Standards for Reading Professionals: International Reading

Association
These are the latest Standards, which were revised in 2010
These are only a portion of the standards, those that pertain specifically to
the role of the reading specialist/coach. For a complete listing of the
standards, please refer to the webpage:

http://www.reading.org/resources/issues/reports/professional_standards
.html
Standard 1 Foundational Knowledge
Candidates understand the theoretical and evidence-based foundations of
reading and writing processes and instruction.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited it, the follow Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach Candidates
1.1 Understand major theories and empirical research that describe the
cognitive, linguistic, motivational, and sociocultural foundations of reading and
writing development, processes, and components, including word recognition,
language comprehension, strategic knowledge, and reading-writing
connections.
Interpret major theories of
As a classroom teacher I will interpret major
reading and writing
theories of reading and writing processes and
processes and
development to understand the needs of all
development to
readers in diverse context. Interpreting these
understand the needs of
theories will help me to plan my instructional
all readers in diverse
approaches for the curriculum I teach. One
context.

theorist who I enjoyed studying and learning

about throughout my educational career is
Vygotsky. I strongly agree with Vygotskys
concept of the zone of proximal
development. It is important that teachers
plan and implement their instruction within
each childs zone of proximal development.

As a reading specialist, it is important for me

to provide teachers with research and
literature about theories. This will assist them
in designing and implementing their
instruction. It will also support them in
deciding what teaching style works best for
them and their students. In order to assist
teachers with this, I need to understand each
theory and what theories are beneficial and
successful in the classroom. As a reading
specialist, I need to stay up-to-date with

current research and information of theories

so I can keep myself, and teachers, informed.

Analyze classroom
environment quality for
fostering individual
motivation to read and
write (e.g., access to print,
choice, challenge, and
interests.)

As a classroom teacher, I will analyze my

classroom environment quality for fostering
individual motivation to read and write. I will
make sure my students have access to print
that consists of a variety of genres. I will
have a classroom library that is welcoming
and motivating, with comfortable seating for
independent and whole group reading. I will
have my students suggest books, that arent
in our class library, for me to purchase and
put on my classroom wish list. Promoting
choice in the classroom will get students
more motivated to read. My library will
consist of a large selection of books with a
variety of levels and genres. I also believe
that promoting choice in students writing is
a huge motivation factor. If students are
allowed to pick what they can write about,
then they will choose a topic that is of
personal interest to them.
As a reading specialist, I will encourage
teachers in setting up their classroom library
so that it is comforting and accessible to
students. I also will help teachers to set up a
classroom environment that is motivating for
reading and writing. I will assist teachers in
organizing their classroom library. I will
support teachers in creating challenges for
their students that are on their instructional
level. A lot of times students arent motivated
because the material that is provided to
them is either too easy or too hard. I will also
encourage teachers with a variety of
activities that promote choice for reading and
writing.

Demonstrate a critical
stance toward the
scholarship of the
profession.

Read and understand the

literature and research
about factors that
contribute to reading
success (e.g., social,
cognitive, and physical.)

Inform other educators

about major theories of
reading and writing
processes, components,
and development with
supporting research
evidence, including
information about the
relationship between the
culture and native
language of English
learners as a support
system in the learning to
read and write in English.

As both a classroom teacher and reading

specialist, I will demonstrate a critical stance
towards the scholarship of the profession. I
will use instructional approaches that have
been proven to be best practices from
current research. I also think it is important to
know how to communicate with students,
parents, colleagues, and administration in an
appropriate manner. Being professional on a
daily basis is a key quality to being a
successful educator.
As a classroom teacher and reading
specialist, it will be part of my job to read and
understand the literature and research about
factors that contribute to reading success.
Outside factors that can affect a students
reading abilities consist of social, cognitive,
and physical factors. It is important for me to
know and understand how to instruct
students whose reading success is affected
by outside factors.
As a classroom teacher, it is important to
understand that not all students are going to
learn the same way. This is why it is so
important for classroom teachers to stay up
to date on current research and what the
best practices are for teaching the reading
and writing process. In my classroom I will
use my ELL students as a resource in learning
and developing communication skills for all of
my students. This can be an ice-breaker
activity as well as s great way to enhance
their communication skills. In my classroom
library I will have many great multicultural
books for independent reading, and I will also
use these books for whole group shared
reading.
As a reading specialist, it is my job to keep
teachers up to date and informed on
research and best practices. I will make sure
to provide the teachers with at least two
great resources each week on how to
develop the best readers and writers. I will be

available to my coworkers as much as

possible and always have a welcoming and
approachable attitude so they will feel
comfortable when they need to seek help in
teaching their students how to become good
readers and writers.
1.2 Understand the historically shared knowledge of the profession and
changes over time in the perceptions of reading and writing development,
processes, and components.
Interpret and summarize
historically shared
knowledge (e.g.,
instructional strategies
and theories) that
addresses the needs of all
readers.

As a teacher, it is important to understand

how literacy instruction has evolved and
changed over time. Staying up-to-date on
current research will keep me informed with
what best practices are proving to be
efficient in literacy instruction. I can then use
this knowledge to help me to determine how
to effectively meet the needs of all the
learners in my classroom.
As a reading specialist, I will be a source of
information for teachers. I will stay informed
of the current research and best practices. I
will then summarize and provide this
information to teachers and consult with
them in making decisions about best
practices for their literacy instruction.

Inform educators and

others about the
historically shared
knowledge base in reading
and writing and its role in
reading education.

My role as a reading specialist will be to

inform educators and help them to
understand the connections between new
instructional strategies and the historically
shared knowledge we already have of
literacy instruction. I will assist teachers in
making the best decisions for incorporating
new instructional strategies to enhance
student achievement into their instruction.

1.3 Understand the role of professional judgment and practical knowledge for
improving all students reading development and achievement.

Model fair-mindedness,
empathy, and ethical
behavior when teaching
students and working with
other professionals.

