Reading Specialist Endorsement
Tennessee Reading Specialist endorsement is being offered through Christian Brothers University (CBU). This 18-hour licensure only 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 and requires successful completion of the following courses:
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.
Visit the Christian Brothers University website for more information on applying to their M.Ed. program.
http://www.cbu.edu/cbu/Academics/EducationDepartment/index.htm
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 obtaining 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 Director of S.M.I.L.A., Rosemary Williams
Please contact Rosemary Williams at (901) 754-1441 for more information on S.M.I.L.A.