Reading Academy
Under House Bill 3, passed by the 86th Texas Legislature in 2019, all new kindergarten through third-grade teachers and principals must complete the Texas Reading Academy before or during their first year of employment.
In TWU's continuing efforts to graduate the most prepared teachers in education, the Texas Woman's Educator Preparation Program offers the Texas Reading Academy completely free of charge to our students.
As an official authorized provider of the Reading Academies, TWU offers our students the opportunity to complete this requirement before employment, ensuring new classroom teachers enter the field already certified and ready to implement Science of Teaching Reading strategies — evidence-based instructional practices that directly impact students' literacy achievement.
More info on TWU's special designation as a Texas Reading Academy providerTWU Student Benefits
- Fulfilling HB3 requirements before graduation
- Reducing workload and pressure during their first year of teaching
- Becoming more competitive in the job market with an already completed certification and demonstrating initiative to potential employers
- Receiving structure and support in preparation for the state-mandated Science of Teaching Reading (STR) exam
Reading Academy Structure
This is a co-curricular workshop structure, offered in a two-semester format.
Students must complete both semesters to receive Texas Reading Academies Certification.
Contact
Janiece Elzy-Palmer, EdD
jelzy@twu.edu
Page last updated 12:39 PM, August 6, 2026