Our FOUnder and executive director

Meet sumant!

Born in India and a resident of the United States since 1985, Sumant S. Pendharkar spent over a decade as a hiring manager in the computer industry, witnessing the long-term consequences of teenage decisions on his associates. Transitioning from being an accomplished author of technical books, Sumant shifted his focus to empower children in making choices for success in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. With the publication of two highly regarded books on teen success (Lesson Up!, Raising Yourself) and a burgeoning career as a public speaker and media presence, he embarked on a mission to provide the youth of his adopted country the tools for success. In 2015, Sumant founded K12 Counts, driven by a revelation that addressing the root cause of low educational success was possible by nurturing capable, aspirational kids into effective parents and leveraging the skills of accomplished professionals to create opportunities and change the educational landscape.

Paradigms for success

It’s all about support

At K12 Counts, we believe in the power of a strong support network. We understand that true success is a collaborative effort, and it starts with mentors, parents, and schools working together to uplift our students.

Mentors inspire and guide our coaches, while parents actively engage, creating a nurturing environment for students to thrive. Schools provide the structure and resources needed for our coaches to excel. This collaborative approach creates a ripple effect, shaping a brighter future for all students. Join us in this movement to break the cycle of low academic outcomes and make a lasting impact on education, one student at a time. Together, we can empower students for a successful future.

Meet Our team

Director, Parent Coaching and Program Management

Director, IT

Director, Curriculum and Program Evaluations

Program Manager

Meet Our team

Learn more

Discover the underlying problems facing students.

In “Lesson Up!” by Sumant Pendharkar, you’ll embark on a transformative journey that reveals the underlying challenges hindering student success in today’s competitive world. This eye-opening book provides a crucial understanding of the hurdles American students face on their path to career success. It’s not just an educational resource; it’s a guide for parents to empower their children with the knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. As a bonus, “Lesson Up!” includes the text of “Raising Yourself,” another book by Sumant Pendharkar that equips both parents and students with the tools and insights essential for success. Prepare your child for a future filled with opportunities, and get ready to break the cycle of low academic outcomes.