For questions or suggestions regarding this web site please contact Diana Holz
Program Offerings
Paraeducator Certificate
The
Paraeducator Certificate prepares students for the occupation of
instructional assistant or Paraeducator in both public and private school
classrooms.
Based on the Washington State Paraeducator standards, the certificate provides students training needed to work as effective members of instructional teams. Core competencies covered in this program prepare Paraeducators to effectively support and extend instruction and services, thereby increasing student learning. These core competencies revolve around the areas of instructional strategies, behavior management, and human growth and development. The coursework is offered partially online as well as in the classroom, drawing on the expertise of local professionals and schools.
Application and Admission
Program application and admission are not required. Students can begin the program anytime, completing the requirements within three to four quarters.
Certificate Requirements
Students may select the Elementary Education Option or the Early Childhood Education (ECE) major. During the final quarter of the coursework, the student may apply for the Paraeducator Certificate.
Program of Study
Detailed information for Early Childhood Education - Paraeducator can be found here.
Course Descriptions
Detailed information on the courses for Early Childhood Education - Paraeducator can be found here.
WAC
Requiring Paraeducator Training Procedures
Washington State Core
Competencies For Paraeducators
Definitions:
a) awareness - knowing or realization; a simple recognition
b) knowledge - acknowledgement; familiarity; acquaintance with facts; being informed
c) understanding - having a clear perception of the meaning
d) ability - able to apply or demonstrate
To work in education and related service programs for children and youth, Paraeducators will demonstrate:
-
Understanding the values of providing instructional and other direct services to all children and youth, including youth with disabilities.
-
Understanding the roles and responsibilities of certificated/licensed staff and Paraeducators.
-
Knowledge of (a) patterns of human development and milestones typically achieved at different ages, and (b) risk factors that may prohibit or impede typical development.
-
Ability to practice ethical and professional standards of conduct, including the requirements of confidentiality.
-
Ability to communicate with colleagues, follow instructions, and use problem solving and other skills that will enable the Paraeducator to work as an effective member of the instructional team.
-
Ability to provide positive behavioral support and management.
-
Knowledge of the legal issues related to the education of children and youth with disabilities and their families.
-
Awareness of diversity among the children, youth, families, and colleagues with whom they work.
-
Knowledge and application of the elements of effective instruction to assist teaching and learning as developed by the certificated/licensed staff in a variety of settings.
-
Ability to utilize appropriate strategies and techniques to provide instructional support in teaching and learning as developed by the certificated/licensed staff.
-
Ability to motivate and assist children and youth.
-
Knowledge of and ability to follow health, safety, and emergency procedures of the agency where they are employed.
-
Awareness of the ways in which technology can assist teaching and learning.
-
Awareness of personal care and/or health related support.
WAC 392-172-200 concerning staff qualifications was adopted December 1, 1999 and goes into effect January 1, 2000. You can obtain a complete copy off the OSPI website.
For more
information on the Washington State Paraeducator Core Competencies contact
the State
Paraeducator Project.