Leadership in Teaching: Reading Specialist

Certification

The Master of Arts in Leadership in Teaching: Reading Specialist is designed for elementary and secondary certified teachers who want to expand their professional literacy knowledge and practices to become literacy leaders in K-12 settings. Coursework and practicum experiences prepare the candidates to provide instruction for large and small groups as well as individual students, especially those who struggle with reading at grade level. The candidates also examine the research and engage in the practices of coaching faculty members and facilitating professional development. The Reading Specialist Program is guided by the Standards for Professionals of the International Literacy Association (ILA) and the Conceptual Framework (RSVP) of Notre Dame of Maryland University's School of Education. Learning to read, write, listen, speak, and think are integral to a student's education; the Literacy Specialists/Coaches are the school leaders who support literacy learning and growth for both students and their teachers. The program is approved by MSDE for the Reading Specialist certification.

Teacher kneeling next to a student reading

Program Location

Main Campus

Online

University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland (USMSM)

Program Options

The Reading Specialist program has two distinct options depending on where you are at in your teaching career:

MA in Leadership in Teaching for experienced teachers who already hold a K-12 state certification
Post-Master's Certification for certified teachers who already hold a master's degree

https://catalog.ndm.edu/graduate-catalog/school-of-education/ma-in-leadership-in-teaching

What to Expect Studying at Notre Dame of Maryland University

With award-winning teacher certification programs nationally recognized by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), you can expect to benefit from small class sizes, expert faculty, and practical field experiences.

Flexible Class Schedules

Work with an advisor to develop a personalized program plan:

Many courses available online.
Courses offered in the evenings at times convenient for working adults.
Occasional courses available on Saturdays.

Alum

Maggie Wagner

Benefits I Could See

Leadership in Teaching: Reading Specialist

The last few classes in my program really enabled me to feel successful as a reading teacher. Through experiences and case studies with students, I was able to see the benefits of my instruction and interventions. I found that I really enjoy providing professional development to colleagues. As I end this program, I feel assured in furthering my career as a Reading Specialist or Literacy Coach. I believe I am well prepared and knowledgeable in the existing field of literacy instruction.