Marian University shared a reflection on the importance of reading teachers and the role that they play in helping students with their self-esteem, critical thinking and academics, as well as how they are helping to facilitate teachers in this field.

Reading teachers help Kindergarten-aged children to grasp the important concepts needed in all of their future endeavors, though reading teachers exist in higher levels of schooling as well and serve a wide array of purposes. 

“Elementary teachers support foundational concepts of reading while intermediate/middle school/high school instructors provide support to develop foundational concepts and specifically strengthen key literacy skills such as fluency, vocabulary, comprehension and writing,” Marian University reported. 

While the position is a difficult one, it is very fulfilling for those who choose to embark down this path. A bachelor’s degree and state certification are required, making it a highly skilled position.

Marian University offers a 100% online Reading Teacher Certification program which allows graduates access to the Wisconsin Reading Teacher license and to shore up their skills to become a reading teacher at the same time as continuing in their current teaching position. 

There are several steps required to earn a reading teacher certification in Wisconsin. 

First, only state-certified teachers can earn a reading teacher certification, making that barrier of entry rather high. Secondly, teachers have to have two years of experience in the classroom before enrolling in certification. Finally, the teachers must complete a clinical program covering a number of areas.

The Marian University program is an excellent option for those interested in this program as it gives them 18 graduate-level credits throughout a number of courses. 

“At the highest levels, reading teachers support coaching and professional learning across grade levels. They enhance instruction in all content areas, grounded in inquiry and reflection, to best meet the needs of today’s diverse student populations,” Marian University stated.