Ep. 50 - Let's Help Our Children Become Great Readers in Palm Beach County

On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, host Chris sits down with Kristin Calder, CEO of the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, to discuss the importance of literacy for children, adults, and families throughout the community. Since becoming CEO in 2014, Kristin has helped expand the organization's reach through eight programs designed to improve reading skills, support education, and create opportunities for people of all ages.

Kristin shares how the Literacy Coalition works to address the challenges facing local students, including the statistic that 41% of Palm Beach County third graders are reading below grade level. She explains why early literacy is so critical, how struggling readers can fall behind in other subjects, and how programs like Building Better Readers are making a difference through one-on-one tutoring and dedicated community volunteers.

The conversation also explores opportunities for residents to get involved through initiatives like Read With Me and Read for the Record, the importance of making reading enjoyable for children, and how the organization provides free literacy resources to adults looking to improve their skills and advance their careers. Kristin also highlights upcoming community events, including an author talk featuring bestselling author Nikki Erlick and the annual Love of Literacy Luncheon.

Whether you're a parent, educator, longtime reader, or someone looking to make a difference in Palm Beach County, this episode highlights how something as simple as reading can transform lives and strengthen an entire community.

Learn more, explore programs, or find volunteer opportunities at literacypbc.org.