Holli Forrest, Ed. D. Faculty in College of Education

Holli Forrest is a special populations leader that focuses on data driven solutions and empowering struggling readers. She started her career in education in the Houston Independent Schools District as a 4 th grade ESL teacher, has taught Pre-K through Middle School in a variety of school settings including a Montessori school, and has served as a literacy specialist, dyslexia interventionist, curriculum specialist, and senior manager of dyslexia services. In these roles, she has participated in developing and presenting high quality professional development and coaching teachers.

Her passion for literacy has led her to a career in dyslexia therapy and special education leadership. She earned a master’s degree from Kansas State University in 2014, completed the Neuhaus Dyslexia Therapist Preparation Program in 200, and earned a Doctorate of Education in special populations leadership in 2023. She is certified as a Reading Specialist, EC-8 ELA, ESL, Special Education, Certified Academica Language Therapist and Licensed Dyslexia Therapist.

She has an analytical eye for recognizing areas of improvement and developing teachers and leaders.  The success in this area is attributed to the ability to meet people where they are, motivate a call to action, and provide continuous follow up and support until the action items are complete.  She enjoys developing systems to create literacy solutions for all students with disabilities.  Her driven personality and unwavering commitment to students is guided by her belief that literacy is the most impactful pathway to equity.  Her literacy expertise, changemaking attitude, and commitment to best outcomes for all has led her to be a well-respected leader in her field.