The Jones County School System will host “Leveling Up Literacy Together,” a literacy- focused event for kindergarten through fifth-grade students, highlighting the latest English Language Arts standards, curriculum updates, and resources designed to support the academic success of every child.
The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, in the Jones County High School Fine Arts Auditorium.
Kristen Beaver, the district Literacy Specialist, is enthusiastic about the event and encouraged families to attend to learn effective ways to support their children’s literacy.
“We are excited to share the intentional shifts we’re making to strengthen reading instruction across our district. From building strong foundations to tackling complex texts and setting meaningful reading goals, our teachers are working hard to help every child grow as a reader. We look forward to showing families how these changes will give students the tools they need to become confident, capable readers,” Beaver said.
Families will learn about the district vision for English Language Arts instruction and how new literacy legislation will affect students. Presenters will introduce Georgia’s updated K–12 English Language Arts standards and describe the instructional changes they bring. District leaders will outline improvements in screening practices, teaching strategies, and curriculum updates designed to enhance student confidence and success.
Organizers will also present new tools and reading incentives designed to motivate and engage young learners. Teachers and administrators from across the county will be available to answer questions and help families learn how to best support students.
Instructional coaches and administrators from Dames Ferry, Gray Elementary, Mattie Wells, and Turner Woods will participate in the event, representing their respective schools.
Dames Ferry Elementary Instructional Coach Christin White shared why families should attend.
“Our DFE families will truly benefit from attending our JCSS ‘Leveling Up Literacy Together’ to learn more about the recent shifts in the Georgia ELA standards and see what literacy instruction looks like in our K-5 classrooms. They’ll also learn about the new curricula we are using, 95 Percent and Arts & Letters, along with the ‘why’ behind these changes, including state legislation that has shaped the way students are learning. This event is a great opportunity for families to better understand and support their child’s reading journey,” she said.
Instructional Coach Amy Thompson said she encourages Turner Woods Elementary families to attend.
“We would love for each family to be represented at this valuable literacy event to become more knowledgeable about what their children are learning and to hear about the changes in their children’s literacy instruction,” Thompson said.
Gray Elementary Instructional Coach, Candace Page, offered a quote about the importance of family involvement.
“Literacy begins at home, where every story shared becomes a steppingstone to success. When families actively support reading, children gain confidence, curiosity, and stronger language skills. Together, they create a foundation that lasts far beyond the classroom.”
