How we got started!
In 2017, founders Ashley Dearinger and Allison Ogle were both teaching in Louisville schools when they realized many of their students were falling behind not because they lacked potential, but because they lacked access to high-quality, joyful literacy experiences. Together, they created I Would Rather Be Reading (IWRBR), an afterschool program rooted in connection first, literacy always—pairing reading intervention with social-emotional learning and enrichment that helps kids thrive.
What began as one classroom after school has grown into a citywide movement serving hundreds of students each year through school-based afterschool and summer programs. Today, under the leadership of Co-CEOs Ashley Dearinger and Allison Ogle, IWRBR’s Educate & Elevate model blends Science of Reading–aligned tutoring, Mindful Literacy lessons, and enrichment pathways that help students build confidence, character, and a lifelong love for learning.
Through our programs, we’re proud to partner with schools and community organizations to expand access to high-quality out-of-school-time learning experiences. Every day, our team of educators, coaches, and partners works to ensure that children not only learn to read but see reading as the key to a bigger, brighter future.
Allison Ogle
Ashley Dearinger
Our Leadership Team
Alfanso Bartee
Volunteer Coordinator Intern
Alfonso is our connector. As Volunteer Coordinator Intern, he recruits, organizes, and supports volunteers for events and programs while strengthening relationships with community partners. Whether it’s coordinating a Golf Scramble crew or welcoming families at Lights on Main, Alfonso brings warmth and professionalism to every interaction. He’s proof that leadership can start early and make a big impact.
Sara Hannah
Chief Operating Officer
Sara brings structure, heart, and strategy to everything we do. As COO, she ensures our programs, people, and partnerships run seamlessly, translating big ideas into day-to-day operational excellence. A systems thinker with a teacher’s heart, Sara oversees program operations, data, HR, and finance, always keeping our mission at the center. She’s the calm in the storm and the reason our multi-site programs hum with consistency, care, and impact.
Rhonda Ross
Office Manager
If our office had a heartbeat, it would be Rhonda. She’s the behind-the-scenes powerhouse who keeps our operations, schedules, and finances running smoothly. From board prep to event logistics, Rhonda ensures no detail slips through the cracks, and she does it all with a smile. Around here, we call her the glue that keeps it all together.
Kelaina Slaughter
Director of Programming
Kelaina is the engine behind our program design and implementation. She leads the expansion of our afterschool and summer programs, supports staff training, and builds partnerships with schools and community centers. A former Site Coordinator herself, Kelaina knows what it takes to make a program thrive, and she leads with empathy, high standards, and contagious enthusiasm.
Shelly Daugherty
Grants and AmeriCorps Coordinator
Shelly wears many hats and wears them well. She leads our AmeriCorps coordination, manages grants, and supports staff across our programs. Whether she’s writing a report, planning a training, or jumping into a classroom to lend a hand, Shelly ensures our sites are well-staffed, supported, and always student-centered. Her energy and humor remind everyone why we love what we do.
Looking Ahead
From one classroom to multiple school sites, from two teachers with a vision to a full team of passionate professionals, I Would Rather Be Reading continues to grow without ever losing sight of the mission that started it all: empowering kids through literacy, connection, and joy.
Together with our community, we’re writing the next chapter—one story, one student, one book at a time.