By Hoyt Smith
The National University School of Education has announced a new four-course California Reading Certificate program, which was approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
The California Reading Certificate program prepares qualified educators to teach reading with expertise in assessment and instruction. Those who complete the program will be eligible for the Commission’s Reading Certificate, which authorizes teachers in California to develop, implement and adapt the reading content curriculum and assist classroom teachers in this area.
“In a competitive job market, it definitely gives teachers an edge,” said Dr. Sandra Tracy, Dean of the School of Education. Certificate holders may exercise their authorization at one or more school sites at the grade levels permitted by their teaching credential.
To apply for the program, candidates must possess a valid teaching credential and verification of at least three years of successful full-time teaching experience, along with a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and meet the University’s admissions requirements.
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing awards credentials and certificates on the basis of completion of programs that meet Standards for Educator Preparation and Standards for Educator Competence.
For each type of professional credential in education, the Commission has developed and adopted standards which are based upon recent research and the expert advice of many professional educators. Each standard specifies a level of quality and effectiveness that the Commission requires from programs offering academic and professional preparation in education.
“The certificate program truly prepares teachers with the strategies and instructional knowledge to teach reading at a higher level,” said Dr. Marilyn Moore, an associate professor in the teacher education department with extensive background in reading.