Communicate the
importance of fairmindedness, empathy, and
ethical behavior in literacy
instruction and
professional behavior.

As a classroom teacher, I strongly believe

that you need to have an open mind when
working with children. I will encounter such a
variety of students throughout the years and
it is my job to teach them and help them
grow as individuals as well. Not every student
is going to pick up on material as fast as
others. Some students may succeed their
very first try, and others may not. Punishing
them for their mistakes is not the answer to
success. Let them know its alright to make
mistakes, and to use the mistakes as a
source to grow and become the best and
brightest student they can be.
In the work-force world, you should always
treat others the way you wanted to be
treated. This is something that I strongly
believe in. As a reading specialist it is
extremely important for me to be available
and approachable at all times and treat my
coworkers the way I would like to be treated.
I am a resource for classroom teachers and
not being available or approachable will only
hinder the learning of our students.
Beginning the first day of school, I will make
sure that I communicate with my students
the importance of fair-mindedness, empathy,
and ethical behavior. I will establish a
relationship with my students where they feel
comfortable in asking me for help because
thats the major role of teachers in helping
our students learn and grow.
As a reading specialist, I will communicate
with classroom teachers the importance of
keeping a fair-mind each and every day in
the classroom. No student should feel they
are not getting enough support or are being
overlooked by their teacher.

Standard 2 Curriculum and Instruction

Candidates use instructional approaches, materials, and an integrated,
comprehension, balanced curriculum to support student learning in reading
and writing.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited to, the following Reading Specialist/ Literacy Coach
Candidates
2.1 Use foundational knowledge to design or implement an integrated,
comprehensive, and balanced curriculum
Demonstrate an
understanding of the
research and literature
that undergirds the
reading and writing
curriculum instruction for
all pre-K-12 students.

Develop and implement

the curriculum to meet the
specific needs of students
who struggle with reading.

Throughout my graduate program, I have

gained a solid understanding that research
supports what the best practices are for
instructing reading and writing curriculum to
students. I currently stay up to date with
research through my graduate school
courses with what practices are considered
best. I implement these practices into my
current lessons.
As a reading specialist, I will use the
knowledge I have gained in graduate school,
along with the current research that is out
there, to support teachers in meeting the
needs of their students.
During my masters program, I have worked
with students who are struggling with
reading. I assessed the students and used
the results to determine what specific need
the student is struggling with. For example, I
would use to the data to see if it was a
fluency or comprehension issue and then
gear my lessons toward their specific needs.
My role as a reading specialist will allow me
to work directly with students and coach
teachers in instructing their students in terms
of reading. I will continually progress monitor
the students I am working with, and also
check-in frequently with teachers to coach
and guide them in designing a curriculum
that includes best practices and fosters each
individual students needs.

Support teachers and

other personnel in the
design, implementation,
and evaluations of the
reading and writing
curriculum for all students.

Work with teachers and

other personnel in
developing a literacy
curriculum that has
vertical and horizontal
alignment across pre-K-12.

As a reading specialist, I will provide teachers

with resources, model lessons, organize and
facilitate meetings, support curriculum
design and implementation, and evaluate
data to consider the areas of need. I will
guide teachers in planning and designing
their curriculum based on the evaluations
that have been made from the data.
As a classroom teacher, it is important to
meet with teachers of all grade levels to
make sure everyone is on the same page.
This is also a good time to analyze data
together to see what area of literacy
instruction may be a school wide problem, in
addition to specific grade level issues.
As a reading specialist, I will hold school-wide
meetings, as well as grade-level meetings to
assist teachers in planning their literacy
curriculum. I will use this time to provide
teachers with research of best practices and
coach them in making the best decision for
all students learning.

2.2 Use appropriate and varied instructional approaches, including those that
develop word recognition, language comprehension, strategic knowledge, and
reading-writing connections.
Use instructional
approaches supported by
literature and research for
the following areas:
concepts of print,
phonemic awareness,
phonics, vocabulary,
comprehension, fluency,
critical thinking,
motivation, and writing.

As a classroom teacher, I will implement a

balanced literacy approach, fostering all
aspects of reading, writing, listening,
speaking, and viewing into my lessons every
day. I will also make sure to plan lessons that
are engaging and motivating for my
students. Students are more likely to stay on
task when they are being instructed on their
instructional level with engaging material.
There are an abundant amount of websites,
based on research, that offer resources and
materials for teachers to use in their
instruction.
As a reading specialist, it is extremely
important for me to be knowledgeable of the
effective instructional approaches that are
supported by research. I will use this
information to assist teachers in planning

their instruction to benefit all students in

their classrooms. The Florida Center for
Reading Research (fcrr.org) is a resource that
I will use in staying up to date on effective
literacy instruction and intervention.
Provide appropriate indepth instruction for all
readers and writers,
especially those who
struggle with reading and
writing

Support classroom
teachers and education
support personnel to
implement instructional
approaches for all
students.

As needed, adapt
instructional materials and
approaches to meet the
language-proficiency
needs of English learners
and students who struggle
to learn to read and write.

As a classroom teacher, I will provide in

depth instruction for all of my students. I will
accomplish this by implementing small
groups based on the students instructional
levels that I will determine through
assessments. This allows me to differentiate
instruction to meet the needs of all my
students, whether they are struggling or high
performing in the areas of reading and
writing.
As a reading specialist, I will be providing
intervention for students who are struggling.
Through assessments, I can determine what
literacy need the students are struggling with
and plan my instruction geared towards
these needs.
As a reading specialist, part of my job will be
to work with teachers to make the best
instructional decisions, keeping all students
learning levels in mind. I will assist teachers
in coming up with activities and lessons that
will benefit all students. I will suggest
modeling lessons for classroom teachers, and
providing them with my lesson plans, so they
can implement them in their instruction.
There are many ways to adapt instructional
materials to meet students who have
language-proficiency needs and students
who struggle with learning to read and write.
It is best to start with assessing these
students to see where the gap lies in their
learning. This will help to pinpoint where to
start your instruction for these students.
Also, always having visuals for these
students is extremely important so they are
able to use the visual to make a connection.
A Reading Specialist is responsible for
assisting teachers in instructing their English

learners. As a Reading Specialist, I will make

sure to hold workshops for teachers where I
will model lessons and provide resources to
teachers for instructing their ELL students. I
will show them ways to promote success by
using manipulatives such as pictures and
illustrations, using performance-based
assessments, and using instructionally based
materials.
2.3 Use a wide range of texts (e.g., narrative, expository, and poetry) from
traditional print, digital, and online resources.

