Level 1
Structured Literacy for the Classroom
What This Course Qualifies You For
When you enroll in our Level 1 Training: Structured Literacy for Classroom Instruction, you are completing coursework that aligns with:
- The Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA) Classroom Educator Coursework
- IDA Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist Coursework
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |
| OGA Classroom Educator Coursework | |||
| IDA/CERI Structured Literacy Coursework | |||
| OGA Associate Level Coursework | |||
| IDA/CERI Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist Coursework | |||
| OGA Certified Level Coursework | |||
| IDA/CERI Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist Coursework |
What’s Covered in the Course?
This course covers the essential components of structured literacy instruction for students in grades K–3, aligned with the standards set by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA).
Topics Include
- The Science of Reading and the five pillars of literacy
Seminal research, including Scarborough’s Reading Rope and the National Reading Panel - Reading acquisition in all learners and the nature and needs of the dyslexic learner
- Knowledge of the principles of the instruction and the ability to explain why the principles of the Orton-Gillingham Approach are effective
- Phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, and orthographic mapping
- Syllable types, syllabication, and simultaneous oral spelling
How to use decodable text effectively - Developing reading fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension
- Evidence-based strategies for lesson planning and differentiated instruction
Who Is This Course For?
- General and Special Education classroom teachers
- Speech and language pathologists (SLPs)
- Reading specialists and literacy coaches
- Parents, caregivers, and literacy advocates
- Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of structured literacy practices and the Science of Reading
How Can I Take the Course?
Choose the learning format that fits your needs:
Self-Paced Online Course
Register anytime and move through modules at your own pace.
Remote (Livestream)
Join a live, instructor-led group with interactive training.
In-Person Training
Attend an in-person cohort in your area — or invite us to your school or district for onsite professional development.
Continuing Education & Graduate Credit
CTLE Hours: 40
Graduate Credit: Eligible for 2 credits through Adams State University (additional fee applies)
What Practicum Pathways Are Available?
Participants may pursue one of the following credentials upon Level 1 completion:
- Structured Literacy Certificate
- Offered through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), subject to passing the KPEERI exam. *Additional Fee Applies
- Classroom Educator Certification
- Offered through the Orton-Gillingham Academy, subject to acceptance into our supervised practicum program. *Additional Fee Applies
Please note: Our practicum program is currently full. The estimated waitlist extends to Fall 2027.
Registering for Graduate Credits
Trainees who have successfully completed their Level 1 Training, whether in person, via livestream remote, or through self-paced modules, are eligible for 2 graduate credits from Adams State University. Once you have completed the course and received your Certificate of Completion, you can register for your credits. No additional coursework is required.
You must register for graduate credits within three semesters of completing your training. For example, if you finish the course in November 2025, you will need to register in either the fall, winter, or spring semester immediately following the date on your Certificate of Completion. You will not be able to register if there is a long lapse of time between completing the course and registering for credits.
Please note: Registration for the credits will open when the Adams State University semester opens, and transcripts will be issued when the semester in which you registered concludes. You will need to submit an additional payment directly to Adams State University via their website. After payment, you will request your transcript directly from Adams State University.
Edwards Orton-Gillingham does not collect any compensation from Adams State University.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What will participants learn in the Level 1 Orton-Gillingham training course?
Participants learn the fundamentals of the Orton-Gillingham multisensory reading approach, including phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, encoding, and fluency strategies. The training provides a step-by-step framework for delivering explicit, systematic structured literacy instruction in classrooms.
- Is the Level 1 course suitable for both special education and general education teachers?
Yes. The Level 1 training is designed for K–12 educators, reading specialists, interventionists, and special educators. It equips teachers in both general and special education with the tools to support all learners, including students with dyslexia and those struggling with foundational skills.
- How is the Level 1 training delivered?
Edwards Orton-Gillingham offers Level 1 training via self-paced video modules, live in-person sessions, or remote livestream online. New York City educators may also access this training through DOE partnerships and professional learning opportunities.
- Why is Level 1 training important for teachers in NYC and beyond?
Level 1 training provides teachers with a foundation to move from cueing methods to evidence-based practices aligned with the Science of Reading, a priority for schools and districts, especially within the NYC DOE.
- How do I register for the Level 1 course?
Educators can register online through the Edwards Orton-Gillingham website on the Level 1 course page. Schools and districts may also arrange group training cohorts through purchase orders or NYC DOE funding streams such as ShopDOE.