The Professional Educator Standards Board (materials) and Paraeducator Board (materials) met last week, in SeaTac, WA. Below is a summary of the discussion and action items the Boards considered at the March 2026 Board meeting.

AGENCY UPDATES

Executive Director Search Advisory Committee Update (TAB A)

The Boards jointly passed motion language approving the Executive Director job description. The job posting is now published and closes on April 23. Screening and committee interviews will follow, with the Board conducting the finalist interviews and making the selection. The new Executive Director will likely be in place by September.

Legislative Update (TAB B)

Staff provided updates on the 2026 Legislative session, highlighting next steps needed for bill implementation. Discussion of the next biennium and the 2027 session will come at the next Board meeting.

RWT & BEI Update (TAB C)

Recruiting Washington Teachers and the Bilingual Educator Initiative updates were tabled and will be presented at a later date.

PARAEDUCATOR BOARD

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Overview of Chapter 28A.413 RCW: Paraeducators (TAB 02)

Staff provided an overview of this RCW chapter, highlighting elements that are nearing a decade old and tightly tied to workgroup recommendations from 2014. Paraeducator Board members indicated interest in moving forward with agency request legislation to amend sections of RCW 28A.413 as well as designating a seat on the PESB Board for a Paraeducator Board member.

Paraeducator Project Update (TAB 03)

The Paraeducator Board heard an update on major initiatives for paraeducators. Collectively, these projects aim to reduce cost and barriers, improve learning quality and relevance, and strengthen career pathways. Project leads will provide further updates at the next meeting.

Grow Your Own (GYO) Paraeducator Pilot Project (TAB 04)

The Educator Workforce team has partnered with ESD 105 to explore teacher academies and paraeducator pathways. ESD staff and participating students provided an update on the project’s status and key learnings thus far.

General Paraeducator Standards of Practice: Domain 1 (TAB 05)

This agenda item was tabled to be presented at a future board meeting.

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR STANDARDS BOARD

ACTION ITEMS

Initial Consideration of WAC 181-78A-105: Procedures for Initial Approval of an Educator Preparation Program (TAB 03)

The Board approved the initial WAC language. PESB staff will bring final WAC language in their final consideration tab scheduled for May.

Initial Consideration of Data Collection Manual (TAB 07)

PESB and ERDC staff presented the proposed changes for the 2026 data manual for educator preparation program (EPP) data collection. Staff will finalize the data manual, preparing it for final distribution to EPPs after the final votes in May.

Initial Consideration HB 1296: Superintendent Willful Noncompliance (TAB 10)

The Board initially approved amendments to WAC 181-87 and to establish WAC 181-90, regarding superintendent willful noncompliance and acts of unprofessional conduct.

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Proposed Teacher Preparation Pathways WAC 181-101, 102, and 103 (TAB 02)

An update on the rulemaking work in response to ESHB 1651, which is the bill that defines residency and apprenticeship teacher preparation programs. PESB staff will respond to the board’s questions and concerns around proposed mentor teacher WAC through another discussion/presentation tab in May.

Updating Endorsement Names (TAB 04)

Presented the need to update endorsement names in WAC 181-82A-202. Initial consideration of WAC changes will be brought forward at the May meeting.

Endorsement Review Options (TAB 05)

Staff engaged the Board in a discussion surrounding possible options for endorsement review. Staff will bring back detailed options in the fall.

Models of Limited Approval (TAB 06)

A continued discussion from November, review staff will begin orienting EPPs around the new self-study/action plans and updated Board guidance resources. Staff will consider Board members’ feedback regarding metrics, and adjust future tab materials as necessary.

Key Performance Indicators for Teacher and Principal Preparation Programs (TAB 08)

PESB and ERDC staff provided an update on the key performance indicators, which are used for teacher and principal preparation program review. PESB staff will conduct some follow-up research and prepare options for final voting by the Board in May.

Educational Interpreter Certification (TAB 09)

Staff presented the work done toward establishing certification for educational interpreters for the Deaf and Deaf-Blind. Initial consideration for WAC language will be presented in May.

Update: Case-by-Case Exception Process for Content Knowledge Assessment (TAB 11)

Presented the case-by-case exception process for content knowledge assessment, including findings from recent surveys and meetings with past teacher candidates, faculty, and educator preparation programs. PESB staff will continue to gather information from outside partners and outline possible CBC guidance 2.0 for Board discussion and consideration.

The Professional Educator Standards Board and Paraeducator Board are seeking a new Executive Director. The Boards jointly passed motion language approving the job description at last week’s Board meeting.

The posting is now live, and closes April 23, 2026

Executive Director 

Those interested in this position must apply through Careers.wa.gov. Applications must include the following documents in MS Word and PDF format only:

• A letter of interest specifically addressing the qualifications listed in this announcement.
• A current resume
• A list of three or more professional references.

Please address any questions to:

Sal Salazar, Human Resources

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
600 Washington Street Southeast
Olympia, Washington 98504-7200

360-725-6278: sal.salazar@k12.wa.us

The Professional Educator Standards Board is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from job seekers who will contribute to our diversity. PESB provides equal access to all programs and services without discrimination based on sex, race, creed, religion, color national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may contact the

Human Resources Office at 360-725-6271 or hroffice@k12.wa.us.

Closing date: April 23, 2026

The Professional Educator Standards Board (materials) and Paraeducator Board (materials) met last week in Tacoma, WA. Below is a summary of the discussion and action items the Boards considered at the November Board meeting.

AGENCY UPDATES

25th Anniversary

The Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) celebrated 25 years of service to Washington State. This dual board-led agency has had a significant mission: to enhance educator quality. Over the past 25 years, the Board has obtained rulemaking authority, provided oversight for professional education, managed workforce development initiatives, and approved and regulated all preparation programs. Our vision remains steadfast as we continue this vital work: to strengthen the educator workforce by implementing initiatives that address shortages, reduce barriers in the profession, and increase workforce diversity.

Thank you to all who celebrated with us! A special thanks to Senator Wellman and Representative Santos for your presence and your thoughtful and inspiring remarks. An additional thank you to Larry Delaney (President, WEA) for sending in video remarks on PESB’s and WEA’s historical and ongoing collaboration.

Paraeducator Board and PESB legislative agenda update

Both Boards received an update on the plans for the upcoming 2026 legislative session, as well as an overview of the Hill Climb scheduled for January.

 

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR STANDARDS BOARD

ACTION ITEMS

Clark College teacher program initial review report (TAB 02)

The Board voted to give full approval to Clark College’s Teacher Program, after a presentation from staff on the initial review report. Congratulations to Clark College.

Literacy endorsement (TAB 04)

The Board gave final approval to the new Literacy endorsement competencies. A new assessment will be developed in 2026. Agency staff will present a webinar to the field at that time on the new aspects of the endorsement.

Assessment update and FLEX standard setting (TAB 09)

The Board reviewed requirements for the FLEX as a multiple-measure option and set the Standard Error of Measurement at -1. FLEX will be available in January 2026.

 

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Developing a model of limited approval (TAB 03)

PESB staff provided a second, further-developed presentation of potential models for limited approval for EPPs undergoing ongoing site visit reviews. Staff will take feedback from the Board to develop future tabs on models of limited approval and review results metrics.

PESB review staff: five-year plan (TAB 05)

PESB staff presented the work of the review staff that is slated for the next five years. More details are available in the Board materials.

Clock hour system data review (TAB 06)

The Board appreciated seeing the history and evolution of the clock hour system and data.

Indicator-based program review (IBPR) program results 2021-2024 (TAB 07)

Staff provided an update on the results of the Indicator-based Program Review for the last three years. Board members requested a stronger data system flag, recalculation of the assessment and hiring indicators, and further research and a report back on a PEAB compliance indicator.

Update: Alternative Routes Block Grant (TAB 08)

Staff presented an update on the 2025-26 implementation of the Alternative Routes Block Grant (ARBG), the findings from the 2024-25 annual ARBG program survey, and introduced the Developing Educator Workforce Grant.

Update on SB 5025: educational interpreter certification (TAB 10)

PESB staff provided an update on Senate Bill 5025, which directs the creation of certification for educational interpreters for the deaf and deaf-blind. The Board learned about the educational interpreter role, the EIPA performances assessment, a review of previous workgroup work, and discussed next steps for staff moving forward.

PARAEDUCATOR BOARD

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Update: Form Package 918 paraeducator training reimbursement (TAB 02)

Staff provided an update regarding preliminary data showing which Districts were reimbursed for the Paraeducator Training Program. Final data and survey results analysis will be provided at the January meeting.

Eligibility for reimbursement – Paraeducator Training Program (TAB 03)

The Board and staff discussed the definition of paraeducator, and specifically which paraeducator-labeled roles are eligible for reimbursement. Clarification to the nuances and clarifications raised will be provided to the Board, and then the field, in the coming months.

Update: Paraeducator Assessment (TAB 04)

The Board received a summary of the progress on staff efforts in developing a paraeducator assessment, including beginning on technology tools for administering and hosting, question review, and pilot development. Regular updates will be scheduled at future Board meetings.

Paraeducator Training Program (PTP): General Certificate overview (TAB 05)

Board and staff reviewed the standards of practice and discussed creating a draft ‘career pathways for paraeducators’ communications effort for the field.

