Dr. Diana GreeneCEO |
From the CEOA New Year, A Renewed Commitment to Equity in EducationAs we step into 2025, it’s impossible to ignore the challenges and opportunities ahead. The shifting political landscape and continued concerns about education and equity remind us of the critical work still to be done. At CLI, our mission to create inclusive, empowering classrooms for Black and Latinx children remains at the forefront. This year, we are doubling down on our commitment to support educators—championing their growth, resilience, and ability to drive transformative change. Together, we’ll work toward classrooms that reflect the values of equity, inclusivity, and hope. Join me as I share my reflections on the year ahead and how CLI is prepared to lead the way in advancing literacy as a path to liberation. |
On October 22, CLI hosted a transformative session on creating inclusive, nurturing learning environments. Educators from across the country explored strategies for cultivating empathy, respect, and cultural responsiveness in classrooms—powerful steps toward academic and emotional success for every student.
If you missed it, there’s still time to experience the insights! Watch the full webinar, download valuable resources on Social-Emotional Learning, Culturally Responsive Teaching, and Collaborative Learning Communities, and share these tools with your network to inspire change in more classrooms.
Read the full recap and get access the recap video here.
CLI’s Chief Program Officer, Erica Holmes-Ware, was recently featured in USA Today as part of Media Planet’s Early Childhood Education campaign. In her powerful article, Erica examines the literacy crisis through an equity lens, highlighting how historical inequities have impacted Black and Latinx learners.
From culturally responsive teaching practices to reimagining literacy research, Erica’s insights offer actionable strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and empowering teachers as adaptable, reflective professionals.
See the article and learn about CLI’s vision for literacy education.
Event RecapBack-to-School Bash @ Kensington Public LibraryOn Saturday, September 28th, CLI teamed up with our amazing friends at the Kensington Public Library to host a celebration of learning and community—and we couldn’t have asked for a better kickoff to the school year! Our very own Literacy Ambassador, Mychal Threets, led a heartwarming read-aloud of *Your Name is a Song* by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, inspiring everyone to embrace the power of their names. An d that was just the beginning! Families were treated to a FREE book giveaway, delicious ice cream sandwiches from Basset’s Ice Cream, and a tasty lunch from T&N Homemade Kitchen! It was a day full of joy, connection, and so much fun—and we’re already counting down the days to our next event. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and here’s to an incredible school year ahead! |
Our special edition Literacy to Liberation t-shirt campaign has been a wonderful success, and it’s all thanks to the support and generosity of our incredible CLI community. Donors, educators, and change-makers across the nation have joined together, wearing this symbol of hope and change for children, educators, and schools.
If you haven’t yet joined the movement, there are still shirts available! Sizes are limited (we’re out of adult mediums and larges), but we have youth sizes, so you can also outfit the young readers in your life. By purchasing a shirt, you’re helping us sound the call for literacy as a path to liberation.
Represent the mission of literacy!
As we step into 2025, we’re thrilled to share CLI’s newly launched website—an inspiring digital space where “Literacy to Liberation” takes center stage. This redesign reflects our unwavering commitment to creating equitable learning environments for Black and Latinx children while showcasing the incredible stories, resources, and impact of our work.
Here’s what’s new:
Start the new year by discovering how we’re building a brighter future through literacy.
Healthy KidsStart the Year Strong: Literacy, Health, and MovementAs we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to set goals and prioritize both learning and well-being. Literacy is the pathway to liberation, and the ability to read can spark newfound freedoms for children everywhere. Guided by this belief, CLI is kicking off a six-week series featuring titles from our Healthy Kids book list, encouraging families to build a deeper understanding of health while inspiring young readers to embrace healthy habits. Rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, our curated book list ensures that every child can find themselves represented and celebrated. Over the next six weeks, we’ll explore six important aspects of children’s health through engaging stories designed to affirm identities, foster understanding, and bring joy to readers:
Kick off your resolutions today and read the first article in the series: |
Since 2020, CLI has partnered with the Massachusetts Early Childhood Support Organization (ECSO) initiative to embed DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) practices into classrooms statewide. At Framingham State University, CLI’s coaching has helped create inclusive, culturally responsive environments that celebrate the linguistic and cultural assets of bilingual learners.
With measurable gains in CLASS® scores and deeper educator preparedness, this partnership is setting a new standard for early childhood education.
Learn More About CLI’s Work in Massachusetts
Winter is a time for celebration, connection, and honoring traditions from around the world. Our Winter Book List features a collection of diverse titles from incredible authors, showcasing stories that warm the heart and inspire joy.
Whether you’re adding to your home library, gifting a young reader you know, or finding the perfect cozy read for yourself, there’s something here for everyone—from ages 0 to 92.
Unlock the Power of Literacy with CLIPartner with Us to Create Transformative ChangeAt CLI, we believe every child deserves a joyful and equitable start to their education. For over 35 years, we’ve partnered with educators to create inclusive learning environments that unlock the potential of young learners, especially in communities where resources are limited. We’re inviting corporations, community organizations, and foundations to join us in closing the literacy gap. By partnering with CLI, your organization can make a lasting impact on children, educators, and communities—helping build stronger futures for all. Connect with us to explore partnership opportunities and start making a difference today  |
We are grateful to you, our community of supporters who have chosen CLI for your charitable giving over the past year—whether as a first gift, annual contribution, monthly recurring donations, or major gift.
Some donors choose to be recognized anonymously. Contact us at give@cli.org if you prefer to be recognized anonymously.
Click here to see CLI’s Gratitude Gallery
Winter is a season of celebration, tradition, and togetherness. Explore our Winter Book List, featuring diverse authors and stories that inspire joy and cultural[..]
Start the year strong with CLI's Healthy Kids series—featuring inspiring titles that celebrate health, promote well-being, and spark a love for literacy.
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