Join us for an unforgettable evening of courage, advocacy, and change.

Left Behind, directed by Emmy Award-winning producer Anna Toomey, tells the powerful true story of a group of relentless mothers who refused to accept a broken system and changed history. Set in the heart of New York City, the nation’s largest school district, this moving documentary follows their groundbreaking fight to create the city's first public school dedicated to students with dyslexia, and their ongoing mission to expand access for families nationwide.

Through raw storytelling and stirring moments, Left Behind exposes the daily struggles of children with dyslexia and the critical need for educational reform. With 1 in 5 children affected, this is a story that demands to be seen and acted upon.

Following the screening, stay for a thought-provoking panel discussion with leading experts from Everyone Reading Illinois (ERI), a nonprofit championing evidence-based reading instruction and dyslexia advocacy. Learn how early identification, effective intervention, and science-backed teacher training can transform lives, and learn more about resources available to families navigating this journey.

Featured Panelists:

• Shira Schwartz – ERI President-Elect, veteran educator, advocate, and contributor to the Illinois Literacy Plan and Dyslexia Handbook

• Anne Lundberg – ERI Board Member, Head of Distribution at Armitage Partners, and parent of a dyslexic child

• Dr. Jessica Douglas, Board Member and past President, veteran school psychologist with previous experience within the public-school setting, now in private practice at Psychoeducational Resource Services, Inc. conducting evaluations and providing consultation to parents and schools.Karla O’Brien – ERI Board Member, veteran educator, and Executive Director of Professional Development at Classmates Educational Group.

Presented in partnership with Everyone Reading Illinois (ERI) and Suite Escape.

This event is open and free of charge to all members of the public - adults, educators and families are invited to join.