WASHINGTON, DC (April 6, 2006) — The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) today announced the launch of its reading endorsement program. Reading endorsements allow certified elementary education teachers the option to demonstrate their ability to effectively teach reading.
The cost for the program is $250, but is being offered to Idaho teachers for $150 until May 1, 2006. Teachers can save on the program fee when they apply online by entering the code Reading100 on their application. The program fee includes a preparation CD –ROM with six modules focused on effective techniques of reading instruction based on recommendations from the National Reading Panel. The modules are: overview of reading instruction, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and text comprehension.
To earn the endorsement, candidates will pursue a step-by-step, individualized route to earning the endorsement. Candidates prepare on their own time and with the help of an advisor for an examination in research-based strategies for teaching reading.
“One of the best ways to enhance reading skills in America is to ensure that every child has a knowledgeable, motivated and highly qualified teacher who has demonstrated the ability to effectively teach reading,” said David Saba, ABCTE president. “The ABCTE reading endorsement helps achieve that goal.”
More than eight million U.S. students in grades 4-12 struggle to read, write, and comprehend adequately. The ability to teach reading is a critical skill that teachers must have to advance student learning. Current teachers and Passport to Teaching candidates who earn the American Board reading endorsement distinguish themselves from their colleagues with their levels of subject area knowledge.
ABCTE worked for more than a year to develop the reading endorsement. The standards and endorsement development process included participation from leading teachers, education officials and reading experts. Individuals can apply online (www.abcte.org) to pursue the reading endorsement.
In addition to the new reading endorsement certification, the American Board offers Passport to Teaching certification in elementary education, English, mathematics, general science, biology and special education and will soon offer certification in physics and chemistry.
For more information, visit www.abcte.org or call 1-877-NOW-ABCTE