How to Become an English Teacher in Washington

Becoming an English teacher in Washington State is a rewarding career path—but the certification process can feel overwhelming if you’re new to Praxis exams, state licensure rules, or educator preparation programs. Whether your goal is to teach middle school ELA or become a high school English teacher in Washington, this guide breaks everything down clearly and calmly.

Below, you’ll find a complete, beginner-friendly overview of how to become an English teacher in Washington, including required exams, endorsements, preparation programs, and practical study strategies to help you pass on your first attempt.

Washington’s Teacher Certification System

Washington State’s teacher certification process is managed by the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Unlike some states with a single pathway, Washington offers multiple routes to certification, recognizing that aspiring teachers come from diverse educational and professional backgrounds.

The state issues several types of certificates, but most beginning teachers pursue either a Residency Teacher Certificate or a Professional Certificate. Your specific pathway depends on your educational background, previous teaching experience, and whether you complete a traditional or alternative preparation program.

Washington requires all teachers to hold subject-specific endorsements that define what grades and subjects they’re qualified to teach. For English teachers, the most common endorsements are English Language Arts (ELA) for middle and high school levels, though some positions may require additional endorsements in reading or English as a Second Language (ESL).

Washington Teaching Certificates

• Residency Teacher Certificate: Your initial certificate, valid for three years. Issued upon completing the preparation program and passing all required assessments. You’ll need employment verification and professional development to advance.
• Professional Certificate: The standard renewable teaching certificate, valid for five years. Requires successful completion of three years of teaching and mentor verification. Renewable indefinitely with continuing education.
• National Board Certified Teacher: Advanced voluntary certification demonstrating accomplished teaching practice. Provides significant salary benefits in Washington and professional recognition.

English Teacher Certification in Washington

Washington teacher certification is regulated by two key bodies:

• PESB (Professional Educator Standards Board) – Sets preparation and endorsement requirements
• OSPI (Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction) – Issues teaching certificates

To teach English Language Arts (ELA) in Washington, you must earn a Residency Teacher Certificate with an English Language Arts endorsement.

This process applies to:

• Aspiring K–12 English teachers
• Career changers entering education
• Out-of-state teachers seeking Washington licensure

Step-by-Step: How to Become an English Teacher in Washington

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Preferred majors include English, English Education, or Language Arts. If your degree is in another field, you can still pursue certification by completing a post-baccalaureate program or a Master’s in Teaching (MIT) degree.

Common majors include:

• English
• English Education
• Secondary Education (with ELA focus)

A degree specifically in education is not always required, but you must complete an approved teacher preparation pathway.

Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program

Washington requires completion of a PESB-approved teacher preparation program, which includes:

• Pedagogical coursework
• Classroom management training
• Supervised student teaching in Washington

These programs are offered through universities and approved alternative certification routes.

Washington state programs combine coursework, classroom observation, and student teaching. Alternative routes exist for candidates holding bachelor’s degrees looking to switch careers.

Pass the Required Exams

To qualify for English teacher certification in Washington, you must pass specific assessments:

• WEST-B or Praxis Core

Measures foundational academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Some candidates may qualify for a waiver based on GPA or standardized test scores.

• Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038)

Assesses subject-area knowledge required to teach English in grades 6–12, including literature, writing, language, and rhetoric.

Most English teachers in Washington must pass specific Praxis assessments, depending on grade level and program route.

Common Praxis Exams for English Teachers:

• Praxis Core Academic Skills (Reading, Writing, Math): Often waived if you meet GPA or SAT/ACT benchmarks

• Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge: Required for ELA endorsement

Apply for a Residency Teaching Certificate

After completing your preparation program and passing all required exams, you’ll apply for a Residency Teacher Certificate through the Washington OSPI E-Certification system. This certificate allows you to begin teaching in Washington public schools.

Complete Background and Fingerprint Checks

All candidates must undergo state and federal background checks, including fingerprinting, to ensure student safety and professional suitability.

Begin Teaching and Pursue Professional Certification

Once certified, you can begin teaching as an English teacher in Washington. After gaining classroom experience and completing additional professional development and evaluations, you may advance to a Professional Teaching Certificate, which represents Washington’s highest standard of educator licensure.

Praxis English Exam Overview (ELA Content Knowledge)

The Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge exam assesses whether you have the subject-matter knowledge needed to teach ELA effectively.

Who Needs This Exam?

• Aspiring middle school or high school English teachers
• Candidates seeking an English endorsement in Washington

Exam Format & Structure

While exact details can change, the exam generally includes:

• Selected-response (multiple-choice) questions
• Constructed-response (short essay) questions
• Computer-delivered format
• Single testing session

The exam is designed to evaluate both content mastery and analytical thinking—skills essential for teaching English in Washington classrooms.

Core Content Areas Tested

You can expect questions from the following major categories:

1. Reading & Literary Analysis

• Fiction, poetry, drama, and nonfiction
• Literary devices, themes, and structure
• Close reading and interpretation

2. Language, Linguistics & Vocabulary

• Grammar and syntax
• Language acquisition
• Word meaning and usage in context

3. Writing & Composition

• Rhetorical strategies
• Argument development
• Revision and editing skills

4. Research & Media Literacy

• Evaluating sources
• Integrating evidence
• Understanding informational texts

For a deeper breakdown, review the Praxis English exam guide available on prepsaret.com.

Scoring and Passing Requirements in Washington

Praxis exams are scored on a scaled system set by the testing authority.

• Washington establishes state-specific passing scores
• Scores are sent directly to OSPI and your preparation program
• Unofficial scores may be available immediately after testing

Important: Always confirm current passing requirements through your preparation program or OSPI, as policies can change.

