Oneida Reads
About
Oneida Reads is a collective impact initiative working to ensure that Oneida kids read on grade level by 3rd grade. Some of our partners include CESA 7, WI Reading Corps, Family and Childcare Resources of N.E.W., local school districts and the Green Bay Packers Foundation.
Urgent Crisis: 3rd grade reading proficiency results for Native students represent an urgent crisis. For this reason, we are convening cross-sector partnerships to help us work to ensure that every Oneida student reads proficiently by the end of 3rd grade. We have adopted the name Oneida Reads for this work moving forward.
Evidence Based Reading Instruction: By prioritizing the implementation of Wisconsin’s Act 20 and the Science of Reading methodologies, we can give our Oneida kids the best possible chance at educational success.
Baseline Data: Within all Brown County public schools, Native students have the lowest 3rd grade reading proficiency rate of any demographic group at just over 5% compared to 43% proficient or above for white students, resulting in an equity gap of 38 basis points for Native students. (Achieve Brown County (ABC) 3rd Grade Forward Exam ELA 2021-2022)
Systems Change: Again, Oneida Nation is urgently committed to improving our 3rd grade reading proficiency. In addition, we know that the necessary systems change will be a long journey that will require a sustained focus over the next decade or more. Get involved and help to support the mission of Oneida Reads!
Building strong readers begins with strong relationships. Oneida Reads is honored to work side‑by‑side with internal and external partners who share our dedication to supporting young children and their families. Each partner brings unique gifts, resources, and opportunities that help nurture a lifelong love of reading. The partner lists below highlight the organizations that help make this important work thrive in our community.
As of June 2025 Oneida Reads is a member of the Campaign for Grade Level Reading Network. Joining the CGLR gives us access to over 350 communities doing similar work across the United States. Learn more about the CGLR here: Home | The Campaign for Grade-Level Reading
Summer Reading Programs
Oneida Reads partners with schools and community sites to offer meaningful literacy opportunities for young learners. Our Summer Reading Programs help children stay engaged, build confidence, and continue developing a lifelong love of reading during the months away from school.
Registration information will be added as it becomes available, but here’s a look at the programs planned for Summer 2026:
- Cliff Webster Building (Cty H Building)
- Seymour Community School District
For incoming 5K – 3rd grade Native students - Green Bay Area Public School District
For incoming 5K – 3rd grade Native students - Community-Based 1-on-1 Tutoring
Offered in welcoming spaces such as the Oneida Community Library, Oneida Green Earth Library, and Oneida Three Sisters Head Start.
These programs allow us to meet children where they are—at school, in the community, and in familiar learning spaces—to help ensure every child has the tools, support, and encouragement they need to thrive as readers.
Oneida Reads Leadership Team
The Oneida Reads Leadership Team is made up of dedicated community leaders and organizational partners who guide, support, and champion this important work. Their commitment helps ensure that our youngest learners have access to the tools, opportunities, and encouragement they need to grow as readers.
Oneida Councilwoman Jennifer Webster – Community Champion
General Manager Mark Powless – Oneida Organization Sponsor
Education and Training Area Manager Eric Krawczyk – Area Sponsor
David Jordan – Community Sponsor
Ann McCotter – Project and Change Lead for Oneida Reads
2nd Annual Oneida Reads Summit
The 2nd Annual Oneida Reads Summit took place Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Oneida Casino Hotel
Attendees learned about the state of 3rd-grade reading proficiency among Native students and how we can make a difference.
To view the presentation, click here
This slide presentation is for personal viewing only, not for public sharing.
Enjoy this recap video of the Summit!
Oneida Reads Videos
Oneida Reads in the News
The work of Oneida Reads continues to gain attention across the region. Local and statewide news outlets have highlighted the program’s impact, our community partnerships, and the growing movement to support early childhood literacy. Explore recent coverage below to learn more about how Oneida Reads is making a difference for our youngest learners.
Green Bay Press-Gazette – Native students in Brown County face a reading ‘crisis.’ Oneida Reads is fighting back
Wisconsin Public Radio (article and radio interview) – Oneida Nation initiative aims to bring third graders up to reading level
Kalihwisaks – January 2026 feature (pg. 10)
Oneida Reads Collective Impact Partner Meeting Presentation
Below is a link to the Oneida Reads Collective Impact Partner Meeting Presentation:
