The Power of REPRESENTATION: I See Me in What I Read

Part 3 of the EDVIEW360 “Power of Print” Week on edWeb

As we conclude The Power of Print week, EDVIEW360 is honored to welcome Dr. Lakeisha Johnson—a nationally respected researcher, assistant professor at Florida State University, director of The Village at the Florida Center for Reading Research, and founder of Maya’s Book Nook. Dr. Johnson is widely recognized for her work on language and literacy development in African American children, dialect and identity, and the critical role of representation in reading materials. Her research‑practice partnerships and community‑centered advocacy have made her one of the most influential voices in literacy equity today.

During this powerful closing session, Dr. Johnson builds on the themes introduced by Dr. Louisa Moats and Dr. Susan Neuman, weaving together the science of reading, access to print, and the lived experiences of children. She explores why representation in books is not simply a matter of inclusion—it is a matter of equity, opportunity, and belonging. When students see themselves, their families, and their communities reflected in print, they engage more deeply, build stronger language connections, and develop the confidence needed to thrive as readers.

Drawing from research, classroom practice, and her work curating diverse children’s literature, Dr. Johnson will show educators how to intentionally select, use, and discuss texts that affirm identity and expand students’ understanding of the world.

This session is both inspiring and practical—perfect for teachers, literacy leaders, and anyone committed to ensuring every child sees themselves in what they read.

What You Will Learn

• Why representation in print matters—and how it shapes identity, motivation, and literacy outcomes
• How to evaluate classroom libraries for diversity, authenticity, and linguistic richness
• Ways to use diverse texts to build language, background knowledge, and meaningful discourse through shared book reading experiences
• Strategies for creating equitable reading experiences that honor students’ voices and cultural identities while targeting language and literacy skills
• How families and communities can be partners in building literacy through diverse books at home
• Practical tools and book recommendations from Dr. Johnson’s work with Maya’s Book Nook