Message from the ALA Chairperson

The transition from Arkansas Reading Association to Arkansas LITERACY Association is now complete! During 2019-2020, ALA will continue our mission to support Arkansas literacy leaders around the state.

According to the International Literacy Association, of whom ALA is an affiliate, “Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, compute, and communicate using visual, audible, and digital materials across disciplines and in any context.  The ability to read, write, and communicate connects people to one another and empowers them to achieve things they never thought possible. Communication and connection are the basis of who we are and how we live together and interact with the world.”

Literacy education evolves and changes as the learners we serve also change. ALA looks forward to serving our members with the Arkansas R.I.S.E. initiative. 

2019 ALA Fall Conference planning is in full force. The theme for this year is “Growing a Literacy Culture (at the Vines). At the Vines? YES! The 2019 Fall Conference will be held at The Vines Center just outside Little Rock. ALA board members are looking forward to this change in our Fall Conference. The Vines Center offers a unique and beautiful setting.  Staying at The Vines Center is also a way for ALA to help the largest youth organization in the state, the Arkansas 4H Foundation. 

During the ALA conference, nationally recognized speakers and small group session leaders will provide excellent professional development for all educators. I hope that you will make plans to join us November 14-15.

Our membership is open to all educators, parents, community leaders, and anyone interested in promoting literacy. Our hope is for our members to encourage new leaders in Arkansas to become involved, not only in our organization but also in literacy advocacy.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone who volunteers for our organization! It truly takes a village. I look forward to working with each one of our members throughout the year.

Sincerely, 

Deb McMillan