How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Washington

Elementary school teachers guide students through some of their most important years while helping them learn to read, work together, and engage with the world. If you’re ready to make that kind of impact in Washington, this blog will walk you through exactly what it takes. You’ll learn the requirements to become an elementary school teacher in Washington, the step-by-step process, and the fastest way to start leading your own classroom in the Evergreen State.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Washington

Becoming an elementary school teacher in Washington has the same requirements as becoming a teacher at any other level in the state, but with one notable difference. To teach elementary school specifically, you’ll need an elementary education endorsement, which means passing the Washington Educator Skills Test for Endorsements (WEST-E) or a content test designed for that grade range from the National Evaluation Series (NES). General certification, by contrast, can apply to any subject or grade level depending on the endorsement you choose.

To get more details about the process, check out our guide for how to become a teacher in Washington, which includes an in-depth look at requirements, certification pathways, tips to accelerate the process, and more.

What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in Washington?

Before you start the certification process, it helps to know the basic requirements. To teach elementary school in Washington, you’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. college or university. This degree does not have to be in education.
• To complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP).
• Passing scores on required assessments, including the WEST-B basic skills test and the WEST-E or NES content test for elementary education.
• A clear background check, including state and federal fingerprinting.
• An approved certification application submitted through Washington’s E-certification system, along with a processing fee.

You can earn an elementary education endorsement by completing an EPP and taking the necessary test, or just by taking the test if you have already finished your EPP.

Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Washington

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the path to earning your Washington elementary teaching certification, with a closer look at each requirement.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

All teachers in Washington must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. If your degree is in elementary education, you’re already on your way. If it’s in another field, you can still become a teacher by completing an alternative or graduate-level EPP.

2. Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

EPPs like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program give you the training, instructional knowledge, and classroom skills you need to teach.

3. Pass Required Exams

Washington requires two main assessments. The WEST-B measures basic skills in reading, writing, and math. The WEST-E (or the NES equivalent) tests your content knowledge in your endorsement area for elementary education. Be sure to check the latest requirements before you register for any test.

4. Complete Student Teaching

Hands-on experience is important to building your confidence as a teacher. Most elementary education undergraduate programs and EPPs like TEACH-NOW include a student teaching practicum. Also called clinical learning, this experience allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real classroom under the guidance of an experienced mentor.

5. Pass a Background Check

Washington requires all teacher certification candidates to submit fingerprints and clear state and federal background checks.

6. Apply for Your Teaching Certificate

Once you’ve met all the requirements, you’ll apply for your certificate through Washington’s E-certification system. You’ll submit official transcripts, exam scores, and background check results, along with an application fee.

It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path to teaching in Washington State. For more information, visit the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) website.

Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in Washington Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, you can absolutely become an elementary school teacher in Washington without a degree in education. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree in any subject, you can earn your certification by completing an EPP. This route is especially useful for people changing careers who want to bring their real-world experience into the classroom.

If you’re exploring this path, take a look at Moreland University’s Washington teacher certification program online guide. You’ll find details about why Washington is a rewarding place to teach and how you can earn your certification in as little as 9 months through the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program.

What Is the Fastest Way to Become an Elementary School Teacher?

If you have a bachelor’s degree in something other than education, the fastest way to become an elementary school teacher in Washington is through an accelerated EPP. While the traditional route typically takes 4 years, Moreland University’s 100% online TEACH-NOW program can be completed in as little as 9 months. With rolling admissions and monthly start dates, you can begin sooner and start leading a classroom of your own faster. Complete your free application in less than 15 minutes and start your certification journey today!