This is a reminder that if your district is attempting to receive the Paraeducator Training Reimbursement funds in the September apportionment (optional early submission), districts must submit the FP 918 by 11:59 p.m. this Friday, August 29, 2025.

Thank you to the 59 school districts that have submitted early!

For the remaining districts, all reimbursement submissions must be completed by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. The applicable funds will be included in the October apportionment. Please reach out if your district may require an extension.

If your district is not claiming reimbursement, it must signify that in its submission – which is still required.

For information on how to submit, who in your district is the primary contact for FP 918, or other resources, visit our Paraeducator Training Reimbursement webpage.

 

The Paraeducator Board and the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) met virtually last week, on July 23 and 24, respectively. Below is a summary of the discussion and action items the Boards considered. For more information about the meetings, visit the Board Meeting webpage or contact PESB@k12.wa.us.

AGENCY UPDATES

Agency Budget and Legislative Agenda

The Boards received an update on the agency’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 (FY26). Members asked clarifying questions about the proposed budget. In September 2025, the Boards will have an opportunity to finalize the agency’s FY26 budget (Tab 02 (Paraboard) and Tab 02 (PESB)).

The Boards also engaged in a discussion regarding plans for the upcoming 2026 legislative session. Members heard about one (1) policy proposal and two (2) budget requests that the agency may submit to the Governor’s Office and Legislature. This includes:

• Policy proposal to amend approval processes to streamline PESB’s oversight of programs.
• Funding request to support interstate teacher mobility compact implementation.
• Funding request to support administrative needs of the agency.

Both Boards indicated support for the agenda items. Staff will move forward with preparing the decision packages and request legislation in consultation with the Joint Legislative Committee (Tab 09 (Paraboard) and Tab 11 (PESB)).

Boards’ Bylaws and Executive Committee

Both Boards reviewed their respective bylaws and elected their executive committee members for the coming year. The PESB indicated an interest in convening a small group to plan for a joint Board retreat. The Board elected the following members to sit on the executive committee: Adam Aguilera, Alejandro Castro-Wilson, Amy Campbell, and Dr. Nicole Talbert (Tabs 12 and 13).

Similarly, the Paraboard reviewed their bylaws; members shared that they would like to prioritize an annual retreat and in-person relationship building among members. The board elected the following members to sit on the executive committee: Pamella Johnson, Doug Pace, and Lindsay Lightner. The Board will hold a vote in the coming months to select a designated vice-chair (Tabs 07 and 08).

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR STANDARDS BOARD

ACTION ITEMS

Peninsula College: Full Proposal to Offer a Residency Teacher Program

The Board approved Peninsula College to offer a teacher preparation program. They plan to begin instruction in fall 2025 (Tab 03).

Potential Pause to Implement Approval Process and Forms Revisions

The Board decided that there would be no pause on processing new readiness profiles for EPPs. The current pause on accepting new NOI’s from teacher preparation programs expires August 31, 2025. Staff will continue to work with the Board sub-committee on revising the approval process and the approval forms (Tab 04) .

Initial Consideration: Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) Review (WAC 181-78A-100)

The Board approved the amendments to WAC 181-78A-100, aligning C&I WAC language with other role standard WAC language. Staff will submit final WAC amendment paperwork, continuing to reflect this information in program orientations (Tab 05).

Final Consideration: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) Standards Update (WAC 181-78A-225)

The Board approved the amendments to WAC 181-78A-225, updating the WAC requirements for school counseling programs to align with the new 2024 CACREP standards. Staff will submit final WAC amendment paperwork, communicating this to programs (Tab 06).

Final Consideration: Activity-based clock hour equivalents for review teams and Professional Educator Advisory Boards (PEABs) (WAC 181-85-033)

The Board approved the amendments to WAC 181-85-033, providing clock hour equivalents for review team members (25) and PEAB members (10). Staff will submit final WAC amendment paperwork and will communicate this to programs and review team members, including past participants (Tab 07).

Initial Consideration: Clock Hour Policy Clean-Up (WAC 181-85)

The Board initially approved amendments to WAC 181-85 to clarify and continue aligning WAC language with 2ESHB 1377 (2024) regarding the clock hour system and continuing education for educators (Tab 10).

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Update on E4SHB 1239: Ethics Report and Recommendations

The Board heard from staff about a report due to the Legislature in September 2025. In 2024, the PESB and the Paraboard were directed to develop a legislative report discussing activities and recommendations regarding an educator code of ethics (E4SHB 1239, 2024). Staff provided an overview of this report to the Board, including the early recommendations of partner and stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with state goals and legislative intent. Members will have the opportunity to view and approve the final report in September 2025 (Tab 08 (PESB) and Tab 06 (Paraboard)).

