Michigan’s Teacher Certification Code contains two distinct requirements in the teaching of reading that all teachers must complete, one of which must be completed prior to earning an initial standard teaching certificate, and the other of which must be completed prior to advancing to a professional teaching certificate.
MCL 380.1531 requires teachers satisfactorily complete an approved 3-credit course of study with appropriate field experiences in the diagnosis and remediation of reading disabilities and differentiated instruction before they can be recommended for a professional teaching certificate.
The Michigan Department of Education only holds the authority to approve reading diagnostic courses for Michigan institutions. Caution is advised to applicants seeking to fulfill the requirements of MCL 380.1531 through out-of-state institutions as many courses do not meet the requirements under Michigan law, or the out-of-state institution may not be able to complete the verification form assuring compliance. However, applicants may submit an out-of-state reading course verification form with their teaching certificate application for department review.
Educator preparation institutions seeking to offer reading diagnostic coursework to fulfill the requirements of MCL 380.1531 must complete an application and receive Michigan Department of Education approval. Contact Dr. Ahlam Bazzi, Education Consultant, with any questions regarding the application process.
