Community Literacy Lab Microschool is a nonprofit, veteran-founded learning center in Sumter, South Carolina. We serve learners in 3rd grade and up in the Microschool. Individual tutoring is available for all learners K through 12th grade. Over 85% of our learners are homeschooled, and we provide a structured, small-group environment that encourages academic growth and independence.

All Community Literacy Lab tutors hold a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university, demonstrate competency in the subjects they teach, and complete required background screenings. In addition, tutors must possess at least one additional qualification, such as teacher certification, graduate coursework, specialized training, an industry-recognized certification, professional experience in their subject area, military leadership experience, or documented experience in education, tutoring, mentoring, or youth development. These standards help ensure learners receive high-quality academic support from knowledgeable and experienced instructors.

At Community Literacy Lab, we believe that effective educators come from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. Our instructional team includes certified educators, subject matter experts, tutors, professionals, college graduates, military veterans, and community leaders who bring real-world knowledge and experience into the learning environment.

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• National Microschooling Center

• International Dyslexia Association

• Learning Disabilities Association of America

• South Carolina Library Association

• Council for Exceptional Children

• Assistive Technology Industry Association

• Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

• League of Women Voters

• Together SC

• Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce

• South Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (SCASCD)

• 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

Community Literacy Lab began in 2019 as an online program serving learners worldwide. In 2020, we brought our mission to Sumter—providing structured instruction, practical tools, and a welcoming space for families.

Since then, we've placed more than 9,000 books into children's hands and supported literacy through community programs and partnerships.

Our "why" is simple: help kids shine, support parents, strengthen literacy, and build community.

Community Literacy Lab guides hold a Bachelor's Degree or are actively pursuing one while making satisfactory academic progress. All staff complete background screenings and possess at least one additional qualification, such as teaching credentials, industry certifications, professional experience, military leadership, specialized training, or experience teaching, coaching, mentoring, or leading educational programs. We believe strong educators combine academic preparation, real-world experience, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

We have been honored to receive support from local and national grant partners. In 2021, funding from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation helped provide tutoring materials, decodable readers, family literacy events, and support free book distribution efforts. In 2022, a grant from Central Carolina Community Foundation assisted with program development and community classes. We have also received more than 200 books through national literacy initiatives and support from organizations including ALA RUSA and Empower. Our learners have earned recognition in local competitions, including Art in the Park and 4-H events throughout Sumter County.

• Girls Who Code

• Google CS First

• Scratch Foundation

• 4-H

• Arizona State University Prep Global

• Edmentum

• Institute for Excellence in Writing

• Learn Math Fast

• Orton-Gillingham Academy

• Est. 2019 — launched online, serving learners in 10 countries

• 9,000+ free books distributed locally since 2020

• 250+ authors supported and 497 books edited

• Developed a 20+ course learning website for a registered dietitian 

• 500+ hours of professional training per instructor

• Scholarships, community partnerships, and free family events​

We use evidence-based instructional practices that support diverse learners. Our approach includes Universal Design for Learning (UDL), structured literacy and writing instruction, multisensory mathematics, assistive technology, sensory-friendly supports, executive function tools, trauma-informed practices, and data-driven small-group instruction. We also provide multilingual supports through plain language, visual aids, and family-friendly resources to help every learner access, engage with, and demonstrate their learning.

• Discus

• First Book

• Dollar General Literacy Foundation

• Together SC

• Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce

• ESTF (South Carolina Education Scholarship Trust Fund Program)

• American Library Association (ALA)

• Reference and User Services Association (RUSA)

• International Dyslexia Association (IDA)

• Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA)

• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)

• Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

• Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)

• Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA)

• Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL)