Presented by Nick Nanton, Emmy Award-Winning Director, Producer, and Host, DNA Films USA; Maya Goodall, Chief Marketing Officer, CORE Learning; and Kristie Shelley, Chief Product Officer, CORE Learning
Sponsored by CORE Learning
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We know what it takes to teach students to read proficiently, yet nearly two-thirds of fourth graders in the U.S. still struggle with literacy. It’s time to trust the proof and embrace the truth. Join us for a candid conversation with Nick Nanton, a 22-time Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, as we take a closer look at one of his most impactful and critically acclaimed projects, The Truth About Reading. This isn’t just another discussion about the literacy crisis—this is a behind-the-scenes look at the personal impacts of educational policies and practices. Because behind every label and every initiative, there is a person with a story that needs to be heard.
In this third session of CORE Learning’s Structured Literacy and Language Diversity Week: Spring ’24 Series, we’re taking the discussion to the next level by exploring how language diversity impacts equitable literacy instruction. This edWebinar provides you not only with the inspiration but also with the resources to fully understand the complete picture of equitable literacy instruction and make meaningful changes in your classrooms.
The truth about reading is that we need to move beyond awareness and turn our knowledge into action for a brighter and more inclusive educational future for all learners. Join the movement. This recorded edWebinar is of interest to PreK-12 teachers, school leaders, and district leaders.
About the Presenters
Nick Nanton is a 22-time Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker renowned for connecting deeply with audiences through his engaging storytelling. He has directed over 60 documentaries, earning 43 Emmy nominations and 22 wins. His focus on real people and their stories resonates widely, making his work both relatable and influential.
One of his most impactful projects, The Truth About Reading, tackles the literacy crisis by diving into the challenges and advancements in teaching children to read. This film highlights Nick’s passion for bringing important social issues to the forefront, encouraging conversation and promoting change.
Beyond filmmaking, Nick is a Co-founder of DNA, the world’s largest personal branding agency. Here, he has helped over 3,000 clients from 60 countries shape their personal and professional narratives. His work across both media and branding illustrates his broad impact and commitment to making a difference.
Maya Valencia Goodall is a visionary entrepreneur in education who brings over two decades of expertise to the intersection of bilingual literacy, language acquisition, and educational technology. As Co-founder of OL&LA at CORE Learning, her focus is on developing literacy professional development that seamlessly integrates structured literacy with second language acquisition to help educators deliver equitable literacy instruction to all learners. Her expertise spans educational theory, LX design, and practical classroom application, always with a focus on honoring students’ diverse language backgrounds and experiences.
Before CORE Learning, Maya co-founded Lingual Learning, a curriculum company committed to empowering students to become confidently bilingual. This venture was later acquired by Rosetta Stone/Lexia Learning, where Maya and team developed the award-winning program, Lexia English—recognized for using speech recognition technology and culturally relevant avatars with authentic accents to immerse students in English learning through conversation. Maya’s academic background, a Master of Arts in education AND a Master of Education in applied linguistics, lays the foundation for her innovative educational solutions dedicated to equity and intersectionality.
As Chief Product Officer, Kristie Shelley leads, develops, and implements the strategic vision for CORE’s digital products, leveraging over two decades of experience in the publishing and edtech sectors. Her expertise centers on seamlessly integrating cutting-edge tools and technology into product development and practical application, ensuring CORE remains at the innovation forefront. Previously, Kristie developed products for multilingual learners at Lexia and Lingual Learning, a company she co-founded and later sold to Rosetta Stone. She also held multiple roles at MHE before this entrepreneurial venture.
Kristie’s educational journey began as a third-grade teacher in California, providing her with invaluable firsthand experience and a profound appreciation for transformative learning. Her deep passion for empowering learners and educators motivates her to continuously push boundaries and innovate. She holds a B.A. in education from San Diego State University and a Master of Education in curriculum and instructional design from the University of Phoenix.
Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.
Join the Language and Literacy community to network with educators, participate in online discussions, receive invitations to upcoming edWebinars, and view recordings of previous programs to earn CE certificates.
For 25+ years, CORE has pioneered evidence-based and research-grounded professional learning experiences and school supports that equip educators with the tools they need to advance rigorous instruction, high-quality materials, and effective assessments. CORE partners with educators to strengthen the foundations of teaching and learning, ensuring all students experience a rigorous, relevant, and inclusive public education.