Updated toolkit provides new information on Paraeducator Certificate Program

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July 1, 2021

Updated toolkit provides new information on Paraeducator Certificate Program

Washington’s Paraeducator Certificate Program provides standards-based training to support and strengthen the state’s paraeducator workforce. First implemented in school year 2019-20, the certificate program has required districts to provide 14 hours of annual training on the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) to all of their instructional paraeducators. Beginning school year 2021-22, districts must now provide 14 hours of training towards the general certificate to all paraeducators that have completed their FCS.

Implementation toolkit

The certificate program implementation toolkit has now been updated to reflect new district training requirements for the 2021-22 school year. The toolkit is a resource designed to assist school district staff who are responsible for implementing the required training. Educational Support Districts (ESDs), unions, community colleges, or any partners involved in supporting the professional development of paraeducators in Washington may also find the toolkit useful. We will update this resource as needed. View the toolkit.

In the toolkit, you will find resources to assist with the following:

  • Determining district resources for program implementation
  • Paraeducator standards of practice
  • Program requirements
  • Additional resources

Upcoming webinar

To assist districts with the new 2021-22 school year training requirements, we will host a webinar on July 22, from 3 to 4 p.m. If you are unable to attend, we will post a recording on our YouTube channel.  Register to attend the webinar.

Learn more