Minimum employment requirements

Beginning July 23rd, 2023, all employed paraeducators must meet the following minimum employment requirements:

• Be at least eighteen years of age and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent (for more detailed information on what is considered equivalent, please read our FAQ (document)

In addition, a paraeducator must meet one of the following:

1. Have received a passing score on one of the assessments approved by the board*
2. Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university
3. Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university
4. Have completed an apprenticeship as a paraeducator, in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council**

*Board approved assessments

The following board approved assessments assess knowledge and skills in reading, writing, math, and assisting classroom instruction.

ParaPro test information

The ETS ParaPro test takers must meet or exceed Washington’s qualifying score of 455.

• For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit the ETS ParaPro website.

Pearson Paraprofessional assessment

Pearson Paraprofessional test takers must meet or exceed 220 (that score is equivalent to the 50 out of 72 scorable multiple choice questions set by the Board).

• For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit the Pearson Paraprofessional website.

The Master Teacher Inc. Paraeducator Online Training Program

Master Teacher Inc. test takers must meet or exceed 65%. A candidate must receive a passing score on each of the two assessments to be certified.

• For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit (link to be provided from Master Teacher).

Resources

• New Assessment Webinar hosted by PESB staff
• Law language (HB 1115 (PDF))
• Law amendment language (SB 6388 (PDF))

** This apprenticeship is a professional development program for classified employees in the state of Washington focused on paraeducators who are interested in obtaining an Associate’s Degree. For more information on the Paraeducator Apprenticeship program, please visit Washington State Apprenticeships in Public Education.