Grand Opening of Houston’s Fourth Bezos Academy Celebrated at New Hope Housing Reed Family Center

Community members, elected officials, and Bezos Academy leadership gathered with Mayor Sylvester Turner to mark the grand opening of Houston’s fourth Bezos Academy location at the New Hope Housing Reed Family Center in South Houston. The event celebrated the fulfillment of a promise to establish four early childhood education centers in Houston, providing tuition-free, Montessori-inspired preschool education for children ages 3-5.

Mayor Turner expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Investing in our children’s education is key to our City’s bright future.” The Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement partnered with Bezos Academy to address education disparities in Houston, particularly in historically under-resourced communities. The preschools are part of the city’s efforts to become the first UNICEF Child Friendly City in the United States.

The new Bezos Academy location, like its counterparts in Denver Harbor, Magnolia Park, and North Shore, will offer year-round programming, five days a week, and provide essential resources including daily meals. Early childhood education is recognized for its crucial role in developing social, emotional, and communication skills, as well as foundational pre-literacy and mathematical skills. Studies consistently show that high-quality early education leads to successful high school completion, reduced instances of behavioral issues, and greater employment success.

While the New Hope Housing Reed Family Center has achieved full enrollment for the 2023-24 school year, families interested in future opportunities can join the waitlist by visiting the Bezos Academy website. The initiative not only benefits children but also contributes to the positive development of surrounding neighborhoods, fostering economic growth and opportunity.