At the Literacy Council,We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.
What We DoWE 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.
WE’RE COMMITTED TO LEARNER SUCCESS
What Makes Us Different
Real people. Real support.
Learn through live, instructor-led tutoring and classes designed to help you grow with confidence.
Programs built around you.
Flexible scheduling, responsive staff, and personalized support designed to fit your goals and your life.
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
Kari-Jo Koshes
President
DutchCrafters, Director of Operations
David Bowman
Vice President
Attorney
Grier Ferguson
Director
Director of Communications, Church of the Redeemer
Lourdes Guerrero
Director
Advocate & Group Facilitator, SPARCC
Linda T. Jones, Ph.D.,
Director
Retired School District, State Dept. and Univ. Administrator
Peggy Miller
Director
Retired Attorney
Director of Libraries & Historical Resources, Sarasota County
Secretary
Renee Di Pilato
Consultant & Founder, Randall Development and Marketing,
LLC
Laura Randall
Treasurer
OUR TEAM
Dedicated to making literacy accessible to every adult.
Tom Melville
Executive Director
Susan Bergstrom
Program and Operations Director
Sandra Beltran
Class and Health Literacy Coordinator
William Freitas
Career Pathways and Workforce Development
David Ramirez
Program and Communications Coordinator
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 DirectorOur Community Partners

