After Banned Books Week 2025, Texas educators share what’s really happening behind the shelves — the impact of book restrictions, the loss of freedom to recommend stories, and the courage it takes to keep students reading. Hosted by Liza LaRue, this episode of Literacy Elevated reveals the real voices behind the statistics and celebrates the teachers still fighting for literacy, access, and truth.

American Library Association - Banned & Challenged BooksAmerican Library Association - Banned Books Week

In this special finale of our Literacy Month series, host Liza LaRue sits down with Dr. Christina Oats to explore how literacy extends far beyond the classroom. Together, they discuss how everyday experiences—from cereal boxes to social media posts—shape students’ literacy journeys, and why communities, families, and schools must work together to ensure every child has access to the joy of reading and writing. Drawing on global perspectives like UNESCO’s recognition of literacy as a human right and the International Literacy Association’s Child’s Right to Read, this episode highlights the importance of literacy at home, in schools, and across communities. Tune in for authentic insights, practical ideas, and an inspiring close to Literacy Month—plus a preview of what’s to come on Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas.Resources:

Global Frameworks

• UNESCO: Literacy as a Human Right – Learn about literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning and global equity.

• International Literacy Association – Child’s Right to Read – Explore the ten fundamental rights that ensure every child has access to literacy.

Family & Community Engagement

• Reading Rockets – Family Literacy Activities – Practical ways families can bring literacy into everyday routines.

• National Center for Families Learning – Resources for building family-school-community partnerships.

Libraries & Book Access

• Little Free Library – Ideas for starting or supporting a neighborhood book exchange.

• [Your Local Library’s Digital Resources] – Many libraries offer free eBooks, audiobooks, and learning programs—check your local branch for details.

Practical Tools for Educators

• International Literacy Association – Professional development, articles, and research-based practices.

• Scholastic Open a World of Possible – Ideas for fostering a love of reading in classrooms and communities.

In this inspiring episode of Literacy Elevated: A TALE of Texas, we welcome Erin O’Leary and Mary—better known as The Crazy Reading Ladies. These enthusiastic presenters and teacher-trainers from Massachusetts are the creators of the “All In!” school-wide reading adventure, a joyful movement that helps entire communities fall in love with reading.

Known for their fun, authentic approach, Erin and Mary have shared their expertise on student engagement and book clubs at national and regional conferences, including the Massachusetts Reading Association, and they’ll be presenting this November at NCTE.

Together, we explore the theme of “My Book Voice”—what it means for educators, why it matters for children, and how families and communities can nurture it every day. If you’ve ever wanted simple, powerful ways to make reading a joyful, community-driven experience, this conversation will leave you feeling energized and ready to go all in!

Resources: Instagram - @allinreadingBlog - Crazy Reading Ladies : Chronicling the Literary Shenanigans of The Creators of All In!

Literacy Month 2025

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