Demonstrate knowledge of
and a critical stance
toward a wide variety of
quality traditional print,
digital, and online
resources.

Support classroom
teachers in building and
using a quality, accessible
classroom library and
materials collection that
meets the specific needs
and abilities of all learners.

As a classroom teacher it is important to

expose students to a variety of texts across
multiple genres. Incorporating technology
into lessons is a great resource for this. While
I do believe that students should continue to
be exposed to traditional print on a daily
basis, using online and digital resources
allows for variation in their learning.
Working with students as a reading specialist
will give me the opportunity to expose them
to a variety of texts and genres through the
instruction I design for each of them. As a
reading specialist I will express to teachers
how important it is to expose students to a
variety of print sources. I will provide them
with resources, such as programs and
websites that I find useful in accomplishing
this goal.
As a reading specialist, I will support teachers
in building classroom libraries that are easily
accessible and contain a wide variety of
materials to meet the specific needs and
abilities of all learners. I will constantly
provide teachers with the titles of new books
to add to their classroom libraries.

Lead collaborative school

efforts to evaluate, select,
and use a variety of
instructional materials to
meet the specific needs
and abilities of all learners.

As a reading specialist, I will work with

administration and teachers to determine
and analyze instructional materials that meet
the specific needs and abilities of all learners.
One way to do this is by using the schools
assessment results and comparing the scope
and sequence charts provided with each
program to find the best fit for our schools
instruction. I will be a valuable resource for
teachers when implementing a new program
in their classroom. It is so important for
reading specialists to get involved with
administration in selecting the right
programs.

Standard 3 -- Assessment and Evaluation.

Candidates use a variety of assessment tools and practices to plan and
evaluate effective reading instruction.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited to, the followingReading Specialist/Literacy Coach
Candidates
3.1 Understand types of assessment and their purposes, strengths, and
limitations.

Demonstrate an
understanding of the
literature and research
related to assessments
and their uses and
misuses.

As a classroom teacher, I will demonstrate an

understanding of research related to
assessments. This will require me to research
and stay up-to-date with a variety of
assessments and their uses and misuses. I
will access the reading specialist for support
in selecting and utilizing the different
assessments and analyzing data when
needed.
As a reading specialist, I will demonstrate an
understanding of research related to
assessments. Teachers and administration
will be using me as a valuable resource in
selecting and implementing assessment
tools. I will research programs and utilize
them to determine their uses and misuses.
Throughout my masters program, I have

gained a lot of knowledge in assessing and

will use this knowledge to assist me in my
future as a reading specialist.

Demonstrate an
understanding of
established purposes for
assessing the performance
of all readers, including
tools for screening,
diagnosing, progress
monitoring, and measuring
outcomes.

Recognize the basic

technical adequacy of
assessments (e.g.,
reliability, content, and
construct validity.)

As a teacher, it is important for me to

demonstrate an understanding of established
purposes for assessing the performance of all
readers, including tools for screening,
diagnosing, progress monitoring, and
measuring outcomes. I will need to assess
students throughout the year and compare
results to see the progression each of my
students are making. It is important for me
to accurately give the assessments correctly
and know the proper way to score them. If I
need support in doing this, I will use the
reading specialist as a resource.
As a reading specialist, it is important for me
to demonstrate an understanding of
established purposes for assessing the
performance of all readers, including tools for
screening, diagnosing, progress monitoring,
and measuring outcomes. I will have a
collection of materials for administering
assessments to students. I will support
teachers in delivering assessments to their
students making sure there is no room for
errors. I will provide teachers with
recommendations to accurately progress
monitor throughout the school year. As a
reading specialist, I dont want teachers to
assess their students just because they have
too. I will encourage and support them in
measuring the outcomes of the assessments
and designing instructional plans.
As a reading specialist, I will be responsible
for recognizing the basic technical adequacy
of assessments, including the reliability,
content, and validity of each assessment.
This will require me to research specific
assessments and determine the pros and
cons of each. I will use this information to

Explain district and state

assessment frameworks,
proficiency standards, and
student benchmarks.)

inform the school on what assessments are

going to beneficial to use and have been
proven to be best based on the research I
found. I will support teachers in analyzing
their assessment results, pointing out areas
of focus for instruction.
As a classroom teacher and reading
specialist, I will need to be able to explain
district and state assessment frameworks,
proficiency standards, and student
benchmarks. The goal is to have as many
students as possible meet the passing rate
for the benchmarks and assessments. In
order to do this, we need to be providing
appropriate and adequate instruction to all
students, struggling or not. If students are
struggling and requiring intervention, the
reading specialist and classroom teachers
need to work as a team to get these students
as close to on-grade level as possible.

3.2 Select, develop, administer, and interpret assessments, both traditional

print and electronic, for specific purposes.
Administer and interpret
appropriate assessments
for students, especially
those who struggle with
reading and writing

As a classroom teacher I will be

administering and interpreting appropriate
assessments for all of my students,
struggling or high performing. I will
accommodate the students who need
accommodations when taking assessments. I
will interpret the assessment results and gear
my small group and remediations towards
students areas of need.
As a reading specialist I will assist teachers in
administering the appropriate assessments. I
will also help them to interpret the
assessment results and determine the best
instructional plan based on the results. The
role of a reading specialist also consists of
working with students who struggle with
reading and writing. I will assess these
students myself and find their instructional
level and what area of literacy they need
support in.

