Who We Are

Lead to Read KC was launched in 2011 by Lynn and Jean Rundle. Both former teachers, Lynn and Jean mentored and tutored teens. They realized that many of these very intelligent kids couldn’t read fluently – and a few barely could spell. There had to be a way to help.

Lynn and Jean believed the problem wasn’t just that the kids weren’t reading; it also was that reading didn’t seem relevant to them. After months of research, plus consultation with school principals, teachers, community groups and community members, Lynn and Jean developed Lead to Read KC.

Beginning with a handful of volunteers in several Kansas City-area schools, Lead to Read KC has diversified our program to serve our students and community in new ways. Our program now has four key areas of focus:

Reading and Mentoring
Tutoring
Reading For Life Author Partnerships
Reading Is Everywhere^SMCommunity Book Distribution Initiative

Learn more about what we do.

We stand for inclusiveness, equity, and respect ― and against racism. We will speak up for equity and justice in schools. We operate with the utmost respect for our employees, volunteers and the communities we serve. Learn more.

Lead to Read KC Board of Directors

Caitlin O’Byrne Waters, CBIZ-Chair

David Lowe, Lockton-Past Chair

Pauly Hart, Lead to Read KC-President

Ellen Pantaenius, Onspring Technologies-Secretary

Eric Graham, TPG Investments-Treasurer

Sue Agrawal, Community Volunteer

Shawn Creger, Edward Jones

Sarah Gaikwad, Lead to Read KC

Justin Goldsborough, FleishmanHillard

Dr. Lloyd Jackson, Kansas City Public Schools

Holly Jenkins-Long, LISC of Greater Kansas City