Newman University's Reading Specialist program equips Kansas teachers with research-based strategies to combat declining literacy rates, focusing on structured literacy approaches and multisensory techniques that help struggling readers, particularly those with dyslexia. Learn more about Newman's Master's program by visiting: https://newmanu.edu/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-science-in-education/msed-reading-specialist
-- As reading proficiency rates continue to decline across Kansas, Newman University is equipping teachers with advanced skills to address the growing literacy challenge. The university's Master of Science in Education (MSED) Reading Specialist program with dyslexia emphasis provides educators with research-based strategies specifically designed to help struggling readers, particularly those with dyslexia.
Responding to a Critical Need
Kansas classrooms are facing what many educators describe as an alarming literacy crisis. Newman University has developed a comprehensive graduate program that transforms how teachers approach reading instruction, particularly for students with reading difficulties.
"The literacy challenges we're seeing in Kansas classrooms require a specialized approach," explains a representative from Newman University. The program's evidence-based methodologies focus specifically on addressing dyslexia and other reading challenges through structured literacy approaches.
A Distinctive Educational Approach
What sets Newman's program apart is its foundation in structured literacy—an explicit, systematic approach to teaching reading that benefits all students but is particularly effective for those with dyslexia. The curriculum incorporates comprehensive training in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies.
The program emphasizes multisensory instructional techniques, engaging visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile learning pathways simultaneously. This approach helps students form stronger neural connections and improves retention of reading skills—especially beneficial for students with dyslexia.
Practical Skills for Immediate Classroom Impact
Newman's Reading Specialist program goes beyond theory by emphasizing practical applications that teachers can implement immediately in their classrooms. A key component is building educators' diagnostic assessment abilities, enabling them to identify specific skill gaps and create targeted interventions based on individual student needs.
The program's R.E.A.D. Redefined initiative promotes innovative approaches to literacy instruction for diverse learners. Teachers also learn to incorporate appropriate technology tools that can support students with reading challenges, making content more accessible and providing alternative ways for students to demonstrate knowledge.
Expert Faculty Leadership
The program benefits from the combined expertise of faculty members Amy Taylor and Jane Hayes, who bring decades of literacy education experience to the curriculum. Their practical knowledge of working with struggling readers, particularly those with dyslexia, provides valuable context for the theoretical concepts taught in the program.
Taylor and Hayes incorporate the latest research findings into the curriculum, ensuring graduates receive current knowledge and strategies. Their mentorship creates a supportive learning community where teachers can develop their skills and grow professionally throughout the program.
Real-World Outcomes in Kansas Classrooms
Graduates of Newman's program implement evidence-based teaching strategies that go beyond traditional reading instruction to meet the specific needs of struggling readers. With advanced diagnostic skills, these specialists create customized interventions that address exactly what each student needs, focusing instruction on areas of difficulty.
Importantly, the skills taught in the program work across elementary, middle, and high school settings. Teachers learn to adapt structured literacy approaches appropriately for different age groups and developmental stages, providing consistent, research-based instruction at every level.
Career Pathways for Graduates
The program prepares educators for specialized reading intervention positions such as Reading Specialists, literacy interventionists, or reading teachers within their schools. Many graduates also move into district literacy leadership roles, participating in curriculum development, professional learning communities, or broader literacy initiatives in Kansas schools.
A Path Forward for Kansas Literacy
As more teachers complete Newman University's Reading Specialist program with dyslexia emphasis, they become change agents in addressing Kansas' literacy challenges. By implementing structured literacy approaches and providing targeted interventions, these educators are creating educational environments where more students can succeed as readers.
Newman University's program represents an important response to a critical educational need, equipping Kansas teachers with the specialized knowledge and evidence-based strategies necessary to make meaningful improvements in literacy outcomes across the state.
For more information about Newman University's Master of Science in Education Reading Specialist program with dyslexia emphasis, visit the university's website at https://newmanu.edu/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-science-in-education/msed-reading-specialist
Contact Info:
Name: Clark Schafer
Email: Send Email
Organization: Newman University
Address: 3100 McCormick , Wichita, Kansas 67213, United States
Website: https://newmanu.edu/
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89159694
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