The wide range of defined objectives of the Arizona Right to Read plan requires a program of preparation for those individuals who will serve as reading directors of local education agencies (LEA) that is both intensive and comprehensive. There are two dimensions (academic and practicum) to the program of preparation of reading directors. The academic dimension encompasses six areas of concern: organization and administration, reading theory and methodology, program development, communication skills, change agent skills, and planning and management. The practicum dimension of the program of preparation represents a period of time for as long as an LEA requires, in which the reading director of an LEA will receive technical assistance from the state level Right to Read staff personnel and from the Consultant Cadre. It should be emphasized that the position of reading director is not simply a reading teaching position. The reading director should have the authority, as well as the responsibility, for planning, implementing, and evaluating a quality reading program. (Author/TO)