What is a Reading Specialist?

In Texas, a Reading Specialist is a trained educator with a broad-based and extensive graduate education in reading education. All Texas Reading Specialists are required to have at least three years of classroom teaching experience, a Master's degree in Reading from an accredited graduate program, and pass the Texas Reading Specialist state certification exam.

Reading Specialists are qualified to work in a variety of settings including public and private schools and in clinical practice. Furthermore, they implement both assessment and scientifically research based instructional intervention for individuals from early childhood through adulthood. These highly educated individuals are specifically trained to recognize and treat all reading disabilities, including Dyslexia.

Unfortunately, many individuals who claim to be Reading Specialists do not possess the required education or credentials. Many schools will give the title of Reading Specialist to any teacher who works with students struggling with reading. Because of the frequent incorrect use of the title, Reading Specialist, parents should ask to see a copy of any Reading Specialist's state certification and Master's degree.

To learn more about the role and responsibilities of Reading Specialists, go to this link.

To learn more about the competencies that are required of all Reading Specialists, go to this link.