News & Research
EDceptional and Get L.I.T. Partner to Strengthen Literacy Through In- and Out-of-School Learning in Rochester
Rochester, NY—November 14, 2025 – EDceptional and Get L.I.T. are partnering to improve literacy outcomes for Rochester students by combining strong, data-driven classroom instruction with engaging out-of-school programming. The collaboration is designed to ensure that every child—both during and beyond the school day—has the tools, encouragement, and community support needed to become a confident, capable reader.
Literacy is the foundation of all academic success, and students who struggle to read or write face challenges across every subject. In Rochester, fewer than 15% of students in grades 3–6 are proficient in reading, underscoring the urgent need for new and collaborative approaches.
Rochester-based non-profits—EDceptional, the charter sector support organization focused on improving educational outcomes for students in the city of Rochester, and Get L.I.T. (Liberating Individuals Through Literary Texts ), that helps students and families build reading habits that extend beyond the school day—will work together to align instruction, family engagement, and enrichment activities in ways that directly strengthen student performance. These efforts will create a seamless continuum of literacy support—linking the classroom, home, and community.
“Learning doesn’t end when the school bell rings,” said Sebrone O. Johnson, CEO of EDceptional. “Through this partnership, we’re building a bridge between the classroom and out of school time—ensuring that students not only strengthen essential reading skills, but also discover a lasting love of learning that supports their future success.”
Founded by Clianda Florence, Get L.I.T. engages children and parents through home libraries, Summer Family Literacy program, family book clubs, Community Give Back, cursive classes and creative workshops that make reading an enjoyable and meaningful part of daily life.
“At Get L.I.T., we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to see reading as a doorway to confidence and possibility,” said Florence, founder and executive director. “Partnering with EDceptional allows us to connect our community-based work with what students are learning in school, helping them and equipping their families with the necessary tools to aid their children to stay engaged and on track academically.”
The collaboration reflects a shared belief that literacy is not just a subject, but the cornerstone of every child’s educational journey. By investing in both in-school and out-of-school learning, EDceptional and Get L.I.T. are helping students strengthen their academic performance, develop lifelong learning habits, and contribute to a stronger Rochester community.
About EDceptional
EDceptional is the only charter sector support organization in Rochester, helping charter schools to achieve enrollment goals and academic excellence. Believing that literacy is the foundation of all learning, the organization provides strategic support, professional development, and targeted programming to help every child achieve reading proficiency. Visit www.edceptional.org.
About Get L.I.T.
Get L.I.T. (Liberating Individuals Through Literary Texts) is a Rochester-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children and families develop a lifelong love of reading. Through family engagement, home-library initiatives, and creative literacy programs, Get L.I.T. connects the joy of reading with academic and personal growth. Visit www.liberatinglitliteracy.org.
Media Contact: Aimee J. Lewis (585) 414-9838 or aimee.lewis@gmail.com
