Building Multifaceted Business Champions for Grade-Level Reading

During the webinar, the speakers gave insightful, practical advice on working with business leaders in a variety of ways to contribute to grade-level reading.

Moderator Sara Watson, founder and former Global Director of business group ReadyNation, gave advice on preparing to build a business partnership, finding business leaders and sustaining the relationship. A brief participant poll showed that about half of the participants currently have at least one business leader involved in their work; 31 percent were trying to engage one; 7 percent had had one in the past; and 11 percent had never tried to engage one. The executives are filling all the different roles mentioned in the webinar, and 82 percent of respondents want support in strengthening those relationships.

Scott Hall, Senior Vice President for Civic and Community Initiatives at the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, discussed the chamber’s selecting kindergarten readiness as one of its “Big Five” priorities. He “peeled back the curtain” on the extensive network of chambers of commerce in the United States, describing the differences among local, state and national chamber organizations. He gave insights on the best way for GLR site leaders to approach chambers, such as becoming a chamber member and recognizing both organizations have an interest in making their community a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Marina Gonzales, President and CEO of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, talked about the chamber’s selecting education as one of its “Five Pillars,” including the decision to endorse the successful pre-K ballot initiative in 2020. She framed early education as an essential part of the infrastructure to help their city compete with others to win top talent.

Ray Oglethorpe, former President of America Online and now President of Oglethorpe Investments and Board Chairman of The Learning Alliance, gave insights on reaching top executives. He recommended finding them outside of work, such as through civic organizations, and using your networks to find a personal connection to them. He encouraged site leaders to make presentations at organizations that host regular business events, such as Rotary and other civic groups.

Brian Wallace, CEO of the Coin Laundry Association and Executive Director of the Laundry Cares Foundation, talked about their extensive partnerships with laundromats to support literacy, including building reading corners and hosting “Free Laundry Days” that also give families access to local services. He pointed out that laundromats are in almost every community, and this partnership can help boost their company identity. He also noted that the time pressures on small business owners are intense, so site leaders may need to be persistent to build the relationship.