Mission

Prepare beginning K-12 teachers and other educational professionals to apply foundational knowledge of language and literacy to pedagogy and practice and to develop their understanding of many aspects and resources needed to support and facilitate effective instruction and professional growth. Though aligned to the same standards as the Reading Endorsement Program, the Reading Certificate Program does not include practicum experiences where students are required to demonstrate their developing proficiency in literacy leadership. For this reason, the Reading Certificate Program does not culminate in an endorsement. Students who have successfully completed the Reading Certificate may re-enroll after 3 or more years of K-12 teaching practice, in order to complete the Reading Endorsement program.

Learning Outcomes

1. Know and understand deeply the role of literacy in K-12 schools and how it develops throughout schooling, including knowledge teachers need in order to understand and support student learning of literacy concepts, particularly reading.
2. Knowledge as specified by the NCATE/NCTM Standards for Reading Specialists.
3. Be prepared to take on collegial non-evaluative leadership roles within their schools and districts. They will have a broad view of many aspects and resources needed to support and facilitate effective instruction and professional growth.

This program is appropriate for individuals who work or plan to work, in a K-12 school system or any field where teaching and learning are integral to the mission. The Reading Specialist certificate can be embedded within the MS Ed: Reading degree at WOU and qualifying candidates may also apply for a TSPC Reading Specialization.

Students with a completed Baccalaureate degree and a valid K-12 teaching license may enter the 24-credit certificate program after meeting university requirements for graduate admission.