Paraprofessional Resources

The Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) is a 28-hour required training covering paraeducator standards of practice. This training is mandatory for all TSD paraprofessionals (except bus paraprofessionals), including one-year-only positions, when funded by the Legislature. This certificate does not expire.

TSD Guide to Fundamental Course of Study (28 Hours Total)
^{*Information will be updated as new training opportunities become available.}

• At least seven hours must be in person. TSD will provide this training, and paraprofessionals should not independently seek alternatives.
• Retain all original clock hour forms and transcripts for your records.
• Completion Requirement: All 28 hours must be completed within the first year of employment.
  • After completing the FCS, follow these steps:
    • Create an online OSPI E-Cert Account
    • Link your pdEnroller account to your OSPI E-Cert account
  • FCS Clock Hour Form (Complete this form upon finishing training and return to Human Resources for processing)

Each Subject Matter Certificate requires 20 hours of training per subject and expires after five years. Paraeducators must complete FCS training before earning a subject matter certificate. Hours from these certificates can be applied toward the General Certificate, but not the Advanced Certificate.

English Language Learner (ELL)

Focuses on language acquisition, cultural competence, and instructional strategies. PESB offers a free, self-paced online training that meets certification requirements. To enroll, visit the PESB Online Learning Portal and select "ELL Subject Matter Certificate" training.

Special Education

Covers special education processes, culturally responsive strategies, and behavioral support. A free, self-paced online training is available through PESB. Enroll by visiting the PESB Online Learning Portal and selecting "Special Education Subject Matter Certificate" training.

Applying for the Certificate

• Once all 20 hours are completed, paraeducators must apply via OSPI E-cert.
• If no other clock hour documentation is provided, use the OSPI Paraeducator Subject Matter Clock Hours Certificate Affidavit to submit training hours.
• The application fee is $54.00 per certificate, and the district does not cover this cost for these certificates.

The General Paraeducator Certificate requires 70 clock hours of training and there is no in-person minimum requirement. To remain compliant, paraeducators must complete at least 14 hours of training per year until the full 70 hours are met, submitting proof to HR by the end of each school year. Training must come from an approved clock hour provider and is required when funded by the Legislature. Any clock hour training that improves instructional skills qualifies. Paraeducators can find courses through TSD, ESD 113 (via pdEnroller), Professional Learning US, or other approved providers.

A Professional Growth Plan (PGP) is a free option that provides 25 clock hours upon completion. It must be reviewed by a colleague holding a valid WA state certificate.

Some paraeducators may be exempt from additional training. Paraeducators with a valid Title 181 teaching certificate may apply for the General Certificate upon completing the required FCS training. However, those with a limited teaching certificate must fulfill the General Certificate requirements as specified in WAC 179-05-040. College credits earned after July 1, 2019, may also be applied toward the General Certificate requirements.

Additional Free Clock Hour Opportunities 
^{*Information will be updated as new training opportunities become available.}

Applying for the Certificate

• Once all 70 hours are completed, paraeducators must apply for the General Certificate via OSPI E-cert. The application fee is $74.00, and the district will cover this cost for this certificate. The certificate does not expire. Please schedule a meeting with Lindsey VanderLugt in Human Resources to complete this application.

Paraprofessionals can earn the Advanced Certificate after completing the General Certificate. This certification requires 75 additional clock hours focused on supporting high-impact classrooms, assisting with specialized instruction, and mentoring other paraprofessionals. Training must be completed after the General Certificate is issued by OSPI.

For a detailed overview of required competencies, refer to the Advanced Certificate Competencies.

Applying for the Certificate

• Once all 75 hours are completed, paraeducators must apply for the Advanced Certificate via OSPI E-cert.
• Clock hour documentation must be uploaded for any clock hours or credits earned outside of pdEnroller.
• The application fee is $54.00, and the district does not cover this cost for this certificate. The certificate expires after 5 years.

The District offers a Professional Reimbursement Program to support paraprofessionals in their educational and professional growth. Employees can receive reimbursement for approved coursework that aligns with the District’s strategic plan and enhances their skills in an educational setting.

Key Details:

• Pre-Approval Required: Employees must complete a Course Approval Form and receive Building Administrator and District Office approval before beginning any coursework.
• Annual Funding Pool: A total of $7,000 is available each year for tuition, registration, class materials, and professional activities.
• Reimbursement Process: Employees must submit receipts and proof of a passing grade to qualify for reimbursement.
• Funding Allocation:
  • Up to $350 per employee per half-year, with a maximum of $700 per school year.
  • Funds are divided into two cycles:
    • April–September coursework (paid in November).
    • October–March coursework (paid in May).
  • If total requests exceed available funds, reimbursements will be adjusted proportionally.

For full details and application instructions, employees should refer to the TAP Collective Bargaining Agreement (Article X, Section 1) or contact HR.

FAQ

• Paraeducator Certificate Program FAQ

Links

• TAP Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paraeducator Certificates - Professional Certification Handout (OSPI)
• How to Create an OSPI E-Cert (EDS) Account
• Guide to Link pdEnroller and OSPI E-Cert
• PESB- Paraeducator Certificate Program Components
• 2024-25 PESB Approved Clock Hour Providers

Additional Questions?

• TSD Paraprofessional Questions: Contact your TAP Building Representative or schedule a meeting with Lindsey VanderLugt in Human Resources
• OSPI E-Cert and Logging Clock Hours: cert@k12.wa.us (360) 725-6400.
• Paraeducator Certificate Program: Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB): paraboard@k12.wa.us (360) 725-6275