Thanks to a partnership between Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES (E2CCB) and Just Right Reader, Sherman Central School District recently hosted Dr. John Hutton as the keynote speaker for its Superintendent Conference Day. A pediatrician, literacy researcher, and author, Dr. Hutton shared groundbreaking insights into the Science of Reading, early literacy experiences, and the effects of screen time on young learners.
Dr. Hutton emphasized the critical role of early exposure to books in cognitive and language development.
“The earlier a child is introduced to books, the stronger their foundation for literacy and learning,” he explained.
Dr. Hutton’s perspective on the matter is a unique one. Before returning for his residency as a pediatrician, he owned and operated a private bookstore for 20 years. He highlighted disparities in home literacy environments, noting that children in “book deserts” often enter school at a disadvantage
“A lot of families don’t have any books at home at all. Then you go to a bookstore and see other families with shelves full of books — it really drives home the disparities between the ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’ in the world of reading,” he said. “It made me really want to work to make a difference if I could.”
Using neuroimaging research, Dr. Hutton illustrated how reading strengthens brain connections.
“Reading isn’t an innate skill — it’s something the brain has to rewire itself to do,” he said.
He explained that the more a child is exposed to reading, the stronger their neural pathways become, making learning to read easier and more effective.
Dr. Hutton also addressed the impact of screen time on literacy, stressing the importance of direct human interaction.
“Young children learn best from engaging with caregivers, not passively watching a screen. That face-to-face connection is what makes learning stick,” he stated.
He likened different story formats to the Goldilocks principle: “Maybe audio is too cold, maybe animation is too hot, and maybe illustrated picture books are just right.”
To support early literacy, Dr. Hutton shared practical strategies, including the SHARE STEP (Snuggle, Hold, Affection, Respond, Enjoy Stretch, Talk, Explore, Patience) framework and dialogic reading techniques, which encourage interactive storytelling and engagement.
“More than anything, books bring grown-ups and kids together for nurturing experiences. That connection is key to building strong literacy skills,” he said.
This event was made possible through E2CCB’s collaboration with Just Right Reader, which provides Science of Reading-aligned decodable books through a free pilot program. Offering up to 3,000 personalized decodables per district in English and Spanish, the initiative supports phonics development, engages families in literacy, and enhances structured reading instruction.
Jennifer Clark-Saboda, E2CCB’s Director of Professional Learning & Curriculum Development, emphasized the importance of this initiative.
“The Science of Reading is transforming how we teach literacy, ensuring that all students have access to research-based instruction that builds strong reading foundations. Bringing experts like Dr. Hutton to our region helps educators deepen their understanding and apply these practices in the classroom,” she said.
As a dedicated partner in the Science of Reading Symposiums, Sherman Central School District was selected to host the presentation.
“That’s the magic of reading,” Dr. Hutton concluded. “Through this incredible function of the brain, we translate marks on a page into meaning. Our goal is to ensure every child experiences that magic.”
