In order to teach in a public school classroom in Washington State, a person must become certified by completing a state-approved teacher certification program. There are three types of certification programs in Washington: Bachelor's with certification Post-Baccalaureate certification Master's with certification

Upon successful completion of a state-approved teacher certification program, the student earns a Residency Certificate. This certificate is valid for five years. Within the first 5 years in the profession, teachers are required to return to college to complete a Professional Certificate (advanced certification) program.

The Washington Educator Skills Test-Basic (WEST-B) is now required of all applicants to Washington-approved teacher preparation programs. The basic skills areas included in the assessment are reading, mathematics, and writing.

Alternative Route to Certification

Alternative Routes Criteria

• Route 1: Are you a classified instructional employee of a Washington State Public School witha transferable Associate degree?
• Route 2: Are you a classfied employee of a Washington State School District witha baccalaureate degree?
• Route 3: Are you a working professional witha baccalaureate and subject matter expertise in a shortage area?
• Route 4: Are you an individual with a current conditional or emergency substitute certificate?

Shortage Areas for 2007-09

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