The National Literacy Institute, a professional development service that assists teachers in passing their state certification exams, relocated their operations to Pearland on July 1 at 8325 Broadway, Ste. 202.

National Literacy Institute Director Ingrid Haynes stated she is excited to have Pearland be the new base for the institute. The company started in 2003 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Most notably, Haynes has been on the "Dr. Phil" show where she addresses the staggering literacy statistics among children and adults in the United States.

Haynes says the institute's objective is to provide virtual training and support to teachers across regions. To facilitate professional growth and collaboration, the National Literacy Institute organizes three annual conferences: the Pre-K Conference, Education Explosion Conference and Mega Conference. These conferences attract 2,000-3,000 teachers, according to Haynes. www.thenationalliteracyinstitute.com