How to Be a Reading Interventionist

Reading interventionists diagnose reading problems.

A reading interventionist is a teacher who specializes in reading and intervenes when students need improvement in reading. They assess the need and use interventions for fluency, letter sounds, reading comprehension and the improvement of sight-word vocabulary. One-on-one instruction may be used when needed. Reading interventions are regular, frequent and of sufficient duration to improve reading skills. To become a reading interventionist, individuals follow a career path for teachers and then specialize in reading.

Instructions

1. Research teacher education programs at colleges and universities and enroll in a program that leads to a bachelor’s degree. If your goal is to become a reading interventionist, an undergraduate major in English or literature is appropriate, along with coursework in teacher education. Some undergraduate programs allow for a concentration in literacy or language. Teacher education programs provide the opportunity for a student-teaching internship for hands-on practical experience.

2. Obtain a state teacher’s license. Most states require the completion of the PRAXIS II exam in an area of specialization like secondary-education language arts or elementary education. Secure a teaching position to gain work experience as a teacher. In most states, teachers need to have completed approximately three years of teaching in order to be eligible for a license as a reading specialist.

3. Complete a master’s degree program in education with a reading specialist concentration. The program leading to a degree as a certified reading specialist includes coursework on teaching, developing reading programs, identifying language difficulties, reading assessment and leadership. Many graduate programs include courses in diagnosing reading problems, evaluation of reading programs, cognitive development, reading development and literacy assessment.

4. Apply for a state license as a reading specialist. Most states ask applicants to take the PRAXS II reading specialist exam as well. Highlight your academic background, skills and teaching experience to apply for a position as a reading interventionist.

Tips & Warnings

• If you hold a master’s degree in another area of education, look into taking a reading specialist certificate program. Typical certificate programs cover curriculum development, research, theory and instructional practices.

• Before embarking on a course of study that will result in a license as a certified reading specialist and a position as a reading interventionist, review the state requirements. Some states require specific courses as well as test results, a master’s degree and a minimum number of years of experience in teaching.

References

• Education Portal: How to Become a Reading Specialist
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teachers
• Reading Intervention