Eyes on Reading: When Researchers and Schools Work Together

Eyes on Reading: When Researchers and Schools Work Together brings together Dr. Nicole Patton-Terry and educator Carmen Conner for a conversation about applying the science of reading in schools. Their partnership began after Conner became principal of Pineview Elementary School and Patton-Terry, a professor at the Florida Center for Reading Research, reached out to her. Patton-Terry contributed extensive knowledge of reading development, while Conner brought firsthand understanding of her students, teachers, and school community.

Journalist Emily Hanford will lead the discussion, exploring how researchers and educators can learn from one another, the role of trust and collaboration in creating lasting instructional change, and lessons the partnership offers to schools and communities. Hanford will also moderate an audience question-and-answer session after the conversation.

When: Saturday, September 12, 2026

Showtimes: A pastry reception runs from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. in the Planet Word lobby. The program begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends at 11:30 a.m.

Tickets: $15.00

Venue: Friedman Family Auditorium at Planet Word Museum

Participants: Dr. Nicole Patton-Terry and Carmen Conner, in conversation with journalist Emily Hanford

Moderator: Emily Hanford, Planet Word’s Journalist-in-Residence

Run time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., following the optional pastry reception

Series: Featured in the Eyes on Reading series

Program: Part of the Journalist-in-Residence Program, presented with support from the Ibis Group

Accessibility: For accessibility questions or accommodation requests, contact [email protected].