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Washington School Counselor Certification Renewal and Advancement
School Counselor Certification Renewal and Advancement in Washington State is a structured process designed to ensure that educational staff associates (ESAs) remain qualified and up-to-date in their field. This process encompasses various stages, including reissuing Residency ESA Certificates after initial service, renewing these certificates through professional development, and advancing to higher-tier Professional and Continuing ESA Certificates. Adhering to these requirements, which include completing clock hours, undertaking specific training courses, and undergoing background checks, is essential for maintaining certification and continuing to provide high-quality guidance and support to students (see Reissue and Renewal Overview).
Reissue of Residency ESA Certificate
The reissued certificate is valid for five years. Follow below to learn of the requirements for reissuance of the ESA Certificate.
Requirements:
Experience:
Candidates need to complete two years of service in the role specific to the certificate in Washington.
Alternatively, if you hold a Residency ESA Certificate with a five-year expiration date but did not complete two consecutive years of successful service, you may return for a third year to qualify for re-issuance.
Background Check:
Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required if a valid certificate is not already on record.
Notes:
- Any time served in the role within a single school year counts as a full year for re-issuance purposes.
- Once reissued with an expiration date, the certificate is valid for five years, regardless of when the application is submitted.
Renewal of 5-Year Residency ESA Certificate
First 5-Year Renewal Requirements
Professional Development:
Complete 100 clock hours, equivalent college credits, Professional Growth Plans (PGPs), or a combination of these options within the five years preceding the renewal application date.
Alternatively, hold a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certificate, Certificate of Clinical Competence (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association), or Nationally Certified School Psychologist credential (National Association of School Psychologists).
Issues of Abuse Course:
Complete a course on the identification of physical, emotional, sexual, and substance abuse, its impact on learning and behavior, reporting responsibilities, and prevention methods.
Enter the course information into the ‘PD Hours’ section of your E-Certification account before applying.
Suicide Prevention Training:
Complete PESB-approved suicide prevention training within the five years preceding the application. Submit Suicide Prevention Training Form 4020S to Professional Certification.
Background Check:
Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required if a valid certificate is not already on record.
Renewal of Expired Residency ESA Certificate and Professional ESA Certificate
Requirements
Professional Development:
Complete 100 clock hours or equivalents within the five years immediately preceding the application date.
Alternatively, hold a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certificate, Certificate of Clinical Competence, or Nationally Certified School Psychologist credential.
Suicide Prevention Training:
Complete PESB-approved suicide prevention training within the five years preceding the application. Submit Suicide Prevention Training Form 4020S to Professional Certification.
Background Check:
Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required if a valid certificate is not already on record.
Documentation:
- Submit Form 1128-8 to document the completion of a Professional Growth Plan.
- Use Form 4098V for continuing education units (CEUs) if applicable.
Notes:
- Clock hour equivalents: 1 quarter credit = 10 clock hours; 1 semester credit = 15 clock hours; 1 PGP until 6-30-18 = 30 clock hours; 1 PGP as of 7-1-18 = 25 clock hours.
Conditional Certificate Upgrading
Candidates will need to fulfill any additional educational or professional development requirements as specified by the Professional Educator Standards Board.
Applicants can apply through the E-Certification system with all required documentation.
Submission of fingerprints for a background check is also required.
Fees:
- Application fees ($81) are non-refundable. Ensure correct application submission.
Additional Notes: