, in Ford City, Pennsylvania, Adult Education coordinator Kelly Kirsch is the kind of instructor who always wants to improve her classes, even when students are responding well to the existing curriculum. Read more»

media Apr 29, 2022

Family Friendly Schools certification prioritizes family engagement

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is partnering with the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, through its Kentucky Collaborative for Families and Schools, to encourage intentional family engagement through the Family Friendly certification...In addition to KDE and the Prichard Committee, schools also are being supported by staff from Berea College Partners for Education, Learning Grove and the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media Apr 12, 2022

New Partnership with NCFL Producing Testimony-based Educational Offerings to Support Family Literacy Skills

Modern day Kentucky and WWII-era Austria may seem worlds apart, but the far-flung locales and distant timeframes came together last month at a series of educational workshops at the Iroquois Branch Library in south Louisville. Read more»

media Apr 1, 2022

Finding the words

Collective action to address low literacy can uplift families and communities—and change lives for generations. Read more»

media Mar 31, 2022

Dollar General Literacy Foundation Identifies Key Areas to Prioritize

In partnership with the Barbara Bush Foundation, The National Center for Families Learning and Reading Is Fundamental, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has been investing in literacy and education programs for nearly three decades with the goal of serving others in a way that uplifts and empowers. And while the foundation is proud of the work they have done so far, Denine Torr, executive director of DGLF and vice president of corporate social responsibility at Dollar General, said they recognize there is much more to do. Read more»

media Mar 11, 2022

Boosting Adult Literacy Rates in the Black Community

(WIB) – While at the library making copies one day in 2018, Gregory Hill looked up and saw a sign that read “Adult Literacy Center: Read, Learn Help.” At 65-years-old, he thought his chances of fulfilling his lifelong dream of learning to read and write were “pretty slim.” That all changed that day thanks to a program run by the Los Angeles Public Library. He was paired with a tutor — a volunteer attending nursing school — who helped him see his dreams come true. Read more»

media Mar 8, 2022

Carnegie Corporation of New York Names 10 Grant Recipients to Support Family Engagement Programs Philanthropic funding

New York, NY — Building on its longstanding support for family engagement and home-school partnerships, Carnegie Corporation of New York today announced 10 grants to nonprofit organizations serving communities in nine states. Each will receive $100,000 over a period of 12 months, with the opportunity to renew the grant for a second year. Read more»

release Mar 8, 2022

NCFL’s new project engages JCPS students and families in wonder, immersive learning, and service

LOUISVILLE, KY (March 8, 2022) – What happens when we combine inquiry-based science education, virtual reality, and family engagement? Students and their families at several Louisville, Kentucky schools will find out soon. The Carnegie Corporation of New York has selected the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) as one of only ten organizations to receive a Family Engagement to Improve Student Learning grant.

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media Mar 2, 2022

We all agree literacy is critical. But little attention is paid to literacy in adults

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Reading is the key. Reading is fundamental. Take a look – it’s in a book. This is what we drill into children’s minds: that learning to read is extremely important to their future success. But we don’t put that same urgency on adults, even though fewer than half in America can read above a 6th-grade level. Read more»

media Feb 6, 2022

Connections | Felicia C. Smith - National Center for Families Learning

Renee Shaw talks with educator Dr. Felicia C. Smith, president of the National Center for Families Learning, about getting government, families and organizations mobilized in delivering a high-quality education to kids. Read more»

media Jan 16, 2022

14 Organizations That Help Kids In The US

Sometimes children need help. Whether it's books to read or critical medical care, these 14 organizations help kids across the United States. Read more»

media Dec 25, 2021

Muskegon Heights families to pilot national literacy program

MUSKEGON, MI – Read Muskegon is introducing a national learning model to Muskegon Heights to boost literacy in the community. The Family Service Learning program, created by the National Center for Families, is set to launch in the spring of 2022. It will bring together 10 Muskegon Heights families to identify issues within education and guide them through an 8-week community-led service project. Read more»

media Dec 24, 2021

With Little Stock To Promote, ‘Toyotathon’ Brings Comfort And Joy

With available vehicles scarce and circumstances such as the spread of covid making it more difficult to count on holiday cheer, Toyota this Christmas season has pivoted from its traditional “Toyotathon” model-clearance advertising bonanza to softer themes of community support and togetherness. Read more»

release Dec 2, 2021

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and Toyota support literacy through nationwide book distribution

The effort will distribute more than 85,000 books to 2,000 families nationwide and was highlighted during NBC’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” tree-lighting special December 1

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media Dec 2, 2021

Toyota’s Holiday Message Highlights Giving Through a Tender Community Tale

The first Toyota ad of the holiday season is less about the brand’s autos and more a tale of a community coming together to resurrect a beloved store. Read more»

media Nov 17, 2021

How dynamic, innovative learning systems benefit Kentucky families and communities

The United States public education system, including right here in Kentucky, is beginning to fully understand the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on student learning outcomes. Read more»

release Nov 1, 2021

Congress promotes National Center for Families Learning’s Family Service Learning initiative

Innovative family-centric programming designed to enable families to address community challenges continues to receive Congressional recognition. Family Service Learning, a framework that facilitates family-generated community service projects, was recognized today by Representatives John Yarmuth (D-KY) and Van Taylor (R-TX) and Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Cory Booker (D-NJ). A Congressional resolution introduced this week designates the week of November 1-5, 2021 as “National Family Service Learning Week.”

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release Oct 27, 2021

Broward County educator named national Family Teacher of the Year

$25,000 grant will fund family engagement efforts for two standout teachers in Florida and Washington

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release Oct 24, 2021

NCFL founder receives Dyer Pearl Literacy Award for exemplary work in family literacy

Sharon Darling honored for her outstanding contributions at summit headlined by First Lady

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media Sep 22, 2021

Louisville-based national nonprofit names new leadership

Louisville Business First -- The National Center for Families Learning has announced new leadership. Felicia Cumings Smith, Louisville native, long-time educator and education executive, will replace Sharon Darling as president of the organization effective Sept. 27. Read more»

release Sep 20, 2021

Dr. Felicia Cumings Smith named president of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL)

After a nationwide search, Dr. Felicia Cumings Smith will start as NCFL’s new president on September 27, 2021. A lifelong educator and national thought leader for teaching and learning, Dr. Smith brings decades of valuable experience to advance NCFL’s mission of working to eradicate poverty through education solutions for families.

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media Sep 20, 2021

Kentucky native and national family literacy pioneer Sharon Darling announces retirement from NCFL

Starting in a small Kentucky church basement in the 1970s helping adults learn to read, Sharon Darling went on to become the nation’s pioneer of family literacy — which brings parenting adults and their children together to learn. Read more»

release Aug 9, 2021

Sharon Darling to retire as President of the National Center for Families Learning

More than three decades after founding the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Sharon Darling will retire from her role as President at the end of this year.

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media Jul 27, 2021

Expert ideas for creative reading spaces for kids

Encouraging children to foster a love of books and reading at an early age is an excellent way to set them up for their future. Read more»

media Jul 1, 2021

LaRue superintendent gets highest marks

In a monthly meeting of the LaRue County Schools Board of Education... Read more»

media May 26, 2021

Teaching Financial literacy to your kids as summer break approaches with earning potential options

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WXYZ) — The economic downfall caused by the pandemic has had an impact on all families -- and for many revealed some financial vulnerability. Read more»

media May 21, 2021

Rep. Grijalva Introduces Education Bills to Fund More Inclusive Dual Language and Family Literacy Programs

WASHINGTON—Recently, Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva introduced the SYLLABLE Act and FLUEnt Act, two education bills to fund more dual language programs in low-income school districts and programs... Read more»

media May 6, 2021

WKYT & Toyota teaming up to celebrate teachers

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - May is teacher appreciation month. Read more»

release Apr 26, 2021

National Center for Families Learning launches search for new President as Founder announces plans to retire

A national search launched today to select a new president for the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL). The organization’s founder and current president, Sharon Darling, will retire later this year.

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media Feb 26, 2021

Community effort in Muskegon County aims to tackle ‘illiteracy crisis’

MUSKEGON, MI – About 56% of adults in Muskegon County are below proficient with their reading ability, according to a national survey. Read more»

media Feb 25, 2021

MIAC to host virtual event with Lord of the Rings actor Sean Astin

Actor, director, voice artist, and producer Sean Astin will join the director of the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for a virtual event this March. Read more»

media Feb 2, 2021

Barbara Bush foundation, city of Houston team up to take on illiteracy

(HOUSTON) — Former first lady Barbara Bush’s foundation is partnering with the city of Houston to increase the city’s jaw-dropping adult literacy rates. Read more»

media Jan 14, 2021

Want a fun way to teach your kids about money? Try these games

Janel Meehan doesn’t want her children to grow up like she did, not knowing much about money. Read more»

media Jan 8, 2021

Food, Shelter, and the Public Library

If there is any American institution that connects the threads of literacy, learning, and community welfare, it is the local public library. Read more»

media Dec 30, 2020

Here's why your vinaigrette keeps separating

Do you often find yourself humming the tune of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" while you are mixing your vinaigrette? Same. Read more»

media Dec 23, 2020

10 Tools With a Big Impact in 2020!

Every December, I think about the types of strategies and digital tools that I used during the year. There are always some that remain a constant choice in my classes... Read more»

media Dec 21, 2020

Atlanta Housing announces 2020 Season of Giving

Atlanta Housing’s 2020 Season of Giving is in full swing, with thousands of philanthropic dollars and gifts for Atlanta Housing residents. Read more»

media Dec 4, 2020

Little Free Library Received for National Family Literacy Month

In celebration of National Family Literacy Month in November, H&R Block of Dandridge did their part by kicking in and helping punch illiteracy out of Jefferson County Read more»

media Dec 4, 2020

Cómo aprender inglés con materiales gratuitos online del gobierno de EE.UU.

Es incuestionable que dominar el idioma inglés es importante para adaptarse a la vida en Estados Unidos, por eso lo debemos estudiar si queremos tener mejores oportunidades en el campo laboral Read more»

media Nov 19, 2020

7 Learning Games That Will Change Your Way of Thinking

Too much learning without play can become boring, regardless of your age. No matter how old you are, playing never gets old. Read more»

media Nov 18, 2020

Pittsburgh Public Schools teacher hosts meet-and-greet to celebrate her debut children’s book

In honor of National Family Literacy Month, held each November, Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) teacher Tracy Johns is releasing her first children’s book... Read more»

media Nov 16, 2020

November is Family Literacy Month

JOPLIN, Mo. — November is Family Literacy Month, a time to celebrate the bond formed by reading together. Read more»

media Nov 14, 2020

13 MVP: Traveling Toddler spreading reading around the world

November is National Family Literacy Month. Read more»

media Nov 12, 2020

Ingham Great Start Collaborative Providing Children’s Literacy Development Workshop

LANSING, Mich. — Ingham Great Start Collaborative (GSC) is providing virtual workshops for families of three-year-old children engaging them in literacy development. Read more»

media Nov 10, 2020

Pike County DAR donates books to LMS Library

National Family Literacy Day on Nov. 1. Established by the 103rd Congress in 1994, National Family Literacy Day emphasizes the importance of reading and learning for the entire family... Read more»

media Nov 9, 2020

National Family Literacy Month

In honor of National Family Literacy Month the East Branch Library has posted pages of the picture book Windows by Julia Denos along Broadway. Read more»

media Nov 6, 2020

Texas jeweler unveils literature-inspired necklace for a good cause

A family-owned fine jeweler is helping children create a library to call their own. Read more»

media Nov 5, 2020

A Vision Came True: Johnson, DeFillipo honored for Chelsea Reads program

Who better to tell the story about “Chelsea Reads” than the co-founder of the event herself, Margo Johnson? Read more»

media Nov 4, 2020

The Clocks Went Back One Hour, but Why Do We Change Time Twice a Year?

When the clocks go back an hour, and it gets dark at 5PM it can be kind of depressing, so why do we change our clocks? Read more»

media Nov 4, 2020

Mercade de Acampamentos de Verao Online para Testemunhar Crescimento Impressionante| ID Tech Camps, Camp Google, Camp Wonderopolis

O mais recente estudo de pesquisa sobre o mercado global de acampamentos de verão online publicado pela AMA, oferece uma visão geral detalhada dos fatores que influenciam o escopo global dos negócios. Read more»

media Nov 3, 2020

Bestselling Author Andrew Avner Celebrates National Family Literacy Month With TORO’s a Book a Day Giveaway

November is National Family Literacy Month, and TORO author Andrew Avner is celebrating in a big way by inviting families everywhere to join him for the festivities. Read more»

media Nov 3, 2020

Edinburg library hosts virtual activities for family literacy month

November is National Family Literacy month and Edinburg’s Sekula Memorial Library is inviting the community to participate in its virtual activities. Read more»

media Nov 3, 2020

Houston jeweler unveils new necklace for a shimmering kids' cause

A family-owned fine jeweler is helping underprivileged children create a library to call their own. Read more»

media Nov 1, 2020

Ducey signs proclamation marking Nov. 1 as National Family Literacy Day

In 1994, the 103rd Congress passed joint resolution 413 designating Nov. 1 as National Family Literacy Day. Read more»

media Nov 1, 2020

November 2020 on KnowItAll.org!

In November, we feature content for National Career Development, Native American Heritage, and College Application Months. We also have assets for National Authors’ Day, National Family Literacy Day... Read more»

media Oct 29, 2020

Dubuque library honors National Family Literacy Month

In honor of National Family Literacy Month, Carnegie-Stout Public Library will be providing free story time kits to families with preschool-aged children and free chapter book kits... Read more»

media Oct 29, 2020

Cincinnati Educator Named National Family Teacher Of The Year

Once a child raised in poverty in North Africa, Leila Kubesch arrived in America seeking solutions for families in need. Read more»

media Oct 27, 2020

Norwood teacher wins national teaching honor, $20,000 grant

NORWOOD, Ohio (WKRC) - A Norwood teacher was invited on a Zoom call for, what she thought, was going to be a discussion about student resources. Instead, Leila Kubesch learned she has been named the 2020 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year! Read more»

media Oct 27, 2020

National Family Literacy Month Carnegie-Stout

November is National Family Literacy Month. The Carnegie-Stout Public Library will celebrate by providing free story time kits to families with preschool-aged children and free chapter book kits... Read more»

media Oct 27, 2020

Book Giveaway at Elizabethport Community Center for Families

ELIZABETH, NJ — Families can pick out free books at the Elizabethport Community Center on November 1, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Elizabethport Community Center parking lot. Read more»

release Oct 26, 2020

Cincinnati educator named national Family Teacher of the Year

Once a child raised in poverty in North Africa, Leila Kubesch arrived in America seeking solutions for families in need. She has fulfilled this mission and more, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity to impact the lives of families through her work.

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release Oct 26, 2020

St. Louis educator named national Family Teacher of the Year runner-up

As a certified adult educator, licensed clinical social worker, public policy advocate, and certified doula, Aminah Williams positively impacts families throughout the spectrum of life.

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media Oct 10, 2020

20 underground wonders to explore

If you drive too quickly down Perkins Street in the sleepy town of Castine, Maine (population 1,012), , you might not even notice the Wilson Museum. Read more»

release Sep 22, 2020

U.S. Senate promotes family service initiative in wake of COVID-19

WASHINGTON, DC (September 22, 2020) – Innovative family-centric programming designed to enable communities to fight COVID-19 challenges has once again received support from the United States Senate.

