-- Newman University's Master of Science in Education (MSED) Reading Specialist program with a Dyslexia Emphasis is the first university program in Kansas to earn International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Accreditation PLUS status. This highest level of recognition from the IDA follows a rigorous peer-review evaluation against the association's Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading, signaling to Kansas educators that the program meets nationally validated benchmarks for preparing specialists who work with struggling readers.
More information is available at https://newmanu.edu/academics/msed/msed-reading-specialist
The accreditation arrives as Kansas legislators recently passed House Bill 2485, legislation addressing the need for qualified Reading Specialists in Kansas school districts. With dyslexia affecting up to 20% of students and Kansas educators actively seeking specialized training, the new state requirement underscores both the timeliness of Newman's program and the acute need for qualified professionals equipped to address the literacy crisis in classrooms across the state.
Designed for full-time teachers, the 30-hour, 10-course master's degree emphasizes immediate and practical classroom application. The program also offers nationally recognized professional certification opportunities from the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), giving graduates dual credentials that validate their expertise. Through intensive summer workshops and supervised practicum experiences, educators apply research-based strategies directly with students, then report progress and receive ongoing coaching to ensure they can translate theory into measurable outcomes.
Amy Taylor and Jane Hayes, who co-founded R.E.A.D. Redefined and serve as adjunct professors at Newman University, designed and lead the program. Two years ago, R.E.A.D. Redefined itself earned IDA Accreditation PLUS status as an independent teacher-training program. Taylor and Hayes have brought that same rigor to the university partnership. "Returning to school for a master's degree is a big decision in regard to time and financial resources," Taylor said. "With the IDA's evaluation from nationally recognized experts, teachers can now be more confident in their decision that they will gain the skillset needed to work with those who struggle most in schools."
Jane Hayes emphasized the program's focus on practical application. "Across the board, we are facing a literacy crisis," she said. "It takes all of us working together to change reading outcomes, however, in order to do that, educators need the application component missing from some programs. This is a practical application program."
The IDA Accreditation PLUS designation requires programs to undergo detailed peer-review evaluation, ensuring alignment with the association's standards for effective reading instruction. By meeting these criteria, Newman University equips educators with research-based, scholarly best practices that can be applied immediately in classrooms where students struggle with reading, writing, and spelling. The vetting process gives teachers confidence that their investment of time and resources will yield the specialized skills necessary to meet state mandates and improve student outcomes.
The first course for the Summer Cohort begins July 6-17, and applications are open now. Kansas educators interested in enrolling can submit their applications through the program website. For additional details and to contact Dr. Jessica Bird, visit https://newmanu.edu/
Contact Info:
Name: Clark Schafer
Email: Send Email
Organization: Newman University
Address: 3100 McCormick , Wichita, Kansas 67213, United States
Website: https://newmanu.edu/
Release ID: 89189230