What does it mean to be educated and who is responsible for educating students? The historic journey towards literacy has deep inconceivable roots that left people of color unable to read. Unfortunately, we continue to have reading issues today, although not the same as in the past, young people continue to struggle to read.
- Excerpt From the It Takes a Village
OFFICIAL BIO
Dr. Jacquelyn Bobien-Blanton is a distinguished educator with nearly three decades of educational experience. She currently serves as Executive Director of Early Learning for the Orange Township Public Schools, and holds a doctoral degree from Walden University, a master’s degree from Montclair State University, and a bachelor of science degree from Louisiana State University. Certified in several areas of education including Preschool-Third Grade, Elementary Education, Supervision, and Principalship. Dr. Blanton is responsible for the educational experience for the youngest scholars in her district and oversees curriculum and assessment, instruction, professional development, budgeting, and the coordination of administrative mandates (local and state).
Recognized as an Exemplary Elementary Educator, she contributed to early childhood education observation protocols, participated in the revision of the teaching and learning standards for the New Jersey Department of Education, Division of Early Learning, and served on a committee to review curriculum for early learners. Dr. Blanton was also recognized by the Senate and General Assembly for dedication to scholastic achievement. Actively engaged in professional organizations including the National Association for the Education of Young Children, Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, National Association for Advancement of Colored People, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Blanton is committed to educational advancement and community service. Her motto is “Service is the rent you pay while living on earth” Muhammad Ali.
Dr. Blanton’s book was officially released on August 1, 2024. Her book, “It Takes a Village to Raise a Reader” is a researched based book that developed from her dissertation topic on reading fadeout. The book is about the ecosystem that surrounds a child that either hinders or promotes reading proficiency by third grade. She provides historical and current events that led to the reading narrative we are experiencing today. Dr. Blanton provides personal and professional commentary to help readers connect with the content in her book.
Among many other accomplishments, she is an All-American Track and Field athlete where her dedication to sports extended to years of community service including serving on the board that assisted in creating the Shiloh Rainbow Academy in Newark, NJ. Beyond her achievements, “Jackie,” a devoted wife and mother values family and believes in the transformative power of education to change the world.
“To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required”
