Roots of Knowledge Tutoring (ROKT) was founded by Carol Bluee to address the persistent reading disparities affecting children in low-income and historically marginalized neighborhoods across Los Angeles County.
After retiring from an executive career at the UCLA Store, Carol turned to her passion for early childhood education. Working in schools throughout the community, she saw the same heartbreaking pattern again and again: children arriving at elementary school not yet knowing their alphabet, already behind before they’d truly begun. Too many students in underserved communities read below grade level — not for lack of ability, but for lack of access to individualized instruction, culturally relevant materials, and early support.
ROKT was created to close that gap. We combine evidence-based literacy instruction with culturally affirming teaching, so that every child we serve can build strong reading skills, academic confidence, and a genuine love of learning.
Our Mission
To improve reading proficiency and academic confidence among students in underserved areas of Los Angeles County through culturally responsive, high-quality tutoring.
Our Vision
A future where every child reads confidently, excels academically, and sees themselves reflected positively in learning.
Our Core Values
- Equity and access in education — every child deserves quality literacy support, regardless of income or background
- Cultural pride and representation — children learn best when they see themselves in what they read
- Community partnership and trust — we grow through genuine relationships with families and neighborhoods
- Academic excellence and accountability — we hold ourselves to real, measurable results
Roots of Knowledge Tutoring 