Community Literacy Lab – Helping Kids Shine, Supporting Parents, Building Community

Serving Sumter families since 2019. Sumter’s first nonprofit microschool started 2025.

Opening

At Community Literacy Lab, we believe learning should feel like home—welcoming, supportive, and full of possibility. Since 2019, we’ve helped families grow through small‑group tutoring, enrichment, and our nonprofit microschool. Whether your child needs a boost in reading, help with math, or a safe place to explore new skills, our doors are open to kids, parents, and lifelong learners. Come learn with us.

Our Story – Why We Started

Community Literacy Lab began in 2019 as an online program—serving students and professionals in 10 countries before the pandemic. We knew families needed explicit instruction, practical tools, and a welcoming place to practice. In 2020, we brought that mission home to Sumter. We launched free local book giveaways—now totaling 5,000+ books placed directly into children’s hands and offering English as a Second Language classes and clubs.

From 2020 to 2024, we also supported literacy beyond our walls by editing work from 250+ authors across 497 books. In 2022–2023, we designed a full website and course content for a dietitian, enabling 20+ accessible community courses.

Our “why” is simple: help kids shine, support parents, and build community—keeping high‑quality instruction joyful, inclusive, and within reach.

By the Numbers

Est. 2019 — launched online across 10 countries
5,000+ free books given locally since 2020
250+ authors | 497 books edited (2020–2024)
Built a 20+ course website for a dietitian (2022–2023)
500+ hours of training per instructor
Scholarships, community partnerships, and free family events

Inclusive Methods (What Makes Us Different)

We design for access from day one—so every learner can succeed.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): multiple ways to learn and show progress
Structured literacy & writing: Orton‑Gillingham–aligned; IEW writing
Multisensory math (CRA): concrete → representational → abstract
Assistive tech & AAC: text‑to‑speech, speech‑to‑text, visuals
Sensory‑friendly supports: flexible seating, calm corners, movement breaks
Executive function tools: visual schedules, checklists, timers, “first/then”
Trauma‑informed & restorative practices
MTSS/RTI: data‑driven small groups and mastery‑based pacing
Multilingual supports: plain language, visuals, family guides

Instructor Qualifications & Certifications

500+ hours of advanced training with master educators
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
Total Physical Response (TPR) techniques; online & physical props
Prepared to support individuals with disabilities and diverse learning needs

Awards & Grants

Dollar General Literacy Foundation — Grant Recipient (2021)

Funded tutoring materials, decodables, and family literacy events; powered our 5,000+ free books initiative.

Central Carolina — Grant Recipient (2022)

Supported program build‑out and community classes; strengthened our nonprofit microschool model.

Memberships & Affiliations

Literacy & Education

International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) — Member (National & South Carolina)
South Carolina Library Association (SCLA)
Catholic Library Association (CLA)
National Microschooling Center — Member
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) — Member

Accessibility & Assistive Technology

Accessibility Technology Industry Association (ATIA)

Civic & Service

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
League of Women Voters (LWV) - Penny
Together SC — Member
Knights of Columbus — Randy & Francis

Directories & Registries

National Literacy Directory — Listed Program
Charity Navigator — Organization Profile
Candid (GuideStar) — Organization Profile
ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer — IRS 501(c)(3) Record
South Carolina Secretary of State — Charities Search (Registration)
Sumter Chamber of Commerce Member

Call to Action

Every family has a story; we’re here to help you write the next chapter. Join our microschool, attend a free family event, or volunteer your time—you’re part of a community built on literacy, support, and connection. Come learn with us!