MONTEREY COUNTY — Read to Me Project (RtMP), a Monterey County nonprofit dedicated to strengthening early literacy and family engagement, is advancing plans to expand its programming into some of the area’s most remote South Monterey County communities while celebrating significant regional recognition for its impact.
As part of its long-term strategic vision, the organization is exploring opportunities to bring its literacy programs to schools and families in communities south of King City — including Lockwood, San Ardo, Bradley and San Lucas — where access to literacy resources, enrichment opportunities and family engagement programming can be more limited due to geographic and transportation barriers.
The effort represents an important next step in Read to Me Project’s commitment to ensuring that all children and caregivers have access to early literacy support, regardless of location.
“Our goal has always been to meet families where they are,” said Jason Little, executive director of Read to Me Project. “We are seeing a growing opportunity in South County to partner with schools and community leaders to support caregivers as their child’s first teacher and to strengthen early learning outcomes. Building awareness and relationships in these communities is a critical first step.”
Recent outreach included a meeting with Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez, who represents District 3, and presenting to the Rotary Club of King City to introduce RtMP’s programming and discuss partnerships that could help expand services to additional South County schools and families.
The organization’s expansion efforts come amid a period of strong regional recognition and momentum.
Read to Me Project was featured in the Spring 2026 issue of Coastal Grower Magazine, highlighting its innovative literacy model and the role it plays in strengthening family engagement, school readiness and community connection across Monterey County.
In addition, RtMP Program Coordinator Sebastian Eckhaus was recently honored at the Monterey County Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Showcase, where he received the Supporting Community Partner Award for his positive impact on students, caregivers and educators at Sherwood Elementary School in Salinas.
“Sebastian represents the heart of our work,” Little said. “His ability to build trust with families and support educators demonstrates how literacy programming can positively influence the broader school environment.”
Local education leaders continue to emphasize the importance of early literacy support in strengthening long-term academic success.
“With Read to Me Project, you are never alone in the literacy journey,” said Deneen Guss, superintendent of the Monterey County Office of Education. “Especially in the wake of the pandemic, RtMP’s early literacy model understands that literacy is not just a skill, but a catalyst for hope, belonging and stronger communities. We are proud to partner with RtMP to help ensure academic success for all students.”
As Read to Me Project continues its outreach in South Monterey County, the organization is seeking opportunities to collaborate with schools, civic groups, community organizations and supporters who share its commitment to expanding access to literacy resources and family engagement programs.
Community members interested in learning more about the Read to Me Project or supporting its work can visit readtomeproject.org or follow the organization on Instagram and Facebook.
