Leadership in Reading

This program, the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading), equips educators with the expertise to become transformative leaders in the field of reading. Throughout the program, participants will engage in coursework that strengthens their understanding of how children and young adults acquire literacy reading skills across all grade levels. Educators will explore best practices for integrating reading instruction into various subjects, ensuring students comprehend complex texts.

The program provides practical strategies to identify and address students' reading difficulties. Educators will learn to create personalized plans for success. Furthermore, they will gain leadership and program development skills to lead and manage effective reading programs within their school or district. The curriculum emphasizes research methods, empowering educators to evaluate reading programs and implement data-driven practices that make a difference. Below are a few of the courses in the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading) program:

READ 881: Content Area Reading

This course explores the reading process and strategies to develop students’ disciplinary literacy. Participants design instruction that enhances students' use of literacy tools for deeper content understanding.

READ 884: Literacy Development

This course examines language and literacy development from a psycholinguistic perspective, focusing on the science of how students learn language. It emphasizes classroom techniques to foster emergent literacy development.

READ 979: Practicum in Reading Leadership

This practicum focuses on organizing the school reading program and its relationships with students, parents, teachers, and administrators. It includes practical experiences in reading instruction and mentoring colleagues, insights from resource materials, and discussions with cooperating teachers and the reading program administrator. Participants will demonstrate the KSDE objectives for reading specialist endorsement.

Discover the full Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Our Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading) prepares graduates to be powerful advocates for literacy education. This program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to take their reading expertise to the next level and impact countless students. Upon graduation, educators will be qualified for various rewarding careers that allow them to guide and support effective reading instruction across different educational settings. After completing our program, graduates can pursue exciting career paths such as:

Literacy Coach

Literacy coaches play a pivotal role, working directly with classroom teachers to fortify their reading instruction. They provide targeted professional development, coach teachers on implementing evidence-based practices grounded in the science of reading, and observe classrooms to identify areas for growth. Their expertise in classroom discourse and oral language development will be instrumental in creating engaging learning environments where all students can thrive.

Reading Specialist

As reading specialists, educators design and deliver specialized reading interventions to students who require additional support. They use their knowledge of effective reading strategies and assessments to identify individual student needs and develop targeted plans to improve their grade-level reading skills. Their leadership ensures all students have the opportunity to become confident, engaged, and enthusiastic readers.

Reading Program Coordinator

Reading program coordinators lead in shaping their school's reading curriculum and ensuring its effectiveness. They collaborate with school leaders, teachers, and parents to develop a comprehensive reading program that aligns with state standards and best practices. Their understanding of curriculum development and reading assessment is crucial in creating a program that meets the diverse needs of all learners.

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum developers create engaging and effective reading curricula. They leverage their reading pedagogy and instructional design knowledge to craft resources that support teachers in delivering high-quality reading instruction. Their work has a lasting impact on countless students as they embark on their literacy journey.

District Reading Specialist

District reading specialists provide leadership and support for reading instruction across an entire school district. They coach and mentor teachers, develop professional development programs, and collaborate with administrators to implement effective reading initiatives. Their expertise in reading assessment and data analysis is essential in monitoring the progress of reading programs and ensuring all schools are meeting their literacy goals.

Reading Interventionist

Reading interventionists work directly with students and their teachers who require intensive reading support. They use evidence-based strategies to address specific reading difficulties and help students improve their reading skills significantly.

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants provide expertise and guidance to schools and districts on various academic issues, including reading instruction. Their advanced knowledge of reading development and best practices are valuable in helping schools improve their reading programs.

University Instructor

University instructors teach reading methods, assessment, and intervention courses. Their in-depth knowledge of literacy instruction prepares future educators to create successful reading programs and empower all students to become lifelong learners.

This rigorous post-graduate program prepares educators to become reading specialists and instructional leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to empower students and educators. To qualify for this esteemed program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Master's Degree with a 3.25 GPA

A completed master's degree from an accredited institution demonstrates your dedication to lifelong learning and your ability to thrive in challenging academic environments. A minimum 3.25 GPA ensures applicants possess the academic foundation necessary to excel in our program's coursework, designed to be immediately applicable in real-world educational settings.

Teaching License

A valid teaching license signifies an applicant’s experience and qualifications in the classroom. This experience ensures they have a strong understanding of core educational practices, allowing them to seamlessly integrate the leadership skills they gain in our program into a real-world educational setting.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation as part of the application process. These should be on official letterhead and include the author's signature. Recommendations provide insights into the applicant's professional background, character, and potential for success in the program.

Personal Statement

A compelling 1-2 page essay articulating professional aspirations and graduate school goals is required. The personal statement should highlight the applicant's passion, relevant experiences, and specific career objectives. It allows students to showcase their dedication to the field and readiness for graduate-level study.

How long will it take me to complete the program?

Typically, you can finish within 2 years by flexible scheduling.

What distinguishes the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading) program as a postgraduate offering?

Unlike traditional programs, it offers flexibility with a fully online format and affordability.

How does the program enhance leadership skills in the context of reading education?

The program provides expertise in effective literacy practices and instructional strategies. Moreover, students can develop skills to support diverse learners and foster a culture of literacy within your school.

Are there specific admission requirements for the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading) program?

Yes, admission requires a master's degree in education or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.25, along with a current teaching license.

What career opportunities does completing this program open for graduates?

The program allows you to become a reading specialist literacy coach, Title I teacher, reading program coordinator, school leader, and more.