From Kindergarten to 3rd grade, people learn to read. From 3rd grade through adulthood, people read to learn. For this reason, it is essential that students are reading on grade level by the time they get to 4th grade. Reading proficiency by 4th grade is a pivotal milestone that significantly impacts a child's educational journey and overall development. During the formative years of Kindergarten through 3rd grade, children acquire the fundamental reading skills that form the bedrock of their literacy journey. Beyond 3rd grade, reading becomes the gateway to accessing a vast repository of knowledge across various subjects. Children who are reading proficiently by this stage are better equipped to comprehend complex concepts, excel academically, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

Recognizing the critical importance of reading proficiency by 4th grade, KID smART is on a mission to empower young learners with strong literacy skills.

At the heart of this commitment lies the Kay Fennelly Summer Literacy Institute, a collaboration between the New Orleans Campaign for Grade-Level Reading and the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, jointly implemented with KID smART. This year’s 3-day institute was called Homegrown, and designed to help Teaching Artists, Summer Camp Counselors, Enrichment Teachers, and After-School Instructors create literacy activities that actively engage K-8 students in joyful learning.

The Homegrown Institute took place at the Jazz and Heritage Center, and was attended by 58 Summer Camp Counselors and Directors, Teaching Artists, and After School Educators. In addition to offering a variety of literacy - enhancing strategies and activities, sessions included Community Building, Lesson Planning, and Classroom Management. What sets the Homegrown Institute apart is the interactive and learner-centric approach. Educators get a taste of the joy and enthusiasm that accompanies the learning journey when they participate in activities from their students' perspective.

“I realized how everyone’s child self came to life and how important it is for educators/artists to have spaces and community to play and experience joy! Way to model what you are asking us to do with youth!”

— Homegrown Attendee

It felt incredibly inspiring to meet and work with other enthusiastic New Orleans educators. Everybody brought a positive spirit and a wealth of knowledge to the Institute. Empowering young minds with strong reading skills by 4th grade not only enhances academic success but also equips them to thrive in an ever-evolving world. By sowing the seeds of literacy through the Homegrown Institute, KID smART and its dedicated partners are fostering a generation of confident readers who will shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities.