State Rep. Brodeur Participates in Reading Proficiency Forum

State Rep. Paul Brodeur (D-Melrose) recently participated in a forum on third grade reading proficiency sponsored by Strategies for Children and its Early Education for All campaign, according to a press statement.

The event, which took place at the Federal Reserve Bank in Boston, highlighted the importance of developing early literacy skills to future academic and career success, according to the statement. The event also celebrated passage of "An Act Relative to Third Grade Reading Proficiency," a bill sponsored by Sen. Katherine Clark (D-Melrose) and State Rep. Marty Walz (D-Boston), according to the statement.

Brodeur stressed the success of early learning programs in his district and commended advocates for recognizing parents as vital partners in helping our children develop the skills they need to become life-long learners, reads the statement.

Ralph Smith of the national Campaign for Grade-Level Reading was the keynote speaker, explaining the importance of reading proficiency and designating Massachusetts as a Pacesetter state in recognition of the state’s commitment early education, reads the statement. More than 100 attendees including early educators, advocates and business leaders also heard from Early Education and Care Commissioner Sherri Killins, co-chair of the Joint Committee on Education Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley), Strategies for Children CEO Carolyn Lyons and Amy O’Leary, director of the Early Education for All campaign, according to the statement.