Focus on Literacy
Reading Across Maryland
MSEA leaders and members have been celebrating Read Across America and pro-moting literacy and the joy of books for years. This year, MSEA’s gift collections of 20 brand-new hardcover books were donated to school media centers across the state.
MSEA’s program dovetails with NEA’s yearlong Read Across America program and highlights literacy at a time when school libraries are threatened by book bans and extremist politics. MSEA’s collection focused on books by or about diverse, minority, and underrepresented people so young readers can see themselves in exciting adventures, loving communities, and beautiful illustrations. In conversations with students, MSEA President Paul Lemle, Vice President Nikki Woodward, Treasurer Colleen Morris, and local presidents described how books challenge and inspire, teach important lessons, reveal new worlds, and enrich our understanding of ourselves and the people, perspectives, and cultures we meet.
Honoring Katie Cole in Dorchester County Several local Read Across events were particularly meaningful this year. In Dorchester County, students and colleagues celebrated the life and legacy of the late Katie Cole at Vienna Elementary School, where Cole was a teacher. Dorchester Educators President Melissa Ray presented the media center with MSEA’s 2026 book collection in her name in a moving dedication. Cole’s mother and brother attended the event, and along with students, shared memories of Cole, a vibrant and skilled education activist.
Lieutenant Gov. Aruna Miller Visits Montgomery County Elementary School Lieutenant Gov. Aruna Miller joined a Read Across America celebration at Burnt Mills Elementary School along with Lemle, Montgomery County Education Association President David Stein, and School Super-intendent Dr. Thomas Taylor to celebrate Burnt Mills’ Spanish immersion program and to promote reading—this year’s book collection for elementary schools included four titles in English and Spanish editions. Lt. Gov. Miller shared with the students how as a young immigrant in the U.S., she was aware of her minority status and didn’t experience books with characters who looked like her. She welcomed the shift so that today’s students can experience a more accessible, relevant, and realistic selection of books for all grade levels.