Reading Teacher (K-12) Endorsement
Program of Study
Eighteen (18) credit hours of graduate coursework are required for the reading teacher endorsement (RTE) through the state of Illinois. Courses for this option are offered in a cohorted model in which students take prescribed courses in a specific order during specific semesters. Students not pursuing the RTE can also use these courses individually as electives to supplement the required elective core courses in the MSEd. Students wanting the endorsement without a master’s degree will only take the courses below. The RTE requirements are as follows:
- CI 513 Literature Across the Curriculum (3)
- Cl 520 Theoretical Foundations in Literacy (3) (can be substituted for EPFR 515)
- Cl 521 Emergent and Primary Level Literacy (3)
- Cl 540 Content Area Literacy (3)
- Cl 571 Diagnostic Assessment and Instruction (3)
- Cl 572 Diagnostic Literacy Practicum for Elementary Level (3)
In addition to the courses listed, students are required to pass the Reading Teacher Test (177/222) or the Reading Specialist Test (221) as directed by the Illinois State Board of Education to earn this endorsement.
Field Experience During Foundations Courses
Intensive and extensive field experiences (Cl 521, 525 and 540) help prepare candidates to analyze their own instruction. Candidates begin ongoing reflection and development of their knowledge of literacy processes, assessment, instructional strategies and materials to plan and adapt instruction to meet the diverse needs of students in prekindergarten through grade 12. Through collaboration and constructive coaching, candidates enhance their knowledge, skills and dispositions.
Entry to Clinic Practicum
Prior to enrolling in Cl 571, the first clinical course, candidates must earn an A or B in the following three core courses: Cl 520, Cl 521, Cl 540; have a minimum of two years of successful full-time contract teaching; and pass all initial program assessments.
