Our Mission
We work to ensure that every learner, regardless of age, background, or learning difference, has access to high quality instruction grounded in research.
We envision communities where every individual has the literacy skills necessary to achieve their full potential.
Our Story
What began as a small effort to bring structured literacy training to Houston grew into a nationally respected center for educator preparation, direct services, and system level partnership.
From the first 25 teachers trained in 1981 to more than 101,000 educators equipped today, our commitment has remained the same: instruction that works.
Founders
Betty Neuhaus
Betty Neuhaus and her husband Oscar were instrumental in founding the Houston Branch of The Orton Dyslexia Society. When friends asked Betty how they could memorialize Oscar after his untimely death, she said, “With a teacher training center!” She was a dedicated Board member and Lifetime Trustee. †
Fredda Parker
Fredda Parker, one of the Center’s three Founding Teachers, later served as Board President, Board member, and Lifetime Trustee. A teacher of students with dyslexia, Fredda shared the Center’s successful approach to instruction with many teachers, including Suzanne Carreker, who was a new teacher at Briarwood School in the late 1970’s. †
Lenox Reed
Lenox Reed, Founding Director, led the Center for over 20 years. Her name is synonymous with that of Neuhaus Education Center. She continues to remain a vital part of the Center, serving as Advisory Board member and Consultant. Much of the Center’s success, including financial stability, is owed to Lenox’s vision, wisdom, dedication, and vitality.
Marilyn Beckwith
Marilyn Beckwith is one of the Center’s three Founding Teachers. She served as Associate Director, Board Member, and Lifetime Trustee. After moving to Wimberley, Texas, in 1986, Marilyn taught students with dyslexia for 16 years and continues to direct teachers and schools to Neuhaus Education Center and its services. †
Virginia McFarland
Virginia McFarland, award-winning community volunteer, helped Oscar and Betty Neuhaus and others found the local branch of The Orton Dyslexia Society. Along with other friends of Oscar, she helped found Neuhaus Education Center in his memory. Virginia continued to contribute her expertise, vision, and encouragement as only she could give. †
Nancy Collie
Nancy Collie was the first President of the Board of Trustees and first Chairman of the Board. Nancy guided the Center on board development, financial stability, and policies and procedures, ensuring that high standards of excellence were established and maintained. The Center’s Collie Library is named for Nancy and her husband, Marvin. †
Virginia Noel
Virginia Noel, first female attorney at Baker Botts, was a driving force in the establishment of the Center. Virginia helped to write the charter and by-laws and obtain the foundation’s non-profit status. Virginia enthusiastically raised funds, advised and encouraged the new staff, and passionately promoted the Center to her many friends. †
Timeline
Explore our journey through four decades of literacy education and community impact.
1978-1988
The Foundation Years
From our founding to establishing core programs and training methodologies.
Download PDF1989-1998
Growth & Expansion
Expanding our reach and developing new partnerships across communities.
Download PDF1999-2011
Innovation & Impact
Publishing resources and strengthening our evidence-based approach.
Download PDF2012-2024
Scale & Transformation
Reaching new heights in educator training and systemic change.
Download PDFOur Approach
Decades of research in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and education converge on how children and adults learn to read most effectively. We apply that research through clear structure, explicit instruction, and measurable progress.
Evidence Based Practice
All programs and services are rooted in rigorous research and proven methodologies.
Structured Literacy
Explicit, systematic instruction in phonology, sound symbol relationships, and language structure.
Individualized Support
Every learner is assessed and supported according to their specific needs.
Continuous Improvement
Ongoing evaluation ensures instruction remains effective and outcomes continue to improve.
Our Impact
The work of Neuhaus is both personal and systemic.
Educators Trained
Received scientifically based training in structured literacy
Adult Learners
Received direct reading and spelling instruction
Families Supported
Through consultation and outreach programs
Advanced Certification
Graduates prepared for national accreditation and state licensure
The impact extends beyond individual classrooms. Partner schools report meaningful gains in reading proficiency after sustained implementation. Educators report increased clarity and confidence. Families report renewed hope.
A Foundation That Endures
From direct intervention to educator preparation to system wide partnership, the work continues to evolve while remaining anchored in the same conviction.
Reading should not be a barrier to opportunity.
It should be a bridge.