Collaborate with and

provide support to all
teachers in the analysis of
data, using the
assessment results of all
students.

Lead school-wide or larger

scale analyses to select
assessment tools that
provide a systematic
framework for assessing
the reading, writing, and
language growth of all
students.

As a reading specialist, a large role of mine

will be supporting teachers in analyzing their
assessment results. I will break the
assessment results down with teachers,
highlighting students strengths and
weaknesses. I will also analyze the results to
see if students are in need of additional
assessments or support. I will assist teachers
in using the assessment results to design
instruction that will be beneficial and
successful to their students learning.
As a reading specialist, part of my role will
consist of providing a systematic framework
that will be implemented throughout the
school to assess the reading, writing, and
language growth of students. Having a
framework will keep teachers on track with
what assessments are required for their
grade level. I will thoroughly analyze specific
assessment tools, using the knowledge I
have gained throughout my masters
program, to find one that is appropriate for
my school.

3.3 Use assessment information to plan and evaluate instruction.

Use multiple data sources
to analyze individual
readers performance and
to plan instruction and
intervention.

As a classroom teacher, I will use multiple

data sources to analyze individual readers
performance and to plan instruction and
intervention. It is important for me to make
sure I am using more than one source to
make sure students scores are consistent. I
will be using formal and informal
assessments. I will analyze and combine
results from the data to plan my instruction.
As a reading specialist, I will be using
multiple data sources while completing
assessments with my students. As a reading
specialist, I will be working with students who
struggle with literacy. The assessment results
are going to be extremely vital to me in
planning individualized instruction for these
students. The assessment results will support
me in providing the right intervention for
each student.

Analyze and use

assessment data to
examine the effectiveness
of specific intervention
practices and students
responses to instruction.

Lead teachers in analyzing

and using classroom,
individual, grade-level, or
school wide assessment
data to make instructional
decisions.

As a classroom teacher, I will analyze and

use assessment data to examine the
effectiveness of specific intervention
practices and students responses to
instruction. My assessment data will assist
me in deciding what instructional approaches
are and arent working for my students. It will
also help me in determining what material I
may to need to go back over with the whole
class or small groups. I will use this
information to support me in making my
instruction more effective for my students
and their learning. My assessment data will
assist me in determining which students are
in need of intervention.
As a reading specialist, I will analyze and use
assessment data to examine the
effectiveness of specific intervention
practices and students responses to
instruction. I will use my assessment data to
see what instructional approaches are
working for my struggling readers and how I
can alter, or move forward with my
instruction to better assist these students in
mastering the skills they need to be effective
readers. I will support teachers in analyzing
their class data and designing the
appropriate instruction for their classroom.
As a reading specialist, I will lead teachers in
analyzing and using classroom, individual,
grade-level, or school wide assessment data
to make instructional decisions. I will meet
with individual teachers and attend gradelevel meetings to assist teachers in making
the appropriate instructional decisions. I will
then provide teachers with an ample amount
of activities and ideas to enhance their
instruction. Using assessment data to design
instruction will benefit teachers in making
their instructional time as beneficial as
possible.

Plan and evaluate

professional development
initiatives using
assessment data.

As a reading specialist, part of my role will

consist of planning and evaluating
professional development initiatives using
assessment data. I want to make sure that
each and every teacher is benefiting from
what I am presenting in professional
development meetings. I will have active and
engaging professional development meetings
because I want teachers to stay engaged and
benefit from what I have to present. I will
make sure that I thoroughly evaluate
assessment data and point out the positives
as well as the negatives of the results and
how we can enhance our instruction to meet
the gaps we have in the assessment data.

3.4 Communicate assessment results and implications to a variety of

audiences.
Analyze and report
assessment results to a
variety of appropriate
audiences for relevant
implications, instructional
purposes, and
accountability.

As a classroom teacher, I will analyze and

report assessment results to a variety of
audiences. The audiences may consist of the
principal, reading specialist, grade level
team, etc. Throughout my masters program, I
have had a lot of practice in assessing and
analyzing the results. If I ever need any
assistance in analyzing my results, I will get
additional help from the reading specialist.
As a reading specialist, I will analyze and
report assessment results to classroom
teachers, administration, parents, etc. It is
important that I am available to support
teachers in analyzing assessment results for
a variety of reasons. I will assist teachers in
analyzing their classroom data for
instructional purposes, accountability, and
relevant implications. I will constantly
communicate with school faculty and staff
how important it is to use data for planning
instruction for whole group and small group
learning.

Demonstrate the ability to

communicate results of
assessments to various
audiences.

As a reading specialist, it is important to

demonstrate the ability to communicate
results of assessments to various audiences.
I will provide teachers with parent-friendly
terms, phrases, and definitions to use when
communicating with parents about their
childs performance. For example, most
parents would not understand the term
phonemic awareness, so I would provide
teachers with a variety of ways to
communicate this with them and activities to
practice with their child at home.

Standard 4 Diversity
Candidates create and engage their students in literacy practices that develop
awareness, understanding, respect, and a valuing of differences in our society.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited to, the followingReading Specialist/Literacy Coach
Candidates
4.1 Recognize, understand, and value the forms of diversity that exist in
society and their importance in learning to read and write.
Demonstrate an
understanding of the ways
in which diversity
influences the reading and
writing development of
students, especially those
with reading and writing.

As a classroom teacher, I will demonstrate an

understanding of the ways in which diversity
influences the reading and writing
development of students. I want all of my
students to feel comfortable and safe in my
classroom. I will offer for students to share
different aspects of their culture with the
class. I will also use multicultural books in my
classroom so students are exposed and
learning about a variety of cultures.
As a reading specialist I would assist teachers
in influencing their students reading and
writing development through diversity by
providing them with resources such as
multicultural books, multicultural websites,
and textbooks that will differentiate lessons
and activities for their students as well as
help them to grow as readers and writers.
Multicultural books are a great resource in
promoting diversity because it helps students
feel a connection with characters in the book
who are from the same culture as them.
Bilingual books are also great resources to

Assist teachers in
developing reading and
writing instruction that is
responsive to diversity.

