Arizona Approved Reading Instruction for Dyslexia Designees: Keys to Beginning Reading

This course meets the AZ Dyslexia Designee training requirement for Reading Instruction (I) and Intensifying Instruction (II). For AZ Educators Only. Register through Keys to Literacy, not at this Teachable site!

Welcome and thank you for your interest in this online course! Please note that this version of the "Keys to Beginning Reading" course is customized to meet the requirements of the Arizona Department of Education's Dyslexia Designee Training Reading Instruction (I) and Intensifying Instruction (II). Click here to access the regular "Keys to Beginning Reading" course if you do not need to meet the Arizona requirement.

Below you will find information about the course, including a course syllabus and answers to frequently asked questions. We estimate that this course will take approximately 39 hours to complete. It can be taken as a STAND ALONE online course, or as a FACILITATED online course that includes 12 hours of facilitated virtual-live sessions with a Keys to Literacy trainer. If you would like to take the FACILITATED version, contact Keys to Literacy for more information and to register ([email protected]).

Once finished, you will be able to download a Certificate of Completion. If you have any questions, please email us: [email protected]

Enjoy the course! Joan Sedita, Founder of Keys to Literacy

Course Materials

The course will reference content from the training manual Keys to Beginning Reading. One copy of this 460 page manual is included in the price of this online course, including shipping costs. Upon registration for this course, Keys to Literacy will contact you with information about how to access your manual. If you register as an individual, the manual is typically shipped to you once we obtain your shipping address. Please allow two weeks for delivery of the manual. If you have not yet received your manual but would like to start the course, Module 1 is designed to be completed without the manual. If you would like to purchase additional copies of the manual, you can do so at the Keys to Literacy online store ($99 plus shipping & handling). In addition, there are numerous handouts in PDF or document form that can be accessed within the course modules.

Asynchronous Course

The course is asynchronous, which means you can log on and off multiple times to complete the course assignments at your own pace.

As with all online coursework, you are responsible for much of your learning. We suggest you develop a plan and schedule for completing the course modules in order to manage your time and pace yourself. Watch and read all course materials so you do not miss any important information, and be sure to complete all activities.

Partner with Other Educators

This course can be completed by individual educators to increase their knowledge about effective reading instruction. It can also be used within peer learning communities or by an entire school staff to provide a shared professional development experience. The course includes activities that can be completed for your own personal learning, and they can also be shared with peers taking the course at the same time. Contact us for information about group discounts and registrations.

About Keys to Literacy

Keys to Literacy is a professional development and consulting company specializing in literacy instruction. Our training programs are built upon the most current literacy research. Our instructional practices are relevant for general educators as core instruction for all students, and to special educators as support instruction. Click here to visit the Keys to Literacy website to learn more about our work.


Your Instructor


Joan Sedita
Joan Sedita

The course developer is Joan Sedita, founder of Keys to Literacy and author of the Keys to Literacy professional development programs. Keys to Literacy is based in Massachusetts, and provides literacy professional development to schools across the United States. For over 40 years, Joan has been an experienced educator and nationally recognized teacher trainer. She has authored multiple literacy professional development programs, including The Key Comprehension Routine, The Key Vocabulary Routine, Keys to Beginning Reading, Keys to Content Writing, Keys to Early Writing, and Keys to Close Reading. Beginning in 1975, she worked for 23 years at the Landmark School, a pioneer in the development of literacy intervention programs. As a teacher, principal, and director of the Outreach Teacher Training Program at Landmark, Joan developed expertise, methods, and instructional programs that address the literacy needs of students in grades K-12. Joan was one of the three lead trainers in MA for the Reading First Program and was a LETRS author and trainer. She received her M.Ed. in Reading from Harvard University and her B.A. from Boston College


Course Curriculum


  About This Course
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course is available to start as soon as you enroll and can be taken at your own pace. You will have access to the course for one year from the date of your enrollment.
What type of payment is accepted for this course?
Credit Card or PayPal: Register here and pay for the course using a credit card or PayPal. You will be given the option when you get to the payment step of the enrollment process. Our online system will send an email receipt after you place your order. To purchase this course using a personal check or Purchase Order (PO) from a school or organization, register at the Keys to Literacy website store: https://keystoliteracy.com/store/ where you can order online or download an online course order form. Contact us with registration questions: [email protected]
What type of equipment will I need to complete the course?
You will need a computer or tablet with the latest browser. You will also need a valid and working email address so Keys to Literacy can communicate with you. Also, there are a number of documents that you can download during the course. These downloads will be in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF.
Will I receive a grade for this course?
No grades will be awarded for this course.
Can this course be used towards professional development points?
Depending on your situation, this course can be used for PD points. We highly recommend that you use the information we provide on the course information page to gain prior approval from your principal or professional development coordinator before you start the course to be sure it will count towards your PD points. You will be able to download a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course that indicates 36 hours of time for the course.
How do I get help?
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us via email: [email protected]
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.

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