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EDceptional.org

September 2025

Enhancing Literacy Outcomes Through School–Home Partnerships

homework with parent

Strong literacy skills are the foundation of lifelong success, and building them takes teamwork. Research shows that children learn best when schools and families work together. EDceptional is now partnering with Clianda Florence, founder and CEO of Let's Get L.I.T., and K-12 instructional expert, Dr. Paul Miller, to create a coordinated approach that connects classroom learning with at-home support - giving Rochester students the best chance to thrive.


Working together, we will provide a tailored literacy program that addresses the specific needs of students and families, integrating evidence-based practices that are aligned with state standards. 


Why This Matters

Reading proficiency isn’t just about passing state tests - it’s a key predictor of long-term academic and career achievement. When families are engaged in their child’s learning, students are more motivated to read, perform better on assessments, and gain confidence. By aligning what happens in school with the support children get at home, we’re creating a powerful cycle that drives measurable results.


The Parent Advantage

Parents play a critical role in this effort. Through workshops, training, and resources, Let’s Get L.I.T. equips families with simple, practical strategies for boosting literacy at home. Whether it’s reading together, telling stories, or making books part of everyday life, these activities help children see reading not as homework, but as a habit worth keeping.


A Strategic Partnership

This joint initiative leverages the expertise of K–12 instructional leader Dr. Miller, who leads in-school literacy efforts, and Clianda Florence of Let’s Get L.I.T., who supports families outside of school.


How it Works

We will offer resources, workshops, and training sessions for parents to enhance their understanding of effective literacy strategies and the importance of their involvement in their child's education. Finally, we will establish a framework for monitoring student progress, ensuring that the integrated model effectively meets literacy goals and prepares students for state assessments.  


The Bottom Line

For Rochester, the takeaway is clear: literacy isn’t just a school issue—it’s a community investment. By strengthening the link between school and home, we’re preparing students for academic success today and workforce readiness tomorrow. Rochester’s children will benefit now, and the entire community will benefit in the future.

Remembering Carlos Carballada – "It's all about the kids"

Carlos Carballada

Our city lost a true champion for Rochester in August. Carlos Carballada was a long-time EDceptional board member and tireless advocate for Rochester students. In his 90 years, Carlos dedicated himself to strengthening our city, serving in multiple political roles, including acting mayor and deputy mayor. He was a banker, community leader and member and chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents.


To EDceptional, he was a passionate, committed anchor and support, always reminding us that whatever work we do, whatever time we invest and whatever decision we make, “it’s all about the kids.” 


His wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people has inspired our mission and guided our work. Carlos’ legacy will live on in Rochester and our future, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. 

 

A Tale of Two Festivals: When Culture is Celebrated, but Chaos Follows


“The deeper issue here is education. Not just academic, but cultural, social, and emotional. Our kids aren’t just failing math and ELA. They’re failing decision-making. They’re failing critical thinking. They’re failing to see the value in restraint, in peace, in having something to lose,” says Dr. Paul Miller in a recent Rochester Business Journal article. 


Miller calls for collective accountability - through better education, stronger community structure, parental involvement, and mentorship. Read more here. 

Paul Miller

Paul Miller, Courtesy of Rochester Business Journal

Back to school

Charter School News


Back to School


It’s back to school season and Rochester charter schools are eagerly welcoming new students. Some charter schools still have seats available. Learn more at GoodSchoolsRoc.org

Rochester Prep Alumnus Returns as Principal and Parent 


Keana Courtois was part of Rochester Prep’s 2006 founding class. She returned this year as principal and a parent of an incoming kindergartener. WHEC Channel 10 covered the story – read Full circle moment: Rochester Prep principal begins role as her son begins kindergarten 

Alumnus Returns
 
 
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