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Certification Reciprocity Process for School Counselors in Washington
If you are an out-of-state candidate seeking school counselor certification in Washington, there are several avenues you can pursue (see Washington Admin Code). Here are the specific requirements for certification, application processes, background checks, documentation, and fees for each route:
Residency or Initial Certificates
Requirements:
- Completed State-Approved Program: You must have completed a state-approved preparation program in School Counseling, which includes a defined course of study and a supervised internship.
- Out-of-State Certification: If you hold or have held a certificate in School Counseling issued by another state and have practiced as a School Counselor at the Pk-12 level outside Washington for at least three years, you qualify.
- No Certificate State: If you hold an appropriate degree from an accredited college or university and have practiced as a School Counselor for three years in a state where such certification was not required, you qualify.
- National Certification: If you hold a valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential issued by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Application Process:
- Apply to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
- Provide documentation of your qualifications, including your out-of-state certificate, degree, and verification of experience.
- Pass the required testing as described in RCW 28A.410.220 and chapters 181-01 WAC and 181-02 WAC.
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check through the Washington state system.
Documentation:
- Completed application form.
- Official transcripts and proof of degree.
- Copy of out-of-state certification.
- Verification of employment/experience.
- Exam scores.
- Fingerprints for background check.
Fees:
- Application fee (check OSPI for the current fee).
- Fingerprint processing fee.
Professional Certificate
Requirements:
- Initial/Residency Certificate: You must first meet the requirements for an initial or residency certificate.
- Advanced Certification: Completion of an advanced level certification procedure approved by the Professional Educator Standards Board, or holding a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certificate in School Counseling.
Application Process:
- Apply through OSPI.
- Submit documentation of your advanced certification.
- Pass the required testing and complete training on issues of abuse or emotional or behavioral distress (WAC 181-79A-200).
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check.
Documentation:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of advanced certification.
- Verification of initial/residency certificate.
- Fingerprints for background check.
Fees:
- Application fee (check OSPI for the current fee).
- Fingerprint processing fee.
Military Servicemembers and Spouses
Requirements:
- Out-of-State Certification: Hold a valid certificate comparable to a residency, initial, or professional certificate.
- Military Status: Be a military servicemember or spouse of a military servicemember.
Application Process:
- Apply through OSPI.
- Submit proof of military status.
- Provide documentation of your out-of-state certification.
- Pass the required testing (assessment requirements may be considered met per chapters 181-01 WAC and 181-02 WAC).
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check.
Documentation:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of military status (e.g., military ID, orders).
- Copy of out-of-state certification.
- Fingerprints for background check.
Fees:
- Application fee (check OSPI for the current fee).
- Fingerprint processing fee.
Expedited Process:
- Under RCW 18.340.020, military spouses will receive expedited issuance of the appropriate certificate within 30 days of a completed application.
General Notes:
Background Checks:
- All candidates must submit fingerprints for a background check through the Washington state system. This can be done at an approved fingerprinting location.
Documentation:
- Ensure all documents are official and certified. Transcripts should be sent directly from the issuing institution if possible.
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
Fees:
- Fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the latest fee schedule on the OSPI website.
For detailed information and to begin your application, visit the OSPI Certification webpage.