2024-2025 Pierce College Catalog 
    
    Dec 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Pierce College Catalog

State Paraeducation Certificate Course Map


Created by Pierce faculty, this map outlines the initial coursework for this career field. It provides you a clear path to complete your certificate by listing a specific set of courses relevant to your program and career. The map is designed with the appropriate number of credits and meets certificate requirements. Courses are organized in a recommended sequence; please schedule accordingly. If a course is unavailable, select the next appropriate course within the sequence. For each course, a purpose statement explains how the content relates to your career field. On this map, there may be instances when you will be required to select a course from several options. Use these purpose statements and notes to choose the course that best aligns with your interests and needs. You will also find action items to complete to assure you progress and graduate on time.

While this map is a great guide to courses required to complete the State Paraeducation Certificate, you are responsible for fulfilling all certificate requirements.

Questions? Your Success Network is ready to help you!

 


 

Specialized Program Requirements

To be eligible for practicum courses in the program students must have a cleared Washington State Patrol background check and follow the school district’s volunteer requirements. 

1. College Success


  • Course purpose: A foundational course to explore and affirm a career choice and build upon the skills, knowledge, and resources that will support you at Pierce College and beyond.

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  • Note

    • Successfully completing either COLLG 110 or COLLG 115 will fulfill the College Success requirement. 
    • A COLLG 110 course grade can only be replaced with a grade from another COLLG 110 course and a COLLG 115 course grade can only be replaced with a grade from another COLLG 115 course. 

2. Paraeducator Basics


  • Course purpose: Paraeducators need basic skills in techniques supporting instruction, professional and ethical practices, positive and safe learning environments, effective communication and teamwork to effectively support teachers and students in the classroom.  

3. Child Development


Action Item: Meet with Advisor


Use your Success Network! In your first quarter, meet with your advisor to revisit your career and transfer path, make adjustments to your goals as needed, and plan for your next steps. 

4. Guiding Behavior


5. Introduction to Education


6. Field Experience I


Action Item: Apply for Graduation


Way to go! It is time to apply for graduation. Visit the Pierce College Graduation website for details.

7. Introduction to Inclusive Education


8. Diversity in Education


9. English Composition I


  • Course purpose: Teachers are expected to teach English language arts. This course prepares you with content knowledge needed to teach English language in K-8 settings.

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  • Note: Your advisor will assist you in reviewing your Guided Self Placement and selecting either the 5-credit or the 7-credit co-requisite ENGL& 101 + ENGLC 101 course.

10. Math for Elem Educ 1: Number Systems and Problem Solving


  • Course purpose: Teachers are expected to teach mathematical concepts. This course prepares you with content knowledge needed to teach math in K-8 settings. 

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  • Note: The math course you select will depend on the Career Pathway Map you are following, the transfer institution/degree that you select, and your math placement guidance. Your advisor will assist you in selecting the relevant 5 or 7 credit course(s) based upon co-requisite options.

11. Introduction to Psychology


Total Credits 47-49


ctcLink Plan Code: TEAPTC45