The Literacy Link
Connecting Children and Parents in Justice-Involved Families
The Literacy Link brings evidence-informed literacy and learning opportunities to young children with parents or caregivers involved in local correctional systems. We partner with jails, criminal justice organizations, libraries, and others to:
- Foster healthy family relationships by promoting positive, literacy-focused interactions between children and their justice-involved parents and caregivers
- Promote language and literacy skills in children by creating literacy rich experiences in jail and justice settings that extend into the home.
Latest News
About Us
“The Literacy Link project is an example of how the University of Wisconsin is fulfilling its mission to develop human resources beyond the boundaries of its campuses while improving the human condition.” – Ray Cross, Former University of Wisconsin System President
The Literacy Link is a program of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension. We bring evidence-informed literacy and learning opportunities to young children who have a parent or caregiver involved in local correctional systems. In 2017, Extension educators in the Human Development and Relationships Institute began The Literacy Link in Buffalo, Dane, Pepin and Racine Counties. Since then, The Literacy Link has expanded into Ashland, Bayfield, Dunn, Kenosha, Milwaukee, and Chippewa Counties. With continuing support, we will expand into additional counties.
Extension Educators Leading the Project
Liz Lexau, Statewide Coordinator, Bayfield County
Mary Campbell Wood, Buffalo, Dunn and Pepin Counties
Heidi Ungrodt, Ashland County
Pam Wedig-Kirsch, Racine and Kenosha Counties
Ciara Walker-Morgan, Milwaukee County
Our Work
Our Strategies
Impacts and Research
Resources for Parents, Caregivers and Practitioners
Your donation helps expand The Literacy Link across Wisconsin.
