March is National Reading Month and reminds us that strong reading and writing skills are the foundation of academic success and lifelong learning. Literacy empowers students to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate an increasingly complex world. From decoding their first words in elementary school to analyzing complex texts in high school, each stage of literacy development builds upon the last.
As we celebrate National Reading Month, Rockingham County Public Schools would like to highlight both the exceptional educators from our school division who have been making significant contributions to literacy education and the special events that directly engage our students. These combined efforts create meaningful literacy experiences that inspire a lifelong love of reading and writing.
RCPS Literacy Coaches Shine at VSLA Conference
On March 3, Tabitha Carter and Anne Bragg, RCPS Literacy Coaches, presented two well-received sessions at the Virginia State Literacy Association (VSLA) conference. Their presentations—"Writing Wizards: Unlocking the Magic of Explicit Writing Instruction" and "Word Wizards: Unlocking the Magic of Foundational Literacy Skills"—drew large audiences of literacy leaders and teachers from across Virginia.
The impact of their sessions was evident throughout the three-day conference, with attendees actively discussing the innovative literacy approaches being implemented in RCPS classrooms.
Author Visit Inspires Young Writers
On March 11, children's author and illustrator Courtney Pippin-Marthur visited Linville-Edom and Elkton Elementary Schools. During the day, she engaged with students about the writing process, sharing insights into how an author develops a story.
The evening featured a special event for selected students in grades 3-5, where Pippin-Marthur discussed art and writing revision techniques. Each attendee received an autographed copy of her book, "Maya Was Grumpy." The event was a resounding success, with one participant describing it as "the best author yet."
Meeting an author can be transformative for young readers and writers. These interactions humanize the creative process, showing students that authors are real people who face challenges and revise their work. When students see firsthand how stories come to life, they're often inspired to express their own ideas through writing and art. Author visits like Pippin-Marthur's create memorable experiences that can spark a student's creative journey and deepen their connection to literature.
On March 12, sixteen RCPS librarians attended the Shenandoah Spring Regional Conference, with several serving as presenters:
Trish Haas (John Wayland Elementary School)
Jessica Kitta (Elkton Middle School)
Mary Sonifrank (J. Frank Hillyard Middle School)
Tim Mumbauer (Turner Ashby High School)
Erin Baugher (East Rockingham High School)
Carlene Lantz (Lacey Spring Elementary School)
Notably, Carlene Lantz (Lacey Spring Elementary School) and Amy Simmers (John C. Myers Elementary School) served as the region's conference co-chairs, demonstrating the leadership role our librarians play in regional literacy initiatives.
These dedicated educators exemplify the commitment to literacy excellence that defines our school division. Their efforts ensure that our students develop strong literacy skills that will serve them throughout their lives.