The Blue Mountain Early Learning Hub (BMELH) is continuing to elevate early literacy across Umatilla, Morrow, and Union counties.
They recently organized regional participation in an event called Read for the Record, in which 1,326 children participated in a shared reading experience across school districts, preschools, and community programs. Tiffany Copeland, Early Learning Coordinator for the Hub, said “Read for the Record turned out to be a standout example of our work to expand early literacy in eastern Oregon. We thank all the educators and students whose enthusiastic participation made it possible.” Copeland especially recognized the region’s top contributors: Gib Olinger Elementary (Milton-Freewater Unified School District), Sherwood Elementary (Pendleton School District), and Stanfield Elementary (Stanfield School District) for their outstanding participation.
Read for the Record is a global event that for more than two decades has united over 30 million participants across all 50 states and more than 30 countries, creating a powerful, shared moment that highlights the importance of early literacy and connection.
Another way the BMELH is increasing its early literacy efforts is by growing its Reach Out and Read program within medical clinics, with a goal of adding four new sites this year. This initiative is transforming well-child visits and reaching more than 10,000 families with early literacy education and resources.
The Hub also supports Every Child Ready to Read by providing training and materials that empower parents and extend literacy learning into the home for children from birth through third grade. Copeland said that strong partnerships remain central to this work, supporting early literacy initiatives with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, local school districts, Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education programs, and regional library districts, including expanded access to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
“Our Hub work is focusing on early learning and K-3 alignment as students and families transition into elementary school. With a focus on third-grade literacy and K–2 attendance, these collective efforts are helping empower families, strengthen community connections, and build a foundation for lifelong success,” Copeland said.
Blue Mountain Early Learning Hub is a partnership between InterMountain ESD and Umatilla-Morrow Head Start. To learn more about the Hub, please visit: https://www.bluemountainearlylearninghub.org/o/bmelh
