Roseburg Schools will host a family literacy event on November 17, launching new, grant-funded efforts intended to enhance early literacy development across the community.  

All Roseburg-area families with children ages 2 to 4 are invited to sign up for “Bringing Stories to Life,” a fun family evening of exploring literacy through play, featuring hands-on stations, interactive storytelling and simple activities families can replicate at home.

The event will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Rose Elementary, 948 SE Roberts Ave. Registration is required, as space is limited. Families can sign up to attend through this form. 

Refreshments will be provided, and each family will receive take-home books and materials. 

“The reality is that 4 out of 5 Roseburg children starting kindergarten need intensive support to reach reading proficiency,” said Dr. Jill Weber, the district’s Director of Teaching & Learning. “This is why it's essential to partner with families now to ensure every child has the strongest possible start.”

Roseburg Schools was one of 30 districts across Oregon selected as recipients of Oregon’s 2025-2029 Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) federal grant. The district was awarded $1.1 million for the duration of the grant timeline to ensure all students, especially those who need the most support, benefit from the latest evidence-based, effective reading instruction starting in the earliest grades. The grant from the U.S. Department of Education aligns with Oregon’s Early Literacy Success Initiative. This powerful statewide movement seeks to ensure every child develops a strong foundation in literacy and has the opportunity to thrive.

In addition to community events targeting early literacy, the grant has allowed Roseburg Schools to hire a half-time literacy coach to support middle and high school students in building literacy skills.

Families with questions about the November 17 event can reach out to Roseburg Schools Primary Literacy Support & Early Learning Facilitator Tatum Stedman at tstedman@roseburg.k12.or.us.