Elementary Reading Certificate Program

The AMS Elementary Reading Certificate Program is designed for Montessori teachers who are interested in applying the science of reading by engaging the most recent research-based strategies for teaching reading in their Montessori classroom. Participants will develop an understanding of the essential components of reading and reading continuums that allow Montessori teachers to follow children’s development as readers. Matching children to their developmental stage on the continuum leads to an exploration of literacy strategies that support individual children. Participants will leave with a toolkit that enables them to extend the Montessori curriculum and enhance the reading development of children.

Registration is now open for the Summer 2025 cohort! 

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Members: $670 | Non-Members: $820

What to Expect

The program consists of 6 modules of self-guided study and live experiences held via Zoom. Part 1 is theoretical and Part 2 offers strategies and tools to explore the science of reading within your own environments and the children you work with. Assignments are designed to be reflective and to enhance your understanding of the science of reading, both in theory and in action. 

• For: Elementary 1 (6 – 9) and/or Elementary 2 (9 – 12) Montessori credentialed teachers, school leaders, and interventionists
• Format: A blend of live (synchronous) experiences held via Zoom and on-demand (asynchronous) content. Recordings of the live sessions are made available to participants.
• Time Commitment: 36 – 40 hours total (please see timelines below)
• CPD Hours: 36 - A certificate of AMS Professional Development Hours will be emailed upon completion. An opportunity to purchase a CEU certificate for 3.6 CEUs will also be made available upon completion of the class at a cost of $28.

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded an AMS Elementary Reading Certificate attesting to your mastery of the program.

Program Modules & Outcomes

Upcoming Classes

Summer 2025

Timeline

• Registration deadline: July 1, 2025, or until cohort is full
• Classes begin: July 7, 2025
• Classes end: August 17, 2025
• Additional assignments will be due in Sept and October when teachers are back in classrooms and working with students
• All assignments due: October 31, 2025

Live sessions will be held via Zoom on Thursdays from 7:00 – 8:15 PM (ET) July 10 - August 14 .

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Pricing & Discounts

Cost & Scholarships

• Members: $670
• Non-Members: $820

Not a member? Join AMS today and get $150 instant savings on this course and others like it. See all benefits.

The AMS Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Scholarship Program provides financial support for eligible applicants. Learn more.

Group Discounts

AMS is excited to offer a variety of discounted group packages for this class. Group registrations must first contact us to be discounted.

• 5+ registrants: 5% discount
• 10+ registrants: 10% discount
• 20+ registrants: 15% discount
• 30+ registrants: 20% discount

Contact Us

Meet the Facilitator

Linda S. Zankowsky

Linda S. Zankowsky, EdD, is the director of the University of Delaware Montessori Teacher Residency in Professional and Continuing Studies. Linda has 33 years experience as a reading specialist, classroom teacher, school principal, and head of school at Wilmington Montessori School, DE. Her focus is on literacy and assessment, social curriculum, and building professional learning communities. Linda serves as board chair of Sussex Montessori School and as chair of Montessori Works. She has consulted nationally with many Montessori schools and been a frequent presenter at The Montessori Event on the topics of reading and writing.

Special thanks to Dr. Vanessa Rigaud, Xavier University, for her service to the development of this program.