by Wiley Sloan
The Peggy Crosby Center houses the Literacy Council of Highlands, a little organization with a big impact on the community.
This article is one of a series featuring tenants of the Peggy Crosby Center and how they serve our community.
From its humble beginning offering tutoring services in one of the local churches, .The Literacy Council of Highlands has grown to make a significant impact in our area. This year, they're celebrating 23 years - thriving, expanding, and offering myriad programs to adults and children alike. Programming includes GED classes, English as a second language for all ages, study hall, after school programs, remediation, adult literacy, individual tutoring, and participation in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
The focus in 2015 has been the education of preschoolers, preparing them for kindergarten through the Mobilizing Literacy Program. Established enrichment programs include an ESL afterschool program for students grades K-3, and a study hall program for grades 4-12. The original mission, to provide individual tutoring to all who need it, from kindergarteners through adults, remains a steadfast focus. In 2015 The Literacy Council will expand tutoring services to Franklin.
Collaborative efforts with the community include partnering with The Bascom to offer "Read, Write, and Create" blending reading and art; working with the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and t?e Highlands Recreation Center to provide summer nature camps for children; and a science explorers enrichment program through HCLT and Highlands First Presbyterian Church.
Literacy Council personnel join with an arsenal of more than 30 dedicated volunteers to ensure these exemplary programs run smoothly. Tonya Hensley has been Executive Director for five growthfilled years. In late 2014, she was joined by Kathryn Buckley as Education Director, and Brandy Mc Elroy as Program Director.
The Literacy Council of Highlands is located inside the Peggy Crosby Center, 348 South Fifth Street in Highlands.