Earning a K-12 reading license is a great way for teachers to advance their careers. Balancing education with a working schedule, however, can be challenging. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading that was designed in response to Minnesota’s READ Act. Here, we explore how earning your reading license online can help you meet Minnesota’s READ Act expectations while fitting into a busy teacher schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Earning your K-12 reading license online can be an approachable career-advancing strategy with the right curriculum, practicum, and support.
- The Minnesota READ Act requires teachers to complete scientifically-based reading training on structured literacy.
- Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s K-12 reading licensure program is designed for teachers pursuing additional licensure in reading and aligns with READ Act standards.
What Reading Licensure Means (And What School Districts Expect)
First, it is helpful to understand what a K-12 reading license really means. A K-12 reading license is a specialized teaching credential that qualifies educators to evaluate, instruct, and support literacy development across kindergarten through 12th grade. It certifies expertise in reading strategies, interventions, and diagnostics. A reading license helps teachers prepare for leadership roles such as reading specialists or literacy coaches.
Literacy teaching in Minnesota is legislated by the Minnesota Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act. It requires districts to provide, and teachers to complete, scientifically-based reading training on structured literacy. It does not require teachers to hold specific reading licenses. However, earning a K–12 reading license helps equip educators to lead literacy initiatives across their school or district.
How the Minnesota READ Act Raises the Stakes
The Minnesota READ Act was signed into law on May 24, 2023. The goal of the READ Act is to have every child in Minnesota reading at or above their grade level every year. Primary strategies used to achieve this goal include:
- System-wide training for instructors
- Aligned teaching routines across classrooms
- Support for multilingual learners and learners with disabilities
- Personalized interventions for struggling learners
- Collaboration with families and community programs
- Cultural inclusivity and responsiveness
The READ Act has increased the demand for licensed reading teachers in school districts across the state. At the same time, it raises the standard for literacy teaching.
How to Find the Right Online Licensure Preparation Program
Online learning programs can help you balance your licensure preparation with your responsibilities as a working professional. Finding a high-quality online program, however, requires careful vetting. The quality of your education depends on its curriculum, practicum, and support structure. Look for the following elements when choosing a preparation program:
- Scientifically-based instruction: The most essential feature of any reading licensure program is scientifically-based curriculum. Look for instruction that is grounded in structured literacy and the science of reading for the best results.
- Data-driven intervention planning: A central aspect of teaching literacy is assessing student performance and implementing interventions. High-quality online programs should emphasize data-driven assessments and intervention tactics.
- Literacy leadership skills: An effective reading teacher must also be an effective coach. Leadership skills should be a focus of the licensure prep program, preparing you to guide students and lead your team successfully.
These elements will not only prepare you for licensure. They will also equip you for greater success in the classroom, providing the tools you will need to teach literacy skills effectively.
Practicum: The Piece That Makes It Real
In addition to the coursework, you must also complete a practicum. This is an internship or supervised teaching experience where you will practice and refine your skills in a real-world setting. Over the course of your practicum, you will document your progress to reflect on afterward.
Enroll in Our K-12 Reading Certificate Online Program
Take your career in education to the next level with the K-12 Reading licensure online program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our student-centric program upholds high academic standards, helping you meet the expectations of the READ Act. Request information to learn more about our online programs and financial aid, or apply for admission today to get started.
FAQ About Reading Licensure
How do school districts evaluate online credentials when hiring reading teachers?
Online credentials are evaluated on the same basis as other credentials: by assessing the quality of your preparation program and the reputation of the teaching institution.
How many hours per week should I expect for online reading licensure coursework?
You should expect to spend 6 to 8 hours per week on your online reading licensure coursework.
Will I need to attend synchronous class meetings in an online graduate certificate program?
Yes, our online graduate certificate licensure program includes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous class sessions.
