2021 National Education Association Ambassador

NEA and Marley Dias partner to launch the new Read Across America

The centerpiece of this year’s reading celebration features Tiara’s Hat Parade, an engaging story that shows students how they can put their compassion into action. Author Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrator Nicole Tadgell speak with advocate, activist and NEA’s Read Across America Ambassador Marley Dias about hats, history, diverse books and making dreams come true. Watch their insightful and engaging conversation here. You also can read an interview by NEA Today with author Kelly Starling about what inspired her to write Tiara’s Hat Parade and why it’s important for her to write about the African American experience.