* The Paraeducator Board also received the same presentation separately. Paraboard members requested that staff prioritize meeting with stakeholders and partners, including labor groups and others, to discuss the report and finalize the report’s recommendations.

Endorsement Competencies: History and Review Process

Staff provided an update on current efforts and future plans to update endorsement competencies, beginning with literacy-related endorsements. The Board provided feedback to staff, suggesting that PESB review a combination of “Test Only” and “Program+Test” endorsements each year. The Board also suggested considering programs that offer multiple endorsements, particularly how they may be affected by having multiple endorsements to update simultaneously, as the Board makes updates (Tab 09).

PARAEDUCATOR BOARD

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) District Guidance

The Paraboard reviewed the “Fundamental Course of Study: Best Practice Implementation Guide” prepared by staff. The Board was directed by the Legislature to develop guidance for districts to support the implementation of the Fundamental Course of Study to ensure the consistency and quality of paraeducator development (ESHB 1277, 2024). Members provided feedback to staff on the guidance to ensure it reflects the needs of all paraeducators and that the information is conveyed clearly to the intended audiences. The Board also expressed interest in adding a ‘note from the Paraboard’ as a part of the materials (Tab 03).

Exemptions From the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) In-Person Requirement and Equivalency Protocol

Staff provided a presentation detailing proposed plans to allow exemptions from the in-person FCS training requirement for paraeducators hired after the beginning of the school year within small districts (defined in RCW as districts with fewer than 2000 enrolled students), geographic isolation, public health emergencies, facility constraints, staffing shortages, and personal emergencies/leave (Tab 04).

Updating Paraeducator Training Materials: Request for Proposal (RFP)

The Board received a presentation on a request for proposal (RFP) to identify a provider(s) to update paraeducator training materials and modules. The intent is that the updating and refining of these materials will allow for greater access to quality and consistent professional learning for all paraeducators in the state, while also allowing for greater ease of implementation for those administering paraeducator training. The Board will receive a follow-up presentation about this RFP process in September 2025 (Tab 05).

Agency staff of the Paraeducator Board published an updated Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) Implementation Guide. In this helpful best-practices information, you can find:

• What is the district’s responsibility?
• Training requirements and timelines
• Recommended resources and more

The Paraeductor Board will review this initial update at its July Board meeting, and a final version with any updates will be sent out by the end of the month.

Provided at the top of the guide is the ‘updated version date’ for reference.

 

For questions about the FCS Implementation Guide, please contact:

Dr. K.O. Wilson at ko.wilson@k12.wa.us

Newly added language proficiency assessments

The Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) approved adding Avant and ALTA assessments to the list of accepted language proficiency assessments. Now, in addition to ACTFL, these assessments meet requirements for candidates seeking to add Designated World Languages or Bilingual Education endorsements. The Board also recently updated the passing score on the ACTFL.

The following memo has information on these new assessment options, the associated passing scores, and how Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) can offer these new assessments to candidates.

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENTS

Below is a summary of acceptable language proficiency assessments and passing scores:

Avant

Any of the following Assessments	Passing Score
STAMP 3S	7 or higher on all sections
STAMP 4S	7 or higher on all sections
APT (Arabic Proficiency Assessment)	7 or higher on all sections
STAMP WS	7 or higher on both parts

ALTA

All of the following Assessments	Passing Score
Speaking and Listening (IVR or Online)	ILR Score of 2 or higher
Online Writing	ILR Score of 2 or higher

 

ACTFL 

All of the following Assessments	Passing Score
Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI)	Advanced-Low
Writing Proficiency Test (WPT)	Advanced-Low

HOW TO SET UP AN ACCOUNT WITH AVANT AND/OR ALTA TO OFFER ASSESSMENTS TO CANDIDATES

Several Washington IHEs already have accounts set up with Avant and ALTA.  Institutions that do not have an account with Avant or ALTA can establish accounts with Avant and/or ALTA, and make these assessments available to teacher candidates enrolled in their programs.

If your IHE has an account with Avant or ALTA and will allow individuals who are not students with the IHE to register for these assessments, please contact Jason Profit at PESB at jason.profit@k12.wa.us. Jason is interested in publishing a list of IHEs that current educators or out-of-state educators could utilize if they need to demonstrate language proficiency for either of these endorsements.

Avant
STAMP Getting Started	Website to begin getting Avant set up at your IHE
Avant.WA.HE@avantassessment.com	Email for any questions from an IHE
Digital Badge	For individuals who are not connected with an IHE

 

ALTA
New Account Setup	Website to set up an account with ALTA
Portal Demo Video	Demonstration of Portal Access

QUESTIONS?

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

The Professional Educator Standards Board at PESB@k12.wa.us

Jason Profit at jason.profit@k12.wa.us