At the Literacy Council,

We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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What We Do

WE CHANGe LIVES THROUGH LITERACY AND LEARNING.

For nearly 50 years, the Literacy Council of Sarasota has helped adults gain the skills they need to reach their goals and fully participate in everyday life. Through personalized tutoring and small group instruction, learners build reading, writing, English language, and communication skills while growing in confidence and independence.

Every lesson creates new possibilities. In the last five years alone, more than 2,500 adults have built their skills, expanded their opportunities, and taken meaningful steps toward a brighter future.

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WE’RE COMMITTED TO LEARNER SUCCESS

What Makes Us Different
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Real people. Real support.

Learn through live, instructor-led tutoring and classes designed to help you grow with confidence.

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Programs built around you.

Flexible scheduling, responsive staff, and personalized support designed to fit your goals and your life.

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We’ll guide you every step of the way.

From your first class to your next opportunity, we’re here to guide and support your journey.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Leadership
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Kari-Jo Koshes

President

DutchCrafters, Director of Operations

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David Bowman

Vice President

Attorney

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Grier Ferguson

Director

Director of Communications, Church of the Redeemer

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Lourdes Guerrero

Director

Advocate & Group Facilitator, SPARCC

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Linda T. Jones, Ph.D.,

Director

Retired School District, State Dept. and Univ. Administrator

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Peggy Miller

Director

Retired Attorney

Director of Libraries & Historical Resources, Sarasota County

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Secretary

Renee Di Pilato

Consultant & Founder, Randall Development and Marketing,
LLC

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Laura Randall

Treasurer

OUR TEAM

Dedicated to making literacy accessible to every adult.

Tom Melville

Executive Director

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Susan Bergstrom

Program and Operations Director

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Sandra Beltran

Class and Health Literacy Coordinator

William Freitas

Career Pathways and Workforce Development

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David Ramirez

Program and Communications Coordinator

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Maricela Morgado

Office Assistant


“At the Literacy Council of Sarasota, our work is guided by a simple but powerful belief. When adults have access to essential reading, writing, and language skills, they are better equipped to thrive. Families are strengthened. Workplaces grow stronger. Communities benefit.”

— Tom Melville, Executive Director

Our Community Partners