80+ CUSD Families Enjoyed Family Literacy Night
Media Release
Parents and scholars celebrated literacy, the love of reading, and cultural identity.
More than 80 families came out to Compton Unified’s Family Literacy Night to celebrate literacy, the love of reading, and cultural identity. The evening kicked off with a special read-aloud from My Crown My Way, a powerful children’s book by the mother-daughter duo Naheemah McMicheaux-McCallop and Namia McCallop. Their story beautifully celebrates natural hair, self-love, and cultural pride—setting the tone for an inspiring night of learning and connection.
Families then explored a series of engaging literacy stations designed to make reading come alive including Story Time where student readers Alison and Meagan, shared stories from culturally affirming books that celebrate diversity, identity, and inclusion.
There was My Crown Art Activity: Families drew themselves with their favorite hairstyles and wrote about why their “crown” is special—an empowering reflection of self-expression and individuality.
Presenter Ms. Price guided families through fun, everyday ways to build children’s vocabulary, language skills, and reading confidence.
Presenter Ms. Hatchett led parents of 3rd–5th graders through practical reading strategies to support literacy growth at home.
At the Afro-Mation Station, parents wrote affirmations and positive notes celebrating their children’s hair and identity. A live recording invited participants to answer, “If your hair could speak, what would it say?”—a powerful moment of reflection and pride.
The evening ended with a Celebration of Excellence, recognizing shining stars of the month. Every child went home with a free book, courtesy of Scholastic Books, ensuring the love of reading continues long after the event.