Assist teachers in
understanding the
relationship between firstand second-language
acquisition and literacy
development.

Engage the school

community in
conversations about
research on diversity and
how diversity impacts
reading and writing
development.

have in the classroom library for students

because it helps students to read books in
their native language and see the English
that corresponds.
As a reading specialist, I would assist
teachers in developing reading and writing
instruction that is responsive to diversity by
holding Professional Development Workshops
where I would provide sample lesson plans
and model them for the teachers. I will
provide teachers with activities and ideas,
related to reading and writing that is
beneficial to all cultures in my classroom. I
will also express to teachers how important it
is to understand that all students do not have
the same background knowledge. For
example, some students may have never
been to the beach, so I will model for
teachers how to develop their instruction so
it is responsive to diversity.
As a reading specialist, it is going to be my
job to assist teachers in understanding the
relationship between first- and secondlanguage acquisition and the literacy
development of those students. A way I will
do this is by discussing with teachers how
important it is to promote a safe learning
environment and allow students to learn from
each other. When students learn from each
other, they are building language and
communication skills. Working with small
groups or with a partner allows students, who
fear speaking in front of the whole class, to
feel more comfortable and relaxed in their
learning. This can allow them to feel more
motivated to participate in sharing their
thoughts and ideas with their classmates.
As a reading specialist I will be active in
engaging the school community in
conversations about research on diversity
and how diversity impacts reading and
writing development. I will do this by meeting
with teachers to discuss test scores for ELL
students and determine strengths and
weaknesses and goals for improvement. I will
provide teachers with resources, such as

websites and books that will assist them in

instructing their ELL students. Lastly, I will
work with the librarian to order books that
promote diversity and are bilingual.
4.2 Use a literacy curriculum and engage in instructional practices that
positively impact students knowledge, beliefs, and engagement with the
features of diversity.
Provide differentiated
instruction and
instructional materials,
including traditional print,
digital, and online
resources, that capitalize
on diversity.

Support classroom
teachers in providing
differentiated instruction
and developing students
as agents of their own
literacy learning.

As a classroom teacher, I will provide

differentiated instruction and instructional
materials, including traditional print, digital,
and online resources that capitalize on
diversity. I will provide students with a variety
of materials to get them actively engaged in
their learning. It is so important for me to
expose students to a variety of text formats
and genres.
As a reading specialist, I will provide teachers
with resources such as books, websites, and
research articles that focus on diversity. I will
make lesson plans for teachers that
incorporate diversity and model them in the
classroom. There are many great childrens
books about diversity that can be used for
whole group reading in teaching reading
strategies and a follow up writing activity
that correlates would be beneficial to
students.
Project based learning (PBL) is a great way
for teachers to differentiate instruction for
their students and allow students to be
responsible for their own learning. As a
reading specialist I will work with and assist
teachers in developing effective PBLs for
their students.

Support and lead other

educators to recognize
their own cultures in order
to teach in ways that are
response to students
diverse backgrounds.

Collaborate with others to

build strong home-toschool and school-to-home
literacy connections.

As a reading specialist, I will support and lead

other educators to recognize their own
cultures in order to teach in ways that are
responsive to students diverse backgrounds.
Teachers have many different ideas and
conceptions about how to teach and assess
their students based on their own culture
(where they grew up, where they attended
school, where they live, etc). My job as a
reading specialist is to work with teachers in
developing ways to use their own culture to
meet the diverse backgrounds of their
students. Some ways I will do this is hold
meetings with individual teachers to discuss
their own culture. From the information I
gather, I will offer suggestions for teaching
their students with diverse backgrounds such
as using manipulatives such as pictures and
illustrations, allow students to work together
in groups or pairs for activities, develop
lessons such as research activities that will
aide students in researching and learning
about different cultures.
As a classroom teacher, I will collaborate with
others to build strong home-to-school and
school-to-home literacy connections. I will
make sure that students are sent home with
books that they can read with their siblings,
parents, grandparents, etc. I will send home
letters to parents expressing the importance
of reading with their children. I will also
provide parents with skill and strategies that
they can practice with their children at home.
As a reading specialist it is my job to involve
the school and community in literacy
activities. A way I will promote this is to hold
a literacy night at the school for students to
inform the community on literacy skills they
have been learning about. I will also have
literacy games and activities for students to
play and learn from as well.

Provide support and

leadership to educators,
parents and guardians,
students, and other
members of the school
community to valuing the
contributions of diverse
people and traditions to
literacy learning.
4.3 Develop and implement

Provide students with

linguistic, academic, and
cultural experiences that
link their communities with
the school.

Advocate for change in

societal practices and
institutional structures
that are inherently biased
or prejudiced against
certain groups.

As a reading specialist it is part of my job to

showcase the contributions of diverse people
and their traditions. I will do this by providing
teachers with books, articles, and websites
for them to share with their students. I will
also schedule time with teachers to come to
their classroom so I can teach a lesson about
diverse peoples and their traditions.
strategies to advocate for equity.

As a classroom teacher, I will provide

students with linguistic, academic, and
cultural experiences that link their
communities with the school. I will
incorporate the community into my lessons.
For example, if I am teaching students are
fire safety, I will do my best to have the
community firefighters come into my
classroom and talk to the students about fire
safety and answer any questions they may
have.
As a reading specialist I will work with
teachers in developing lessons and activities
that provide students with linguistic,
academic, and cultural experiences that link
their communities with their school. I will also
suggest field trips that will be beneficial in
teaching students about different cultures.
As a classroom teacher it is extremely
important to teach students to not bully
other students. One of my classroom rules
will be to treat others the way you want to be
treated or respect others.
As a reading specialist I will work with the
guidance counselor in promoting and
educating students anti-bullying campaigns.

Demonstrate how issues of

inequity and opportunities
for social justice activism
and resiliency can be
incorporated into the
literacy curriculum.

