The Alternate Route program at WSU Tri-Cities recognizes the expertise that paraprofessionals bring with them from the classroom and works with them to apply those skills in the university.
As a PESB-approved residency teacher preparation program, the WSU Tri-Cities teacher certification program and district partners have developed an alternate route to teaching certification for paraeducators currently in the districts (Route 1) with an emphasis on “grow your own teacher” strategies in order to address district staffing needs.
The program provides support for paraeducators to receive credit for prior learning and work experiences, enroll in university courses, and receive an Elementary Education BA degree and K-8 endorsement and either a Special Education or ELL/Bilingual Education add-on endorsement.
We partner with the Grandview School District, Kennewick School District, Pasco School District, Prosser School District, Richland School District, Sunnyside School District, and Walla Walla School District to develop a program based on district needs.