How to Become a Teacher in Washington State

The educational setting in Washington State is as diverse as the state's culture and climate. Teachers in Washington cater to a range of demographics, and must work to adapt and adjust to the needs of the student population. For individuals wondering, "how do I become in teacher in Washington state?" or "what are the requirements for becoming a teacher in Washington state?" the following may prove to be useful.

Washington requires that all aspiring teachers earn a teaching certificate. The most common certificate for teaching in Washington State is the Residency Teacher Certificate.

How to become a teacher in Washington State - traditional route for residents

The traditional route for earning a Residency Teacher Certificate in Washington, requires that aspiring teachers:

• Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited school; and
• Complete a state approved teacher preparation program or alternative.

How to become a teacher in WA State - alternative route for residents

Washington also offers alternative routes for those wanting to teach, to earn their teacher certificate in Washington State. One such route requires that students:

• Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited school;
• Complete a state approved alternative pathway teacher preparation program;
• Have at least 3 years of verifiable K-12 teaching experience outside of Washington; and
• Hold a regular teaching certificate from another state.

How to become a teacher in WA State - for out-of-state teacher applicants

Out of state applicants must:

• Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited school;
• Complete a teacher certification program deemed comparable by the State Board of Education; and
• Pass a basic skills test (WEST-B) and an endorsement content knowledge test (WEST-E) within 12 months of receiving a temporary permit.

How do I become a teacher in Washington State - necessary exams for residents

Aspiring teachers in Washington, hoping to earn their Residency Teacher Certificate are required to take at least two exams. First, to gain admission to a teacher preparation program, students must pass the Washington Educator Skills Tests-Basic (WEST-B) exam. Then, after completion of their training, in order to gain endorsements for certain subject areas, students must pass the relevant Washington Educator Skills Tests-Endorsements (WEST_E) exam.

What bachelor's degree do I need for teaching in Washington State?

There is no specific bachelors degree required for teacher certification in Washington State. Typically however, aspiring elementary school teachers choose to major in education and minor in another area such as English or history. Those wanting to teach middle school or high school on the other hand, often major in the subject area they are hoping to teach, while supplementing their education with related courses.

Preschool teacher candidates often take at least some courses in early childhood development or a related area.

What are teacher preparation programs in Washington State?

Teacher preparation programs in Washington consist of a combination of class work and relevant fieldwork. The class work component often consists of:

• Teaching on foundational knowledge and skills;
• Instruction on the art and science of teaching; and
• Guidance on researching, designing, and implementing teaching ideas in the classroom.

The fieldwork generally includes:

• Field observations;
• Student teaching; and
• An internship.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Washington State?

The Washington Residency Teacher Certificate remains valid until the teacher completes two years of teaching in Washington. The certificate may then be reissued with a five-year expiration date.

To maintain the validity of their teacher certificate in Washington state, every 5 years, teachers must have 150 approved clock hours of continuing education study and/or equivalent academic credit (15 quarter hours or 10 semester hours). Alternatively, they may present a copy of a valid certificate from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

Where do I go for more information about how to become a teacher in WA state?

The following websites have additional information about how to become a teacher in Washington State:

• Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

  This official government site provides the most accurate information for those interested in teaching in Washington, with details on how to achieve certification.

• Washington State Professional Educators Standards Board

  The PESB has been charged with creating alternative routes to teacher certification and administering new basic skills and subject knowledge assessments for certification. This site contains testing and standards information.