The IDA Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading define what all teachers of reading need to know and be able to do to teach all students to read proficiently. The IDA Standards were written for two main audiences: classroom educators and dyslexia specialists. IDA has written separate narratives for each audience.

To view the IDA Standards document for classroom educators, click here.

To view the IDA Standards document for dyslexia specialists, click here.

The IDA Standards serve as the basis for IDA’s credentialing activities, which include the review and accreditation of university and independent teacher training programs and certification of individuals. IDA began reviewing and accrediting teacher preparation programs for their alignment with the IDA Standards in 2012. These include programs for prospective teachers, dyslexia specialists, and dyslexia therapists. University reviews are conducted every other year; independent programs are reviewed periodically. For a list of university programs that have been accredited by IDA, click here. For a list of independent teacher training programs accredited by IDA, click here .

Graduates of IDA accredited programs will be eligible to sit for the IDA exam and receive IDA certification, which will be available in 2016. IDA Certification indicates that a teacher or dyslexia specialist has mastered the content and skills outlined in the IDA Knowledge and Practice Standards and can teach students to become strong readers.

For more information about becoming an IDA accredited program, contact Christy Blevins, Educator Training Manager.