Overview

Grand Valley's Literacy Coaching Certificate equips educators with the expertise in guiding teachers to improve literacy instruction through collaboration, data-driven practices, and reflective inquiry. Students develop skills in adult learning theory, coaching teachers to analyze student work to design effective lessons, and leading professional learning that fosters evidence-based literacy instruction and continuous improvement.

Students develop the knowledge and skills to coach and support educators in strengthening literacy instruction. Coursework explores the theoretical and practical foundations of effective literacy coaching, while two practicum experiences provide opportunities to apply coaching approaches in authentic educational settings. Through these experiences, students build expertise in literacy instruction, develop skills as reading and literacy specialists, and strengthen their capacity to facilitate professional learning and support teachers’ growth.

12-Month Schedule

SUMMER:

EDR 681 - Foundations of Literacy Coaching - requires candidates to build coaching expertise by exploring models, frameworks, adult learning theories, and big-picture visioning. The course examines leadership and organizational change while emphasizing the use of data to adjust instruction, evidence-based methods aligned with the Science of Reading, and statewide professional learning tools.

FALL:

EDR 687 - Reading/Literacy Specialist and Literacy Coach Practicum - requires candidates to develop knowledge and skills needed to work with PK-12 learners and dispositions and techniques needed to work with PK-12 educators.

WINTER:

EDR 689 - Professional Development and Leadership Practicum - requires candidates to plan and lead professional development informed by theory, research, and practice concerning PK-12 literacy development, literacy instruction, leadership, professional development, reflection, and reading/literacy specialist responsibilities.

Admission Information

All students seeking degree, endorsement, approval, license or certificate change must be formally admitted to graduate study. In addition to university admissions requirements, students must meet the Master of Education (M.Ed.) Admission Criteria. Also, this program is designed for candidates who already have much of the necessary expertise around developing children and/or adolescent literacy depending on their level. Thus:

1. Applicants must hold a current teaching certificate 

2. Applicants must demonstrate literacy knowledge:

   1. Graduate Coursework: Transcripts documenting completion of relevant graduate-level coursework in literacy, reading instruction, assessment, or intervention.

   2. Professional Learning: Certificates or other documentation of substantial professional learning in evidence-based literacy instruction, such as LETRS or an equivalent program.

   3. Professional Experience and Demonstrated Knowledge: Documentation of relevant literacy instruction, assessment, or intervention experience, accompanied by evidence of literacy knowledge. Examples may include a professional portfolio, supervisor verification, or other documentation approved by the program director.

College of Education and Community Innovation

gvsu.edu/education/grad
401 Fulton Street West, Building C
(616) 331-6650
[email protected]

Program Director

Elizabeth Stolle, Ph.D.
(616) 331-6242