Testimonials

Professional Opportunities


Teachers College graduates from the Literacy Specialist program pursue a variety of professional opportunities as educators. They become K-12 teachers, literacy/ reading specialists, literacy coaches, staff developers, school and district leaders, and authors of curriculum and of professional books. 

Program faculty and staff help to connect graduating students with schools in our networks that are seeking teachers, reading/literacy specialists, literacy coaches, and directors of ELA.

Alumni Testimonials


Katy Wischow

Open quotes"TC’s Literacy Specialist program introduced me to so many new ideas and new people. I had the opportunity to work with brilliant professors and fellow students, and I walked away with a holistic view of literacy, grounded in research and philosophy. The program set me on a path to what I do and love now -- supporting teachers in a coaching role -- but also informed and deepened my classroom practice and gave me insight into future career possibilities. I can't recommend the program enough!"Close quotes

Katy Wischow
Valerie Geschwind

Open quotes“I wholeheartedly endorse the Literacy Specialist program at Teachers College. After completing this transformative program, I had the opportunity to teach in a NYC public school. The knowledge and skills I acquired through the program empowered me to work as a consultant with teachers and admin in schools across the country and around the world. I learned to navigate and apply literacy research effectively, which has been invaluable in staying current with the ever-evolving landscape of literacy education. I have developed comprehensive reading, writing, and phonics curricula. I cannot recommend this program highly enough for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of literacy and make a lasting impact in the field of education.”Close quotes

Valerie Geschwind
Mike Ochs

Open quotes“TC’s Literacy Specialist program offered invaluable opportunities to work directly in classrooms across the New York City, allowing me to teach, learn, and collaborate with other passionate educators. It was inspiring to work alongside mentors and peers deeply committed to teaching reading and writing, many of whom are authors and leaders in the field. This experience sharpened my skills and broadened my perspective, preparing me for ongoing work in literacy education.”Close quotes

Mike Ochs
Becca Burk

Open quotes“In hoping to further understand literacy education and best prepare myself to teach children and lead in school, I found the Literacy Specialist Program at Teachers College. From the research-focused learning and thinking to the boots on the ground work in classrooms with incredible educators, I was immersed in the world of literacy education in every way. Taking every chance I could, I was able to work with published authors, staff developers, teachers, interventionists, researchers, and so many other incredible people. I am a decade into my own career in education now, a classroom teacher and school leader by day, and a writer in any other moment, having published several articles and working on my first book. The LITI program prepared me to enter into the world of education with the mindset of a problem solver and the foundation to lead."Close quotes

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