Programs Reviewed by IRA

As an NCATE specialized professional association, IRA reviews advanced programs for candidates preparing to assume specialized roles in reading education.

The reading specialist/literacy coach

This professional provides specialized reading and writing instruction at any level, and works with others (special educators, psychologists, speech and language teachers, etc.) in assessment and diagnosis. He or she may also

Serve as a resource for paraprofessionals, teachers, administrators, and the community

Cooperate and collaborate with other professionals in planning programs to meet the needs of diverse learners

Provide professional development

Provide leadership and serve as an advocate for students

The reading specialist/literacy coach is generally an experienced teacher with a master’s degree in reading education; the graduate program should include a minimum of 24 graduate credit hours in reading, language arts, and related areas, plus a 6–credit-hour supervised practicum.

IRA Nationally Recognized Programs

Programs submitted to IRA/NCATE are nationally recognized by NCATE for a period of seven years from the date institutions receive their recognition report. All programs are notified by NCATE at the appropriate time to resubmit to retain their nationally recognized status.

These programs meet IRA’s Standards for Reading Professionals and are nationally recognized by IRA for NCATE accreditation.

More information

Find out more about this professional category from these IRA resources:

Teaching All Children to Read: The Roles of the Reading Specialist (position statement)

The Role and Qualifications of the Reading Coach in the United States (position statement)

The Literacy Coach’s Survival Guide: Essential Questions and Practical Answers