In this article, the authors describe how they designed a place-based family literacy program using several research-backed practices from the K-3 Literacy Essential Practices. The authors, one teacher educator and one community practitioner, describe how their interactions with the community guided them to a theme and authentic purpose for the program and how they chose a robust set of thematically connected texts for shared reading. They will also share how they identified an ideal community partner whose expertise enhanced their curriculum and helped to shape the authentic purpose and audience for the final project of the program. Finally, they share five practical steps for classroom and community educators to utilize when they build curriculum to collaborate with families, caregivers, and the community.
Author Bio
Dr. Margaret (Maggie) O. Hanna is an Assistant Professor in the College of Education at Eastern Michigan University, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate level literacy courses within the Department of Teacher Education. Her community-engaged teaching and research focuses on early literacy methods, supporting instruction for multilingual learners, and equitable family engagement. She brings her experiences as a former elementary educator in school districts in Texas and Michigan. She is passionate about preparing pre-service and in-service teaching professionals to support diverse learners, their families, and communities through evidence-based literacy and family engagement practices.
Janet Oyebode is a Community Practitioner and leader who has dedicated her work to strengthening individuals, families, and neighborhoods through intentional engagement, strategic leadership, and heart-centered service. She is deeply committed to cultivating environments where people are empowered to grow, lead, and thrive. Her approach blends spiritual conviction with practical wisdom, allowing faith and action to meet tangible, life-giving ways.
Recommended Citation
Hanna, Margaret O. and Oyebode, Janet
(2026)
"Connecting the Pieces: Designing a Community-Engaged Family Literacy Program,"
Michigan Reading Journal: Vol. 59:
Iss.
1, Article 9.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/mrj/vol59/iss1/9
