Education Couture Announces Inaugural LIT CHICAGO Advisory Council

In celebration of National Family Literacy Month, Toussaint Daniels and Terry Roseland join a citywide literacy initiative.

CHICAGO, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Education Couture, NFP announces the formation of its LIT CHICAGO Advisory Council in celebration of National Family Literacy Month, welcoming award-winning playwright Toussaint Daniels and parenting podcaster Terry Roseland, founder of The Village Chi, as inaugural members.

LIT CHICAGO seeks to transform how young people perceive literacy through vocabulary expansion, reading engagement, and achievement-based recognition. The initiative reflects Education Couture's philosophy: Make learning as cool as art, fashion, and music.

Published analyses of 2025 Chicago Public Schools assessment data report reading proficiency among approximately 34% of Black students and 38% of Hispanic students in grades three through eight. These figures measure reading proficiency, not vocabulary knowledge specifically. Research from the National Reading Panel identifies vocabulary as an important component of reading comprehension.

LIT CHICAGO will intentionally encourage participation in communities experiencing literacy disparities, while welcoming every young person regardless of race, ethnicity, neighborhood, school, or socioeconomic background.

"We want young people to recognize words and books as sources of intellectual wealth," said Ruckiya Ross, founder of Education Couture. "Our goal is to make learning something students celebrate, with opportunities to demonstrate what they know and take pride in their progress. We are intentional about reaching those who need additional encouragement, but literacy belongs to everyone."

The inaugural council brings together voices in storytelling, communication, mentorship, and community engagement.

Daniels, an award-winning playwright, actor, and storyteller, brings a perspective rooted in language and artistic expression. Roseland brings experience in conversations about parenting, relationships, mentorship, and community engagement.

Together, they will offer strategic and cultural guidance as LIT CHICAGO develops. Additional Advisory Council appointments will be announced as the initiative expands.

The initiative is developing opportunities for young people to make vocabulary and book deposits, demonstrate learning, and earn recognition for verified achievements. Its approach encourages students to build word knowledge while discovering the joy of reading books they choose.

About Education Couture

Education Couture, NFP is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit making education engaging through culture, creativity, and literacy programming.

About LIT CHICAGO

LIT CHICAGO is an inclusive citywide initiative celebrating vocabulary, books, and literacy achievement among Chicago youth.

Every young person is welcome. Every word and every book is an opportunity.

Learn more: www.litchicago.org

Media Contact: Education Couture, NFP | Chicago, Illinois
773.985.7444, [email protected] 

SOURCE Education Couture