Video: Chester Asher on Educational Advocacy
Video: Chester Asher on Educational Advocacy
Source: YouTube
Date: November 2023
Summary: Chester Asher, a key figure in Coalition With STL Kids, discusses his advocacy work and plans for improving literacy rates in St. Louis.
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Advocating for the educational success of St. Louis students has always been my mission. As the founder of Coalition With STL Kids, I’ve seen firsthand the barriers our children face in their pursuit of education—systemic inequities, underfunded schools, and a lack of tailored support for students who need it most. These challenges are not just numbers on a report; they represent futures being jeopardized, dreams deferred, and communities held back.
In the video, I dive deeply into the work we’re doing to tackle these issues head-on. The focus of our advocacy is clear: improving literacy rates across the district. Literacy is not just a skill—it’s a foundation for everything that follows. Without the ability to read, our children are locked out of countless opportunities, unable to reach their full potential academically or professionally.
At Coalition With STL Kids, we are taking a multi-faceted approach to address this crisis. Our strategies include:
Partnering with Schools and Educators: Teachers are at the frontline of this fight. We work closely with schools to equip educators with the resources and training they need to better support struggling readers.
Community Engagement: Literacy is a community issue, not just a school issue. We’re bringing parents, community leaders, and local businesses into the fold, creating networks of support to ensure that students have the tools and encouragement they need to succeed.
Policy Advocacy: Systemic problems require systemic solutions. We are pushing for legislative changes to allocate more funding for literacy programs, smaller classroom sizes, and evidence-based interventions.
After-School Programs: Recognizing that learning doesn’t stop at 3:00 p.m., we’ve established after-school programs focused on individualized reading support. These initiatives help students build confidence and skills in a nurturing environment.
The video also shares stories of success—moments that remind us why this work matters. Whether it’s a second grader reading their first book or a high school senior gaining the skills to pursue higher education, these victories fuel our determination.
But this fight is far from over. St. Louis is at a critical juncture. Our city cannot thrive while so many of its children are being left behind. Advocacy is about more than identifying problems; it’s about building solutions and inspiring action.
I invite you to join us in this mission. Watch the video, learn about the work we’re doing, and find out how you can contribute to the movement. Together, we can give every child the opportunity to thrive.
Watch the video here: Chester Asher on Educational Advocacy