Mission Statement
We are a research center that improves literacy outcomes through innovation reading and writing teaching and learning, professional development, and community outreach. Specifically, our purpose it to:
- Develop high-quality teaching practices
- Measure literacy knowledge
- Prepare future and current teachers for 21st century literacy demands
- Support graduate students research and emerging scholars in the field of literacy
- Connect with families and community partners to support reading across the lifespan
History of the Center
The Center began with an estate bequest in 1972 to support the operations of a reading clinic within the College of Education. The reading clinic was established in memory of Miss Belser’s sister, Dr. Danylu Belser, and Dr. Daisy Parton, both of whom were members of the College’s Elementary Education faculty. The Center ran as a reading clinic for almost two decades, initially directed by Dr. F. L. Westover.