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media Sep 17, 2020

The real reason Trader Joe's has so many pumpkin products this year

Pumpkin spice pretzels, white chocolate pumpkin seed pretzels, pumpkin spice-filled wafer cookies, pumpkin brioche, pumpkin curry simmer sauce, pumpkin samosas, pumpkin empanadas, turkey pumpkin mole burritos — Trader Joe's, what in the squash is going on here? Read more»

media Sep 16, 2020

30 Interesting Information And Facts About Ants For Kids

Have you ever read or heard of the Aesop’s fable ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper’? It is a short story in which ants are shown to be highly intelligent and hardworking creatures who work tirelessly to save food for the harsh winters. Read more»

media Sep 14, 2020

USAID Leer, de UNIBE, recibe Premio de Alfabetización 2020 de la Biblioteca del Congreso de EEUU

EL NUEVO DIARIO. El Proyecto USAID Leer, implementado por la Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) con financiamiento de la Agencia de los Estados Unidos para el Desarrollo Internacional (USAID, por sus siglas en inglés), fue reconocido con una mención de honor en los Premios de Alfabetización 2020, del Library of Congress de EEUU. Read more»

media Sep 11, 2020

Library of Congress Announces Winners of the 2020 Literacy Awards

Washington, D.C. — Five organizations working to expand literacy and promote reading will be awarded the 2020 Library of Congress Literacy Awards, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden announced today. Read more»

release Sep 10, 2020

NCFL receives 2020 Library of Congress Literacy Award

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) has been awarded a 2020 Library of Congress Literacy Award for its responsiveness to the country’s unique needs in these unprecedented times.

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media Sep 10, 2020

Latest News: Library Announces Winners of 2020 Literacy Awards

Five organizations working to expand literacy and promote reading will be awarded the 2020 Library of Congress Literacy Awards, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden announced today. Read more»

media Sep 10, 2020

Latest News: Library Announces Winners of 2020 Literacy Awards

(AGENPARL) – gio 10 settembre 2020 Five organizations working to expand literacy and promote reading will be awarded the 2020 Library of Congress Literacy Awards, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden announced today. Read more»

media Aug 28, 2020

UT Extension shares advice, encouragement for parents homeschooling kids

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – School is back in session for many in the Tennessee Valley. But, the way we normally envision school is different this year. Read more»

release Aug 24, 2020

New grant aims to support increased Latinx parent participation in U.S. libraries

On July 23, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced that the Public Library Association (PLA) and the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) will receive a planning grant under the National Leadership Grants for Libraries category.

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release Aug 24, 2020

La nueva subvención tiene como objetivo apoyar una mayor participación de padres latinos en las bibliotecas de Estados Unidos

El 23 de julio, el Institute of Museum and Library Services (Instituto de Servicios de Museos y Bibliotecas) (IMLS) anunció que la Public Library Association (Asociación de Bibliotecas Públicas) (PLA) y el National Center for Families Learning (Centro Nacional para el Aprendizaje Familiar) (NCFL) recibió una subvención de planificación en la categoría Subvenciones de liderazgo nacional para bibliotecas.

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media Aug 10, 2020

12 Great Online Classes Kids Can Take From Anywhere This (Strange) New School Year

Right now, parents are making some tough choices about how to educate their children. As we gear up to send kids back to school this fall, a lot of kids aren’t actually going back anywhere. Read more»

media Aug 3, 2020

10,000 Miles Away: For Students in Springdale, Arkansas, Home to America’s Largest Population of Marshall Islanders, School Can Be Something of a Culture Shock

The incident occurred more than five years ago, but Benetick Kabua Maddison remembers it vividly. He was in middle school in Northwest Arkansas when he overheard a teacher berating a classmate — like him, born 10,000 miles away in the Marshall Islands. Read more»

media Aug 2, 2020

別人聽到自己的聲音比較高?聲音不同的原理

你喜歡自己的聲音嗎?事實上,我們聽自己的聲音會有兩種版本,一種是說話時聽到的自己的聲音, Read more»

media Jul 27, 2020

Magic City Newsmakers: Neighborhood Housing Services, Cal-Maine Foods, Better Basics and more

Birmingham Museum of Art received a $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts’ Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. Read more»

media Jul 27, 2020

ALA summons support for Library Stabilization Fund Act Sen. Reed, Rep. Levin introduce bicameral legislation to support libraries

WASHINGTON -- The American Library Association (ALA) praised today's introduction of the Library Stabilization Fund Act, introduced in both chambers by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Representative Andy Levin (D-MI), respectively. Read more»

media Jul 22, 2020

How to avoid the 'summer slide' during a pandemic

WACO, Texas — Students have been out of the classroom since March when the coronavirus pandemic forced schools to shut down. Read more»

media Jul 21, 2020

Start an Amazing Stay-At-Home Camp For Kids

Do you have kids, nieces or nephews? Do you take care of children? If you answered yes, you may agree that the decision to enroll kids in camp during school breaks can provide a little more time and space — for everyone. Read more»

media Jul 20, 2020

How to Manage a Summer without Camp

Missing out on summer camp is a tough blow for kids. It’s the place where they meet new friends, get some exercise, and make memories. Read more»

media Jul 20, 2020

Combating your child's summer boredom

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS/WRSP) — We’re more than half way through summer break, so it’s a not a surprise that many of our kids are officially bored. Read more»

media Jul 15, 2020

23 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, summer plans are on hold until further notice. And for families who rely on camp during the warmer months, this can be problematic. Read more»

media Jul 15, 2020

Rep. Grijalva Introduces the FLUEnT Act

TUCSON— This week, Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva introduced the Families Learning and Understanding English Together (FLUEnT) Act, a bill that aims to enhance family literacy services to households of English Language Learners. Read more»

media Jul 15, 2020

More children attending virtual camps this summer

NASHVILLE, TENN. (WSMV) - The COVID-19 pandemic has many parents scrambling over summer break as several children's camps have been cancelled. Read more»

media Jul 15, 2020

More children attending virtual camps this summer

NASHVILLE, TENN. (WSMV) - The COVID-19 pandemic has many parents scrambling over summer break as several children's camps have been cancelled. Read more»

media Jul 5, 2020

Virtual Summer Camps Kids Will Love

For many parents, summer 2020 looks a lot different from summers’ past. Many states have flattened the curve and are beginning to re-open, while others have seen a spike and are forced to roll back their plans. Read more»

media Jul 3, 2020

MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Levin, Sen. Reed Introduce Legislation to Provide Stabilization Funding to Libraries During COVID-19 Pandemic

Congressman Andy Levin (D-MI) and Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today introduced companion bills in the House and Senate to provide critical stabilization funding to libraries facing revenue losses from the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more»

media Jul 2, 2020

ALA summons support for Library Stabilization Fund Act

WASHINGTON -- The American Library Association (ALA) praised today’s introduction of the Library Stabilization Fund Act, introduced in both chambers by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Representative Andy Levin (D-MI), respectively. Read more»

media Jul 1, 2020

Your Guide to Teaching 1st Grade Online

First graders are brimming with enthusiasm for learning, friendships, activities, and whatever the day might throw their way. They are good-natured, expressive, and tend to jump in with both feet. Read more»

media Jun 29, 2020

Great virtual summer camps for parents who need a very real break

After months of virtual school, the cancellation of summer camps has left many parents with no break from 24/7 childcare. Fortunately, online summer camps are here to offer some relief for parents looking for new and educational outlets for their kids. Read more»

media Jun 25, 2020

11 Online Kids’ Camps That Will Save You This Summer

Parents have long relied on summer camps to keep their kids stimulated and occupied while they’re out of school. But like everything else affected by this life-altering pandemic, in 2020 the concept of sending your kid off to summer camp isn’t as simple as it used to be. Read more»

media Jun 23, 2020

13 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, summer plans are on hold until further notice. And for families who rely on camp during the warmer months, this can be problematic. Read more»

media Jun 23, 2020

13 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, summer plans are on hold until further notice. And for families who rely on camp during the warmer months, this can be problematic. Read more»

media Jun 19, 2020

Your Guide to Teaching 2nd Grade Online

Second graders are eager to make sense of the bigger world while they also strive to make their own life as safe and orderly as possible. Have you ever noticed how much second graders enjoy reciting facts about their interests and family life? Read more»

media Jun 19, 2020

Free Camps to Fight Summer Boredom

After three months of laptop school, the kids are probably Zoom'd out, so parents aren't wasting money on virtual camps this summer. Unless they're totally unique. And free! Read more»

media Jun 16, 2020

18 Virtual Summer Camps That Make Us Want to Be a Kid Again

Summer camp IRL is up in the air this year as some are opening up to smaller groups and others are just plain shutting down due to coronavirus, leaving many working parents in a panic. Read more»

media Jun 15, 2020

OnLine Summer Camp Ideas!

Summer is not going to be normal this year, but you can still make it fun for the kids! Read more»

media Jun 15, 2020

Here's How To Occupy Your Kids With These Free Virtual Summer Camps

So lets be real, most summer camps just aren't happening this year (thanks COVID19.) So as we have said goodbye to at home learning that helped parents and sitters out all spring, now our kids are saying, "Sooooooo bored." So what do you do? Read more»

media Jun 13, 2020

Occupy Your Kids With These Free Virtual Summer Camps

For many kids, traditional summer camps just aren’t in the cards this year. And as we bid farewell to the at-home academic schedule we clung to all spring, our kids are looking around and saying, “Sooooo.... now what?” Read more»

media Jun 13, 2020

22 online camps approved by Common Sense Media

Summer 2020 won't be the idyllic canoeing-on-the-lake camp you might have envisioned for your kid. But online summer camps for kids at home aren't necessarily a sad stand-in for the "real" thing. Read more»

media Jun 13, 2020

22 online camps approved by Common Sense Media

Summer 2020 won't be the idyllic canoeing-on-the-lake camp you might have envisioned for your kid. But online summer camps for kids at home aren't necessarily a sad stand-in for the "real" thing. Read more»

media Jun 12, 2020

A high-quality free online summer camp, the children can also enrich the summer vacation at home!

This summer, face-to-face student group activities were restricted by the epidemic situation, and a number of (events) were...cancelled or restricted. Read more»

release Jun 10, 2020

NCFL selected by national grant competition to develop podcast series

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) has been selected by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation from more than 1,200 applicants as one of 28 grantees working to dispel myths about poverty and economic mobility.

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media Jun 10, 2020

Changing the National Conversation About Poverty and Economic Mobility

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 10, 2020 – Twenty-eight organizations from 18 states and the District of Columbia will elevate diverse voices and broaden the national conversation about poverty and economic mobility at a critical moment in our nation’s history... Read more»

media Jun 9, 2020

Column: Ohio should use CARES Act funding to expand high-impact family engagement, family literacy

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media Jun 9, 2020

9 Virtual Summer Camps to Check Out for Kids of All Ages

The traditional summer camp is not going to be happening this year, but if you’re looking for ways to keep kids occupied, educated, and yes, even entertained over the summer, an online summer camp might be the right option or you. Read more»

media Jun 8, 2020

45+ Virtual Summer Camps to Keep Kids Busy While Safely Social Distancing

The coronavirus pandemic has thrown a serious wrench into most summer camp plans for kids. Thankfully, there are still options for kids and parents to keep busy and active while maintaining safe social distancing through virtual summer camps. Read more»

media Jun 7, 2020

Summer Fun Coming Soon

It’s been a tradition in these pages to offer a list of summer opportunities for kids. This year’s classes and events are most often available in a virtual format. Read more»

media Jun 6, 2020

Family literacy classes offer more than English lessons during a pandemic

It seemed, at first, like an impossible task. When Lincoln Public Schools closed its doors in March to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, Monica Asher figured there was no way the family literacy program that meets daily at 12 schools for parents of English Language Learners could continue. Read more»

media Jun 5, 2020

12 Free Virtual Summer Camps Your Kids Will Love

The COVID-19 crisis has caused most things to move online—work, school, grocery shopping, even birthday parties and playdates. Read more»

media Jun 4, 2020

A Guide to Virtual Summer Camps for Kids

Things are changing around the country, but one thing remains the same: summer is here, and kids still want to feel the magic of summer camp. Read more»

media May 26, 2020

30 Best Virtual Summer Camp Ideas to Keep Kids Entertained This Summer

With the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, parents' summer plans — which are often locked into place way back in January — have been thrown for a loop. Read more»

media May 22, 2020

5 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Kids Engaged

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, summer plans are more than likely on hold indefinitely. Yet, for families who rely on summer camps during their child’s time out o school, this can be a bit problematic. Read more»

media May 21, 2020

Social distance in the pool? Summer camps mull safe openings

South Florida’s day camps, lacking clear directions on when they can open just weeks before summer, are figuring out how they will socially distance thousands of kids bursting out of quarantine. Read more»

media May 21, 2020

22 Virtual Summer Camps to Keep the Kids Entertained (and You Sane) This Summer

The coronavirus pandemic has already shuttered many beloved camps for the 2020 summer camp season. But that doesn’t mean your kid has to miss out on all the camp fun—or that you have to scramble to find something to keep them entertained and engaged while you’re working from home this summer. Read more»

media May 21, 2020

Social distance in the pool? Summer camps mull safe openings

South Florida’s day camps, lacking clear directions on when they can open just weeks before summer, are figuring out how they will socially distance thousands of kids bursting out of quarantine. Read more»

media May 19, 2020

Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 18, 2020

How to Host Your Family’s Own Personal Summer Camp

The summer of 2020 is approaching, and with it the waiting game on whether summer camps will open in your town. If you were expecting to send your kids off either every morning or for actual months on end, you might be panicking. Read more»

media May 18, 2020

How to Host Your Family’s Own Personal Summer Camp

The summer of 2020 is approaching, and with it the waiting game on whether summer camps will open in your town. If you were expecting to send your kids off either every morning or for actual months on end, you might be panicking. Read more»

media May 13, 2020

Duckworth, Durbin Join Markey and Colleagues to Introduce Legislation to Ensure All Students Have Access to Internet during Coronavirus Pandemic

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY), Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA... Read more»

media May 13, 2020

Sen. Markey Takes Lead on Legislation to Ensure All Students Have Access to Internet During Coronavirus Pandemic

WASHINGTON DC – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash,), and Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.)... Read more»

media May 13, 2020

Menendez, Booker Cosponsor Bill to Ensure All Students Have Internet Access during COVID-19 Pandemic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today joined a group of their colleagues in introducing legislation aimed to ensure all K-12 students have adequate home internet connectivity and devices during the pandemic. Read more»

media May 13, 2020

Senator Baldwin, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Ensure All Students Have Access to Internet during Coronavirus Pandemic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) helped introduce the Emergency Educational Connections Act, legislation aimed at ensuring all K-12 students have adequate home internet connectivity and devices during the coronavirus pandemic. Read more»

media May 12, 2020

40 Virtual Summer Camps to Keep Kids Busy While Safely Social Distancing

The coronavirus pandemic has thrown a serious wrench into most summer camp plans for kids. Thankfully, there are still options for kids and parents to keep busy and active while maintaining safe social distancing through virtual summer camps. Read more»

media May 12, 2020

9 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, summer plans are on hold until further notice. And for families who rely on camp during the warmer months, this can be problematic. Read more»

media May 11, 2020

Business, government, education leaders call for emergency funding for libraries impacted by COVID-19

WASHINGTON — A coalition of business, government, and education leaders are calling on Congress to provide emergency aid to libraries impacted by COVID-19 in a letter released today by the American Library Association (ALA). Read more»

media May 8, 2020

Summer camp cancelled due to coronavirus? Here's what parents can do

Summer camps in a number of states have had to cancel their programming due to COVID-19 restrictions, which has left many parents asking: "What will our kids do this summer—and how are we possibly going to entertain them?!" Read more»

media May 8, 2020

7 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, summer plans are on hold until further notice. And for families who rely on camp during the warmer months, this can be problematic. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

Another Viewpoint: Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

Guest opinion: Families need support as they assume larger role in learning – The Spokesman

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

Another Viewpoint: Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

Another Viewpoint: Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

Guest opinion: Families need support as they assume larger role in learning

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 7, 2020

7 Virtual Summer Camps That Will Keep Your Little Ones Engaged

Obviously, because of the latest COVID-19 outbreak, summer time plans are on maintain till additional discover. And for households who depend on camp in the course of the hotter months, this may be problematic. Read more»

media May 5, 2020

Guest column: Coronavirus exposes major education gap in Texas

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus pandemic. Read more»

media May 4, 2020

2020 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Nomination

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) thanks you for investing your time to nominate a great family educator for the 2020 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award. Read more»

media May 1, 2020

Guest columnist: COVID-19 exposes lack of support for parents in children's education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media May 1, 2020

Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media Apr 30, 2020

How to promote family engagement during distance learning

Distance learning imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, but it also can bring different opportunities for family engagement under Section 1116(a)(2)(C) of the Every Student Succeeds Act, Pub. L. No. 114-95. Read more»

media Apr 30, 2020

Opinion: Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media Apr 29, 2020

How Serious Is America's Literacy Problem?

