Subject Matter Certificate

Subject matter certificates are for paraeducators who wish to further their skills in English Language Learner (ELL) or special education instruction. These certificates are optional and are not requirements.

To earn a subject matter certificate, a paraeducator must complete 20 hours of professional development in the subject area of the certificate. The certificate expires after five years and it is not a prerequisite to work in any program. A paraeducator can only earn a subject matter certificate if they have completed their FCS training. A paraeducator may allocate completed subject matter certificate hours towards their general certificate hours. Note! Each course is 20 hours -- the modules are time-driven -- clock hour credit will only be awarded based upon time spent in the training program. A paraeducator may complete both Subject Matter Certificate programs (value 40 clock hours).

If the paraeducator does not apply for the Subject Matter Certificate and it is embedded in the General Certificate training hours, then the paraeducator does not need to re-do the Subject Matter training program -- it only becomes invalid if they apply and obtain for the specific subject matter certificate through OSPI.

Link to Subject Matter Certificate program under Online Learning (scroll down the page to locate the two programs).

The subject matter certificates have specific standards, learning objectives and course outlines that must be met to receive the certificate. (See links below)

ELL Certificate

Special Education Certificate

Upon completion of the certificate program(s), paraeducator must complete and sign the (link) Subject Matter Certificate Clock Hour form and submit a COPY to the personnel office (retain original).

Next steps?

  1. Document completion of clock hours in EDS/eCert

  2. Apply for Subject Matter Certificate through EDS/eCert (cost $54 for each subject matter certificate) -- the certificate expires after FIVE years.