February 19, 2025
ECU helps Moore shape future in literacy education
What propelled Tracee Moore to pursue graduate school initially was a frustration with the future of public education. However, her time as a reading and literacy master’s student in the East Carolina University College of Education has transformed her thinking.
“I have grown personally and professionally, gained new perspectives and now see myself through a broader lens,” she said.
Moore will graduate this May and feels ready to tackle what’s next in her career.
“While I’m no longer in the classroom, my graduate studies have shaped my career in unexpected ways,” she said. “I now walk boldly and confidently, knowing that I am already a literacy leader who can advocate for change.”
Literacy studies associate professor Dr. Christy Howard made a profound impact on Moore and her approach to literacy instruction. She said that it challenged her to center her students within the curriculum. This is reflected by her experience in the graduate program.
“ECU has provided a safe space to challenge my thinking, examine biases and explore deeper aspects of reading and literacy,” she said.
That passion for critical thinking and exploration is reflected in her favorite book, “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler, a speculative fiction novel.
“I have always loved dystopian fiction, and Butler’s writing is both powerful and thought-provoking,” she said. “Her characters stay with you long after the book ends, making this novel a classic that still resonates with me today.”
Moore highly recommends ECU, noting that her former principal spoke highly of its structure and faculty.
“After exploring the website and learning more about the program, I took a leap of faith, and I have absolutely no regrets.”
She echoes that sentiment in her advice to future ECU graduate students: “Ask questions, take risks and explore every opportunity that comes your way. Be intentional with your time, get involved and take advantage of everything ECU has to offer.”