The first step in solving a problem is seeing it clearly. This article, part one of an ongoing series, defines the broad scope and depth of the literacy crisis in the United States, among both children and adults. Read more»

release Apr 28, 2020

Coronavirus exposes major lack of support for parents in children’s education

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak.

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media Apr 28, 2020

COVID-19 pandemic has exposed educational disparities among parents | Opinion

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media Apr 20, 2020

Dollar General Opens First Store in Washington State

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dollar General (NYSE: DG) today announced the recent opening of its first store in Washington state, increasing its national presence to 46 states. Read more»

media Apr 20, 2020

6 Organizations Working To Improve Literacy In Children & Adults

From school assignments to work emails to street signs, the lives of people young and old are full of written language. Being able to read is an important skill for anyone looking to navigate the modern world, find work, and communicate with others. Read more»

media Apr 18, 2020

Opinion: Coronavirus shows need to help all families get resources to educate children

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. Read more»

media Apr 17, 2020

How to talk to kids about COVID-19

SOUTHERN INDIANA — As the world learns to navigate life amid a pandemic, parents are facing the challenges of guiding their kids through the situation and helping them understand what’s going on. Read more»

media Apr 14, 2020

National Center for Families Learning

National Center for Families Learning President and Founder Sharon Darling shares a few of NCFL's many free online learning resources. Read more»

media Apr 13, 2020

Our Favorite Online Games That Are Fun and Educational Too

If kids are going to be on the screen playing games, why not make it educational? We’ve compiled this list of the nest online educational games for elementary kids as well as middle and high school students. Read more»

media Apr 6, 2020

The time is now to put parents at the center of our education system

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. We know that parents who are under-resourced and most vulnerable are in need of supports that are sorely lacking. Read more»

release Apr 6, 2020

The time is now to put parents at the center of our education system

Never in our history has the home been more important as the family becomes the main source of learning, comfort, and stability during this coronavirus outbreak. We know that parents who are under-resourced and most vulnerable are in need of supports that are sorely lacking.

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media Mar 30, 2020

100+ Educational Websites for Kids

Looking for educational websites to keep your children entertained online? Look no further! Read more»

media Mar 28, 2020

Passing the Time Reading

While we are all trying to figure out how to embrace our time in isolation at home with our kids, here are some fun things to do together! Hope you enjoy some of these. Read more»

media Mar 26, 2020

Structure, Self-Care Important For Parents And Kids During The Coronavirus Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is a challenging time for pretty much everyone, especially for families with children. Closures of schools and businesses due to the coronavirus have upended schedules, forced friends and family members apart, and many parents have lost their jobs. Read more»

media Mar 26, 2020

19 Free Homeschooling Resources & Tips To Help The Entire Family

More than 300 million students worldwide aren't attending school right now thanks to the coronavirus, according to the Cato Institute. And while preventing the virus from spreading is important, parents are now left trying to figure out how to teach their child at home. Read more»

media Mar 25, 2020

The best free resources to keep students engaged while stuck at home

As teachers, parents, and students of all ages adjust from having the structure of classrooms and schools to the world of distance learning at home, there is at least one small bright spot amid the hardship brought about by the global spread of COVID-19, more commonly known as the coronavirus. Read more»

media Mar 25, 2020

Local & National Online Learning Resources For Families

On March 16, renowned television writer, producer, and author Shonda Rhimes tweeted "Been homeschooling a 6- year-old and 8-year-old for one hour and 11 minutes. Teachers deserve to make a billion dollars a year. Or a week." Read more»

media Mar 24, 2020

Online learning resources for parents who are now homeschooling their kids

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- To prevent the spread of coronavirus, Governor Doug Ducey and Superintendent Kathy Hoffman have announced the closure of Arizona schools statewide. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2020

Santa Maria CHP rescue injured owl by highway

SANTA MARIA, Calif. -- A California Highway Patrol officer rescued an injured owl by Highway 101 in Santa Maria on Thursday. CHP officers received a call on an injured owl in the center divider of Highway 101. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2020

Coronavirus Help: Free educational resources for kids stuck at home during COVID-19

Sunday, March 22, 2020 2:27PM NEW YORK (WABC) -- Looking for ways to keep your kids busy while they're home from school during the COVID-19 outbreak? Check out our list of free educational resources and activities. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2020

Coronavirus Help: Free educational resources for kids stuck at home during COVID-19

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Looking for ways to keep your kids busy while they're home from school during the COVID-19 outbreak? Check out our list of free educational resources and activities. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2020

자녀와 함께하는 코로나19 시간 “독서·악기 배우기 등으로 시간 활용하세요

가주교육구 학력평가시험 연기 급격한 변화로 스트레스 높아져 숙면과 유연한 스케줄 허용해야 집안에만 있으면 고립감 생겨나 친구와 SNS로 사회성 키우도록 Read more»

media Mar 20, 2020

Teachers Share Their Favorite Free Learning Websites And Apps For Kids

Thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, kids across the country are home from school. Some kids have schoolwork to complete, but there’s still a large chunk of the day that needs to be filled with activities and scheduling. Read more»

media Mar 19, 2020

Distance learning for Eden Prairie Schools will begin Tuesday, April 7

Students in Eden Prairie Schools will not begin distance learning until after spring break. Schools in the district closed March 16, two days before an order from Gov. Tim Walz to close all public schools in the state went into effect. The statewide order – a response to COVID-19 – ran through Friday, March 27. Read more»

media Mar 19, 2020

Schools around the world have suspended classes. With these 10 free educational resources, older children don’t have to worry about their studies

On the third day of school suspension, many American parents are going crazy ... In the past few days, Mr. Xiao Yang received some messages from parents of students asking for help. Read more»

media Mar 19, 2020

Coronavirus and kids: At-home educational resources for kids

With most schools in Southern California shut down due to the coronavirus, here are some educational resources for keeping kids' minds active and to help families get through the day. Read more»

media Mar 19, 2020

Tips and resources for helping children during the COVID-19 pandemic

I want to thank everyone for their support, patience and dedication in helping to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Ionia Public Schools continues to work with local and State officials to provide the most appropriate response and support for our community. Read more»

media Mar 18, 2020

6 free online educational tools so kids can keep learning at home

MANILA -- Because of the coronavirus pandemic, millions of children are stuck at home, with their classes on hold. That doesn't mean, however, that learning has to end. Keep your kids informed and entertained with these educational tools, which are available online for free. Read more»

media Mar 18, 2020

Here’s a list of educational sites to keep your children’s minds sharp

As families across the state adjust to homeschooling their children during the coronavirus pandemic, education professionals are releasing lists of websites that can help, and celebrities are engaging children online with reading and drawing sessions. Read more»

media Mar 18, 2020

Resources to keep your kids entertained and learning while they're stuck at home

Parents, it's hard to keep kids busy and learning in times like this, but somehow, my mom figured it out a long time ago with her two rambunctious daughters. She did have a head start though since she's a first-grade teacher. Read more»

media Mar 18, 2020

Homeschooling ‘virtually’ at forefront during coronavirus outbreak

Homeschooling suddenly carries more meaning and certainly more need than ever before. Read more»

media Mar 17, 2020

NCFL providing free online learning resources for kids during COVID-19 school closures

Millions of children across the country are home from school for several weeks due to the coronavirus outbreak. It can be overwhelming for parents to continue and teachers. The National Center for Families Learning is offering free, online learning resources. Read more»

media Mar 17, 2020

20 websites to help keep kids busy (and smart!)

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio-area school districts are closed this week in response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has left a lot of parents and caregivers home with kids who need something to do. Read more»

media Mar 17, 2020

Where to Find Online Classes for Kids Home From School

Maybe your kids or grandkids are already home from school due to coronavirus, or maybe your school's closing is imminent. Some schools have already developed online learning plans while the world bounces back from COVID-19, but not all... Read more»

media Mar 17, 2020

125+ ideas for online learning and fun for kids of all ages

Help has arrived…. LOTS of parents are suddenly home with their kiddos… We have always homeschooled after I was a classroom teacher for more than a decade, so I say WELCOME and let me help you. A few things to remember--this is a PERFECT time to make memories with your children and learn things beyond “normal” math and reading. Read more»

release Mar 13, 2020

Wonderopolis® free online learning alternative for coronavirus closures

The COVID-19 virus has prompted increased safety measures across the country, including the closing of an increasing number of school districts. As of today, over 1,500 schools have closed or are scheduled to close, affecting over one million students, according to Education Week.

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media Feb 2, 2020

Read Muskegon Launches Countywide Literacy Collaborative

Muskegon County is clearly on the move, but over 20,000 adults in our community are at a virtual standstill because they cannot read well enough to fill out a job or housing application, read safety information in the workplace, follow healthcare instructions, or read to their children and grandchildren. Read more»

media Jan 27, 2020

More Than Books: Encouraging Family Literacy in Weyburn

While literacy for the whole family certainly does include reading books, it's also about understanding the world around you. January 27th is the day each year when the entire country celebrates Family Literacy Day, and on Monday the Weyburn Public Library celebrated with a 'Luau' event. Read more»

media Jan 10, 2020

Link Tank: Futuristic Prototypes from CES 2020

"CES is a time for the tech industry to dream big and set the stage for the future. Sometimes that future is only a few months away, while other times it's more like a sci-fi fever dream many years out. Read more»

media Dec 21, 2019

Walton Family Foundation Awards Fathers Incorporated With $60,000

ATLANTA: Fathers Incorporated, the leading national non-profit for the promotion of responsible fatherhood announced today that it has received a $60,000 grant from the Walton Family Foundation to further develop two of their hallmark programs... Read more»

media Nov 26, 2019

Blue Ridge is pilot site for rural family literacy services

The Family Resource Center offers a wide array of free services to Blue Ridge parents and is now functioning as a pilot site for the Arizona Statewide Family Engagement Center (AZ SFEC) Project. Read more»

media Nov 10, 2019

Decatur group partner to provide free learning opportunities

DECATUR — Huddled around the open books, the women intently discussed detailed passages about the lives of sea turtles and the cave paintings of the Mayans. For three hours a day, twice a week, they gather at Carrie Matthews Recreation Center to study science, social studies, math and language arts in hopes of fulfilling a common goal — to pass the GED tests. Read more»

media Nov 8, 2019

National Family Literacy Month--It's About Families Learning Together

One of my fondest memories growing up is listening to my mother read to me as we sat on our... Read more»

media Nov 7, 2019

New Learning Space to Highlight Free Laundry Day in Phoenix

On November 12, the LaundryCares Foundation will host a free laundry day event from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Local Laundry in Phoenix. Read more»

media Nov 5, 2019

Cornyn supports bill to create National Family Service Learning Week

Sen. John Cornyn is one of four U.S. congressmen to introduce a bill that would label the week of Nov. 3-9 as National Family Service Learning Week. Read more»

media Nov 5, 2019

The importance of National Family Literacy Month

One of the best things you can do for your children is to read with them. November is National Family Literacy Month. Read more»

release Nov 4, 2019

Congress Celebrates Two-Generation Service Initiative for Low-income Families

For the fourth year in a row, Congress is recognizing the success and impact of Family Service Learning. Led by Representatives John Yarmuth (D-KY) and Van Taylor (R-TX) and Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Corey Booker (D-NJ) a Congressional Resolution introduced this week designates the week of November 3-10, 2019 as “National Family Service Learning Week.”

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media Nov 1, 2019

National Family Literacy Day encourages families to read together

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — National Family Literacy Day is encouraging families to read together, November 1. Read more»

media Oct 31, 2019

Family literacy: Making it work at Culler Middle School

Larysa Hlyniuk is not your typical middle school student. She is, in fact, a mom who left her home in Ukraine a year ago, landed in Lincoln and sent two of her children off to Culler Middle School, where they began the arduous process of learning English. Read more»

media Oct 24, 2019

15 Awesome Article Sites for Students

Current event and general interest articles are a wonderful resource for students. They can be used for researching a topic, staying informed on what's happening in the news, pleasure reading, and more. Read more»

media Oct 10, 2019

VIDEO: Toyota Teacher Of The Year Colleen Ryan

The featured video of the week for Hamilton County Schools is Colleen Ryan’s selection as the Toyota Family Teacher of the Year. Toyota’s partner the National Center For Families Learning (NCFL) produced the video featuring the Rivermont Elementary kindergarten teacher. Read more»

media Oct 9, 2019

Program lets Louisville immigrants learn life skills by serving others

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A special program at the Americana Community Center aims to help Louisville immigrants learn through serving others. Read more»

media Oct 3, 2019

PNC's Sally McCrady is helping children 'grow up great'

The brainstorming session was getting animated. Wacky ideas were flying at a hackathon hosted by the HeadStarter Network, a nonprofit spinoff of the National Head Start Association that focuses on innovation in early childhood development and education. Read more»

media Oct 2, 2019

Working Together Through Family Engagement Centers

To break the cycle of poverty, the National Center for Families Learning in collaboration with Read On Arizona, Arizona Department of Education, Southwest Human Development, Make Way for Books and Unite For Literacy will create 12 model demonstration sites at family engagement centers throughout Arizona. Read more»

media Oct 1, 2019

2019 K-PREP scores are out. Here's how JCPS parents can use the information

With the release of new test scores and a bulk of other education data, Kentucky parents have more information than ever about their children's schools. Read more»

release Sep 24, 2019

Louisville to partner with Bloomberg Philanthropies on innovative early childhood learning initiative

Bloomberg Philanthropies, through its What Works Cities initiatives, has selected Louisville as one of five American cities to implement an innovative early childhood education program designed to empower parents and caregivers with tools to support language development at a critical age -- and help children enter kindergarten classroom ready.

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media Sep 24, 2019

Bloomberg Philanthropies Announces Replication of Mayors Challenge-Winning Early Childhood Learning Innovation in Five U.S. Cities

Bloomberg Philanthropies today announced the five American cities that will replicate Providence Talks, an early childhood education program that empowers parents and caregivers with tools to support language development at a critical age and help children enter kindergarten classroom ready. Combined with local investments, the support provided across five cities totals nearly $12 million over three years. Read more»

media Sep 24, 2019

Lincoln Children's Museum hosts LPS Family Literacy Night

For the second year, Lincoln Children's Museum teamed up with LPS Family Literacy. It's a program for immigrant and refugee families with elementary aged children in LPS Title One schools. Read more»

media Sep 24, 2019

Five cities will replicate Providence Talks, offering LENA programs for parents and teachers citywide

Five cities have been selected to replicate Providence Talks, one of the first early language initiatives implemented at the municipal level, with support from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Read more»

media Sep 23, 2019

Class notes: Toyota honors Rivermont teacher, awards her $20K, and more education news

Rivermont Elementary School kindergarten teacher Colleen Ryan was surprised by Toyota representatives Friday when they named her Toyota Family Teacher of the Year and awarded her $20,000. Read more»

media Sep 23, 2019

Toyota Teacher of the Year

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A Rivermont Elementary school teacher is being nationally recognized. Colleen Ryan was named Toyota’s National Teacher of the Year, and received a $20-thousand dollar grant. Read more»

release Sep 20, 2019

Chattanooga educator named national Family Teacher of the Year

When it comes to student growth and success, Colleen Ryan and her mobile classroom are where the rubber meets the road. Recognizing her students at Rivermont Elementary – a Title I school – were not where they needed to be academically, she and a colleague bought a school bus and transformed it into “a classroom for the community.”

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release Sep 20, 2019

San Antonio educator named national Family Teacher of the Year runner-up

It’s no secret why parents want their child in Andrea Greimel’s dual language, prekindergarten class at Carvajal Early Childhood Education Center: she shares her love of learning and family literacy, nurtures young learners, and empowers parents to be more involved in their children’s academic life.

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media Sep 20, 2019

Hamilton County Kindergarten Teacher Colleen Ryan Named Toyota's National Family Teacher Of The Year

Toyota representatives visited Rivermont Elementary Friday morning with a special surprise at a school assembly naming Colleen Ryan their national Toyota Family Teacher of the Year. Read more»

media Sep 20, 2019

Rivermont teacher wins $20K Toyota Family Teacher of the Year

Colleen Ryan said she didn't see it coming when Toyota representatives visited her school with a big surprise for her. She thought the unfamiliar people and TV cameras were on hand to recognize Rivermont's recent academic success. Read more»

media Sep 20, 2019

Colleen Ryan Wins Toyota Teacher of the Year Award

Toyota found their family teacher of the year here in Chattanooga on Friday. They surprised kindergarten teacher Colleen Ryan with a $20,000 check and the award at a school assembly. Read more»

media Sep 11, 2019

Many Parents Feel Their Kids Get Too Much Homework & It's Getting Harder, New Study Finds

I'm not sure how I felt about doing homework with my kids. I guess it all depended on the circumstances for both me and my four sons. Did I work that day, how many of them had homework, how labor intensive was it going to be... that kind of thing. Also if the homework was math I was instantly less interested on account of my terrible skills. But sometimes, if conditions were perfect, it was kind of nice to reconnect and see what they were up to at school. The issue being that conditions were rarely perfect. And as it turns out, many parents feel their kids get too much homework, according to a recent study, and I totally get it. Especially when you are trying to help out several kids at once. Read more»

media Sep 10, 2019

A family-centric approach to education through Statewide Family Engagement Centers

To break the cycle of poverty in Arizona, the National Center for Families Learning in collaboration with Read On Arizona, Arizona Department of Education, Southwest Human Development, Make Way for Books and Unite For Literacy, will create 12 model demonstration sites through a Statewide Family Engagement Center Project (SFEC). This two-generation approach will help families all over Arizona. Read more»

media Sep 9, 2019

What to know about Flipgrid

FlipGrid is an education app that allows teachers to bring tech into the classroom. Teachers can upload discussion questions to the platform and students can answer using a video response. Read more»

release Sep 6, 2019

Wonderopolis® becomes first nonprofit to feature Microsoft Immersive Reader

Wonderopolis®, an award-winning website that cultivates student curiosity, has partnered with Microsoft to add a powerful new tool in conjunction with the start of a new school year.

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media Aug 29, 2019

Third Annual Yoga Under the Stars to be held in Contemplative Garden

BEAUFORT, S.C. - Aug. 29, 2019 - PRLog -- In observance of National Family Literacy Month and as part of First Friday After Five, Born To Read Inc. is pleased to present the Third Annual Yoga Under the Stars on Friday, November 1, 2019 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm in the Contemplative Garden at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Read more»

media Aug 27, 2019

Immersive Reader comes to the non-profit Wonderopolis, where the wonder of learning never ceases

Today we are excited to announce that the Immersive Reader is launching on Wonderopolis! Wonderopolis is a place where natural curiosity and imagination lead to exploration and discovery in learners of all ages. Each day, they pose an intriguing question—the Wonder of the Day—and explore it in a variety of ways. Read more»

media Aug 17, 2019

Damp Start Sunday, Then Clearing

"Have You Ever Wondered... When are the dog days of summer? What is the “Dog Star"? Why are the dog days of summer so hot? Many people believe the phrase “dog days of summer" stems from the fact that dogs tend to be a bit on the lazyside during the hottest days of summer. Read more»

media Aug 15, 2019

Mary Kay Ash Shares Timeless Leadership Principles in 35th Anniversary of Bestselling “Mary Kay on People Management”

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 15, 2019-- Thirty-five years ago, in 1984, Mary Kay Ash had already established a 20-year track record of running a successful cosmetic business her way. As a guide to other business leaders and entrepreneurs, Mary Kay turned the values she used to shape her dream company into a bestselling book: Mary Kay on People Management. Read more»

media Aug 13, 2019

Unidos sí, pero sin partidismo

Se describen a sí mismos como una voz confiable y no partisana. Su nuevo nombre es Unidos US, aunque antiguamente se le conocía como Southwest Council of La Raza (SWCLR, 1968) y luego como National Council of La Raza (NCLR, 1972). Read more»

media Aug 8, 2019

Louisville parents: Tips to help your kid start school ready to learn and finish strong

As a Jefferson County Public Schools family engagement specialist, I always begin the school year by recommending that school teachers and administrators ask families what their hopes and dreams are for their students. Read more»

media Aug 1, 2019

Tools of Collaboration: Empowering Children to Become Active Participants in Their World

Author Janet Robertson said, “Engaging with children in troublesome thinking is problematic, but important. Ignoring the hard stuff and only engaging in the fluff and fun from curriculum choices is to keep underground issues of social justice and to further silence and compound the inequity.” As educators, we often find ourselves face-to-face with the monstrous world that surrounds our students. Read more»

media Jul 22, 2019

8 Shark Facts to Know Ahead of Shark Week

Shark Week is about to kick off on the Discovery Channel, bringing everyone's favorite oceanic predator back on the small screen. While sharks look menacing, they are beautiful creatures often misunderstood by those who do not study them every day. With that in mind, it's time to take a dive into some fascinating shark facts to know. Read more»

media Jul 8, 2019

Why no seat belts on buses? Do grocery stores get inspected like restaurants?

Only eight states actually have laws mandating that school buses have seat belts: New Jersey, New York, California, Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas, Nevada and Texas. Read more»

media Jul 1, 2019

Teachers Flip Over Flipgrid

Flipgrid (@Flipgrid) enables learners to respond to prompts with short videos--most are about a minute, but they can be a long as five minutes. The video platform has become a favorite of teachers from kindergarten to college. Read more»

media Jun 24, 2019

Microsoft’s Flipgrid rolls out automatic transcription, AR tools, and Code.org content

It’s been roughly a year since Microsoft acquired Flipgrid (formerly Vikdu), an education-focused platform aimed at students and teachers, and the latter’s dev team evidently hasn’t lightened its workload since. Flipgrid kicked off the FlipgridLive 2019 convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in style this morning with a slew of new features that’ll roll out to customers in the coming weeks. Read more»

media Jun 23, 2019

15 online camps to entertain and educate kids all summer long

If managing your kids’ summer schedules is running you ragged, you may want to consider the online option. Apps, websites, and even full-fledged virtual camps offer a wide range of summer learning opportunities, and can provide the ideal activity during a “staycation” or a fill-in between other activities. Online learning also gives kids something unique: individual attention. Read more»

media Jun 20, 2019

What’s New in EDU – ISTE Edition: Announcing new technology to empower inclusive, student-centered learning

In today’s classrooms, diversity is the new norm. By creating student-centered, inclusive learning environments, educators have the flexibility and opportunity to meet the needs of the diverse group of learners in every classroom. Technology has the power to help teachers not only navigate, but also benefit from, their students’ unique learning styles. Read more»

media Jun 19, 2019

PSJA ISD Parental Engagement Program awarded Spring Innovation grant from National Literacy Directory

PHARR -- The Phar-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) Parental Engagement Department was recently awarded a $1,000 Spring Innovation Grant from the National Literacy Directory to promote literacy among parents. Read more»

media Jun 17, 2019

AMPED tech training provides skills, job prospects (and hope)

Shaina Davis, 27, worked the night shift at a fast food restaurant when a friend persuaded her to enroll in a tech training program at the local nonprofit AMPED. She has graduated from the program and now works part-time for AMPED and as a sales rep for a phone company, earning more money. She also works the day shift, giving her more time with her children. Read more»

media Jun 14, 2019

15 online camps to entertain and educate kids all summer long

June 14-- If managing your kids' summer schedules is running you ragged, you may want to consider the online option. Apps, websites, and even full-fledged virtual camps offer a wide range of summer learning opportunities, and can provide the ideal activity during a "staycation" or a fill-in between other activities. Read more»

media Jun 7, 2019

Librarians Offer Tips On How Kids Can Keep Up With Reading This Summer

When school lets out, students can fall into the summer reading gap trap, where they enter school again in September with deteriorated reading skills. Read more»

media Jun 7, 2019

FACE Program Graduates GED Class and New 'Giving Shed' Opens in Blackwater

The Blackwater Community School’s Family and Child Education (FACE) program has been continuing to work on projects as part of a grant they’ve received. Read more»

media Jun 6, 2019

Teaching Innovation in the Vision of New Technology: From Interesting Learning to Robot Companion Learning - UK Open University "Innovative Teaching Report"

The gradual application of AI technology and 5G communication technology provides more possibilities for education. With the deep integration of information technology and education, the voice of education reform and innovation is getting higher and higher. Read more»

media May 30, 2019

Summer is a Great Time for Teaching Kids About Money

Take advantage of summer vacation to instill some important financial literacy skills in your children. Teaching kids about money from the earliest age possible will help them build a bright financial future for themselves and their children. Read more»

media May 29, 2019

Toyota and National Center for Families Learning Strive to Make Big Impact on Dallas' Underserved Parents and Kids

For 30 years, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) has been working to break generational poverty by bringing parents together with their children to learn. Over this period, NCFL has achieved success by partnering with educators, policymakers and advocates to creatively address the systemic problems faced by at-risk children and their families. Read more»

media May 28, 2019

National Effort to Transform Public Housing into Book-Rich Environments Reaches One Million Books

WASHINGTON - In just its third year, a national campaign to promote literacy and a life-long love of reading has distributed one million books to children living in public housing. The Book-Rich Environments Initiative (BRE) is a collaboration aimed to transform public housing authorities (PHAs) into book-rich environments by providing diverse, high quality books and other literacy tools to children and families living in HUD-assisted housing Read more»

media May 23, 2019

From All Angles: Holistic Approach Employs Family Literacy to Break Cycle of Poverty in Dallas

DALLAS (May 23, 2019) – For Erica Blanco, taking time out of her busy life for Toyota Family Learning classes is an investment in herself and her four children. The single mom from South Dallas is working to strengthen family bonds by learning how to better communicate and spending more quality time with her kids. Read more»

release May 23, 2019

From all angles: holistic approach employs family literacy to break cycle of poverty in Dallas

For Erica Blanco, taking time out of her busy life for Toyota Family Learning classes is an investment in herself and her four children. The single mom from South Dallas is working to strengthen family bonds by learning how to better communicate and spending more quality time with her kids.

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media May 23, 2019

Pineville Public Library Receives Let’s Learn Together Outside Grant

The Pineville-Bell County Public Library received the grant, Let’s Learn Together Outside, which promotes family literacy and learning through playing together outside. This grant is awarded through the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media May 23, 2019

ETATS-UNIS : 1 MILLION DE LIVRES GRATUITS POUR LA NATIONAL BOOK FOUNDATION

La National Book Foundation a annoncé, le 21 mai dernier, qu’elle aura dépassé le million de livres distribués dans le cadre de son programme « Book Rich Environments » (« des espaces riches en livres »). Un grand pas pour la fondation qui a lancé le programme en janvier 2017. Read more»

media May 22, 2019

Celebrity Dropouts Who Earned a GED, List No. 2

When you are missing something that everyone else seems to have, like a high school diploma, the hole in your resume can cause shame and embarrassment, but there are lots of very successful people who dropped out of high school and made it big on a GED. We brought you our list of 25 Celebrity Dropouts Who Earned a GED, and now we're adding more. If these high school dropouts could go on to be successful, so can you. Be inspired. Read more»

media May 21, 2019

US National Book Foundation Program To Distribute 1-Millionth Book

In its third year of operation, the “Book Rich Environments” program of the United States’ National Book Foundation has announced today (May 21) that it anticipates having provided more than 1 million free books to families in public housing authorities. Read more»

media May 21, 2019

NBF's Book Rich Environments Program Returns

Launched in January of 2017, the National Book Foundation's Book Rich Environments initiative provides resources that reinforce local efforts to combat lack of literary access, often termed “book deserts.” The national program is a collaboration between the National Book Foundation, which serves as lead partner, the U.S. Departments of Education and Housing and Urban Development, the Urban Libraries Council, and the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media May 16, 2019

WAVE Country with Dawne Gee for Tuesday, May 14, 2019

...Family Fun Fest, presented by Say & Play with Words Louisville and hosted by National Center for Families Learning, will be held Saturday, May 18 from 11am to 3pm. Read more»

media May 10, 2019

JCPS, NCFL partner to host Community Jamborees across Jefferson County

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - Jefferson County Public Schools and the National Center for Families Learning are hosting a series of Community Jamobree events across Jefferson County. The goal is to encourage family engagement in schools. Read more»

media May 1, 2019

Company Kudos, May 2019

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has been recognized with an achievement award for the Gulf State Park Enhancement Project by the Environmental Business Journal. The project, which preserved and enhanced Gulf State Park’s 6,150 acres, included the new Lodge at Gulf State Park, dune restoration, a 28-mile trail network, two pedestrian bridges, a new Interpretive Center and a Learning Campus. Read more»

media Apr 19, 2019

Louisville nonprofits to get $3M grant from JPMorgan for high-tech skills training

Louisville nonprofits will receive $3 million over three years from JPMorgan Chase to help low-income residents, primarily to gain skills for IT jobs. Read more»

media Apr 19, 2019

Up top, soda pop - It's National High Five Day!

(WTNH) - Give out all the high fives you've got in you on April 18th because it's National High Five Day! According to the wonderopolis.org, the "high five" has two origin stories: Read more»

media Apr 19, 2019

Who invented the high-five?

This week is Holy Week for Christians, including Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday before celebrating Easter on Sunday, April 21. But mark your calendar for some lesser-known of this week's holidays, including High Five Day. Read more»

media Apr 18, 2019

Toyota’s support of family literacy in America reaches $50 million

To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation’s capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Apr 18, 2019

Did you know the celebratory hand slap has its own observance?

There were certainly a lot of high fives exchanged at Nationwide Arena last night as the Columbus Blue Jackets earned their first-ever second-round berth in the NHL playoffs. Ever feel like you could use more positive vibes? It may be time to start celebrating High Five Day. Read more»

media Apr 18, 2019

Here’s How the Months of the Year Got Their Names

Fun fact: January has not always been first on our calendars. For ancient Romans, the year began in March and finished ten months later in December, according to Wonderopolis.org, an education site by the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media Apr 1, 2019

Prichard Committee ‘Groundswell Initiative’ to engage families, communities in public schools

A statewide campaign to engage families and communities in effective and sustainable efforts to improve schools and student achievement is being launched by the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence. Read more»

release Mar 29, 2019

Building Groundswell of Support for Education by Engaging Parents, Communities Focus of New Campaign

CARROLLTON, Ky. – A statewide campaign to engage families and communities in effective and sustainable efforts to improve schools and student achievement was launched Friday (March 29, 2019) by the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence.

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media Mar 29, 2019

Prichard Committee’s ‘The Groundswell Initiative’ aims at engaging families; includes Children, Inc.

A statewide campaign to engage families and communities in effective and sustainable efforts to improve schools and student achievement is being launched by the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence. Read more»

media Mar 29, 2019

Program Seeks to Close AZ Students' 'Achievement Gap'

PHOENIX, Ariz. – A new grant program aims to close the "achievement gap" for low-income Arizona students by getting their families involved in their education. Read more»

media Mar 18, 2019

FACE program working on important projects as part of new grant

Blackwater Community School FACE Program (Family and Child Education) students and parents have been cleaning up the yards of the elderly complex. A project that they’ve titled as the “elderly complex beautification and clean-up” which allows the students to become more involved with the Community through volunteer services. Read more»

media Mar 15, 2019

Toyota’s Support of Family Literacy in America Reaches $50 Million

To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation’s capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Mar 15, 2019

Toyota investing $750M at 5 U.S. plants, including Kentucky, creating 600 jobs

Toyota Motor Corp said on Thursday it will invest $749 million in five us plants and add 586 jobs as it boosts engine production capacity and adds new hybrid models to its lineup. Read more»

media Mar 14, 2019

Toyota donates $1 million to combat poverty in north Alabama, D.C.

The $1.6 billion Mazda-Toyota plant is bringing much more than just 4,000 jobs to the Huntsville area. As exemplified by Toyota’s announcement Wednesday, the companies plan to be active and generous members of the north Alabama community. Read more»

media Mar 14, 2019

Toyota’s U.S. investment increase to bring 450 new jobs to Huntsville

HUNTSVILLE — Toyota officials announced today that they are committing to increase their investment to $13 billion over the next five years—a move that will allow for an increase in Huntsville’s production capacity, bringing about 450 new jobs to the area. Read more»

media Mar 14, 2019

Toyota Motor: support of family literacy in America reaches $50 million; New $1 million donation to NCFL focuses on literacy in Washington D.C.-area and northern Alabama

WASHINGTON - To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation's capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Mar 14, 2019

Top Headlines: Toyota donates to family literacy, Tuskegee’s new president

To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation’s capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Mar 13, 2019

Toyota’s support of family literacy in America reaches $50 million

To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation’s capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Mar 13, 2019

Toyota donates $1 million to fight poverty in Alabama, D.C.

In an effort to help stop poverty, Toyota on Wednesday announced a $1 million donation to a national organization. The proceeds will be earmarked to benefit north Alabama and Washington D.C., according to the announcement. Read more»

media Mar 13, 2019

Toyota's support of family literacy in America reaches $50 million

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Toyota is donating $1 million to help break generational cycles of poverty through family literacy in the nation's capital and northern Alabama. Read more»

media Mar 2, 2019

It's Read Across America Day — Here's what our kids must know as literacy grows more complex

What is literacy? We previously would have defined literacy using terms like reading, writing, speaking and listening and referenced the use of paper, pencils, books and telephones to communicate and disseminate information. Read more»

media Jan 18, 2019

Nebraska received funding to improve family engagement for student success

The Nebraska Department of Education, in partnership with the National Center for Families Learning, the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, and Unite for Literacy, will receive a five-year, $4.6 million grant to develop model Statewide Family Engagement Centers across Nebraska. Read more»

media Jan 17, 2019

Nebraska receives funding to improve family engagement for student success

The Nebraska Department of Education, in partnership with the National Center for Families Learning, the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, and Unite for Literacy, will receive a five-year, $4.6 million grant to develop model Statewide Family Engagement Centers across Nebraska. Read more»

media Jan 17, 2019

Nebraska schools receive $4.6M for Family Engagement Centers

The Nebraska Department of Education, in partnership with the National Center for Families Learning, the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, and Unite for Literacy, will receive the five-year, $4.6 million grant to develop model Statewide Family Engagement Centers in Grand Island, Lexington and Lincoln. Read more»

media Dec 5, 2018

These Three Women Are Changing The Way We Think About Education

NCFL President and Founder Sharon Darling is honored for building a comprehensive parent/child literacy and life­-skills program that has touched the lives of millions of families over hundreds of communities across the country. Read more»

media Dec 1, 2018

These schools are educating parents, as well as students

Inside a classroom at Fruitvale Elementary School in Oakland, California, about 20 women are practicing spelling out loud in English. Read more»

release Nov 20, 2018

The National Center for Families Learning Applauds Congressional Resolution

Two-generation Family Service Learning model is highlighted for its results.

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media Nov 1, 2018
NCFL Image

Say & Play With Words-Louisville

NCFL President and Founder Sharon Darling talks about the Say & Play With Words vocabulary initiative on WHAS11 (ABC). Read more»

release Oct 9, 2018

New statewide centers to focus on student achievement gap

NCFL to lead creation of centers in Nebraska and Arizona.

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release Apr 18, 2018

National Center for Families Learning honors the memory of Barbara Bush

NCFL President and Founder, Sharon Darling honors her friend and mentor in family literacy.

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media Apr 12, 2018

National Book Foundation

The Book Rich Environments (BRE) initiative, now in its second year, aims to combat lack of literary access, often termed “book deserts,” by connecting communities with resources that help foster life-long, joyful relationships between readers and books. Read more»

media Mar 11, 2018

The Daily Journal

Collin Billingsley started out in the community mental health field to help make a difference in the lives and minds of people. He worked as a licensed professional counselor in behavioral health at North Mississippi Medical Center and as a psychology instructor at Northeast Mississippi Community College for the last 20 years. Read more»

media Mar 11, 2018

The Arizona Republic

As Arizona awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right. Read more»

media Mar 5, 2018

Medium

Snuggling up with a toddler and a good book is far more than something that will create a happy memory; it’s something that can set up your child for success in the future. According to the National Center for Families Learning, children who are read to daily from infancy reach kindergarten with approximately 900 hours of what they call “brain food.” Reduce the amount of reading to 30 minutes per week, and the same child is now 770 hours behind peers who were read to daily. Read more»

media Feb 23, 2018

Eagle-Gazette (Lancaster, OH)

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right!... Read more»

media Feb 23, 2018

Chillicothe Gazette (Chillicothe, OH)

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 21, 2018

Clarion News (Indiana)

As Indiana stands to become one of the first states in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 19, 2018

Herald-Journal (Spartanburg, SC)

As South Carolina considers requiring able-bodied Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer for benefits, we must ensure the program is a win-win for participants and their communities. To do that, it will take substantive programming that ties volunteerism to getting people job skills and into the workforce. Read more»

media Feb 19, 2018

The Advocate (Baton Rouge, LA)

As Louisiana considers seeking approval to require able-bodied Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer for benefits, we must ensure the program is a win-win for participants and their communities. The Pelican State must develop substantive programming that ties volunteerism to getting people job skills and into the workforce. Read more»

media Feb 18, 2018

USA Breaking News

As Indiana stands to become one of the first states in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right. Read more»

media Feb 18, 2018

IndyStar (Indianapolis, IN)

As Indiana stands to become one of the first states in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right... Read more»

media Feb 17, 2018

Daily Comet (Thibodaux/Lafourche Parish, LA)

As Louisiana considers seeking approval to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right. Read more»

media Feb 17, 2018

Chipley Paper (Chipley, FL)

The Pelican State needs substantive programming around the proposed requirement for able-bodied people to either work or perform community service. If done correctly, doors could be opened and we could see Louisiana citizens’ lives and communities transformed. Volunteering and community engagement can lead to participants learning workforce skills, which leads to attaining jobs. Read more»

media Feb 17, 2018

Houma Today (Houma, LA)

As Louisiana considers seeking approval to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right. Read more»

media Feb 16, 2018

The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, MS)

As Mississippi awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, it sits poised to be an example in the nation if it can ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right... Read more»

media Feb 15, 2018

Daily Advertiser (Lafayette, LA)

As Louisiana considers requiring many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is a win-win for participants and their communities. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 15, 2018

Sampson Independent (Clinton, NC)

As North Carolina awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 15, 2018

Herald Bulletin (Anderson, IN)

As Indiana stands to become one of the first states in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is a win-win for participants and the communities where they live. It will take substantive programming around the 80 hours per month requirement for able-bodied people to either work or perform community service to do that. By tying volunteerism to getting people job skills and into the workforce, a path to self-sufficiency is forged. Read more»

media Feb 14, 2018

The Logan Daily News (Logan, OH)

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 14, 2018

Star Beacon (Ashtabula, OH)

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. The Buckeye state needs substantive programming around its 80-hours per month requirement for able-bodied people to either work or perform community service. Read more»

media Feb 14, 2018

Sentinel-Tribune (Bowling Green, OH)

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 14, 2018

PharmacyChoice

As Ohio awaits approval of new requirements for many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Simply put, we need to do it right! Read more»

media Feb 13, 2018

Pharos - Tribune (Logansport, IN)

As Indiana stands to become one of the first states in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Read more»

media Feb 11, 2018

Wave 3 News (Louisville)

Inside the basement of the Americana Community Center, a group of immigrant women are concentrated on their craft. The weekly meetings of the Fiberworks Project at the Americana Center have evolved from a social setting to a profitable business. While the group meets, the women converse in both Arabic and English - and no matter how they communicate they take care of business. Read more»

media Jan 26, 2018

Lexington Herald Leader

As Kentucky stands to become the first state in the nation to require many of its Medicaid recipients to work or volunteer in order to receive benefits, we must ensure the program is as meaningful as possible for those impacted. Read more»

media Dec 30, 2017

Today's Woman

“What began as my volunteering as a reading tutor, grew into what is today, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL). Since 1989, millions of lives, both children and adults, across the country have been changed as they have participated in our programming and utilized our resources to create a path to success. Any lasting legacy can be created by helping even one person in need.” — Sharon Darling, President and Founder, National Center for Families Learning Read more»

media Nov 27, 2017

Louisville Insider

A locally based national nonprofit, which recently received the American Prize of the Library of Congress Literacy Awards 2017, has been selected for a long-term research project to help at-risk youth. The Louisville-based National Center for Families Learning, the family literacy advocate whose goal is to help eradicate poverty via education, has been selected by the 50-year-old Search Institute to create and test innovative ways to strengthen relationships between vulnerable youth and adults. Read more»

media Nov 26, 2017

SunHerald

A unique multi-generation learning program aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable families is spreading across Mississippi and should reach all 82 counties by January. The goal: to elevate families out of poverty by empowering parents with the skills and confidence to improve their life situations. Learning is extended beyond school walls and into daily routines, such as a trip to the store, time at the dinner table, or just time alone between parent and child. Read more»

media Oct 27, 2017

The Herald Sun

As a teacher, Mary Andrews knew she had to get her students’ families involved when it comes to literacy. With the help of a grant, she launched the nonprofit Family Reading Partners in 2010. Earlier this month, Andrews, 70, who has worked in Durham and Chapel Hill schools, was awarded the National Family Teacher of the Year title. Here, she talks about the importance of introducing kids to books early on – and what she’ll do with the prize money from the award. Read more»

release Sep 26, 2017

Senator Rand Paul joins conversation about two-generation learning

Two-generation family literacy programming lifts parents and children to find greater success academically and economically. That's the message Sen. Rand Paul heard from the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) Founder Sharon Darling, program participants and partners at a round table discussion in Louisville this morning.

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media Sep 25, 2017

The Courier-Journal (Louisville)

Close, but no cigar. Despite recent changes to the Graham-Cassidy bill — a GOP effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act — Sen. Rand Paul said he is still a "no" vote on the bill, even though a new provision Monday adds increased federal funding for Kentucky. Read more»

media Sep 25, 2017

WDRB 41 Louisville

Kentucky's U. S. Senator Rand Paul is still opposed to the Republican bill repealing the Obama health care law despite fresh revisions. His opposition means fading hope by the GOP and the White House to stave off defeat in a Senate showdown over the Graham-Cassidy health care bill this week. Read more»

release Sep 19, 2017

Congressional Resolution recognizes Family Service Learning benefits

On Tuesday, Members of Congress, led by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Corey Booker (D-NJ) and Congressmen John Yarmuth (D-KY) and Sam Johnson (R-TX) introduced a resolution acknowledging the broad benefits of Family Service Learning. The Resolution designates the week of September 11 through 15, 2017, as “National Family Service Learning Week,” and is being supported by over a dozen other congressmen and senators.

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media Sep 19, 2017

4-Traders

Mary Andrews isn't sitting still in retirement. On the contrary, she's building on her 40-year teaching career by expanding family literacy programs throughout the Chapel Hill, North Carolina, community to serve more vulnerable parents and children. Read more»

release Sep 18, 2017

National Center for Families Learning awarded Library of Congress American Prize for Literacy

“It is an honor for the National Center for Families Learning to be recognized by the Library of Congress among many outstanding organizations,” Darling said. “Every day across the country parents are experiencing hope and optimism for their futures because they are gaining valuable literacy and employability skills that empower them to contribute to their communities and achieve economic self-sufficiency through the NCFL Family Learning model. Children are seeing their parents work hard and reap the benefits. NCFL is seeing families lift themselves out of poverty, breaking a long-standing cycle. This award represents our efforts but the honor belongs to the millions of families who have taken ownership to improve their own lives over the past 28 years.”

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media Sep 11, 2017

New York Parenting

Homework strikes fear in the hearts of many parents. You may not remember facts you learned in school, like the significant battles of the Civil War or the difference between a simile and a metaphor. Some things you learned are obsolete now: Pluto is no longer considered a planet, it was demoted in 2006. Here’s the good news: When it comes to homework help, asking the right questions is more important than knowing all the answers. Use these smart prompts to direct your child’s work and teach important learning-management skills: Read more»

media Sep 5, 2017

Fine Books & Collections

Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden announced the winners of the 2017 Library of Congress Literacy Awards at the Library of Congress National Book Festival gala. Three organizations received awards from Hayden and philanthropist David M. Rubenstein: the Children’s Literacy Initiative; the National Center for Families and Learning; and Pratham Books. Read more»

media Aug 29, 2017

WRAL.com

Now that school is back in session, so are the nightly struggles with homework. Some students simply don't understand the material. In other cases, they wonder how they'll ever write that report and solve those math problems between sports practices, music lessons or a part-time job. Read more»

release Jul 6, 2017

Stopping summer learning loss: Free, online camp engages children, parents in wonders of the world

Parents and children now have a new, free way to explore the wonders of the world while piquing children's curiosities and stemming summer learning loss - Camp Wonderopolis. The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), with support from Better World Books, launched this free, online summer learning camp where parents and children can discover fun science, technology, and world wonders at Camp.Wonderopolis.org.

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media Jul 6, 2017

Movers & Makers

Beech Acres Parenting Center honored 43 Cincinnati families graduating from the center’s Toyota Family Learning program. The three-year program encourages parents and children to learn side-by-side, outside the traditional classroom. The graduation ceremony took place at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Read more»

media Jun 14, 2017

WDRB 41 Louisville

Every summer, kids are at risk for losing some of what they learned during the school year. It's called Summer Learning Loss. But there's a free, online program that helps stem Summer Learning Loss, and it's made by Kentucky-based National Center for Families Learning (NCFL). Camp Wonderopolis improves children's background knowledge, reading comprehension, and vocabulary skills through fun lessons and activities. Read more»

media Jun 13, 2017

WTVQ-TV (ABC, Lexington)

Eric Burke and John Macleod talked about combating summer learning loss and how it has gotten a bit easier because of free online summer programs at Camp Wonderopolis. Read more»

media Jun 5, 2017

Wave 3 Louisville

The Academy of Music Production Education and Development is teaming with the the National Center for Families Learning to offer classes in technical skills, including computer networking, repair and web design. Read more»

release May 23, 2017

NCFL Family Learning expands to seven Louisville sites

Deraldo Hall didn’t have much support growing up, but he’s working hard to make sure that’s not the case for his five children. Hall, his wife, and kids – four girls and one boy ranging in age from 1 to 6 years old – are attending weekly NCFL Family Learning meetings at 2NOT1. Hall’s family signed up for the program to learn to be a more engaged parent in his children’s education, build family bonds, and learn workforce skills that could widen his job prospects.

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media May 23, 2017

The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY)

Parents and their children were smiling, faces smudged with paint, as they concentrated on the T-shirts in front of them. On one shirt, a red arrow pointed downward with the word "Violence" written inside, the letters popping against the white cotton. Read more»

media May 23, 2017

WHAS 11 Louisville

The goal of a new program at the National Center for Families Learning is to eliminate poverty through education and literacy. The program is expanding to new sites in west and south Louisville including the Louisville Urban League, "2 Not 1", and the Americana World Community Center. Read more»

media May 23, 2017

Louisville Business First

The National Center for Families Learning has announced a $1.5 million expansion of its free family literacy and job skills program in Louisville. The program allows families to learn together and emphasizes the parents' role in their children's education. In addition to its two current locations, the program will now be offered at five new venues in south and west Louisville, with two more sites to be added this fall. Each location will be able to service about 50 families. The new sites are: McFerran Elementary, Americana World Community Center, the Louisville Urban League, 2NOT1 Fatherhood & Families Inc. and the Academy of Music Production Education and Development. Read more»

media May 23, 2017

WLKY Louisville

A unique learning program is expanding to five new sites throughout west and south Louisville. The National Center for Families Learning aims to engage parents, educate families, and reduce violence. "I wanted to learn how to be a parent, how to teach my kids, and not just that, I wanted to learn how to better understand my kids," said Deraldo Hall, a father of five. Hall said he joined the organization to give his kids a better life than he had. Read more»

media May 23, 2017

WDRB 41 Louisville

Louisville city leaders announced an expansion of the National Center for Families Learning program Tuesday that could help reduce violence and poverty. The goal is to teach adults and children to learn together. And so far, it has worked in Louisville and other cities across the country. Read more»

media May 17, 2017

The Gleaner

Half of Kentucky’s children are not prepared for kindergarten, according to state data. And, when you look at Kentucky’s graduating class of 2016, only one-third of high school seniors reached benchmarks in math and science and only 39 percent earned or surpassed reading standards. These are alarming statistics that demonstrate when kids start school behind, they often stay behind. Read more»

release May 5, 2017

Toyota expands National Family Learning program to Tupelo

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), in partnership with Toyota and the Family Resource Center of North Mississippi, today unveiled a unique family learning program. This innovative, two-generation model called Toyota Family Learning is a solution to many of the educational challenges facing low-income and ethnically diverse families. The Family Resource Center of North Mississippi received a three-year, $175,000 grant from Toyota and NCFL to launch the program.

