LA’s BEST proudly kicked off Read Across America Week with a special visit from Emmy Award–winning actor and children’s author Terrence Terrell. Students gathered for a live reading of The SHES, followed by an engaging conversation centered on storytelling, identity, and confidence.
During the Q&A session, students asked thoughtful questions about creativity, perseverance, and what it takes to bring a story to life. The experience connected directly to LA’s BEST Young Authors program, where students go beyond reading. Participants learn the full writing process, develop original stories, and publish their own books.
Events like this demonstrate how expanded learning strengthens literacy and builds confidence. When students see authors who reflect their experiences and hear firsthand about the power of voice, they begin to see themselves as writers, thinkers, and creators.
At LA’s BEST, whole child development begins with voice. Read Across America Week serves as a reminder that literacy is not only about reading books. It is about empowering students to tell their own stories and imagine what is possible.
