1. Education:
* Bachelor's Degree: You'll need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. This degree doesn't necessarily have to be in education, but you'll need to complete a teacher preparation program.
* Teacher Preparation Program: This is crucial. Washington State requires you to complete a teacher preparation program that's approved by the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB). These programs typically include coursework in pedagogy, subject matter, and student teaching (student teaching is a critical component). Some programs are offered as add-ons to existing bachelor's degrees, while others are integrated into a five-year program leading to both a bachelor's and a master's degree. You can search for approved programs on the PESB website. The type of program you choose depends on your current degree and career goals (e.g., elementary, secondary, special education).
2. Passing Exams:
* Praxis Exams: You'll likely need to pass one or more Praxis exams, depending on your subject area and grade level. These tests assess your knowledge and skills in areas like reading, writing, mathematics, and subject-specific content. Check the PESB website for specific exam requirements for your chosen teaching field.
* Washington Educator Skills Tests (WEST-E): These tests assess your teaching skills and knowledge. Again, requirements vary based on your chosen area.
3. Background Check and Fingerprinting:
* A thorough background check and fingerprinting are required as part of the certification process. This is a standard procedure to ensure the safety of students.
4. Student Teaching:
* A successful student teaching experience is a mandatory part of most teacher preparation programs. This involves working under the supervision of a mentor teacher in a real classroom setting.
5. Application for Certification:
* Once you've completed your program, passed your exams, and undergone a background check, you'll apply for a Washington State teaching certificate through the PESB. The application process involves submitting various documents, including transcripts and test scores.
6. Types of Certificates:
* Washington offers various teaching certificates, depending on the grade level and subject you'll teach (e.g., elementary, secondary, special education, etc.). The PESB website details the different certificate types and their requirements.
7. Continuing Education:
* After receiving your initial certificate, you'll need to participate in ongoing professional development to maintain your certification.
Where to Find More Information:
The most reliable source of information is the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) website. They have comprehensive information on requirements, approved programs, exams, and the application process. Their website is your best resource for navigating the complexities of becoming a teacher in Washington State.
It's a rigorous process, but becoming a teacher in Washington is a rewarding career path. Start by researching approved teacher preparation programs in your area of interest and contacting the PESB directly with any questions.