In the world of education, literacy, and children’s literature, few names are as influential and inspiring as Jessica Reid Sliwerski. She is widely recognized as a mission-driven leader, award-winning children’s book author, former teacher, and a powerful advocate for early education. Her work has directly impacted thousands of children, parents, and educators—especially through her role with Learning Ovations and her acclaimed children’s book Cancer Hates Kisses.
Whether you are a parent looking for her books, an educator researching literacy solutions, or a reader simply curious about her story, this comprehensive article brings together everything you need to know about Jessica Reid Sliwerski—her life, career milestones, work, achievements, and lasting legacy.
Who Is Jessica Reid Sliwerski?
Jessica Reid Sliwerski is an American literacy expert, children’s book author, and former teacher known for her leadership in transforming early reading outcomes for children. She served as the CEO of Learning Ovations, an education innovation company that developed evidence-based literacy tools for schools.
She is also widely recognized for writing Cancer Hates Kisses, a children’s book inspired by her personal breast cancer journey.
Over the years, she has become:
- A respected voice in early childhood education
- A strong advocate for literacy equality
- A mentor to teachers and school leaders
- A storyteller who writes with empathy, hope, and courage
Her combination of professional expertise and deep personal resilience has made her a compelling and influential public figure in education and publishing.
Early Life & Background
While Jessica keeps certain aspects of her personal life private, what we know about her early years reveals a pattern of compassion, curiosity, and leadership.
She grew up with a deep love for reading, libraries, and storytelling—interests that later shaped her career as both an educator and author. From an early age, she showed a strong desire to help others, which led her to pursue teaching.
Her background instilled in her:
- A passion for literacy
- A belief in equal access to education
- A lifelong appreciation for children’s books
- A commitment to social impact
These values later became the foundation for her work and advocacy.
Education
Jessica’s academic journey strengthened her interest in education, literacy, and children’s publishing. Though she is widely known for her professional achievements, her educational background includes:
- Studying subjects related to education, reading instruction, and child development
- Training that equipped her for teaching in elementary classrooms
- Professional development in literacy intervention
- Specialized training through her leadership roles at major literacy organizations
Her education not only shaped her expertise but also fueled her mission to improve reading outcomes for thousands of young learners.
Teaching Career
Before becoming an author and literacy leader, Jessica began her career as a classroom teacher. Her time in the classroom profoundly influenced her views on reading instruction and the challenges that teachers face daily.
As a teacher, she experienced:
- The joy of helping children read their first words
- The frustration of inadequate literacy tools
- The need for evidence-based instruction
- The reality that unequal resources create unequal outcomes
Her teaching experience gave her a firsthand understanding of how early literacy shapes a child’s entire academic life.
This period sparked her interest in developing better tools, better systems, and better support for teachers—a mission that later led her to Learning Ovations.
Career in Publishing
Jessica transitioned into the publishing world, where she combined her teaching experience with her love for books. She worked in editorial roles, contributing to the development of high-quality children’s books and educational content.
During her time in publishing, she:
- Worked directly with authors and illustrators
- Supported content creation for young readers
- Developed a deeper understanding of how literature influences children
- Strengthened her storytelling skills
Her publishing experience greatly enhanced her own writing and advocacy work.
Learning Ovations: Leading an Education Innovation Company
One of Jessica Reid Sliwerski’s most impactful professional roles was serving as the CEO of Learning Ovations, a company dedicated to helping every child read at or above grade level by third grade.
What Is Learning Ovations?
Learning Ovations is known for developing the A2i (Assessment-to-Instruction) platform, an evidence-based technology that supports personalized literacy instruction. The program was created through 15+ years of research and validated by multiple rigorous school studies.
Jessica’s Role
As CEO, Jessica’s leadership focused on:
- Expanding A2i across schools in the U.S.
- Supporting teachers with practical, research-backed tools
- Improving literacy outcomes for diverse communities
- Ensuring that educational equity was central to the company’s mission
Under her leadership, Learning Ovations reached more educators, families, and school systems than ever before.
Author of “Cancer Hates Kisses”
One of Jessica’s most personal and widely recognized achievements is her children’s book Cancer Hates Kisses.