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release May 5, 2017

The power of reading: Richmond families celebrate National Reading Month

Books can transport children to new places, sparking their imagination and increasing their understanding of the world. The power of reading was celebrated Thursday at Martin Luther King, Jr. Preschool Learning Center in Richmond at a Virginia Preschool Initiative family event that included Frances Frost, family ambassador for the U.S. Department of Education, and the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL).

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media May 1, 2017

The Daily Journal

From high school seniors showcasing community service projects to a unique partnership aimed at helping residents get engaged with their community, there was plenty of good news to share last week throughout Northeast Mississippi. Read more»

media Apr 26, 2017

Daily Journal

Kimberly Ledbetter is a 32-year-old single mother who joined the Family Resource Center of North Mississippi last November. Since then, she has seen the impact the organization has been able to make on her 6-year-old daughter’s education. “I’ve learned how to work better with my daughter on homework and reading,” Ledbetter said. “(The FRC) has helped us with more time to focus on her goals in school.” Read more»

media Apr 21, 2017

The Winchester Star

Growing up with an alcoholic, abusive father in a small Mexican town, Alejandra wanted a better life. Her only hope, she thought, was to move to America with her new husband, and, hopefully, provide that better life for her future children. Read more»

media Apr 16, 2017

The Commercial Appeal

Toyota Motor Corp. is making a major financial investment in its Blue Springs, Mississippi, manufacturing facility with the announcement of a $10 million visitor and interactive training center as well as $350,000 in donations for education and literacy. Read more»

media Apr 16, 2017

Daily Journal

The Toyota impact continues in Northeast Mississippi. Last week the automotive giant announced plans to build an immersive visitor and training center to showcase the story of the world’s best-selling car – the Corolla – and how our region has played a part in that success. This is certainly a big year for Toyota Mississippi as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking of the 2-million-square-foot facility in Blue Springs. Read more»

media Apr 13, 2017

WCBI-TV (CBS, Columbus, Miss.)

There was a stage full of dignitaries for the celebration, but Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant said the real credit goes to team members who make Toyota Corollas everyday at the Blue Springs plant. “We thank you for being the best Toyota team in the world,” Gov. Bryant said. Read more»

media Apr 13, 2017

WTVA/WLOV (Tupelo/Columbus/West Point)

Toyota Mississippi celebrated its 10th anniversary with an announcement to build a visitor and interactive training center. Vice President of Administration Mike Botkin said the new center will be 15,000 square feet. He says the center will have interactive activities for visitors. "What's really nice is that they'll get to go inside and tour the plant," Botkin said. "Most people have a negative image of manufacturing, in, that it's dirty. Our plant is spotless and very bright and vibrant, especially with the Mississippi workers that we have." Read more»

media Feb 8, 2017

Penn State News

A new policy brief out of Penn State’s Goodling Institute for Research in Family Literacy has identified a critical need for family literacy programs across the United States and calls for increased funding of these programs nationwide. Read more»

media Dec 19, 2016

Herald-Whig

Winter Storm Decima created a snowy, icy mess for many drivers this weekend in Northeast Missouri and West-Central Illinois. Crews in both states worked overtime to clear roads for travelers. "This weekend has gone OK," said MoDOT Hannibal spokesperson Lydia Brownell. "We had a little issue with the misty rain, but we got past it. The most trouble we had was in the south because of the rain." Read more»

media Dec 15, 2016

The Detroit News

“Beyond English, I learned how to help my sons with their education, gained job skills and put them all together to create a better life for us,” she said. Today, she and her husband are proud homeowners, have become United States citizens and have graduated one son from college, with another working on his degree. Read more»

media Dec 6, 2016

Cincinnati Enquirer

It wasn’t until Lupe came upon a two-generation family learning program free to participants at her son’s school that her life began to change. “Beyond English, I learned how to help my sons with their education, gained job skills and put them all together to create a better life for us,” she said. Read more»

media Nov 28, 2016

Bustle

By now you’ve rocked Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday — in order to complete the post-Thanksgiving spending-palooza, you’ve got one day left: Giving Tuesday. And there’s no better way to celebrate both Giving Tuesday and your own personal bibliophilia than by checking out some literary nonprofits to donate to on Giving Tuesday and throughout the holiday season. I’ve complied a handy list of 18 of them for you below. Read more»

media Nov 25, 2016

The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY)

Lupe Maldonado, her husband and son came to this country with nothing more than a dream. Living in a garage, no bathroom, no running water, sleeping on a mattress on the concrete floor, the Maldonados were short on worldly possessions but strong on hope. But, even hope can be razor thin and fleeting. Read more»

media Nov 9, 2016

The Santa Clara Weekly

One award ceremony took place during a pre-game at the Levi’s Stadium and the other occurred over 2,000 miles away from Santa Clara in Detroit, Michigan. Both awards ceremonies recognized outstanding women associated with the Santa Clara City Library and more specifically, Read Santa Clara, the library’s free adult literacy program. On Oct. 18, at the National Center for Families Learning Conference in Detroit, Michigan, Klor was recognized as the 2016 Toyota Family Literacy Teacher of the Year runner-up. She received a plaque and a $5,000 grant for Read Santa Clara. Klor was nominated by Shanti Bhaskaran, the library’s literary program supervisor. Read more»

media Nov 9, 2016

Michigan Chronicle

On Tuesday, Oct. 18, at 3 p.m. Jim Lentz, chief executive officer, Toyota Motor North America, will be in Detroit to observe, firsthand, students and their parents at Harms Elementary School, 2400 Central St., participating in a family literacy program funded by the automaker. Called Toyota Family Learning, one of its key components is that parents and their children attend the same school, spending time in the classroom together. Read more»

media Nov 8, 2016

Half Moon Bay Review

The Families in Action group is currently conducting a food, clothing and toiletry drive to benefit the local homeless population. All goods collected will be distributed at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, to the homeless in the community. The group will go out to the area behind Safeway where some have seen homeless gather for shelter, and they will give everyone they find a goodie bag with essentials. The Families in Action is working on this initiative as part of its first community service learning project, a requirement of the Toyota Family Learning program. Read more»

media Oct 24, 2016

Detroit Free Press

It’s estimated that by age 3, children from low-income families are hearing 30 million fewer words than those from higher-income families. And that puts some children at an academic disadvantage before they ever start kindergarten. “Words unlock success for children,” said Richard DeVore, regional president for Detroit and Southeast Michigan, PNC Bank. Read more»

media Oct 18, 2016

Detroit Free Press

Toyota isn't just relocating its North American headquarters from Torrance, Calif., to Plano, Texas — it's fundamentally changing the way it operates its businesses in North America. "Most everyone, when they think of Toyota, they think of a single company in the U.S., and we are really not," Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota North America, said Tuesday during a one-day visit to Detroit. "We are a group of affiliated companies working together." Read more»

media Oct 15, 2016

The Mercury News

Ellin Klor, a teacher with the Santa Clara City Library Foundation and Friends, has been named runner-up in the 2016 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year competition. The recognition, by Toyota and the National Center for Families Learning, includes a $5,000 award to expand outreach for the Read Santa Clara literacy program. Read more»

release Oct 13, 2016

Boston-area educator wins national Family Teacher of the Year award

Jean Ciborowski Fahey , a Weymouth, Mass., community educator, was named 2016 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year today by NCFL and Toyota for her efforts to educate parents of babies and young children about reading and brain development. Central to Ciborowski Fahey’s outreach strategy is a book she wrote, “Make Time for Reading: a story guide for parents of babies and young children.” Ciborowski Fahey will use the $20,000 grant from Toyota and NCFL to reprint her book in English and Spanish, which will enable her to reach nearly 7,000 more parents.

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media Oct 13, 2016

Toyota USA Newsroom

When Jean Ciborowski Fahey of Weymouth, Mass., joins a circle of moms and newborns, she condenses decades of knowledge about brain development into a 20-minute message that’s straightforward and provides parents ways to help their children develop a strong foundation for learning. The Weymouth, Mass., community educator was named 2016 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year today by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and Toyota for her efforts to educate parents of babies and young children about reading and brain development. Read more»

media Oct 13, 2016

Weymouth News

Years of testing children for reading difficulties at Boston Children's Hospital got Jean Ciborowski Fahey interested in a new approach: instead of fixing literacy problems, why not prevent them? That idea eventually led Ciborowski Fahey to the maternity ward at South Shore Hospital, where her book, "Make Time for Reading: A Story Guide for Parents of Babies and Young Children" is given to each of the 3,500 mothers who deliver their babies there each year. Read more»

release Sep 19, 2016

United States Senators Cornyn and Booker Introduce Family Service Learning Resolution

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), along with Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) introduced a resolution recognizing the importance of Family Service Learning and designating the week of September 12 through 16, 2016 as National Family Service Week. “When we invest in families, the entire community benefits and grows,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Family Service Learning opens up new opportunities that will empower parents and children alike to benefit from the gift of education and the opportunity of community involvement.”

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media Sep 19, 2016

United States Senate

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), along with Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) introduced a resolution recognizing the importance of Family Service Learning and designating the week of September 12 through 16, 2016 as National Family Service Week. “When we invest in families, the entire community benefits and grows,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Family Service Learning opens up new opportunities that will empower parents and children alike to benefit from the gift of education and the opportunity of community involvement.” Read more»

release Sep 13, 2016

National Center for Families Learning Applauds Congressional Resolution on Family Service Learning

This week Members of Congress, led by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) in the Senate, and Congressman Sam Johnson (R-TX) and Congressman John Yarmuth (D-KY) in the House of Representatives, introduced a resolution acknowledging the broad benefits of Family Service Learning. The Resolution designates the week of September 12 through 16, 2016 as “National Family Service Learning Week.”

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media Sep 13, 2016

National Center for Families Learning

This week Members of Congress, led by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) in the Senate, and Congressman Sam Johnson (R-TX) and Congressman John Yarmuth (D-KY) in the House of Representatives, introduced a resolution acknowledging the broad benefits of Family Service Learning. The Resolution designates the week of September 12 through 16, 2016 as “National Family Service Learning Week.” Read more»

media Aug 2, 2016

The Monitor

“It’s easy for parents to feel like there isn't enough time to add more activities to an already packed schedule. But, there are many easy ways you can set the tone of making learning fun, ease the back-to-school transition, and foster literacy skills at home,” says Jon Reigelman, creative director of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL). Read more»

media Jul 18, 2016

Huffington Post Blog

#GEDGradDay, held June 15, was a hit on social media. This initiative encouraged grads to post videos and pictures showing their stories and experiences with the GED test and how valuable their degrees were to them. Read more»

media Jul 6, 2016

Philanthropy News Digest

The William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has awarded grants totaling nearly $3 million to expand opportunities for and improve quality of life for boys and men of color in Kentucky. Read more»

media Jun 27, 2016

WDRB 41 Louisville

This year's theme is "Flex Your Wonder," featuring fun lessons about fitness and health. Camp offers 42 exciting units of STEM-based Wonders covering six topics ranging from health to sports and fitness. Read more»

media Jun 15, 2016

Huffington Post Blog

Recently we started a pilot project to further enhance our ability to share these graduates stories in compelling ways online. Tactics include using colorful graphics, exciting gifs and fun videos. That project wraps up on June 15th when we kick-off of an exciting digital event called #GEDGradDay. Read more»

media May 27, 2016

The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY)

This year, Louisville has even more to celebrate. A group of parents and children are finishing their first year in a national two-generation learning initiative that is changing lives. Read more»

media May 24, 2016

Huffington Post

OK, don’t laugh. Virtual summer camps — where kids head to the computer instead of the pool or park — are a thing now. And before you say, “Over my dead body,” these aren’t the solitary, sedentary, screen-centered experiences you fear. Read more»

media May 15, 2016

Middle Web

Teachers have labored to enliven summer reading for decades. In a 1997 NCTE journal article, Florida middle school ELA teacher Gloria Pipkin, who later wrote books for Heinemann and edited for Scholastic in the 2000’s, noted the challenges... Read more»

media May 12, 2016

Wave 3 Louisville

Parents got a chance to get involved in their child's education Thursday evening. From learning the alphabet, to counting with fish and car-seat safety around 125 families participated in Family Learning Night at the DuValle Education Center. Read more»

media May 6, 2016

Sun Sentinel

The free program incorporates technology with innovative and traditional teaching methods. Components involve family-to-family mentoring, the trademarked Parent and Child Together Time curriculum and the NCFL's unique approach. Read more»

release May 2, 2016

Toyota, NCFL expand national learning program to five new cities

Grants boost literacy and work skills, strengthen families, improve communities. Sara Aguirre joined Toyota Family Learning in Louisville with the hope that it will start her on a path to find a better job and improve her family’s quality of life by helping her get her GED® certificate and apply to college. She is learning more English and is relying less on her children to translate.

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media Apr 16, 2016

Plano Profile

Sounds of hammering and electric drills, alongside cheers of “we did it!” echoed outside of Harrington Library last month as Plano Family Literacy School conducted a service learning project in conjunction with their Toyota Family Learning partnership. Read more»

media Apr 7, 2016

WHNT 19 Huntsville

The Village of Promise in Huntsville is offering a new program. The Toyota Family Learning program is made possible by a three-year, $175,000 grant from Toyota and the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media Mar 31, 2016

American Towns

Nearly 100 parents and children are enrolled in Toyota Family Learning at three BCPS sites. The program empowers parents and caregivers, as well as their children, to become engaged in their schools and communities. It also leverages technology as parents and children learn together and serve their communities through NCFL’s Family Service Learning approach, Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time® and family-to-family mentoring. The Toyota Family Learning initiative expands and supports the existing BCPS family literacy programs. Read more»

media Mar 30, 2016

Broward County Public School System

Video footage of the official news conference of the unveiling of Toyota Family Learning Prorgram Read more»

media Mar 23, 2016

WDRB 41 Louisville

Toyota is helping to drive a program to benefit dozens of Louisville families. A $175,000 grant from the automaker will help 45 families enroll in a new kind of mentoring program. The Toyota Family Learning Program will work to address the education challenges of low income and ethnically diverse families. Read more»

release Mar 22, 2016

NCFL launches Wonder Ground™ to support millions using Wonderopolis.org

New educator community to inspire inquiry-based approach to education, led by innovative ambassadors

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media Mar 11, 2016

Las Vegas Now

A new family learning program is underway in Las Vegas thanks to Toyota. The automotive company has committed $10 million nationwide over the next six years to make the program a success in Las Vegas and around the country. It's called Toyota Family Learning and it will help fill the gap for low-income families by creating a program that allows parents to learn along with their student children. Read more»

media Mar 1, 2016

The News Wheel

This particular program, Toyota Family Learning, specifically targets ethnically diverse families and families with low income. The goal is to help parents and caregivers become more engaged in their children’s education. Guardians will learn technologies—and even the English language—to better teach their children at home after school hours. Read more»

media Feb 26, 2016

The Dallas Morning News

Toyota donated $175,000 to the National Center for Families Learning on Thursday to try to help resolve educational challenges facing low-income families. The Plano school district is working with the Center for Families to implement Toyota Family Learning at the Plano Family Literacy School and Sigler Elementary. Read more»

release Feb 9, 2016

NCFL Announces Family Engagement Initiative for Head Start

The two-generation project, funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, will put the family at the forefront of learning using NCFL’s latest family literacy model—including its Family Service Learning approach— in five Head Start programs over the next three years.

