Reading Specialist Licensure

About the Reading Program

Do you have a passion for helping students become successful readers and writers? Do you want to develop expertise in designing and implementing effective literacy instruction and interventions that meet the needs of diverse learners? The Reading Program at Pitt State is grounded in sociocultural theories of learning and combines theories of the learner with theories of literacy development, cognitive processes, and evidence-based practices established from current research in the field of Reading. Reading Candidates will apply knowledge of assessments and diagnostic tools to plan and monitor interventions, and provide explicit, systematic, and responsive instruction that includes differentiation and scaffolding. During the Reading Program, Candidates will complete online coursework and on-site practicum experiences that are aligned to the International Literacy Association Standards, International Dyslexia Standards, and fully accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education and CAEP.  Successful completion of this program and the Praxis test enables Candidates to apply for a Kansas Reading Specialist License (If teaching in a state other than Kansas, please check with your state’s department of education for more information on reading specialist licensure).

 

Reading Specialist Licensure Certificate

The Reading Specialist Licensure Certificate is a 21 hour, completely online, graduate certificate program for teachers who already hold a master’s degree but would like to gain specialized knowledge in literacy instruction and apply for licensure. Requirements for full admission include a master’s degree in education, or equivalent education degree, a valid teaching license, evidence of classroom teaching experience, two professional letters of recommendation, a university background check, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher in master’s coursework, per official transcript.