Center For Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) Tiers of Certification

What exactly does CERI certification mean? The Center for Effective Reading Instruction, also known as CERI, is an organization that is associated with the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). CERI requires candidates pursuing certification to have an extensive understanding of standards created by the IDA. These standards are known as Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading (KPS). Knowledge of KPS standards ensure teachers are able to teach all students to read proficiently. 

To be a candidate for CERI certification, teachers must complete an IDA accredited program that aligns with KPS standards. Some IDA programs that can lead to CERI certification include the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA) associate level certification, Academic Language Therapy Associates (ALTA) CALT, Wilson Reading System (WRS) certification, and the Institute for Multisensory Education (IMSE) certification. 

Candidates must also pass an exam known as the Knowledge and Practice Examination of Effective Reading Instruction (known as the KPEERI). This exam tests candidates’ knowledge in the principles and practices of Structured Literacy, which is an approach to teaching reading that is beneficial for all students. 

CERI offers three tiers of certification. According to CERI, "Certification from CERI or IDA aims to encourage the preparation and designation of highly knowledgeable and skilled teachers of reading.” Not all tiers are created equally. Each tier is different and involves additional work to receive that level of certification.

Tier 1 is the Certified Structured Literacy Teacher. This tier is specifically for classroom teachers or support personnel who provide whole group or small group instruction to students who are not at grade level in general education RTI and MTSS contexts. After receiving this certification, teachers are prepared to plan, monitor, and adjust instruction in the general education classroom to meet the literacy needs of students. To be awarded this certification, teachers must pass the KEEPRI exam and complete a 45 hour course aligned with IDA Knowledge and Practice Standards. Structured Literacy Classroom Teachers do not provide specialized reading intervention services to students. No practicum or additional training is necessary. Any classroom teacher can and should apply for this certification.

Tier 2 is the Certified Structured Literacy/Interventionist level. These interventionists work with students who are not meeting grade-level benchmarks. They may also support classroom teachers with planning literacy instruction to meet students’ diverse needs. Interventionists must not only pass the KPEERI exam, but complete an IDA-accredited program with 90 instructional hours and a 6-12 month practicum with one student. The practicum must demonstrate mastery of the Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading (KPS). This must be under the supervision of an IDA accredited partner. This practicum often leads to certification such as Orton-Gillingham certification.

Tier 3 is considered the highest tier. This tier is the Certified Structured Literacy/Dyslexia Specialist. The Specialist works with individual and small groups of students with more intensive needs including specific learning disabilities such as dyslexia. Not only do educators have to complete 135 hours of training, but also must complete multiple practicums with three different students, each with a  different literacy need.

Having a CERI certification is a way to stand out as a structured literacy professional and showcase expertise in the field of reading science. For detailed information including a breakdown of the knowledge and practice competencies, visit the CERI website.

Image Source: Reading Rockets (Note- CERI no longer offers Therapist or Practitioner designations at Tier 3)

Sources:

Gibbons, E. (2023, September 27). Levels of certification through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI). The Literacy Nest. https://www.theliteracynest.com/2023/08/levels-of-certification-through-ceri.html

Ceri Certifications: The Center for Effective Reading Instruction. The Center for Effective Reading Instruction |. (2025, June 26). https://effectivereading.org/ceri-certifications/

Becoming a certified literacy teacher. Reading Rockets. (n.d.). https://www.readingrockets.org/reading-101/reading-101-learning-modules/becoming- certified-literacy-teacher