Increased District Requirements for Paraeducators

teacher helping students using computers

The Legislature closed its 2022 session by increasing funding for the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) through the Paraeducator Certificate Program (ESSB 5693). Beginning in the 2022-23 school year, districts must increase their annual FCS paraeducator training from two days to four days (28 hours). As of September 1, 2022, seven of the 28 hours must be held in person.

The Legislature did not make any changes to the funding allocation and training requirements for the General Paraeducator Certificate. The requirement for this certificate will continue to be two days.