Wisconsin Reading Foundations Test 

Starting in the Fall 2013, students be required to pass a Wisconsin Reading Foundations Test based off the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) before student teaching.  

Why will I be required to take another test? 

According to the newly enacted Wisconsin State Statute ACT 166:

SECTION 21. 118.19 (14) (a) any person applying for a teacher license “…to teach in grades kindergarten to 5 or in special education, an initial license as a reading teacher, or an initial license as a reading specialist…” are required to take and pass a Foundations of Reading Test.  

Students wishing to gain licensure in the following areas are required to take this test: 

• Early Childhood-Middle Childhood Majors – Regular Education and Dual Education

• Middle Childhood-Early Adolescence Majors – Regular Education and Dual Education

• Special Education Majors
• Reading Teacher (316) and Reading Specialist (17) Licensures

This rule first applies to an application for a teaching license received by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) January 1, 2014.

NOTE:  As the legislature is written, this will include Fall 2013 student teachers because you would be applying for your license “after” January 1, 2014.  

About the Test 

• The test will be based on the Massachusetts Foundations of Reading Test. 
• The test will be offered in a computer-based testing format. 
• Testing will be available by appointment, Monday through Saturday (excluding holidays) at the testing centers located in Polk library as well as other locations within Wisconsin.

• Test results have a 4-week turn-around time; if passing score is not acquired then tests can be retaken after 60 days. After reaching passing score, you are unable to retake a test again.
• Although Wisconsin students costs have not been finalized, based off the Massachusetts test, costs are approximately $155. Since we are still in the process of finalizing costs, they are subject to change, but it is probably a good idea to start saving now.  

Preparing for the test 

• Test Objectives 
• Full-length Practice Test 
• Study Guide - updated Feb. 26, 2013
• Test Appendix 

Test Prep Articles