Regional Literacy Symposium

On May 20, SWWC hosted a Regional Literacy Symposium for districts to share, learn and grow. It was a full house of superintendents, principals, district literacy leads, and other staff interested in learning (and celebrating) the AMAZING work taking place in SW Minnesota.

Several district teams and SMSU education staff shared how their efforts have improved systems to support literacy growth across our region, including ELC and ALC leaders (Heather Anderson and Kelli Doorenbos), Worthington Public Schools (Melissa Jensen and Sarah Schumann), Marshall Public Schools (Beth Ritter, Sara Welch, and Peggy Reynolds), and SMSU (Dr. Sonja Vierstraete) for sharing their amazing journeys, stories, and successes. The regional CAPTI trainer, Andi, attended and led sessions on data-based decision making. It was amazing to collaborate with MDE’s Julie Novak and Jenny Wazlawik as well.

The day reflected not only deep professional learning and meaningful collaboration, but also an extraordinary level of organization and care. Every detail created space for participants to engage fully, connect with one another, and leave better equipped to support their students and teams. Thank you to the Literacy Team (Natalie Delmonico, Shannon Gossen, and Ginny Sorenson) and COMPASS supervisor (Allyson Pesek) for making this day so spectacular for all.

View Symposium Infographic

Pictured (l-r): Natalie Delmonico, Andi Laning - Capti Literacy Specialist, Shannon Gossen, Jennifer Wazlawik - MDE READ Act Integration Lead, Julie Novak - MDE State Literacy Director and Allyson Pesek