Teacher Certification that works for You.

ESD-U is becoming the premier provider of non-traditional teacher certification and professional development in southwest Washington and beyond. Our goal is to provide students in Washington with self-aware, culturally competent, diverse, talented and skilled teachers, to ensure their P-12 education is transformational and prepares them for full, active lives.

Whether you’re a paraeducator, emergency substitute, conditionally certified teacher or career changer, ESD-U can help with your journey.

ESD-U

Your path to becoming a teacher starts here.

Fundamental Course of Study (FCS)

The Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) is one of the core components of the paraeducator certificate program in Washington.

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Paraeducator & Explorer Program (PEP)

Are you interested in becoming a teacher but aren’t sure if it’s right for you? PEP will give you a glimpse into what ESD-U is all about without the commitment.

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Initial Teacher Certification Program

Have a Bachelor’s Degree and you’re interested in becoming a teacher? The ESD-U Alternative Route Teacher Certification Program can get you there in a year.

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Retooling & Adding an Endorsement

Complete an additional endorsement area when you are already employed as a teacher in a Washington school district.

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RETOOLING & ADDING AN ENDORSEMENT

Currently certified teachers adding an endorsement can view the 22-23 Application Link & Materials.

INITIAL TEACHER CERTIFICATION

Paraeducators, career changers, emergency substitutes & conditionally certified teachers can view the 22-23 Application Link & Materials.

NEW! PARAEDUCATOR & EXPLORER PROGRAM (PEP)

Refer to the PEP flier for general information. More details on what it is, who it’s for, and how to apply will be posted soon!

FUNDAMENTAL COURSE OF STUDY (FCS) SESSIONS FOR PARAEDUCATORS!

ESD-U and ESD 112 will be hosting FCS sessions. Refer to the FCS flier for details and register on pdEnroller.org.

IS ESD-U RIGHT FOR ME?

ESD-U candidates should possess the following:

KNOWLEDGE

KNOWLEDGE

Community and culture
Child development
Time management
Personal organization
Collaboration
Effective communication
Commitment

PASSION

PASSION

I want to make a difference in the life of a child

CAREER CHANGE

CAREER CHANGE

I have a bachelors' degree and I want to change careers.

GET MORE INFORMATION AND APPLY

Application Materials
Information Sessions
Mailing List Sign-Up

INTEREST SURVEY

Please fill out the ESD-U Interest Survey if you are interested in applying, or would like to be added to our email list to receive program updates.

Learn More & Apply

Sign up for one of our informational sessions or download application materials and submit your application.

Interest Survey

Complete the ESD-U Interest Survey if you are interested in applying or would like to be added to our email list to receive program updates.

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ESD 112