Are you interested in becoming a paraeducator or in need of clock hours for your certification?
About
Become a Paraeducator
Paraeducators are school employees who work in K–12 schools under the supervision of a certified or licensed staff member. They assist teachers in the classroom with student instruction and curriculum planning. To become a paraeducator, you must meet the minimum employment requirements as outlined by the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB).
If you don’t meet any of the college requirements, a qualifying score on the Education Testing Service (ETS) paraeducator assessment will make you eligible.
Testing
ETS ParaPro Assessment
The ParaPro Assessment is only for those seeking a Paraprofessional job without an Associate’s degree or higher (PESB Minimum Employment Requirements). This test evaluates an individual’s English reading, writing, and math abilities at a K-8 level.The test is 90 questions, (30 from each section) and you’re given 2.5 hours to complete it.
With updated guidelines from the state, ESD 112 has updated the requirements for Para testing:
- Test takers will enter through the front main entrance and check-in with reception.
- Test takers will not be required to wear a mask
Need extra test time? English Language Learners and those experiencing disabilities or health-related needs can apply for extra time accommodations. Please see the “Extra Time Accommodation” section of the Frequently Asked Questions below for more information”
To request additional test dates beyond current availability, please complete our waitlist form here. Acuity does not have an automated waitlist.
Please note: Other testing centers are available in Washington. They may be offering availability that is different from ours. Testing centers are independent of each other and will set their own availability and pricing. View all testing centers >
Frequently Asked Questions
For additional information regarding taking the ParaPro Assessment at ESD112 (2500 NE 65th Ave, Vancouver WA 98661) please contact:
ParaPro Assessment
Learn more about the Assessment:
You may also visit the ETS website for additional information and other testing locations.
Fundamental Course of Study
Fundamental Course of Study
The Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) is one of the core components of the paraeducator certificate program in Washington. The FCS is a 28 clock hour training consisting of 12 units approved by your employing school district and aligned to the PESB course outline.
It is the responsibility of the school district to ensure that the training is provided to their paraeducators. Paraeducators should not independently seek out training to meet training requirements. If paraeducators are unaware of training, please contact the human resource office of your school district.
ESD 112 provides FCS trainings in person and online throughout the year to help districts meet this requirement. All courses are:
- Aligned to Board Standards – Courses will align to PESB course outline & learning objectives
- Tracked in pdEnroller – Makes registration and keeping track of clock hours simple and seamless
Districts are required to enroll their paraeducators in these courses. View Course Catalog >
Please refer to the two PESB documents below if you have any questions on implementation in your district, or on the program in general:
Certification
Paraeducator Certificate Program
The paraeducator certificate program offers standards-based training for all instructional paraeducators in Washington State. It has two required training components and three optional certificates. We offer courses for the following two required training components, as well as courses that can be applied to the optional Advanced Paraeducator Certificate. Visit the OSPI Website for more information >
Fundamental Course of Study (FCS)
The program begins with the FCS. The FCS is 28 hours of training that covers the paraeducator standards of practice. School districts are responsible for providing this training when funded.*
General Paraeducator Certificate
The general certificate includes 70 clock hours of training in addition to the FCS to help improve instructional practices. A paraeducator has three years to complete this certificate after completing the FCS. Once earned this is a lifetime certificate. School districts are responsible for providing this training when funded.* Courses from the ESD-U Paraeducator and Explorers Program (PEP) may be applied to this certificate.
Advanced Paraeducator Certificate
Clock hours for this certificate can be earned starting on the date the paraeducator applies for a General Paraeducator Certificate, not prior. This certificate requires 75 clock hours related to the duties of an Advanced Paraeducator. This certificate will have a 5-year validity and may be renewed. Courses from the ESD-U Paraeducator and Explorers Program (PEP) may be applied to this certificate.
*Please talk with your district before registering for either of these trainings.
Paraeducators, are you interested in becoming a teacher but aren’t sure if it’s right for you?
The ESD-U Paraeducator and Explorer Program (PEP) is designed to give current paraeducators and individuals exploring the teaching profession a glimpse into the ESD-U teacher certificate program while earning clock hours toward the General or Advanced Paraeducator Certificate requirements.
Contacts
Who to Contact
Para Pro Assessment questions:
Fundamental Course of Study questions:
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