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media Dec 9, 2015

Providence Journal

Providence families joined together to learn about nutrition and collect food for refuge families. The Nov. 12 event, a celebration of National Family Literacy Month, was attended by families participating in Toyota Family Learning, a program led by the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

release Dec 8, 2015

NCFL Applauds Congressional Passage of ESSA

Two-generation family literacy, family engagement are priorities in bi-partisan effort

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media Nov 30, 2015

The Tennessean

2014 Toyota USA Family Teacher of the Year Liz Atack encourages her community to work together to improve children's literacy and asks "every parent and caregiver to read, write, sing, talk and play with their little ones every day." Read more»

media Nov 24, 2015

Toyota News

The research is clear – a strong support system helps children excel in the classroom and beyond. This month the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and 10 Toyota Family Learning programs are celebrating National Family Literacy Month® by focusing on the immense influence families have on a child’s education, future success and well-being. Read more»

media Nov 15, 2015

The Nerdy Book Club

"The House That Reading Built" by Donalyn Miller Read more»

media Nov 3, 2015

WOMMY Awards (Toyota Family Trails)

Earlier this month, we announced our WOMMY Award winners at a swanky evening event at LIV Nightclub in Miami Beach, Florida. This week I had the honor of presenting all of the gold award-winning case studies to an enthusiastic packed house during Social Media Week Chicago. Read more»

media Nov 2, 2015

Education World

Family Literacy Initiatives Focus on Creating Strong Support System for Children Learning to Read Read more»

media Oct 22, 2015

The Courier-Journal (Louisville, Ky)

Wonderopolis aims to engage kids in reading Read more»

media Oct 15, 2015

ASCD

Principal Josh Patterson discusses how his school's teachers used Wonderopolis to create a culture of inquiry to fuel learning. Read more»

media Oct 15, 2015

The White House

Toyota commits $4.5 million to expand the Toyota Family Learning Initiative reaching new Latino communities. This investment will support the National Center for Families Learning in further developing the national model and equip an additional 500 low-income Hispanic and other underrepresented families with innovative tools and educational opportunities, including family service learning projects, over a three-year period. Read more»

media Aug 1, 2015

WQED

NCFL Vice President Emily Kirkpatrick joins WQED Edu's iQ: smartparent's Darieth Chisolm to discuss Wonderopolis and other resources parents can use to cultivate learning and growth when school is not in session. Read more»

release Jun 15, 2015

NCFL launches 2015 Camp Wonderopolis

Free online website keeps kids and parents learning outside of the classroom

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media Jun 13, 2015

Cincinnati Enquirer

New Idea: Families that Learn Together -- An op-ed from Beech Acres CEO Jim Mason. Read more»

media Jun 10, 2015

Wisconsin Watchdog

Parents graduate from a Milwaukee charter school’s Toyota Family Learning program Read more»

release Jun 5, 2015

NCFL Wins REVERE Award for Renegade Buggies

Renegade Buggies was presented a Beyond the Classroom award at the REVERE Awards Gala held in Washington, D.C., on June 3. The award was given for the creation of a free video game app (available on iOS and Android) designed to open up familial dialogue about basic financial literacy skills and how to make smarter purchasing decisions.

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media Jun 2, 2015

Soapbox Cincinnati

Beech Acres helps school families navigate parenthood via Toyota Family Learning Read more»

release May 22, 2015

Toyota and NCFL Announce Third Round of Toyota Family Learning Grants

Toyota and NCFL are now welcoming community programs across the nation to submit initial applications for the prestigious Toyota Family Learning grants, which recognize innovation in engaging families in learning, community service, and mentoring. Past grant recipients have contributed thousands of hours of families learning together and service to communities.

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media May 19, 2015

News 12 The Bronx

Toyota Family Learning parents at East Side House complete leadership workshops Read more»

media May 18, 2015

FOX28 - WSJV | Indiana

Kids will have access to free books this summer through the third annual Hoosier Family of Readers summer literacy initiative by the Indiana Department of Education. Read more»

media May 16, 2015

KLKN-TV ABC 8 (Lincoln)

KLKN's Excellence in Education featured seven West Lincoln Elementary parents ("miracle workers") who have been helping one another learn how to best support their children with schoolwork; assisting with transportation for each other; and informing other parents about available school resources. Read more»

media May 14, 2015

KLKN-TV ABC 8 (Lincoln)

"The hope is to inspire their children to work hard." ‪Toyota Family Learning‬ at Lincoln Public Schools was featured on KLKN's Excellence in Education. Read more»

media May 12, 2015

U.S. Department of Education

A Family Literacy Night in Louisville, Kentucky was a celebration of some of the work being done by the Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) with the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) as a key partner. They are working together to improve kindergarten readiness through the use of 1) High impact family engagement; 2) Specific intergenerational literacy strategies in the home and community tied to classroom strategies. Read more»

media May 10, 2015

The Christian Science Monitor

Homework woes: In a 2013 survey by the National Center for Families Learning, 60 percent of parents admitted they were sometimes unable to help their child with homework. Read more»

media Apr 24, 2015

Bronx Times

[Toyota Family Learning participants] walked hand in hand with both their parents and police during a safety walk in Mott Haven on April 17... they handed out flyers and carried posters which implored their fellow residents and area businesses to keep the streets safe and clean. Read more»

media Apr 22, 2015

Mott Haven Herald

Families walk for change: Starting at a community center in the South Bronx, more than 20 Toyota Family Learning families toured Mott Haven alongside an NYPD Captain and fellow officers to identify and address neighborhood safety concerns. Read more»

media Apr 12, 2015

Parental engagement vital in education

NCFL’s 2015 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year runner up shares how she is engaging families with young children in the San Antonio area through her Virtual Program for Kindergarten (VPK) at Southwest Independent School District Early Childhood Center. Read more»

media Apr 6, 2015

WDRB Fox News: Louisville, Ky.

Wonderopolis keeps students engaged during Spring and Summer break Read more»

release Apr 2, 2015

Renegade Buggies wins international award

NCFL's financial literacy app was named the Instructional Game of the Year by the Institute for Financial Literacy.

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media Mar 23, 2015

WDRB Fox News: Louisville, Ky.

VP Emily Kirkpatrick and Creative Director Jon Reigelman share Wonderopolis resources, fossil experiments, and local learning opportunities. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2015

Washington Post

Feature on Kristen Whitaker, NCFL's 2015 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year award recipient, and her home-visiting practices, its benefits. Read more»

release Mar 16, 2015

Literacy Powerline Becomes Part of NCFL

NCFL and Literacy Powerline have a successful history of working collaboratively and in support of leveraging the power of families and communities to increase literacy and lifelong learning.

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media Feb 19, 2015

Business First Louisville

Louisville nonprofit launches app, Renegade Buggies, to improve financial literacy for families. Read more»

media Feb 18, 2015

WHAS 11 News: Louisville, Ky.

NCFL, Jefferson County Public Schools encourage students to learn despite snow day. Read more»

media Feb 18, 2015

WAVE 3 News: Louisville, Ky

Jefferson County Public Schools tackle snow-day brain drain with at-home Wonderopolis activities Read more»

media Feb 17, 2015

WDRB Fox News: Louisville, Ky.

Local school system encourages families to use NCFL's Wonderopolis to enhance learning at home during snow days. Read more»

media Feb 5, 2015

SmartBlogs: One district’s approach to ELL instruction

In 2000, the Community Based English Tutoring program was established and offered adult ESL classes specifically designed for parents to support their children’s academic progress. Ten years later, the Oakland CBET program evolved into the Family Literacy Program with the implementation of the National Family Literacy Model and with support from NCFL. Read more»

media Feb 2, 2015

Wisconsin Reporter

Milwaukee Environmental Sciences Charter School educates a second generation of students with help from a major Toyota/NCFL grant to create opportunities for families to become more involved in school activities. Read more»

media Jan 13, 2015

WDRB Fox Morning News

Wonderopolis hopes to spark curiosity when students have time to flex their imagination. Read more»

media Dec 4, 2014

The Denver Post

Metropolitan State University's family education program wins Toyota Family Learning grant to integrate, add support Read more»

media Nov 26, 2014

Wisconsin Reporter

Milwaukee charter school wins national family learning grant Read more»

media Nov 22, 2014

The Providence Journal

Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island's Toyota Family Learning participants make sure refugees find a place at a table and a first Thanksgiving for its first Family Service Learning event this year. Read more»

media Nov 19, 2014

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

A new charter school operating under Milwaukee Public Schools has won a $175,000 Toyota Family Learning grant to engage parents and their children in learning. Read more»

release Nov 13, 2014

Toyota Family Learning expands into five new communities

Today’s announcement brings the total NCFL and Toyota grant amount to $1.75 million for programs in 10 schools, libraries and community-based organizations

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media Nov 11, 2014

Five Foods You Hate as a Kid But Love as an Adult

Wonderopolis is cited to to explain how smell plays an important role in our taste bud development saying, “A food that has a strong smell might be unattractive to children who might otherwise not mind its taste alone.” Read more»

media Oct 22, 2014

CBS New York

Based on our survey that found over 60 percent of parents struggle to help their children with homework, 1010 WINS' John Montone went on the move to find out if and why homework is too hard for many parents. Read more»

media Oct 11, 2014

New Albany News and Tribune

Greater Clark (Indiana) approves pilot program for non-English speakers, Families Reading & Talking Together, run by NCFL. Read more»

media Sep 29, 2014

The Daily Ardmoreite

NCFL joins Ardmore City Schools for literacy nights with a focus on reading with use of myON technology. Read more»

media Sep 21, 2014

Education World

NCFL survey reveals nearly half of U.S. parents dread sending their children back to school. Read more»

release Sep 18, 2014

Parents and Homework

Our annual survey reveals more parents admit they struggle helping their kids with homework.

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release Sep 8, 2014

Families Learning Summit 2015

Register today to join the nation’s top experts on two-generational learning, spanning early childhood education to adult literacy issues.

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media Aug 26, 2014

EdSurge

The National Literacy Directory set out to change the way adult learners access educational resources. The program boasts listings of over 10,000 academic organizations and GED-testing centers nationwide, as well as a toll-free number for interested participants who would prefer to obtain referrals to local programs from qualified staff. Read more»

media Aug 20, 2014

Education Week

Springdale (AR) Superintendent Jim D. Rollins describes NCFL's PACT Time as "a model for the nation" in this Q&A about his district handles the ever-changing population of his district. Read more»

media Aug 15, 2014

Tristate News [Evansville, IN]

Thanks to generous funding from Old National Bank, NCFL will combine strengths and expertise with Indiana Department of Education to build on Hoosier Family of Readers. Tristate News was there to witness the check presentation. Read more»

media Aug 13, 2014

Louisville Business First

NCFL Vice President Emily Kirkpatrick named one of 20 people to know in education. Read her full Q&A here. Read more»

media Aug 8, 2014

Collaborative for Teaching and Learning

For CTL's 20th Anniversary guest blog series, Sharon Darling writes about the importance of seeking a broader view of family engagement. Read more»

media Aug 6, 2014

Education Week

In "Federal Pre-K Push Could Also Boost Parents' Education, Advocates Say," Sharon Darling adds, "We spend a lot of money on poor children in our schools... But in reality, there are no poor children. They live with poor parents, and (the parents) are poor because they have poor skills. You can't keep putting a Band-Aid on one part of the equation." Read more»

media Aug 3, 2014

The Washington Post

An in-depth look at NCFL's Founder Sharon Darling's concept of dual-generation learning at work in a D.C. charter school. Read more»

media Aug 1, 2014

Phoenix Magazine

Making the Grade: Phoenix teacher Kathleen Johnston gets an “A+” for uplifting students – and a 2014 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year grant from NCFL to scale her methods across the country. Read more»

media Jul 24, 2014

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

"Reading should be a family affair, but parents can't help their children learn to read if they can't read well themselves." NCFL cited in powerful op-ed by PA State Rep. Hal English and Don Block, executive director of Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council. Read more»

release Jul 22, 2014

NCFL Announces Literacy Partnership with State of Indiana

Organizations combine to elevate statewide reading effort for families and inspire nationwide model.

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media Jul 21, 2014

Parenting Beyond!

Camp Wonderoplis At The Kenton County Public Library. Guest Post by KCPL Children’s Programmer/Librarian; Krista King-Oaks. Read more»

media Jul 10, 2014

The Little Things

Great review(and photos!) of the ever - popular Camp Wonderopolis events in Northern Kentucky at the Kenton County Public Library .  Read more»

media Jul 5, 2014

Cincinnati's WLWT5-NBC

A Kenton County librarian is interviewed about Camp Wonderopolis and its ability to allow children and parents to explore wonders of world without leaving home. Read more»

release Jun 18, 2014

NCFL and Better World Books Kick Off Summer with Camp Wonderopolis™

Do you know why gum loses its flavor? Or where lightning bugs go during the day? Do you know why we can’t feel the Earth spin? The answers can all be found at Camp Wonderopolis™ this summer!

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media Jun 18, 2014

Cranston Herald

Toyota Family Learning's Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island works with families to strengthen reading, language skills. Read more»

media Jun 18, 2014

Imagination Soup

Camp Wonderopolis joins a reputable list of Virtual Summer Camps. Read more»

media Jun 17, 2014

Good Morning America Live!

Campers and Counselors from Camp Wonderopolis were invited on the set of GMA Live! to talk about Camp and eat Twinkies. Read more»

media Jun 12, 2014

Providence Journal

DIIRI Director Kathleen Cloutier: Engaging immigrant families in schools with Toyota Family Learning Read more»

media Jun 11, 2014

EdCentral.org

EdCentral reporter writes, "Innovative programs like Camp Wonderopolis™ provide families the opportunity to attend an online educational summer camp at no cost." Read more»

media May 29, 2014

Mommies with Style

Mom blogger lauded Camp Wonderopolis as a fun and free way to prevent summer brain drain, Read more»

media May 27, 2014

7 Kids and Us

Mom Bloggers Casey and Paige review NCFL's FamilyTimeMachine.com and share its activities and ideas for family fun time. Read more»

media May 14, 2014

Lincoln Public Schools

Parents from Everett Elementary School spoke of how they had learned how to help their children in school, had learned English, and had learned how to grow comfortable in Lincoln, Neb. at Lincoln Public Schools' Toyota Family Learning graduation ceremony on May 12, 2014. Read more»

media May 13, 2014

MiddleWeb

MiddleWeb lauds Camp Wonderopolis as a good "Beyond Reading" tool in its "Cool Summer Reading for Kids: 2014 Resources!" roundup. Read more»

media May 2, 2014

The DC Moms

During a family road trip to North Carolina, The DC Moms' blogger discovers NCFL's Family Time Machine. Read more»

media Apr 14, 2014

Providence Business News

The Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island is one of five winners of a Toyota Family Learning grant for $175,000 to fund new family learning programs. Read more»

media Mar 29, 2014

Lincoln Journal Star

Maria Pesina Cruz writes about how her involvement in the Lincoln Public School family literacy program changed her life for the better. LPS was a 2014 recipient of the $175,000 Toyota Family Learning grant. Read more»

media Mar 28, 2014

School Library Journal

A Nashville librarian who created family literacy programs and carefully tracked her programs’s outcomes is the winner the 2014 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year award. Read more»

media Mar 27, 2014

BAM Radio

Developing literacy begins in the home. In this #PTChat follow-up, NCFL's Director of Literacy and Family Learning Services Donna Elder shares her strategies and tools for inspiring kids to read and develop their literacy skills. Read more»

media Mar 22, 2014

The Daily Breeze

Toberman Neighborhood Center's CEO writes about NCFL's Families Learning Summit and why she believes that family involvement is the key to raising thriving, healthy and successful children. Read more»

media Mar 12, 2014

KET College & Career Ready News

KET, the largest PBS affiliate in the US, reports on the Family Time Machine and the reasons behind NCFL's recent name change. Read more»

media Mar 10, 2014

TakePart

Kathleen Johnston was named the first runner-up for the 2014 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award at NCFL's Families Learning Summit. She wants to use her $5,000 grant to build an intergenerational program that brings Phoenix's elders into her class to volunteer and share their life stories and career knowledge with students. Read more»

media Mar 7, 2014

Houston Community Newspapers

Houston Mayor Annise Parker writes, "Houston Public Library has been selected this year as one of only five sites across the nation to partner with the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) on Toyota Family Learning. This is an opportunity for the Houston Public Library to join one of the most innovative educational movements in the country. We will be supporting the entire family, improving student achievement and building a stronger community alongside NCFL and Toyota." Read more»

media Feb 28, 2014

TeachMama.com [Video]

Amy Mascott sits down with NCFL Vice President Emily Kirkpatrick at the 2014 Families Learning Summit in Washington, DC, to discuss Wonderopolis and Toyota Family Learning's newest digital platform, Family Time Machine. Read more»

release Feb 27, 2014

Line on Families Learning - February 2014

Couldn't join us in Washington, DC? No problem. This special edition of NCFL's monthly newspaper will fill you in on the fun had by all at our annual Families Learning Summit.

