New Literacy Microcredential Launches in Partnership with KSU, Learn4Life, and Atlanta Speech School
KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 6, 2025
A microcredential—often represented as a digital badge—is a short, focused learning experience that certifies a participant has demonstrated a specific skill or competency.
ATLANTA, GA — 10/01/2025 – Kennesaw State University (KSU), the Atlanta Speech School, and Learn4Life are proud to announce the launch of the Impactful Read Alouds in Early Literacy Microcredential, a first-of-its-kind professional learning opportunity designed to strengthen early literacy in Georgia communities.
This new microcredential empowers families, civic leaders, volunteers, and community members with practical tools to foster a strong foundation in language and literacy development for young children. By focusing on effective read-aloud practices, participants will learn how to create meaningful story-sharing experiences that spark curiosity, strengthen vocabulary, and build the skills children need for long-term reading success.
A microcredential—often represented as a digital badge—is a short, focused learning experience that certifies a participant has demonstrated a specific skill or competency. Unlike a traditional degree or certificate program, microcredentials can be earned quickly, shared digitally on résumés or LinkedIn profiles, and recognized by employers and community organizations as evidence of practical expertise.
“Reading aloud is one of the most powerful ways to change a child’s trajectory,” said Malcolm Mitchell, Georgia Reads Coach, Founder of the Share the Magic Foundation, and a leading partner in the program. “When adults are equipped with strategies that make stories come alive, we not only build better readers—we build brighter futures.”
“Every interaction with a child is an opportunity,” said Comer Yates, Executive Director of the Atlanta Speech School. “We are excited to ensure that each read-aloud experience is meaningful and respectful, so children are affirmed in who they are and inspired to see themselves as readers and thinkers.”
“Kennesaw State is proud to leverage the reach and talent of the Bagwell College of Education to improve literacy across our community,” said Dr. Melissa Driver, Associate Dean for Curriculum Catalyst and Innovations. “This microcredential reflects our commitment to equipping educators and community members with practical skills that will create lasting impact for children and families across Georgia.”
“This effort is foundational for Learn4Life. We are proud to bring these partners together to scale a proven bright spot, which will improve literacy across our region,” said Dr. Ken Zeff, Executive Director of Learn4Life.
Employers and organizations whose team members complete the microcredential can be confident that participants have developed a strong understanding of how to engage young learners through storytime.
How It Works
To earn the microcredential, learners will view the short video “Introducing Reading With Children” featuring Malcolm Mitchell and Master Teacher Whitini Coleman of the Kenan Preschool at the Atlanta Speech School. At the end of the video, participants will be able to scan a QR code to download and complete the credential.
Why It Matters
The Impactful Read Alouds Microcredential introduces participants to the profound role language and literacy play not only in children’s academic achievement, but also in the health and prosperity of entire communities.
Learning objectives include:
- Identifying effective read-aloud strategies for young children
- Understanding how to select and focus on key aspects of a book
- Recognizing the lifelong power of reading and conversation with children
About the Partners
Atlanta Speech School
Founded in 1938, the Atlanta Speech School is one of the nation’s most comprehensive centers for language and literacy. With a mission to help children reach their potential through the power of language, the School includes four programs: The Anne & Jim Kenan Preschool, The Wardlaw School, The Katherine Hamm Center, and The Clinic. The Atlanta Speech School is also home to the Rollins Center for Language & Literacy, which works to extend the School’s impact by providing professional development and coaching to educators across Georgia and beyond.
Kennesaw State University (KSU)
A member of the University System of Georgia, Kennesaw State University is one of
the 50 largest public institutions in the country, serving more than 40,000 students
across two campuses in metro Atlanta. KSU offers more than 180 undergraduate, graduate,
and doctoral programs and is known for its vibrant campus culture, diverse student
body, and strong commitment to community engagement. With a focus on innovative teaching,
hands-on learning, and research, KSU prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions
to Georgia and beyond.
Learn4Life
Learn4Life is a collective impact organization dedicated to improving educational
outcomes across metro Atlanta. Bringing together leaders from business, education,
nonprofits, philanthropy, and local communities, Learn4Life works to ensure that every
child in the region has the opportunity to realize their full potential. Through collaborative
partnerships and data-driven strategies, Learn4Life advances shared goals for student
success from early childhood through career readiness.
Share the Magic Foundation
Founded by Super Bowl Champion and children’s literacy advocate Malcolm Mitchell, the Share the Magic Foundation is dedicated to transforming the lives of young readers through innovative literacy programs. With initiatives such as Read with Malcolm, the foundation inspires children to develop a love of reading while equipping adults to serve as literacy champions in their communities. By fostering a culture of reading, Share the Magic helps open doors of opportunity for children everywhere.
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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.