How to Become a Math Teacher in Washington State

Becoming a math teacher in Washington is a rewarding career path for individuals passionate about education, problem-solving, and shaping young minds. Whether you plan to teach middle school algebra or high school calculus, Washington State has clear—but sometimes confusing—licensure and testing requirements.

This guide explains how to become a math teacher in Washington, including certification pathways, required exams, endorsements, and practical preparation tips. It’s written for aspiring educators who want clarity, confidence, and a step-by-step understanding of the process.

Overview: Becoming a Math Teacher in Washington

To teach math in Washington public schools, you must earn a Washington State teaching certificate with a math endorsement. The process is overseen by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and typically includes:

• A bachelor’s degree

• Completion of a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

• Passing required basic skills and content exams

• Student teaching experience

• Application for a teaching certificate

Unlike many states, Washington does not currently require Praxis exams for licensure. Instead, it uses state-specific exams. However, many candidates preparing through national test-prep platforms (including Praxis-focused resources) benefit from similar content knowledge and test-taking strategies.

Certification Pathways for Math Teachers in Washington

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Your major does not always need to be math, but strong coursework in mathematics is essential.

2. Complete a Washington Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

An EPP prepares you for classroom teaching and includes:

• Pedagogy and instructional methods

• Classroom management

• Math-specific teaching strategies

• Supervised student teaching in Washington schools

Programs may be undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or master’s level.

3. Pass Required Exams

Washington uses NES (National Evaluation Series) exams rather than Praxis.

• Basic Skills: NES Basic Skills Test (replaced WEST-B)

• Content Knowledge: NES Math endorsement exams (replaced WEST-E)

While Praxis exams are not required in Washington, candidates familiar with Praxis Core Math and Praxis Mathematics Subject Assessments often find overlap in tested concepts such as algebra, geometry, statistics, and problem-solving.

4. Apply for a Residency Teacher Certificate

After completing your EPP and exams, you apply for the Residency Teacher Certificate, which allows you to teach full-time in Washington schools.

5. Advance to a Professional Teacher Certificate

After several years of successful teaching and professional growth, you may upgrade to a Professional Teacher Certificate.

Math Endorsements in Washington State

Your endorsement determines what grade levels and math subjects you can teach.

Common math-related endorsements include:

• Mathematics (Middle Level / Secondary)

• Elementary Education (with math instruction at the elementary level)

Endorsement requirements include:

• Specific math coursework

• Passing the relevant NES math exam

Exam Structure and Content (What to Expect)

Although Washington uses NES exams, the structure is similar to many Praxis math assessments.

Question Types

• Selected-response (multiple choice)

• Constructed-response (short or extended answers, depending on the exam)

Core Content Areas

Math endorsement exams typically assess:

• Algebra & Functions

• Geometry & Trigonometry

• Statistics & Probability

• Calculus (for secondary-level math)

• Mathematical reasoning and problem-solving

Strong conceptual understanding matters just as much as computation.

Scoring and Passing Requirements

• Passing scores are set by OSPI and may vary by exam.

• Scores are reported after testing and sent to the state for certification review.

• If you do not pass on your first attempt, retakes are allowed after the required waiting period.

Avoid focusing solely on raw scores—aim for mastery of the tested concepts, which is key to long-term classroom success.

How to Prepare Effectively for Math Teacher Exams

1. Review the Test Framework

Start by identifying the exact math domains covered. Use this as a checklist for your study plan.

2. Strengthen Core Math Skills

Focus on:

• Algebraic manipulation

• Functions and graphs

• Geometry proofs and formulas

• Data interpretation

If you’re using Praxis-style prep materials, prioritize conceptual explanations, not memorization.

3. Practice Under Timed Conditions

Timed practice helps reduce anxiety and improves pacing—especially for multi-step problems.

4. Analyze Mistakes

Each incorrect answer is a learning opportunity. Identify whether errors come from:

• Misreading the question

• Content gaps

• Time pressure

5. Balance Content and Pedagogy

Remember: math teachers are tested not only on math, but also on how students learn math.

Test-Day Strategies for Success

• Get adequate rest the night before

• Arrive early with required identification

• Read each question carefully—watch for qualifiers like most appropriate or best explanation

• Skip difficult questions and return later

• Manage your time evenly across sections

Confidence comes from preparation, not perfection.

Teaching Math in Washington: Career Outlook

Washington continues to experience demand for qualified math teachers, particularly at the middle and high school levels.

Washington math teacher salaries vary by district, experience, and education level, but math teachers often benefit from:

• Strong job stability

• Opportunities for advancement

• Competitive benefits packages

Frequently Asked Questions

Do math teachers need certification in Washington?

Yes. All public school math teachers must hold a valid Washington teaching certificate with the appropriate math endorsement.

What grade levels can math teachers teach in Washington?

This depends on your endorsement. Elementary teachers teach foundational math, while secondary math endorsements allow teaching middle and high school math.

Is there a math teacher shortage in Washington state?

Many districts report ongoing demand for qualified math teachers, especially in secondary education.

Can I become a math teacher in Washington with a bachelor’s degree?

Yes. A bachelor’s degree is required, but you must also complete an approved educator preparation program and pass required exams.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to become a math teacher in Washington state may feel overwhelming at first—but with the right preparation and a clear plan, it’s entirely achievable. Focus on mastering math concepts, understanding state requirements, and preparing strategically for exams.

Every step you take brings you closer to a meaningful career helping students build confidence in math—and in themselves.