Abstract
The Literacy Warriors initiative is designed to address the pervasive issue of illiteracy in underserved communities through innovative, community-driven strategies. Rooted in the evidence-based methodologies of Marva Collins and Orton-Gillingham, the program equips community members—referred to as Literacy Warriors—with the skills to teach foundational literacy, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Recognizing literacy as a tool for equity, empowerment, and social justice, this initiative emphasizes culturally affirming practices that resonate with the lived experiences of Black and marginalized students. The program also addresses a critical gap: many Literacy Warriors themselves were not taught phonics due to past whole-language initiatives, which contributed to declining literacy rates. By incorporating engaging, repetitive, and multisensory learning activities, the program simultaneously supports the learners and re-educates the Warriors.
Beyond literacy instruction, the initiative fosters cultural pride and awareness by integrating narratives of significant African American figures into the curriculum, creating a holistic approach that combines literacy and cultural affirmation. This dual-purpose strategy not only builds literacy skills but also empowers individuals to break cycles of academic underachievement and contribute to the social and economic vitality of their communities. The Literacy Warriors program demonstrates the transformative potential of community engagement in literacy education and calls on others to innovate and collaborate in addressing literacy disparities.
Author Biography
Dr. Monica Manns is the Lead Consultant and President of Manns Consulting and the Founder of the Equity Ambassador Foundation. Through Manns Consulting, Dr. Manns leverages her expertise to provide innovative solutions in school leadership, student engagement, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), community learning centers, and preventative discipline. Her firm offers tailored professional development and personalized coaching services to empower schools, districts, and individuals. From setting ambitious goals and implementing culturally responsive programming to creating effective discipline plans and optimizing after-school programs, Manns Consulting delivers comprehensive support. Her philanthropic arm, the Equity Ambassador Foundation, extends these efforts, offering resources and programming to uplift marginalized and underrepresented groups. Before founding her consulting firm, Dr. Manns served as Chief Equity, Diversity, and Opportunity Officer for a large school district, where she led the implementation of division-wide cultural diversity initiatives and professional development programs. Earlier roles include Director of Education (Principal) and Vice President of Educational Services at the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls, where she worked with youth facing severe emotional and behavioral challenges. Dr. Manns has also worked in correctional facilities, alternative schools, and general education. A lifelong learner, Dr. Manns holds degrees from Berea College, the University of Kentucky, Virginia Tech, and William & Mary, along with administrative credentials from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Superintendent certificate from Howard University. She is a dedicated wife of Jimmy Robinson, Jr. and the proud mother of two children, two bonus kids and six god kids.
Diane Saunders is a seasoned educator with over 30 years of experience in teaching and educational administration. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theater Arts with an English Education Certification, as well as a Master’s Degree in Journalism. Throughout her career, Diane has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering student achievement and equity, particularly in English Language Arts and journalism education.
As an English teacher for grades 9-12, Diane focused on empowering underperforming students in reading and writing, ensuring they met graduation requirements and developed critical literacy skills. Her innovative approach extended to teaching journalism and communications, where she guided high school students in producing award-winning school newspapers and news videos that gained widespread recognition among students, parents, employees, and the broader community.
After retiring from teaching and administration, Diane continued to champion diversity and equity in education by joining the Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity Department of a large school district in Virginia. In this role, she created and managed the district’s Diversity and Equity online newsletter, curating content on cultural awareness and critical information for marginalized and underserved communities. Additionally, Diane coordinated the Equity Ambassadors, a diverse group of high school students who translated essential information on the district's website, ensuring accessibility for parents of various nationalities.
Diane’s passion for education, her dedication to equity, and her innovative strategies in communication and student engagement have made her a respected voice in the field. Her current work with Manns Consulting further amplifies her commitment to creating inclusive, culturally responsive educational environments that uplift students, families, and communities.
