Reading Specialist Endorsement

The Tennessee Reading Specialist endorsement is being offered through Christian Brothers University (CBU) and is an 18-hour licensure only program.

This program will prepare the Reading Specialist to:

• provide reading services at all grade levels

• provide information, reading instruction, and assessment to classroom teachers, special educators, other professionals, and parents

• diagnose and evaluate the reading strengths and needs of students

• provide leadership in developing the literacy program and the curriculum

• implement a simultaneous multisensory approach to teaching language arts

The Reading Specialist K to Grade 12 Endorsement is an add-on endorsement to initial teaching licensure (grades K-8 or 7-12), and requires completion of an approved Master’s degree program.  The program integrates a reading practicum that promotes the linking of theory and practice.

Program requirements:

• Christian Brothers University Course Title: READ 630 Foundations of Literacy

• Christian Brothers University Course Title: READ 631 Integration of Literacy

• Christian Brothers University Course: READ 633 Reading Assessment

• Christian Brothers University: READ 634 Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum

In order to complete the SMILA program and apply it towards the endorsement, you must attend two summers. You may receive 6 credits for each summer attended.

The credits may also be applied to Christian Brothers University’s M.Ed. program as well.

More information about the program:

Visit the Christian Brothers University website for more information on applying to their M.Ed. program.

Once our program is submitted and approved by the state of Tennessee, including the 12 hours plus two additional courses at Christian Brothers University, you will be eligible to apply for a Tennessee Reading Specialist K to Grade 12 Endorsement.

Additional requirements for a Tennessee Reading Specialist K to Grade 12 Endorsement include:

• PRAXIS Exam: Reading Specialist, Qualifying Score: 510

• Years of Teaching Experience: 3 years

• Recommendation from the Executive Director of S.M.I.L.A., Wendy Wall