Youngstown State University achieves “In Alignment” rating in Ohio Science of Reading Audit

Youngstown State University has received a final rating of “In Alignment” in the recently released Science of Reading audit conducted by the Ohio Department of Higher Education. This designation reflects YSU’s strong compliance with Ohio’s evidence-based reading instruction standards for educator preparation programs.

The Science of Reading audit evaluated educator preparation programs at 48 Ohio colleges and universities to determine how effectively they align coursework, instructional materials and field experiences with research-backed literacy practices now required by Ohio law.

To earn an “In Alignment” rating, institutions were required to meet at least 71 of 73 audit metrics and demonstrate zero use of banned teaching practices in literacy instruction. Youngstown State University is one of only 14 “In Alignment” institutions to meet all 73 audit metrics, demonstrating full adherence to Ohio’s Science of Reading requirements. Of the 48 institutions evaluated in Ohio, 33 received an “In Alignment” rating, five received “Partial Alignment,” and 10 received “Not in Alignment.”

“We are thrilled that Youngstown State University’s educator preparation programs have been recognized as fully aligned with Ohio’s Science of Reading standards,” said Charlie Howell, dean of the Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences and Education. “This achievement reflects the ongoing dedication of our faculty, staff and academic leaders to prepare future educators with the most effective, research-based literacy instruction practices — ensuring future teachers enter classrooms ready to help every child become a confident, capable reader.”

Howell extended special thanks to Mandy Wallace, assistant professor, Teacher Education & Leadership Studies, who piloted the effort; Kristen Italiano, YSU Project PASS Coordinator and part-time Literacy faculty, who helps to prepare students for the Foundations of Reading licensure exam; and all instructors who teach in the program.

The statewide Science of Reading audit is part of Ohio’s broader efforts to ensure that future educators are trained in the most effective instructional methods grounded in research on how children learn to read — including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.

At YSU, the audit covered undergraduate teacher preparation programs at elementary, middle and secondary levels, as well as the online Masters in Literacy Education program.

Institutions with ratings below “In Alignment” now have one year to fully align their programs or face potential loss of state approval for reading and literacy educator preparation programs.

YSU remains committed to academic excellence, and this recognition further reinforces the University’s leadership in preparing high-quality educators who are equipped with the tools and knowledge essential for teaching literacy based on proven, research-supported methods.