Reading specialists are educators trained to assess, diagnose, and provide instructional support to students struggling with reading. Becoming a reading specialist in Texas is a great way to make a positive impact on the next generation and further your career in education.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the steps to become a reading specialist in Texas, including the qualifications, certification process, and job requirements. We’ll also answer some of the frequently asked questions about becoming a reading specialist in Texas.
Qualifications to Become a Reading Specialist in Texas
In order to become a reading specialist in Texas, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in education from an accredited college or university.
- A valid Texas teaching certificate.
- A minimum of two years of teaching experience.
- An endorsement in reading from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
The TEA also requires that reading specialists have knowledge of the following topics:
- Foundations of reading instruction.
- Assessment and diagnosis of reading problems.
- Instructional strategies for reading.
- Remediation of reading problems.
- Research-based instructional practices.
Certification Process to Become a Reading Specialist in Texas
Candidates who meet the qualifications to become a reading specialist in Texas must complete the following steps in order to receive certification:
- Complete an endorsement in reading program through an accredited college or university.
- Pass the appropriate examinations.
- Submit an application for certification to the TEA.
Candidates must also pass the TExES Reading Specialist exam before they can receive certification. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and covers a variety of topics related to reading instruction.
Job Requirements for Reading Specialists in Texas
Reading specialists in Texas are expected to meet the following job requirements:
- Assess and diagnose reading problems in students.
- Develop strategies to help students improve their reading skills.
- Work with teachers to develop effective reading instruction.
- Provide individual and small-group instruction to students.
- Collaborate with other professionals to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
- Monitor student progress and make adjustments to instruction as needed.
- Maintain records of student progress.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Reading Specialist in Texas
What is the job outlook for reading specialists in Texas?
The job outlook for reading specialists in Texas is very positive. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the number of reading specialist jobs in Texas is projected to grow at a rate of 6.3% over the next 10 years.
How much do reading specialists in Texas earn?
According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for reading specialists in Texas is $60,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.
What type of training do reading specialists in Texas need?
Reading specialists in Texas must have a bachelor’s degree in education from an accredited college or university, a valid Texas teaching certificate, a minimum of two years of teaching experience, and an endorsement in reading from the Texas Education Agency. Reading specialists must also pass the TExES Reading Specialist exam in order to receive certification.
What other certifications do reading specialists in Texas need?
In addition to the TExES Reading Specialist exam, reading specialists in Texas must also be certified by the Texas State Board for Educator Certification in order to practice as a reading specialist.
Conclusion
Becoming a reading specialist in Texas is a great way to make a positive impact on the next generation and further your career in education. To become a reading specialist in Texas, candidates must meet the qualifications, complete the certification process, and fulfill the job requirements. The job outlook for reading specialists in Texas is very positive, and the median salary for reading specialists in Texas is $60,000 per year.