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media Feb 23, 2014

The Daily Breeze

Learning has become a family affair at Toberman Neighborhood Center in San Pedro thanks to financial help from a coveted Toyota Family Learning grant, awarded at NCFL's 2014 Families Learning Summit. Read more»

media Feb 21, 2014

Ed Central

Conor P. Williams, a Senior Researcher in the Early Education Initiative at the New America Foundation, reports from NCFL's 2014 Families Learning Summit in Washington, D.C. Read more»

media Feb 21, 2014

Brain Burps about Books with Katie Davis

Writerpreneur Katie Davis discusses Wonderopolis with NCFL Vice President Emily Kirkpatrick. Read more»

media Feb 20, 2014

Babble.com

Wonderopolis and the Family Time Machine named in TechSavvyMama Leticia Barr's "7 Educational Sites That Inspire Learning at Home" Read more»

media Feb 19, 2014

Providence Journal

Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island has been selected as one of five winners of the Toyota Family Learning grant, a collaboration with the automaker and the National Center for Families Learning. Read more»

media Feb 18, 2014

The Tennessean

Liz Atack, with the Nashville Public Library, was named the Toyota Teacher of the Year by the National Center for Families Learning. Atack was the first librarian chosen in the award's 17-year history. Read more»

release Feb 18, 2014

NCFL and Toyota Award National Leaders at Keynote Luncheon

2014 Family Learning Program grant recipients and Teacher of the Year are announced

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media Feb 13, 2014

Education Week

NCFL released the Harris Poll of more than 2,000 adults (including 454 parents), which showed that while parents spend on average almost nine hours a day with their children, more than half aren't sure how to make the most of the time they have as a family. In response, NCFL and Toyota used the poll results to develop the Family Time Machine, a website to give parents and children creative and educational ideas to best use the precious minutes and hours that they are together. Read more»

release Feb 12, 2014

Family Time Machine Makes Every Moment a Learning Opportunity

NCFL, Toyota partner to ignite imaginations with a new website and mobile app to help parents and kids make better use of every moment

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release Jan 27, 2014

Guest Blog: Urban Libraries Council to join NCFL at Families Learning Summit

Harriet Coalter, Director of the Richmond Public Library and Jennifer Giltrop, Director of Public Services from the D.C. Public Library will present how libraries are innovating and leading learning partnerships in a digital age.

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media Jan 27, 2014

The Daily Ardmoreite

A new interactive-literacy program that provides elementary school students access to digital books launched this month at three Ardmore elementary schools thanks to a recent partnership and support from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. Ardmore City Schools has teamed up with the National Center for Families Learning in hopes to improve elementary school literacy levels and reach children after they leave school each day. Read more»

release Jan 9, 2014

New National Literacy Directory Connects Adults and Their Families to Education Opportunities

NCFL and Dollar General Literacy Foundation partner to provide comprehensive resource that helps individuals find more than 10,000 local literacy and education programs and GED® testing centers in their area.

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media Jan 6, 2014

Education Week

NCFL Vice President encourages parents to trust their own parenting abilities, instincts when supporting family learning. Read more»

media Dec 17, 2013

Lifehack.org

There are countless tools, platforms and websites that are being marketed to parents with the promise of turning your child into the next Sheldon Cooper (though some of us will settle for a functioning adult). So if what you’re looking for includes top-notch websites that will make your kids smart enough to win college scholarships, then consider these awesome resources. #1. Wonderopolis Read more»

media Dec 15, 2013

Toyota Family Literacy Program Research

A review and synthesis of more than three years of data research reports for seven selected TFLP communities showed gains in three key areas: student achievement, parent engagement and adult reading behaviors. Read more»

release Dec 11, 2013

Call for Nominations: Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award

Know a teacher that deserves an “A+” for engaging parents, children and educators in the learning process? Nominate them for the Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award and the chance to win $20,000 for their school or non-profit program

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release Dec 9, 2013

New Data Reveals Compelling Electronic Media Usage Trends Among Hispanic Families

NCFL and Northwestern University partner, find Hispanic families embrace technology in education

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media Nov 22, 2013

Citizens for a Digital Future

Citizens for a Digital Future, Kentucky (CDF) has honored the NCFL with its Leader in Technology Award in recognition of their nationally lauded online program, Wonderopolis. Read more»

media Nov 5, 2013

Business Journal

Family literacy center changes name, maintains mission Read more»

release Nov 1, 2013

National Center for Family Literacy Becomes National Center for Families Learning

NCFL reveals its new name and resources, adding to an already robust set of tools that supports all who make learning successful -- children, parents and educators.

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media Sep 17, 2013

Education Week

On the K-12 Parents and the Public blog, Karla Scoon Reid shares the results of NCFL’s parent survey, which finds nearly half of parents struggle helping their children with homework. Read more»

media Sep 17, 2013

Houston Chronicle

In this op-ed, NCFL joins forces with our partner Better World Books to raise awareness of the vital role literacy plays in our country’s economic success. Read more»

release Sep 16, 2013

Half of Parents Have Trouble Helping Their Kids with Homework, Reveals New Survey

The National Center for Family Literacy Polled Parents, Offers Free Online Help to Get Back in School Year Swing.

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release Jul 1, 2013

Council to Study Use of Digital Media by Hispanic and Latino Families

National Center for Family Literacy and Joan Ganz Cooney Center Form Aprendiendo Juntos Council.

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release Jun 28, 2013

Wonderopolis® Named Best Website for Teaching and Learning

American Association of School Librarians recognizes site as exceptional in curriculum collaboration.

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release Jun 16, 2013

National Center for Family Literacy Launches Free, Virtual Summer Camp Today, Through Support from Toyota

Third Camp What-A-Wonder makes summer learning fun with daily learning opportunities for kids and parents.

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media Jun 1, 2013

Long Beach Press-Telegram

Carolyn Blocker, 2013 Toyota Teacher of the Year, and her organization are recognized in this article. Read more»

media May 19, 2013

Wired.com's GeekDad

Geek Dad’s Daniel Donahoo profiles the redesigned Wonderopolis website and includes examples of how teachers, students, and families use the site to learn. Read more»

release May 15, 2013

Reimagine Wonder with the Redesigned Wonderopolis® Website, Supported By the Verizon Foundation

The National Center for Family Literacy revamps award-winning Wonderopolis with exciting new features to engage families and foster lifelong learning.

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release May 12, 2013

Toyota and National Center for Family Literacy Launch $10 Million Initiative

New initiative kicks off by accepting grant applications from local organizations to further family learning beyond the classroom and into homes and communities.

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media May 9, 2013

U.S. Department of Education Blog

NCFL and the U.S. Department of Education announce a year-long partnership to advance family engagement in education across the country. Read ED’s blog post on the partnership. Read more»

release May 9, 2013

NCFL announces partnership with U.S. Department of Education to advance family engagement initiatives

Goal to provide strategies to improve educational attainment.

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media Apr 27, 2013

The Courier-Journal

To kick off NCFL’s annual conference, NCFL VP Emily Kirkpatrick was featured in The Courier-Journal, the daily newspaper for the Louisville, KY, metropolitan area, highlighting the importance of family literacy and the value NCFL brings to local communities and on a national level. Read more»

release Apr 22, 2013

Long Beach Educator Named National Toyota Teacher of the Year

Will receive $20,000 to implement family literacy program in her community focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

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media Dec 31, 2012

Scholastic Instructor

In Scholastic Instructor, an article on educators’ biggest concerns about implementing Common Core State Standards cites Wonderopolis as a solution to finding appropriate informational text for early readers. Read more»

NCFL Blog

Blog May 15, 2023
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Register by June 30 and save with early bird pricing

Planning to attend the 2023 Families Learning Conference? Take advantage of our early bird pricing to get $50 off your 3-day registration now through June 30th!  Held Oct. 23-25 in Omaha, ... Read more»

Blog May 9, 2023
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2022 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year shares a project update

For the past 27 years, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and Toyota have partnered in a nationwide search to celebrate extraordinary school- and community-based educators who engage ... Read more»

Blog Apr 27, 2023
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The Heart of Family Learning: A shining example for engaging families in education

I recently had the chance to catch up with Ivonne Ortiz, the 2022 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year, from Mesa, Arizona. In hearing her thoughts around working with adult learners, I could sense her ... Read more»

Blog Apr 17, 2023
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Catching up with the 2021 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year

In 2021, Manoucheka Dolcine of Broward County, Florida was named the Toyota Family Teacher of the Year in recognition of her career-long dedication to fostering family learning environments in the ... Read more»

Blog Mar 31, 2023
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Nominations now open for the 2023 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year

For twenty-seven years, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and Toyota have partnered to celebrate school- and community-based educators who are exceptional at engaging families. We are ... Read more»

Visit Our Blog»

Field Research

Insight Apr 28, 2022

Voices from the Classroom 2022: A Survey of America’s Educators

Educators for Excellence. (2022). (rep.). Voices from the Classroom 2022: A Survey of America’s Educators. Read more»

Family Engagement/Learning Jun 30, 2021

Embracing a New Normal: Toward a More Liberatory Approach to Family Engagement

Carnegie Corporation of New York. Read more»

Insight Dec 1, 2020

School-Centered Housing Response Model (SCHORE)

UPD Consulting, the Baltimore Department of Housing and Community Development, and Baltimore City Public Schools.

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Adult Education/Literacy Oct 29, 2020

The Stability and Predictive Power of Financial Literacy: Evidence From Longitudinal Data

Angrisani, M., Burke, J., Lusardi, A., and Mottola, G. Read more»

Adult Education/Literacy Sep 9, 2020

New Study Finds the U.S. Could Be Losing $2.2 Trillion Annually Due to Low Adult Literacy Rates

Sproull, L. (2020, September 17). Via Forbes – new study finds the U.S. could be losing $2.2 trillion annually due to low adult literacy rates. Barbara Bush Foundation. Read more»

Family Engagement/Learning Sep 24, 2019

How Can Schools Support Parents’ Engagement in their Children’s Learning? Evidence from Research and Practice

Axford, N., Berry, V., Lloyd, J., Moore, D., Rogers, M., Hurst, A., Blockley, K., Durkin, H. and Minton, J. Read more»

English Language Learners Jul 2, 2019

Southwest Counseling Solutions English Language Learners Program Final Report

Levesque, Jeri A., and Margaret Scordias. Read more»

Family Engagement/Learning Apr 19, 2019

Improving Teacher Perceptions of Parent Involvement Patterns: Findings From a Group Randomized Trial

Herman, Keith C., and Wendy M. Reinke.

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English Language Learners Apr 30, 2018

English Language Learners in Public Schools

National Center for Education Statistics. Read more»

American Indian Education Mar 30, 2017

National Indian Education Study 2015: American Indian and Alaska Native Students at Grades 4 and 8

Ninneman, A.M., Deaton, J., & Francis-Begay, K. Read more»

Workforce Readiness Oct 6, 2016

Key Findings About the American Workforce and the Changing Job Market

Brown, A. Read more»

English Language Learners Jun 30, 2016

Promoting Success for Dual Language Learners: The Essential Role of Early Childhood Education Programs

Freedberg, L., Frey, S. & Tully, S. Read more»

English Language Learners Jun 30, 2016

Older Adolescent and Young Adult English Learners: A Study of Demographics, Policies, and Programs

Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Older Adolescent and Young Adult English Learners. Read more»

Family Engagement/Learning Nov 30, 2013

Toyota Family Literacy Program research project: Meta analysis of the studies of high performing family literacy programs

Jeri Levesque. Read more»

Adult Education/Literacy Sep 30, 2013

Stepping Up to ROI in Adult Education: A Survey of State Activity

Council for Advancement of Adult Literacy. Read more»

Children's Language/Literacy Dec 30, 2011

Children's Schooling and Parents' Investment in Children: Evidence from the Head Start Impact Study

Gelber, A.M., & Isen, A. Read more»

Family Engagement/Learning Sep 1, 2009

Family Engagement, Diverse Families, and an Integrated Review of the Literature

Halgunseth, L. Read more»

Children's Language/Literacy Jan 1, 2008

Developing Early Literacy

National Institute for Literacy. Read more»

Workforce Readiness Oct 8, 2007

Adult Education and Postsecondary Success

Reder, S. Read more»

Children's Language/Literacy Jan 1, 2006

The Effect of Family Literacy Interventions on Children’s Acquisition of Reading from Kindergarten to Grade 3

Senechal, M. Read more»

Adult Education/Literacy Dec 30, 2003

National Assessment of Adult Literacy

National Center for Education Statistics. Read more»

View more news»

NCFL Partners

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Toyota

Toyota, one of the nation's most successful corporations, began a partnership with NCFL in 1991. In addition to a commitment of more than $50 million, Toyota has also contributed a wealth of in-kind support — including advertising, planning and management expertise — to form one of the most progressive corporate/nonprofit partnerships in the nation.

Three major programs have been developed through the Toyota partnership based on the family literacy model of parents and children learning together. These models have influenced federal and state legislation, leveraged local dollars to support family literacy and led to successful programs being replicated across the country.

Read more about Toyota's commitment to communities

William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust

NCFL received its very first donation in 1989 from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust to promote and implement family literacy programming, first in Kentucky and North Carolina and later nationwide. The Kenan Family Literacy Model in part laid the groundwork for 30 years of subsequent family literacy and family learning programming developed by NCFL.

Kenan has continued to support NCFL’s place-based family literacy programs since our inception. Most recently, it has invested in our organization’s Sharon Darling Innovation Fund, which will launch emerging ideas and programmatic evolutions in the multigenerational learning space.

Learn more about the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust

Dollar General Literacy Foundation

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation began partnering with NCFL in 2006. A signature effort of this partnership is the National Literacy Directory, a resource that launched in 2010 and strives to guide potential students and volunteers to literacy services, community education programs, and testing centers in their communities.

The National Literacy Directory contains over 10,000 educational agencies located across the United States and has a dedicated toll-free number to help support those wanting to pursue educational opportunities in their communities.

Dollar General also provides support for development of NCFL’s innovative family learning resources centered on financial literacy and Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time®.

Learn more about the Dollar General Literacy Foundation

PNC Grow Up Great

PNC Grow Up Great believes deeply in the power of high-quality early childhood education and provides innovative opportunities that assist families, educators and community organizations to enhance children's learning and development.

PNC Grow Up Great has partnered with NCFL since 1994, most recently in Louisville, Kentucky, to support Say & Play with Words, our pre-Kindergarten vocabulary-building initiative.

NCFL's work is also featured on the PNC Grow Up Great Lesson Center website. The Lesson Center includes over 100 free, high-quality preschool lesson plans and research-based instructional techniques and strategies. All lesson plans contain Home/School Connections printouts, in English and Spanish, to help families extend and reinforce the learning at home.

Learn more about PNC Grow Up Great

U.S. Department of Education

Initiated through the U.S. Department of Education in 2018, the Statewide Family Engagement Centers (SFEC) program provides 12 grantees and 13 states with five-year, $5 million grants to promote and implement systemic evidenced-based family engagement strategies. NCFL was selected to lead SFECs in two states, Arizona and Nebraska, and is a primary partner for two other SFECs in Kentucky and Maryland/Pennsylvania. 

The SFECs work to support family engagement through state- and local-level agencies while providing both professional development to school districts and direct services to families related to children’s academic outcomes and overall well-being.

Learn more about the U.S. Department of Education

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

NCFL was named a recipient of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s "Voices for Economic Opportunity Grand Challenge," which seeks to elevate diverse voices in order to broaden the conversation about the issues inhibiting economic mobility and generate deeper awareness along with actionable understanding. NCFL will develop and launch a podcast series that will highlight the remarkable stories of low-income, diverse families across the U.S. who have improved their communities through Family Service Learning.

Foundation Website