Structured Literacy and Training Opportunities

What is Structured Literacy?

The Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), a subsidiary of the International Dyslexia Association, issues certifications to those with the knowledge and skill necessary to implement Structured Literacy instruction. The following CERI certifications are awarded only to those educators who have demonstrated the ability to have a meaningful impact on the rate of improvement for students identified as “at-risk” for reading failure or identified with a Specific Learning Disability, including dyslexia.

Structured Literacy Classroom Teacher Knowledge Certificate
Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist Certification
Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist Certification

Please visit the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) to learn more about the certificate and certifications.

Teacher Preparation for the KPEERI Exam

Reading 101 is a free, self-paced, 9-module professional development course for K-3 teachers developed by Reading Rockets. The program, developed by Reading Rockets in collaboration with the Center for Effective Reading Instruction and The International Dyslexia Association, provides teachers with an in-depth knowledge of reading and writing so they are prepared to guide their students into becoming skilled and enthusiastic readers and writers. This course helps prepare teachers interested in taking the KPEERI, the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI). Those who pass the exam can apply for certification as a Structured Literacy Classroom Teacher. The certification demonstrates that an educator is highly trained to teach reading effectively to all students in the classroom, but particularly those for whom reading is a challenge due to a native language other than English, lack of language exposure, or other learning challenges.

Independent Teacher Training and University Programs Accredited by IDA

IDA-accredited Independent Programs: https://dyslexiaida.org/accredited-teaching-training-programs/
IDA-accredited University Programs: https://dyslexiaida.org/university-programs-accredited-by-ida/
Tennessee IDA-accredited Programs: https://www.memphisliteracy.org/reading-specialist-certification and https://allmemphis.org/blog/allmemphis-is-now-accredited/

Interested in practicum opportunities? Check out the Accreditation Plus Programs.

For students with dyslexia and other reading and language-learning difficulties, Structured Literacy must be delivered with a high level of intensity, individualized support, and by a highly qualified instructor. Because Structured Literacy training programs vary in depth and focus, it is essential for educators to carefully consider their goals when selecting individual courses or a training program. We encourage interventionists and literacy coaches to seek training programs that provide extensive mentorship and practicum opportunities, ensuring they receive guided feedback to strengthen their instructional implementation.

Structured Literacy Training Opportunities in Tennessee

ALLMemphis Structured Literacy Intervention Comprehensive Education (SLICE) course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of how to support struggling readers. The 40-hour training is part of a full 90-hour course accredited by the International Dyslexia Association. Check the website for dates and times of upcoming training.

Learning Matters, OG Classroom Educator Training, October 13-17, 2025

Memphis Teacher Residency Program The Reading Specialist Certification Program is accredited by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). The coursework, clinical practice, and assessments meet the highest standards for preparing educators to teach reading based on the science of reading.

Southeast Reading Center, LLC is a Wilson® Accredited Training Partner and offers professional learning opportunities to educators and parents working with struggling readers. Check the events page for upcoming seminars, workshops, and certification opportunities.

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