About Community Learning

Community Learning is the developer of interactive curriculum kits, created around high interest, thematic topics that engage students in learning through hands-on activities and projects. Our topics are designed to immerse children in learning that’s experiential, engaging and fun!

Our Team

F. Michael DeBritz – Founder and President
Mike brings over 20 years of experience in education and technology.  Observing the growth in after school programs, while working for an educational software firm, he discovered a gap in hands-on instructional materials specifically designed for this unique time. Soon after, Mike formed Community Learning with the objective of creating interactive learning experiences for after school and extended learning programs with an emphasis on fun.  Mike started his career at Syracuse University; then Xerox  Corporation, Telecommunications Inc, Bay Networks and two educational start-ups before forming Community Learning. Mike holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications Studies.

Stacy Rawlings DeBritz – Creative Director
Stacy has been an artist-in-residence in public schools and a consultant for numerous museums designing educational programs for docents, classroom teachers and elementary students.  Her teaching experiences in K-12 as well as at the college level brings a wonderful sensibility of what works with students and teachers. Stacy’s focus is developing interesting learning activities and working closely with subject area experts on existing and future Community Learning products.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Fine Arts degree in Painting.

Jennifer Sutliff - Production Manager
Jennifer has held Librarian positions at the school and university level as well as volunteering in community libraries.  She likes to keep things orderly and spends her time at Community Learning ordering, cataloging and assembling our Course Kits. She continuously thinks of new ways to help teachers manage their supplies.  Jennifer has also been an office manager and a executive assistant.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Masters in Library Science.

Linda Johnson – Training Support Specialist
Linda is an educator with a passion for teaching and helping kids with a strong background in math and science, at the secondary level.  She has taught secondary math, SAT preparation, adults returning to school and tutored privately. Linda's focus is on developing training tools, conducting in-service programs and supporting customers with the implementation of Community Learning Course Kits. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Math and Masters Degree in the Natural Sciences.

Shelly Rafferty Withers, Ph.D – Pedagogical Reviewer
Since 1998, Shelly has worked as a freelance writer and editor while acquiring her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Much published as a short story writer, academic, and features writer, Shelly also has skills in curriculum development, research, education, teacher training and development, and medical writing. She's been affiliated with Community Learning since 2004.

Cathy Rivera – Consultant
Cathy is an educator with a background in international studies and history, at the secondary level.  In addition, she has over 10 years of experience working in youth development, leading educational and team building programs. Cathy lends her expertise by exploring new Course Kit topic ideas and developing partnerships.