Collaborate with teachers,

parents and guardians,
and administrators to
implement policies and
instructional practices that
promote equity and draw
connections between
home and community
literacy and school
literacy.

As a classroom teacher I will provide students

with opportunities to make decisions through
classroom voting and debates.
As a reading specialist, I will incorporate
literature and activities in my lessons that
demonstrate issues of inequity and
opportunities for social justice activism and
resiliency.
As a reading specialist I will research new
policies and instructional practices that
promote equity. An after school program is a
great way to focus on equity, diversity, and
creating connections between the home and
community literacy and school literacy
environment.

Standard 5 Literate Environment

Candidates create a literate environment that fosters reading and writing by
integrating foundational knowledge, instructional practices, approaches and
methods, curriculum materials, and the appropriate use of assessments.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited to, the followingReading Specialist/Literacy Coach
Candidates
5.1 Design the physical environment to optimize students use of traditional
print, digital, and online resources in reading and writing instruction.

Arrange instructional areas

to provide easy access to
books and other
instructional materials for
a variety of individual,
small-group, and wholeclass activities and support
teachers in doing the
same.

As a classroom teacher, I will arrange my

classroom in an organized and accessible
way that promotes the best learning
environment for students and myself. I plan
to have a reading area where my students
will have access to books. The books will be
organized by genre or level depending on the
grade I teach The reading area will have a
carpet that fits all students comfortably and
a rocking chair where I will hold my daily
whole group shared readings. The students
will also use this area for independent
reading. I will have a small group reading
table where I will meet with groups to work

on a variety of skills at their instructional

level. I will also make note of the areas where
I plan for literacy stations, making sure there
is enough room and the materials are
accessible. The way a classroom is set up is
extremely vital in promoting the best
learning environment possible.

Modify the arrangements

to accommodate students
changing needs.

As a reading specialist, I will offer to assist

teachers if they need help setting up their
classroom in an easily accessible and
organized way. The support I would give
them will offer them advice in how and where
to set up a classroom library, an area for
whole-class instruction, an area to work with
small groups, and where to host literacy
stations in the classroom.
As a classroom teacher, it is important for me
to be aware of when I need to make
modifications to accommodate students
changing needs. For example, when I need to
switch a student into a different small group
or rearrange my classroom layout. I need to
assure that each one of my students is in a
comfortable and safe learning environment
that allows each one of them to be successful
in their learning.
As a reading specialist, it is important for me
to be aware of when I need to make
modifications to accommodate students
changing needs. As I am working with
students to build their literacy skill levels, I
may need to modify the materials I am using
or which assessments I am giving. I will assist
teachers in modifying their classroom layout
so it can be a successful learning
environment. I will support teachers in
modifying their instruction to meet the needs
of their students. I will help teachers to form
and modify their small groups based on
assessment results. It is important for me to
be accessible and resourceful to teachers
when they need assistance in modifying the
arrangements in their classrooms to promote
the success of each student.

5.2 Design a social environment that is low-risk, includes choice, motivation,

and scaffolded support to optimize students opportunities for learning to read
and write.
Create supportive social
environments for all
students, especially those
who struggle with reading
and writing.

Model for and support

teachers and other
professionals in doing the
same for all students.

As a classroom teacher, it is extremely

important to create a supportive social
environment for all students in your
classroom, especially those who struggle
with reading and writing. Forming small
groups with students is extremely beneficial
to their learning, but as a teacher I will make
sure to allow time for whole class group work
and partners so students are experiencing
the social environment of the classroom as
well. Students who struggle with reading and
writing may appear to be shy sometimes,
due to their insecurity of their abilities. We
want our students to be comfortable and feel
safe to be their selves no matter who they
are working with. Motivating students and
promoting choice in the classroom will also
help me in creating a supportive social
environment.
As a reading specialist, it is important to
create a supportive social environment for
the students I am working with. These
students are going to be struggling to read
and write and will need a lot of
encouragement and motivation from me. I
will set goals with students and encourage
them to meet and succeed these goals. I will
be an active supporter in their learning. I will
remind teachers to be encouraging and
positive in all of their students learning and
to design lesson plans that actively engage
students socially to help them build their
social skills as well as enhance their learning.
As a reading specialist some of my time will
consist of modeling lessons for teachers. In
the modeling lessons, I will make sure I am
supportive of each student and their
learning. This is done through socially
interacting, providing positive reinforcement,
and actively engaging with each student.

Create supportive
environments where
English learners are
encouraged and given
many opportunities to use
English.

As a classroom teacher, I will provide my

students many opportunities to work in small
groups and partner activities. I will also
provide my English language learners with
resources and instructional materials that are
on their independent and instructional level
so they do not become frustrated with
material that is too easy or too difficult for
them.
As reading specialist, I will provide classroom
teachers with activities and suggestions in
supporting their English language learners
and allow them many opportunities to use
English. One suggestion I will provide is
allowing partner activities so students get
one-on-one learning and bonding with
another student, which will enhance their
language and communication skills.

5.3 Use routines to support reading and writing instruction (e.g., time
allocation, transitions from one activity to another; discussion, and peer
feedback.)
Understand the role of
routines in creating and
maintaining positive
learning environments for
reading and writing
instruction using
traditional print, digital,
and online resources.

As a classroom teacher, I understand the role

of routines in creating and maintaining
positive learning environments for reading
and writing instruction using traditional print,
digital, and online resources. It is important
for students to be exposed to a variety of
texts and genres. I will use mentor texts that
will support me in teaching reading and
writing skills to my students. Keeping
students on a structured schedule will allow
students to be more independent of
themselves and their learning. Having
structured transitions will allow me to keep
students on track throughout that day and
maximize my instructional time. Creating a
positive learning environment and
establishing routines will support teachers
classroom management and allows students
little to no time to get off-task.
As a reading specialist, I will assist teachers
in developing routines for their daily literacy
instruction. I will emphasize how important

Create effective routines

for all students, especially
those who struggle with
reading and writing.