Study & Preparation Tips for Praxis Success

Preparing effectively is the best way to reduce exam anxiety and improve your chances of passing on the first try.

Proven Study Strategies

• Start early (6–8 weeks is ideal)
• Review the official test content categories
• Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions
• Focus on weak areas instead of rereading everything
• Practice constructed responses with outlines and timed writing

Using structured study plans and realistic practice exams—like those available on prepsaret.com—can dramatically improve confidence and performance.

Test-Day Strategies to Stay Calm and Focused

• Get a good night’s sleep before the exam
• Arrive early with a valid ID
• Read each question carefully—especially literary passages
• Manage time wisely; don’t linger too long on one question
• For essays, plan briefly before writing

Remember: the exam tests competency, not perfection.

Student Teaching in Washington

Student teaching is a required part of certification and typically lasts:

• One full academic term
• In a Washington-approved school
• Under the supervision of a licensed mentor teacher

This hands-on experience is essential for classroom readiness and licensure approval.

Alternative Teaching Certification in Washington

Career Changers and Non-Traditional Candidates

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in English or another field, alternative certification routes offer faster pathways:

• Teacher Preparation Scholarship Program (TPSP): Conditional scholarship program for high-need subject areas. Recipients commit to teaching in Washington for specified years.
• Alternative Route Programs: Accelerated programs allowing you to teach while completing certification requirements. You’ll receive provisional certification, attend summer institutes, and work with mentor teachers.
• Post-Baccalaureate Programs: University programs designed for career changers, typically 12-18 months, including student teaching. These compressed education coursework without requiring a second bachelor’s degree.

Teaching Without Full Certification

Washington offers limited options for teaching before completing full certification:

• Conditional Certificates: Available in shortage areas with a bachelor’s degree and passing the basic skills exam. Valid for one year while you complete preparation requirements. English is sometimes designated as a shortage area in specific districts.
• Emergency Substitute Permits: Allow short-term substitute teaching with a bachelor’s degree but not full certification. These don’t lead to regular certification but provide classroom experience.
• Private School Teaching: Private schools in Washington aren’t required to hire certified teachers, though many prefer or require certification. This can provide teaching experience while completing certification requirements.

These routes still require:

• Content-area exams (such as Praxis English)
• Supervised teaching experience
• Completion of state standards

Teaching License Reciprocity (Out-of-State Teachers)

Washington participates in interstate reciprocity, meaning licensed teachers from other states may qualify for certification, recognizing state-approved programs if they meet or exceed WA requirements, often through a NASDTEC agreement, potentially involving a probationary license, background checks, and specific coursework like an abuse course, with details handled by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

You’ll generally need to meet basic skills/content tests (possibly using other states’ scores), apply via OSPI, and complete a fingerprint background check for a full Professional Certificate.

However, you may still need to:

• Submit transcripts
• Pass Washington-required exams
• Complete state-specific coursework

English Teacher Salary & Job Outlook in Washington

Job Market and Demand

Washington experiences an ongoing need for qualified English teachers, particularly in:

• Rural and remote districts (Eastern Washington, Olympic Peninsula)
• High-poverty schools receiving Title I funding
• Middle schools (grades 6-8)
• Alternative education programs

Urban and suburban districts in the Puget Sound region are competitive but still hire numerous English teachers annually due to growth and retirement turnover.

Shortage Areas: While English isn’t always designated a critical shortage like math or special education, certain districts and regions face difficulty filling positions. Alternative route programs and incentives may be available in these areas.

Salary and Compensation

Washington ranks among the top-paying states for teachers nationally. English teacher salaries depend on:

• Years of experience
• Educational level (BA, MA, PhD)
• District location and funding
• Additional responsibilities (department chair, coaching, clubs)

Salary Ranges (approximate):

Beginning Teachers (BA degree, no experience):

• Large urban districts: $58,000-$68,000
• Suburban districts: $52,000-$62,000
• Rural districts: $48,000-$56,000

Experienced Teachers (MA degree, 10 years):

• Large urban districts: $90,000-$110,000
• Suburban districts: $80,000-$95,000
• Rural districts: $70,000-$82,000

Maximum Salary (MA+90/PhD, 15+ years):

• Top districts: $120,000-$135,000+
• Average districts: $95,000-$115,000

Additional Compensation:

• National Board Certification bonus: $5,000-$10,000 annually
• Extracurricular stipends: $1,500-$8,000 (coaching, advisorships)
• Professional development funding
• Comprehensive health benefits
• Defined benefit pension (Washington State Teachers’ Retirement System)

How to Become an English Teacher in Washington: FAQs

How long does it take to become an English teacher in Washington?

Typically 4–5 years, including a bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation program. Alternative routes may be shorter.

What exams are required to become an English teacher in Washington?

Most candidates must pass the Praxis English Language Arts exam. Praxis Core may also be required unless waived.

Can you become an English teacher in Washington without a degree in education?

Yes. You can earn a non-education bachelor’s degree and complete an approved teacher preparation or alternative certification program.

Do you need a master’s degree to teach English in Washington?

No. A master’s degree is not required for initial certification, though it may increase salary potential.

How much do English teachers make in Washington?

Salaries vary by district, experience, and education level, but Washington generally offers above-average teacher pay.

Conclusion: Your Path to Teaching English in Washington

Learning how to become an English teacher in Washington doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the certification process, preparing strategically for Praxis exams, and completing an approved preparation program, you can move forward with confidence.

 While the Praxis 5038 exam and certification steps may seem challenging, strong preparation and guided support can make your journey smoother.

Use trusted Praxis practice tests and targeted study resources from prepsaret.com to strengthen your readiness — and take confident steps toward becoming a certified English teacher in Washington.