STEM Renewal Requirement for Teacher Certification

As of September 1, 2019, renewal applications for Initial, Residency, Professional, and Continuing teacher and Initial/Continuing CTE certificates require completion of at least 15 clock hours, or at least one goal from an annual professional growth plan (PGP), and an emphasis on STEM integration.

STEM integration is the authentic combination of at least two of the STEM components (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). The requirement applies to the following endorsement areas:

  • Agriculture;
  • Business and Marketing;
  • Computer Science;
  • CTE (All areas);
  • Designated Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Physics;
  • Early Childhood Education;
  • Elementary Education;
  • Family and Consumer Sciences;
  • General Science;
  • Instructional Technology;
  • Mathematics;
  • Middle level mathematics and science;
  • Technology Education

A full list of applicable endorsement areas is available on the Professional Educator Standards Board webpage. The online list is updated as needed.

The STEM certificate renewal requirement is considered to be met by holders of a valid National Board Certificate. Please see the State of Washington Professional Educator Standards Board STEM Renewal Requirement page.