Bush adviser to speak at Belfast conference

BELFAST – President Bush’s adviser on child development, early literacy and education research, G. Reid Lyon, will be the keynote speaker at the second annual Summer Institute for Early Literacy.

In addition to Lyon’s remarks, the institute will feature presentations on innovative classroom practices, methods for working with families, and early assessment and intervention strategies. The day is designed for teaching professionals in early childhood, preschool and elementary education, as well as for parents, clinicians and community policy-makers.

At last year’s institute, Waldo County Preschool and Family Services received an Early Reading First national grant. The program has served more than 200 families in Waldo County, helping children achieve literacy at or exceeding their age level.

The institute will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25, at the Hutchinson Center on Route 3. To make a reservation, call Early Reading First Program Director Drew Topping-Sullivan at 338-2200, ext. 113.