The type of reading teacher needed to teach reading at all grade levels in urban schools is characterized, and the habits and attitudes necessary for success are identified. The teacher needs to be (1) cognizant of the attitudes, misunderstandings, and prejudices of his colleagues; (2) aware of the possible hostility of his students, but sensitive to their personal and group needs; (3) in possession of a multitude of skills not only in the subject matter but also in methodology; and (4) strongly committed to helping his students improve their reading. Because of the similar reading-disability syndrome at all grade levels in the urban school, the following general guidelines were recommended. (1) The reading teacher must know the life style of his students and respect and use it as an instructional base. (2) He should know the basic pedagogy for teaching reading while remaining openminded and experiment-minded. (3) Sympathy and empathy for the personal and group needs of the students are necessary. (4) He must be in attunement with the present needs and future aspirations of the community. (CL)