Kari Kurto to Represent The Reading League at 2025 World Literacy Summit in Oxford

The Reading League’s Kari Kurto to Speak at 2025 World Literacy Summit

Kari Kurto, the national science of reading project director for The Reading League, is set to take the stage at the upcoming World Literacy Summit 2025, happening from April 8 to 9 at Oxford University. This prestigious conference, gathering notable literacy experts from around the globe, will highlight innovative approaches to literacy education and the importance of research-driven methodologies.

Kurto's presentation, scheduled for April 8, will focus on vital topics such as The Reading League's Curriculum Navigation Reports and Curriculum Evaluation Guidelines. She aims to convey a global perspective on literacy education, discussing how effective literacy strategies grounded in the science of reading can be adapted beyond American borders to enhance literacy rates worldwide.

In her own words, Kurto expressed her excitement, stating, "I am thrilled to present at the World Literacy Summit and engage in discussions on how our approach and research-backed strategies can have a global impact. The science of reading is already shaping literacy instruction in the United States, and this is a tremendous opportunity to share our work internationally."

The World Literacy Summit is recognized as the largest international gathering of literacy specialists, drawing a virtual audience of over 40,000 and featuring around 300 speakers from more than 85 countries. The summit provides a platform for NGO leaders, educators, researchers, policymakers, literacy entrepreneurs, and learners to discuss global literacy challenges and share innovative solutions.

Among the prominent speakers for this year's summit is Dr. Molly Ness, a board member of The Reading League’s New York chapter, who will be delivering a keynote address. Additionally, attendees will be inspired by Nashville music artist Jason Bradley DeFord, known as Jelly Roll, who will also speak about his transformation through education. Having succeeded in earning his GED while previously incarcerated, DeFord's story is a testament to the life-changing power of literacy and education.

Apart from her speaking role, The Reading League has achieved recognition as a finalist for the Contribution to Literacy by an Organization award. This prestigious acknowledgment celebrates organizations that showcase lasting contributions to literacy development. The Reading League proudly stands alongside several notable finalists, including Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (USA), Phonic Books (United Kingdom), Start2Finish (Canada), and many more from around the globe. The award winners will be unveiled during a special ceremony at the summit, which highlights the efforts of organizations committed to improving literacy.

The mission of The Reading League is to elevate understanding among stakeholders regarding evidence-based approaches to reading instruction, advocating for methods that clarify the processes of how individuals learn to read. By training educators and supporting school leaders, The Reading League champions the idea that every child has the right to learn to read, and every teacher can acquire the skills to teach effectively.

For more information about their initiatives and resources, visit thereadingleague.org, a nonprofit organization based in Syracuse, NY, dedicated to advancing literacy education across the United States and beyond.