About the Book
Cancer Hates Kisses is a heartfelt picture book designed to help children understand a parent’s cancer diagnosis in a gentle, empowering way.
Highlights of the book include:
- A kid-friendly explanation of cancer
- A message of strength and positivity
- Charming illustrations
- Emotional authenticity inspired by Jessica’s own experience
Why She Wrote It
Jessica was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age. While undergoing treatment, she realized that families—especially young children—needed supportive, relatable resources.
Her book has been widely praised for:
- Offering comfort during difficult times
- Providing emotional support for families
- Encouraging open communication
- Promoting resilience
Today, Cancer Hates Kisses remains a powerful contribution to the world of children’s literature.
Personal Life & Breast Cancer Journey
Jessica Reid Sliwerski’s personal story is both courageous and inspiring. She faced breast cancer as a young mother and turned one of the hardest experiences of her life into a message of hope for others.
Her cancer journey involved:
- Early detection and diagnosis
- Surgeries and medical treatments
- Maintaining her role as a mother and professional
- Emotional challenges and personal growth
Her strength and transparency have helped countless families feel less alone.
Her story has also shaped her career, advocacy, and writing—especially her commitment to supporting parents, empowering children, and creating educational equity.
Impact, Influence & Legacy
Jessica’s influence spans multiple fields—education, children’s literature, parenting support, and cancer advocacy.
1. Impact on Education
Through Learning Ovations and literacy leadership, she helped:
- Improve reading outcomes for thousands of students
- Provide tools that empower teachers
- Increase evidence-based instruction nationwide
2. Influence in Children’s Literature
Her book Cancer Hates Kisses:
- Gave families a new resource during illness
- Offered emotional support for children
- Demonstrated her storytelling depth
3. Advocacy & Public Speaking
Jessica has spoken publicly about:
- Early childhood literacy
- Educational equity
- Cancer awareness
- Parenting and resilience
Her voice continues to inspire educators, parents, and leaders.
Awards & Honors
Jessica Reid Sliwerski has received recognition for her:
- Contributions to literacy
- Leadership in education
- Advocacy for families
- Impact as a children’s author
While awards vary by year and organization, she remains widely respected across the literacy and education community.
Works & Publications
Books by Jessica Reid Sliwerski
| Title | Description | Audience |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Hates Kisses | A hopeful children’s book about a parent fighting cancer | Kids & families |
Educational Work
- Literacy leadership through Learning Ovations
- Advocacy in early education communities
- Evidence-based literacy initiatives
Articles, Interviews & Talks
Jessica has been featured in numerous:
- Educational conferences
- Parenting articles
- Literacy research discussions
FAQs
1. Who is Jessica Reid Sliwerski?
She is a literacy leader, former teacher, children’s book author, and former CEO of Learning Ovations.
2. What is Jessica known for?
She is best known for her literacy advocacy and her children’s book Cancer Hates Kisses.
3. What inspired her book Cancer Hates Kisses?
The book was inspired by her personal battle with breast cancer and her desire to support families facing similar challenges.
4. What did she do at Learning Ovations?
As CEO, she led the expansion of evidence-based literacy tools used in schools across the U.S.
5. Is she still involved in education?
Yes—she remains active in literacy advocacy, publishing, and speaking.
6. Does she write other children’s books?
Her primary published work is Cancer Hates Kisses, though she continues to be involved in the writing community.
7. How has she influenced literacy?
Her work has provided tools for teachers, improved reading outcomes, and supported evidence-based instruction.
8. What is her background as a teacher?
She worked as an elementary teacher, which shaped her understanding of literacy needs in classrooms.
9. What is her mission?
Her lifelong mission is to help every child become a confident, capable reader.
10. How can educators learn more about her literacy work?
They can explore literacy innovation resources, research, and educational tools inspired by her leadership.
Conclusion
Jessica Reid Sliwerski is more than a CEO, educator, or author—she is a compassionate leader whose work has touched families, children, teachers, and entire school communities.
Her life combines:
- Powerful personal resilience
- Commitment to education
- Dedication to literacy equality
- A gift for writing stories that matter
From classrooms to publishing houses to national literacy initiatives, Jessica’s influence will continue to inspire generations of readers and educators.
