Memo Text
In accordance with Ark. Code Ann. § 6-41-612, the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is offering a two-year Dyslexia Therapist Training Course for certified Arkansas public or public charter school teachers. The goal of this project is to develop a network of Certified Academic Language Therapists (CALT) for the purpose of providing a specialized dyslexia instructional program designed to provide therapy to public school students with dyslexia or related reading and written-language difficulties.
Course Description: This course provides an opportunity for teachers to become specialists in teaching the structure of the English language utilizing multisensory techniques purposefully designed for students with dyslexia. Course content and techniques are based on the original Orton-Gillingham model, as well as others, with additions and refinements guided by current research on literacy instruction. Completion of this two-year comprehensive training program prepares teachers for the comprehensive examination given by the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA) in order to become Certified Academic Language Therapist.
Course Requirements to be completed over a two-year period:
- Attend 200 lecture hours and complete all competency assignments
- Log 700 hours of teaching the curriculum
- Submit ten demonstration lessons for coaching feedback
Dyslexia therapist training instruction and materials will be provided free of cost for candidates selected through the application process. School District support is essential for the success of the therapist-in-training and the success of the dyslexia program in schools. Each applicant will need to gain the support of his or her supervisor and upload a School Support Form in the application.
Steps to register:
- Complete the Candidate Application.
- Register in ESC Works for the site you wish to attend.
If you have any questions, contact Vicki King, DESE Dyslexia Specialist by email at vicki.king@ade.arkansas.gov.