The Paraeducator Certificate Program offers statewide standards-based training for all paraeducators, and supports a career growth ladder for those who wish to advance their career as a paraeducator or pursue a teaching profession.

Paraeducator Employment Requirements

Beginning with the school year 2019-20, all employed paraeducators must be at least eighteen years of age and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. In addition, a paraeducator must meet one of the following:

• Have received a qualifying score on the Education Testing Service (ETS) paraeducator assessment
• Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university
• Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university
• Have completed an apprenticeship as a paraeducator, in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council

Program Components

The standards of practice make up the foundation of the certificate program. The five standards are:

1. Supporting instructional opportunities;
2. Demonstrating professionalism and ethical practices;
3. Supporting a positive and safe learning environment;
4. Communicating effectively and participating in the team process; and
5. Demonstrating cultural competency.

Resources

• U.S. Department of Education Paraprofessionals
• Paraeducator.com
• National Resource Center for Paraprofessionals (NRCP)