Scheduled for Friday, March 27, the annual event will focus on the art and science of teaching reading.

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, Feb. 24, 2026—Centenary University’s School of Education and Humanities will host a literacy conference for educators entitled, The Art and Science of Teaching Reading. The event will be held on Friday, March 27, from 8:30 am to 3 pm in the university’s David and Carol Lackland Center. Prior events have had over 100 registrants, so early registration is recommended.  Register HERE.

Sponsored by the Centenary University Master of Education in Literacy Instruction Program and ESL Teacher Certification Program, this year’s conference will feature international expert Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D., as the keynote speaker. In his presentation, Dr. Rasinski will make the case that effective reading instruction is both an art and a science. While the conference is an in-person event and will include lively breakout sessions, a collaborative buffet luncheon, and fun giveaways, Dr. Rasinski will be zooming in virtually from out of state to present his keynote. 

Director of Centenary University’s Master of Education in Literacy Instruction and ESL Teacher Certification Program Lexis McCoy, Ed.D., said, “This event provides educators and school leaders with an opportunity to learn about new research, collaborate with fellow educators, and gain ideas that they can bring back to their school districts. It is a great day to show our appreciation for the amazing educators in New Jersey’s schools who are skilled practitioners and thoughtful scholars.” 

Centenary University’s School of Education and Humanities is a leader in bachelor’s degree programs in teacher preparation, as well as studies in English, history, and mathematics. The graduate education programs feature master’s and doctoral level degrees in special education, leadership, educational practice, and literacy instruction. The university’s Master of Education in Literacy Instruction Program is recognized by the International Literacy Association, not only for its commitment in supporting the ILA’s Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals, but also for ensuring that it offers the highest quality teacher preparation and ongoing professional development. Centenary University’s master’s degree program enables graduate students to meet state requirements for their New Jersey Reading Specialist, Early Literacy Specialist, and ESL Teacher Certifications while completing a master’s degree. 

Registration for the literacy conference is $99, which includes lunch. The event is open to all K-8 educators, support staff, administrators, coaches, and curriculum directors from public and private schools. Register here. Questions can be directed to: [email protected]

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Centenary University was founded in 1867 by United Methodists and offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. The University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies and first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.