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staff@illuminationsdyslexia.com Contact us for information about tax-deductible charity contributions to our nonprofit organization
Leta C. Palmiter is an accomplished and highly qualified educator with extensive experience in reading interventions for students with reading disabilities, dyslexia, and intensive intervention. Palmiter has a Master's degree in Dyslexia Therapy and an Education Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership. She is a Certified Academic Language Therapist and National Board Certified Teacher. Palmiter has personally taught over 500 students how to read, write, and spell with confidence. Leta was National LETRS Professional Learning Facilitator for Lexia Learning, Inc.. She has also presented papers and conducted workshops, supervised practicum students, and served as a student teacher supervisor.
She is also the Founder of Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, where she developed in-school, after-school, and summer programs in reading, math, and art, and partnered with local private schools to provide therapy services at their locations. "Mississippi Rising: The Story of How the Last Became First in Literacy Growth" is her first book and was published in 2022.
"Mississippi Rising" is an illuminating and inspiring book that chronicles the remarkable journey of Mississippi in revolutionizing its literacy education system. Leta has been intimately involved in this transformative process, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the challenges faced by the state and the innovative solutions that have propelled it forward.
Leta delves into the systemic issues of poverty, chronic underfunding, and institutionalized racism that have historically hindered Mississippi's education system. With great insight, she demonstrates how these obstacles have been confronted head-on, leading to a groundbreaking shift in literacy instruction.
One of the book's key strengths lies in its emphasis on evidence-based practices grounded in the Science of Reading. It highlights the vital role of teacher preparation programs and ongoing professional development in equipping educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach reading. The authors provide a wealth of research, best practices, and success stories to support their arguments, making the book a valuable resource for educators and policymakers.
What sets "Mississippi Rising" apart is its focus on real-world implementation and the collective efforts that have driven change. The authors highlight the crucial role of organizations like the Barksdale Reading Institute and the impact of legislative measures such as the Literacy-Based Promotion Act. They also address external factors, such as textbook publishers and funding mechanisms, that influence educational policies and practices.
While celebrating the progress made, the book maintains a realistic perspective, acknowledging the need for continued growth. It explores the challenges of poverty, equity, and teacher shortages that still persist and proposes innovative solutions, including the Memphis Teacher Residency Program, as potential models for success.
In summary, "Mississippi Rising" is a thought-provoking and informative read that sheds light on Mississippi's journey towards educational transformation. It serves as a powerful call to action, urging educators, policymakers, and communities to prioritize evidence-based literacy instruction and work collectively towards a brighter future for all Mississippi students. This book is a must-read for anyone passionate about educational reform and the power of literacy to shape lives and communities.
"I learned quite a bit about the forces behind the "Mississippi Miracle." I'm so glad you wrote it. As you say, it is a story that needs to be told. I hope it is widely read and appreciated. Great job." ~ Dr. Louisa Cook Moats
“Thank you so much for putting into words the journey the state of Mississippi has been on. You brilliantly share the story of so many key individuals and also your own. I greatly appreciate your honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability,” another reader wrote.
“This is an inspiring story of people who were willing to change if it meant better outcomes for children, even relearning everything they thought they knew about how reading should be taught. It’s about overcoming resistance to that change, and showing what we as a state can achieve when we put our minds to it and work together,” said Lloyd Gray, Executive Director of Phil Hardin Foundation
“Thank you so much for writing Mississippi Rising. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and learning about dyslexia. Your journey in the educator’s world has been interesting. It is truly amazing what a woman on a mission can accomplish. You and Dr. Holifield are so passionate about dyslexia and it shows!” another reviewer wrote.
Bravo, Leta, on your well-told story of Mississippi literacy. Lloyd wrote an eloquent introduction. Thanks for your substantial coverage of BRI's work. I learned a lot about the early dyslexia pieces that I did not know. Hope it is widely read.
Kelly Butler, Barksdale Reading Institute
It’s a quick read about how we got to where we are and a state that has made SIGNIFICANT progress!!
I know when you are in the trenches, the days are long. Come read about how all those days turned into real progress. It’s inspiring.
Jane Hayes, R.E.A.D. Redefined
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