What is The REAL Program?

The REAL Program is a Lynn-based nonprofit organization founded in 2013. The mission of The REAL Program, Inc. is to improve and strengthen literacy, starting in Lynn, MA, as a model for success. By providing access to books, educational programs, and vital resources, we empower children, families, and communities to build brighter futures through literacy.

   

Three areas of focus:

Before Home Program

The Before Home Program provides children from the Brickett School with tutoring assistance, reading support, healthy snacks, clubs, and outdoor activities. Rooted in Reggio Emilia-inspired practice, we encourage hands-on learning, self-directed exploration. The REAL Program caters to our children's many different styles of learning and needs by offering caring, experienced volunteer teachers, multitudes of learning materials and books, and opportunities to learn about themselves, each other, and the world around them in our outdoor classroom and on field trips. The majority of our students attend the Bricket School in Lynn, MA. 

 

Family Literacy Program 

The Family Literacy program offers families the level of support they need to better advocate for their children and support their children's educational success. By providing ESL classes, supplementary assistance of food and necessities, and access to books through the community via our Little Free Libraries and community partnerships, we acknowledge that the children's primary teachers are their parents, and offer them support to succeed as such. 

 

To address the growing demand for language education in our community, we will launch an ESL certificate program. By doing so, we strengthen our ability to meet the needs of individuals and families while supporting broader community growth.

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REAL Preschool: Starting Small

In 2024, we opened Starting Small, our licensed preschool inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Led by Preschool Director Tammie Galland and Lead Teacher Autumn Kane, this program creates a dynamic environment where children can explore, grow, and cultivate a lifelong passion for learning. This initiative demonstrates our deep commitment to fostering lifelong learning and empowering children to achieve their full potential, laying a strong foundation for future success. ​

 

About 17 Atlantic Street 

This beautiful Victorian home is situated within easy walking distance of the Brickett School, North Shore Community College (interns assist with the children), Central Square in Lynn, and Red Rock Park. This ideal location allows the community we service and the children we mentor easy access to all The Real Program offers. Additionally, our interns have a short commute to the afternoon programs. This means more time is spent with the children and families, which directly contributes to our ongoing success. Staying in the neighborhood of the diverse community that we serve gives everyone more access to the support system we provide. Brad and Rachelle Payne provided us with our first step into what we hope and plan to be a long-term relationship of helping children and families in Lynn.