Online Certification Program for Dyslexia Specialists

The Online Certification Program for Dyslexia Specialists (OCPDS) prepares teachers with the knowledge and practices necessary to teach children with dyslexia or related reading disorders, offering the pathway to Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist certification through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI). OCPDS is accredited by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) as an IDA Accredited Plus Program, and every aspect of training is aligned with IDA's Knowledge and Practice Standards (KPS) for Teachers of Reading. Instruction occurs in three phases combining self-paced asynchronous coursework, live virtual or in-person synchronous class meetings, and practicum; after coursework is complete, the program continues with guided studies, book reports, and documented teaching practice. Participants are guided throughout by Neuhaus instructors and must complete all requirements and pass the Knowledge and Practice Exam for Educators of Reading Instruction (KPEERI) to earn a certificate of completion, after which the candidate may apply to CERI for certification as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS).

Audience: Reading and Dyslexia Specialists, and Tier III Intervention Teachers.

Details: Runs in three phases totaling 16 weeks of coursework over 12 months, delivered as a hybrid of asynchronous coursework and live virtual or in-person class meetings and practicum, with guided studies, book reports, and teaching practice continuing through 24 months total. Includes Concepts in Literacy (CIL), Volumes 1–5, along with Scientific Spelling (SS) and Multisensory Grammar (MSG) as embedded content. Recommended lesson routine of at least 180 minutes per week in an intervention setting.

Participants leave with a certificate of completion from Neuhaus and eligibility to apply to CERI for certification as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS).

Prerequisites: OCPDS Preview Session, an interview, and a signed Letter of Agreement. Participants must pass each phase with 85% or higher to advance to the next phase.

This class cannot be purchased through the online store. After completing all prerequisites and receiving approval to enroll, please contact registrar@neuhaus.org to purchase this class.