Loyola’s M.Ed. in Literacy for Reading Specialists receives national recognition for teacher readiness from International Literacy Association

Loyola University Maryland’s M.Ed. in Literacy for Reading/Literacy Specialists has been recognized by the International Literacy Association (ILA) for its outstanding preparation of literacy professionals and continuous efforts to transform lives through literacy. Loyola was rated “Distinguished” in all areas and standards and has been recommended to be considered for the “National Recognition with Distinction” designation, the highest honor ILA awards to advanced licensure programs.

Along with being recently recognized as one of the top 10 best online reading literacy programs in the country, Loyola is the first program in the country to receive ILA National Recognition for two consecutive cycles (2020-2025 & 2025-2030), further reinforcing its reputation of developing high-quality teacher education programs.

“We are very proud to see the International Literacy Association renew the National Recognition of Loyola’s M.Ed. in Reading/Literacy,” said Leah Katherine Saal, Ph.D., co-director of literacy graduate programs.  “Our 100% distinguished ratings across all standards showcase the effort we make to not only maintain but improve our evidence-based, high-impact curriculum and experiences to meet and exceed the needs of the candidates, school systems, and communities we serve in Maryland and beyond.”

Earning ILA National Recognition illustrates that an institution adheres to a specific, rigorous set of standards for preparing literacy professionals. “We take seriously preparing literacy leaders to actively serve as experts in their communities and bring about positive outcomes for our PK-12 students,” said Kristina Collins, co-director of literacy graduate programs.

Loyola’s Reading Specialist program is a 30-credit, fully online, synchronous program designed for experienced classroom teachers who wish to develop a strong foundation in literacy and the development of curricular, intervention, and coaching/leadership expertise and skills. It is one path offered through Loyola's Master of Education in Literacy and leads to advanced licensure.

Learn more about the Reading Specialist program.

About the School of Education
Loyola University Maryland’s School of Education offers leading undergraduate and graduate education programs for aspiring and current educators, educational leaders, and counselors, who are called to work with K-12 learners but require certification and training or improved teaching and leadership skills. Loyola’s mission-driven approach inspires and engages a community of accomplished educators who bring about ethical and fundamental change to help all children reach their full potential