text: I am a teacher and I still have this problem.  I've found that the only way to get better is to practice.  It started with me just reading out loud -- it's hard to do when you're used to reading in your head.  Then just reading in front of people (people you trust) is the next step.  A lot of teachers are moving around from having kids read in class for just this reason - when you know you're going to have to read out loud in front of your peers, it makes you nervous and you stop listening and paying attention and just get scared.  Build your confidence by doing it over and over.  Set small goals for yourself.  And remember, lots of people have this problem, it's not just you.