Master of Education, Reading--Reading Specialist

Overview of the Program

The School of Education Master of Education, Reading--Reading Specialist prepares graduates to become reading specialists for children in kindergarten through the twelfth grade. Program candidates will apply reading theory and research, learn new methodologies, and develop collaborative leadership skills. Candidates attend to the Alaska Content Standards and federal mandates while recognizing and addressing how individual students may vary in achieving standardized goals. Candidates increase their abilities to teach fluent reading skills and comprehension strategies, assess reading difficulties, and develop student engagement in reading. They also share practical insights and current research with colleagues, including paraprofessionals

The International Reading Association nationally recognizes the M.ED. Reading--Reading Specialists Program.

Comments from the NCATE Review by the International Reading Association

"Their theory of "classrooms as cultures" that permeates throughout the program is quite relevant. The entire program is extremely culturally responsive. Their conceptual framework is aligned with the Alaska State Standards and IRA standards. Their program has a strong philosophical base. They have a wide range of field experiences that will assist the candidate in reflecting on their growth as literacy professional. Braided discussions, as a forum, for self-reflection is novel." (2002)

"Thorough description of the changes made to their program. A response to the standard is included along with the evidence that is being collected for each standard. The revision of the 676 strengthens the program. As with the earlier version, the inclusion of the portfolio rubrics and state standards were helpful. Parts of this could be shared with others." (2004)

Contact Information

Mary-Claire Tarlow, Ph.D., Program Coordinator School of Education, HA1 University of Alaska Southeast 11120 Glacier Highway Juneau, Alaska 99801 907-796-6435 maryclaire.tarlow@uas.alaska.edu

Kent Kay, Administrative Assistant School of Education, HA1 University of Alaska Southeast 11120 Glacier Highway Juneau, Alaska 99801 907-796-6525 kent.kay@uas.alaska.edu

---

All education programs through the School of Education at University of Alaska Southeast are accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, a performance-based teacher accrediting body for schools, colleges, and departments of education recognized by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.