Centenary University launches new state-approved program to train early literacy specialists
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Centenary University has received approval from the New Jersey Department of Education to launch a new certificate program designed to train and certify teachers as early literacy specialists, equipping them to support young readers from preschool through third grade.
The six-course Early Literacy Specialist Certificate will be offered through Centenary’s Graduate Literacy Program and provides intensive training based on evidence-based best practices. Coursework will include foundations of literacy instruction, structured literacy, diagnosing and addressing learning challenges, and children’s literature. The program concludes with a fieldwork experience in the teacher’s home district, supervised by a certified reading specialist.
A key benefit of the new program is that educators who complete the certificate will earn recognition as certified early literacy specialists, with all six courses eligible to count toward Centenary’s Master of Education in Literacy Instruction. By completing an additional five classes, participants can also earn a Master of Education degree, K–12 reading specialist certification, and K–12 ESL teacher certification.
The program is offered in a hybrid format, with one in-person meeting each month on campus, supplemented by virtual classes and Centenary’s asynchronous learning platform. This structure allows full-time teachers to advance their credentials while continuing their professional careers.
“Creating confident readers takes highly trained educators,” said Lexis McCoy, Ed.D., director of the Master of Education in Literacy Instruction. “At Centenary, we train our literacy specialists in the most current evidence-based best practices and teach them how to reach learners through joyful learning experiences and positive relationships. We are very proud of our completers who are in the field working as reading specialists, ESL teachers, classroom teachers, and school leaders. Many of our graduates return to teach in our program and present at our conferences. It is a testament to the relationships we develop with our graduate students, our hands-on advising, and the strong network Centenary University has with our public school partners.”
Centenary University’s School of Education and Humanities is recognized for its programs in teacher preparation and studies in English, history, and mathematics. Its graduate programs include both master’s and doctoral degrees. The Master of Education in Literacy Instruction is accredited by the International Literacy Association (ILA) for meeting the ILA’s Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals and ensuring high-quality teacher training and ongoing professional development.
Through these initiatives, Centenary continues to strengthen New Jersey’s educational landscape by preparing highly skilled educators to foster literacy and learning across diverse classrooms.
