Requirements

For the Initial Certificate

This application is for people seeking their first tier certification for the school physical therapist role.

• Bachelor's degree program in physical therapy from an American Physical Therapy Association-approved institution. Must submit official transcripts showing degree
• Hold a valid state of Washington license as a physical therapist
• Completion of an ESA course approved by the Professional Education Standards Board (PESB)
  OR
• Completion of any state's approved program leading to certification for the school physical therapist role Form 4099E
  OR
• Three years of out of state experience in the school physical therapist role Form 4020F-1
• Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required, if a valid certificate is not already on record

COURSE NOTE: For the PESB approved course, the applicant must have completed prior to, or within one year after application, a 15 clock hour or 1 semester hour course approved by the PESB which will include a number of topics related to the Educational Staff Associate (ESA) roles.

PERMIT NOTE: Provided, that an individual who meets all other requirements (fingerprinting, degree, license if required), but who has not yet provided verification of ESA course or out-of-state program completion, or appropriate out-of-state experience, shall be issued a temporary permit valid for one year, allowing the individual to practice in the role. The candidate shall provide verification of one of the three requirements (course, program or experience) to OSPI during the one-year period.

For the Continuing Certificate

This application is for people seeking the second tier certification for the school physical therapist role.

• Must meet all requirements for initial certification
• Complete at least 15 quarter/10 semester credits of college/university course work beyond the baccalaureate degree in education, physical therapy, or other health sciences (Not clock hours or Continuing Education Units {CEUs})
• The candidate must have completed 180 days of experience in the role (or the equivalent of 180 days of full-time service), of which 30 days must be in the same district Form 4020F
• Must attest to completion of an issues of abuse course for more information see WAC 181-79A-030(9). This course MUST be entered into the 'PD Hours' section of your E-Certification account prior to applying

ISSUES OF ABUSE COURSE NOTE: The issues of abuse course or course work must include information related to identification of physical, emotional, sexual, and substance abuse; the impact on learning and behavior; the responsibilities of an educational staff associate to report abuse or to provide assistance to victimized children; and methods of teaching about abuse and its prevention

Apply

If you have all necessary documentation to apply for this certificate, login to: E-Certification