Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Specialist Certification Process

Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Specialist Certification

Brainspring strives to support educators in implementing Phonics First® and Structures. One way we do this is through our certification process. Becoming certified through Brainspring involves completing coursework, demonstrating knowledge through written and practical exams, and participating in a supervised practicum. The coursework includes a Level I course (Phonics First® or Structures), a Level II course, and a Phonological Awareness Workshop. After the coursework is complete, a supervised practicum follows. During the practicum, educators work closely with a Brainspring practicum supervisor and receive applicable feedback on written lesson plans and recorded lessons. After completing the certification process, a Brainspring Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Specialist certification is attained. Please see the table below for an outline of the certification process.

Teaching Level Certification – Teaching Students Using Phonics First® and/or Structures

Brainspring courses are accredited by both the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC). We are an IDA Accredited Education Preparation Program at the Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist level and an IMSLEC Accredited Education Preparation Program at the Teaching and Instructor of Teaching level. 

Certification through Brainspring indicates expertise in instructing students using our accredited programs. Being certified in teaching reading and language skills using multisensory structured language methods ensures standardized consistency and exceptional quality of instruction.

The Benefits of Being Dyslexia Certified

Going through the certification process allows candidates to delve deeper into the Phonics First® and Structures® programs. This provides a better understanding of how to use the program flexibly by modifying instruction for individual student needs while still maintaining fidelity to the lesson plans. 

Becoming certified through Brainspring can open additional opportunities for educators. After completing certification, you receive a Brainspring Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Specialist certification. This is a nationally recognized certification that meets requirements set forth by the IDA and IMSLEC. By obtaining this certification, it enhances your expertise in reading instruction and in teaching all readers. 

With this certification, you are eligible to apply through CERI to obtain your Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist certification and through ALTA to receive your CALP (Certified Academic Language Practitioner). In addition to all these exceptional benefits, it is also a significant resume booster and may even open other opportunities for you within your district.

“Brainspring’s Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Specialist Certification Program has been a great experience! As a 1st and 2nd grade Literacy Interventionist, I was able to continue working with my small groups while receiving regular, valuable feedback about lesson plans and observations. My Practicum Supervisor encouraged me to ask questions, and she was always available for advice and support when needed.  I am much more confident as a Literacy Interventionist because this practicum experience has better prepared me to fully meet the needs of dyslexic and learning-disabled students.” -Literacy Interventionist, Arkansas

Additional Dyslexia Resources

• Orton Gillingham Multisensory Tools: What is Dyslexia?
• Dyslexia & Central Auditory Processing Disorder: A Deeper Look
• But She's So Smart!
• The Goal of Dyslexia Laws
• The Importance of Dyslexia Legislation
• Dear Teacher: My Dyslexic Child

Written by Jacquie Moreno

Jacquie is an Instructional Development Consultant and Instructor for Brainspring.

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