If you’re passionate about literacy and student success, earning a K-12 reading license can open doors to a wide range of relevant career paths, including reading specialist and literacy coordinator. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading program for current educators seeking career advancement and broader impact on literacy. Here, we explore the various roles you can pursue when you earn a K-12 reading license.
Key Takeaways
- Earning a K-12 reading license makes educators well-suited for roles as reading specialists, literacy coordinators, curriculum leads, and more.
- Our program aligns with the Minnesota READ Act and includes scientifically-based coursework and licensure support.
- Saint Mary’s Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading offers flexible learning and strong student support.
What Is a K-12 Reading License?
A K-12 reading license is a specialized teaching credential that qualifies educators to teach reading skills, strategies, and comprehension to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. It is often pursued as an additional licensure for licensed teachers, equipping them to work as reading specialists, coaches, or interventionists.
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, coursework in our Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading prepares students to meet a wide range of literacy needs. The licensure program is approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). It covers a variety of pertinent topics, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. It also includes methods for assessing reading difficulties, designing targeted interventions across different grade levels, and developing structured literacy strategies using evidence-based assessments.
Students will also learn how to apply Minnesota READ Act requirements in classroom settings to ensure compliance and best practices. This research-driven curriculum equips students to confidently lead school-wide literacy initiatives and can be completed in 10 months.
What Roles Can You Pursue with a K-12 Reading License?
If you’re considering earning a K-12 reading license, you may be wondering what roles you can pursue once you have it. Some popular options include:
Reading Specialist
Reading specialists help struggling students improve reading and literacy skills. They assess abilities, create targeted interventions, and track progress for measurable results. In school settings, reading specialists often collaborate with teachers and staff, model effective literacy instruction, provide professional development, recommend materials, and help implement school-wide reading programs that meet standards like the Minnesota READ Act.
Literacy Coach
A literacy coach is an instructional leader who mentors K-12 teachers to help them improve their reading, writing, and spelling instruction. Rather than working with students directly, literacy coaches support teachers via model lessons, curriculum design, co-planning, and classroom observation. They may also facilitate professional development workshops for staff and collaborate with school district administration to align and advance literacy goals.
Reading Interventionist
A reading interventionist is a similar role to reading specialist, but it typically has a narrower scope. While reading specialists often participate in professional development and school-wide literacy programs, reading interventionists mainly work with students, either one-on-one or in small groups. They evaluate reading skills, identify difficulties, design tailored intervention plans, and monitor student progress. They may also work with teachers, special education teams, and parents to improve understanding and fluency.
Earn a K-12 Reading License at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Becoming a reading specialist, literacy coach, or other related role when you earn an Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. We offer 100% online coursework designed for busy educators, with a required practicum and high-quality instruction.
To further support you and help you achieve your career goals, we also provide comprehensive student support with career services and financial aid for students who qualify. To learn more about what you can do with a K-12 reading license in Minnesota, request more info or apply for admission.
FAQ about Becoming a Reading Specialist in Minnesota
Do I need to be a Tier 3 or Tier 4 teacher to pursue reading licensure in Minnesota?
Yes, MN programs require a valid Tier 3 or Tier 4 Minnesota teaching license.
What is the difference between a reading specialist and a literacy coach?
Reading specialists focus on assessment and interventions, while literacy coaches support teacher development and instruction.
How long does it take to complete Saint Mary’s Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading?
Most students can finish the program in about 10 months.
What does the 90-hour practicum involve, and can I complete it in my current school or district?
The practicum gives you hands-on experience supporting students with reading needs through activities like data-driven intervention planning, coaching, and documentation aligned with state standards. It can often be arranged through partnerships with your current school or district.