Support teachers in doing

the same for all readers.

literacy stations are in students daily

learning and how to make literacy stations
effective in the classroom. I will provide
teachers with activities and resources that
incorporate traditional print, digital, and
online resources into daily instruction.
Stressing the importance to teachers of
establishing a routine in the classroom is
extremely important, so they can maximize
their instructional time in the classroom.
As a classroom teacher, I will put a lot of
thought into creating effective routines for all
students, especially those who struggle with
reading and writing. I will make sure that
each of my students are allotted time to visit
each literacy station every day. I will also
meet with each guided reading group
everyday to work on skills and strategies that
will help them to be successful readers and
writers.
As a reading specialist, I will create effective
routines for all students, especially those who
struggle with reading and writing. I want my
students to feel comfortable and safe when
they are working with me. From the
beginning of the school year, I will establish a
routine with my students that is consistent
and productive for the amount of time I am
working with each of them. Establishing
routines and strictly sticking with them will
allow less opportunity for students to get off
task or have behavioral issues.
As a reading specialist, it will be important
for me to support teachers in doing the same
for all readers. I will explain the important to
each of them of why it is so important to
establish a consistent routine in their
classroom. I will provide teachers with
examples of routines in my room, and what
works and doesnt work for me. I will explain
to teachers that sticking to a routine will
minimize time for off-task and behavioral
issues and maximize instructional time in the
classroom.

5.4 Use a variety of classroom configurations (i.e., whole class, small group,
and individual) to differentiate instruction.
Use evidence-based
grouping practices to meet
the needs of all students,
especially those who
struggle with reading and
writing.

Support teachers in doing

the same for all students.

As a classroom teacher, I will use evidencebased grouping practices to meet the needs
of all students, especially those who struggle
with reading and writing. I will assess
students and analyze the assessment results
to group students for my guided reading
groups. I will make sure that I am instructing
my guided reading groups with text that is on
their instructional level. I will use assessment
data to analyze my instructional approaches
and differentiate my instruction for strategies
or techniques that students are having
difficulty understanding or mastering.
As a reading specialist, I will use evidencebased grouping practices to meet the needs
of all students, especially those who struggle
with reading and writing. I will be meeting
with a variety of students, most likely
students who are struggling with reading and
writing, individually or in groups. I will make
sure I am designing my instruction on each
students instructional level so I can ensure
each one of them is getting the appropriate
literacy instruction during the time they are
meeting with me.
As a reading specialist, part of my role will
consist of supporting teachers in doing the
same for all students. I will assist teachers in
setting up their guided reading and word
study groups based on skill and ability level
from the assessment results. I will provide
teachers with activities and ideas for whole
group reading, guided reading, and one-onone instruction.

Standard 6 Professional Learning and Leadership

Candidates recognize the importance of, demonstrate, and facilitate
professional learning and leadership as a career-long effort and responsibility.
Evidence that demonstrates competence may include, but is not
limited to, the following Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach
Candidates
6.1 Demonstrate foundational knowledge of adult learning theories and related
research about organizational change, professional development, and school
culture.

Use literature and

research findings about
adult learning,
organizational change,
professional
development, and
school culture in
working with teachers
and other professionals.

Use knowledge of
students and teachers to
build effective
professional
development programs.

As a reading specialist, I will use literature

and research findings about adult learning,
organizational change, professional
development, and school culture in working
with teachers and other professionals. I will
stay up-to-date with current research and
provide these materials as resources to
teachers and other professionals for
assessing, progress monitoring, and
designing instruction. I will be responsible for
training teachers on how to assess and
analyze their classroom data in order to plan
effective and beneficial instruction for
students.
As a reading specialist, I will utilize my
knowledge of students and teachers to build
effective professional development
programs. Getting to know teachers and
students within the school is the first step I
will take in building effective professional
development programs. I will analyze
assessment data within the school to
determine an area of focus that needs
attention in our classroom instruction. Once I
build a trust with the teachers in the school,
they will be more open to my ideas and
suggestions and use me as the appropriate
resource in enhancing their literacy
instruction. I want teachers to know that I am
very passionate about my profession and
care about their concerns and interests. Once
I build a relationship with teachers and
students, I can design a professional
development program that will benefit
everyone in the school.

Use the research base

to assist in building an
effective, school-wide
professional
development program.

As a reading specialist, I will use the research

base to assist me in building an effective,
school-wide professional development
program. During my Masters program, I have
researched and developed two in-depth
professional development plans. I was
responsible for creating timelines, goals, etc.
to effectively and efficiently implement the
plans in a school. In the future, I will
reference these plans for presenting
professional development plans and assisting
teachers in enhancing their instruction.

6.2 Display positive dispositions related to their own reading and writing and
the teaching of reading and writing, and pursue the development of individual
professional knowledge and behaviors.
Articulate the research
base
related to the connections
among teacher
dispositions, student
learning, and the
involvement of parents,
guardians, and the
community
Promote the value of
reading and writing in and
out of school by modeling
a positive attitude toward
reading and writing with
students, colleagues,
administrators, and
parents and guardians.

As a reading specialist, I will articulate the

research base related to the connections
among teacher dispositions, student learning,
and the involvement of parents, guardians,
and the community. It will be important for
me to understand the demographics of the
area in which I am working in. This will give
me a better understanding of the SES levels
of the students that attend the school.
As a reading specialist, I will promote the
value of reading and writing in and out of
school by modeling a positive attitude toward
reading and writing with students,
colleagues, administrators, and parents and
guardians. I will have a positive attitude
towards reading and writing that gets
students interested in doing the same. I will
always show excitement for reading and
writing through the activities I am working on
with students. Creating challenges, with
incentives, for students through reading and
writing activities will get them engaged and
motivated to meet these goals. I will make
sure that my colleagues and administrators
feel my love of reading and writing and
encourage the same in their classroom and
throughout the school. My room will be a
resource for teachers to access books and
materials for creating the best literacy

lessons possible. I will send home bi-weekly

updates to parents and guardians expressing
my love for reading and writing and activities
they can practice at home with their children.

