The Power of ACCESS: Why Print Resources Still Matter for Equity, Opportunity, and Early Literacy

Presented by Dr. Susan B. Neuman, Professor of Teaching and Learning, Specializing in Childhood Education and Early Literacy Development, New York University Moderated by Cassondra Mantovani, Vice President of Revenue & Operations, Voyager Sopris Learning® Sponsored by Voyager Sopris Learning Learn more about earning a CE certificate and our accessibility features. Following Dr. Louisa Moats’ inspiring kickoff to The Power of Print Lunch and Learn Week, we welcome Dr. Susan B. Neuman, one of the nation’s most respected early literacy researchers and a leading voice on equity, access, and the role of print in children’s learning environments. During this research‑rich edWebinar, Dr. Neuman examines the critical importance of print access—especially for children growing up in communities where books are scarce. Drawing on decades of work on book deserts, summer reading loss, and the influence of trusted messengers, she reveals how access to high‑quality print materials can dramatically change children’s literacy trajectories. This session does not argue against digital tools. Instead, Dr. Neuman shows how print resources remain a powerful, evidence‑based lever for improving vocabulary, background knowledge, reading motivation, and long‑term academic outcomes—particularly for children who need it most. Dr. Neuman’s work has shaped national conversations about literacy equity, and her findings offer a compelling case for why print remains essential—even as digital tools expand. This session will equip educators, administrators, and community leaders with actionable steps to ensure every child has the print resources they need to thrive. Join us for this powerful second installment of The Power of Print Week and stay with us for the final session featuring Dr. Lakeisha Johnson. This edWebinar will be of interest to K-8 teachers, school leaders, and district leaders. This edWebinar is part of The Power of Print Week. Dr. Susan B. Neuman is a Professor of Teaching and Learning at New York University, specializing in childhood education and early literacy development. Previously, she has been a Professor at the University of Michigan and has served as the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education. In her role as Assistant Secretary, she established the Early Reading First Program and the Early Childhood Educator Professional Development Program, and was responsible for all activities in Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. She has served on the IRA Board of Directors (2001–2003), and other numerous boards of nonprofit organizations, and served as Co-editor of Reading Research Quarterly (2011–2018), ILA’s flagship research journal. Her research and teaching interests include early childhood policy, curricula, and early reading instruction, PreK–3 for children who live in poverty. Dr. Neuman has received two lifetime achievement awards for research in literacy development, and is a member of the Reading Hal