Join and participate in

professional literacy
organizations, symposia,
conferences, and
workshops.

Demonstrate effective
interpersonal,
communication, and
leadership skills.

As a reading specialist, I will join and

participate in professional literacy
organizations, symposia, conferences, and
workshops. In our profession, it is important
to be a member of at least one professional
literacy organization. I am currently a
member of the Virginia State Reading
Association (VSRA) and will keep that
membership throughout my career in the
field of education. Being a member of this
organization has given me the opportunity to
attend and present at a professional
conference. I gained a lot of knowledge and
new ideas from the workshops at the
conference. Having the opportunity to meet
so many knowledgeable individuals in the
literacy field was an opportunity that I will
never forget. If I hadnt been a member of
the VSRA I would have never gotten to
experience the conference, and missed out
on such a great learning opportunity.
As a reading specialist, I will demonstrate
effective interpersonal, communication, and
leadership skills. I hold an important position
within the school where I need to be an
approachable, positive, and responsible
individual. Developing good relationships
with my colleagues and administration will
allow them to trust my thoughts and
opinions, and also use me as a resource in
creating the best literacy environment in
their classroom. If I effectively communicate
with my colleagues and possess effective
leadership skills, then I will be able to create
a positive learning environment for everyone
in the school.

Demonstrate effective use

of technology for
improving student
learning.

As a reading specialist, I will demonstrate

effective use of technology for improving
student learning. Technology has enhanced
so much in the last several years and it has
become a great source for supporting
students learning. I will provide teachers
with apps and websites that I believe to be
effective in students literacy learning. I will
provide teachers with ideas of how to
incorporate technology into their literacy
lessons.

6.3 Participate in, design, facilitate, lead, and evaluate effective and
differentiated professional development programs.

Collaborate in planning,
leading, and evaluating
professional development
activities for individuals
and groups of teachers.
Activities may include
working individually with
teachers (e.g., modeling,
coplanning, coteaching,
and observing) or with
groups (e.g., teacher
workshops, group
meetings, and online
learning.)

Demonstrate the ability to

hold effective
conversations (e.g., for
planning and reflective
problem solving) with
individuals and groups of
teachers, work
collaboratively with
teachers and
administrators, and
facilitate group meetings.

As a reading specialist, I will collaborate in

planning, leading, and evaluating
professional development activities for
individuals and groups of teacher. These
activities may include working individually
with teachers or with groups. It is important
for me to make myself available to assist
teachers when they need support and
guidance. I will offer to model lessons for
teachers, when appropriate and welcomed
into their classroom. I will also suggest
meeting with the grade-level teams to create
effective and efficient literacy lessons that
will be beneficial to each students learning
level.
As a reading specialist, I will demonstrate the
ability to hold effective conversations with
individuals and groups of teachers, work
collaboratively with teachers and
administrators, and facilitate group meetings.
I will collaborate with teachers, individually
and as a group, for planning and reflective
problem solving. I will provide teachers with
research of best practices and how to
incorporate these best practices into their
lessons. I will make sure to be a good listener
and provide effective feedback for teachers
when needed. I will offer teachers assistance
for planning and reflective problem solving. It
is important for me to be able to hold
effective conversations as a reading

specialist.

Support teachers in their

efforts to use technology
in literacy assessment and
instruction.

As a reading specialist, I will support teachers

in their efforts to use technology in literacy
assessment and instruction. Kids love
technology and it will keep them engaged in
their learning. I will encourage teachers to
use technology on a daily basis. Our world is
enriched with technology and we, as
teachers should be using that to our full
advantage. I will provide teachers with
websites and resources that is beneficial to
their students instructional level and will
train them in using the websites, programs,
etc.

6.4 Understand and influence local, state, and national policy decisions.

Demonstrate an
understanding of local,
state, and national policies
that affect reading and
writing instruction.

Write or assist in writing

proposals that enable
schools to obtain
additional funding to
support literacy efforts.

As a reading specialist, I will demonstrate an

understanding of local, state, and national
policies that affect reading and writing
instruction. I will need to stay up-to-date with
current research of local, state, and national
policies that are proving to affect reading and
writing instruction. It is important for me to
use the research that I have found and
present it to teachers so I can assist them in
altering their instruction.
As a reading specialist, I will write or assist in
writing proposals that enable schools to
obtain additional funding to support literacy
efforts. Materials and programs for literacy
can be and are very expensive. Obtaining
additional funding will help support the
school in being able to purchase these

materials and programs. I may be

responsible for presenting these proposals so
I need to make sure I know what additional
funding my school may or may not qualify
for.
Promote effective
communication and
collaboration among
stakeholders, including
parents and guardians,
teachers, administrators,
policymakers, and
community members.

Advocate with various

groups (e.g.,
administrators, school
boards, and local, state,
and federal policymaking
bodies) for needed
organizational and
instructional changes to
promote effective literacy
instruction.

As a reading specialist, I will promote

effective communication and collaboration
among stakeholders, including parents and
guardians, teachers, administrators,
policymakers, and community members. I
will take initiative to make sure that effective
communication and collaboration is taking
place in my school. Effective communication
plays a key role in earning respect from
everyone. I will need to keep teachers and
administrators informed on instructional
changes, and what research is proving to be
best practices for literacy instruction. I will
need to keep parents and guardians informed
on what is happening, in relation to literacy,
within the school. Creating an established
means of communication will help me to
keep everyone up-to-date and informed.
As a reading specialist, I will advocate with
various groups for needed organizational and
instructional changes to promote effective
literacy instruction. I will be using the
schools data to determine what areas of
instruction need to be focused on and how
we can improve our instruction of these
specific areas. I will look closely at state
standards to see how we, as a school, can
gear our instruction to align more closely
with the outcomes of these goals.