College Algebra
Self-paced online College Algebra course (Math 111). NCCRS recommends 3 semester credits; each college decides how it applies them.
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ParaPathways replaced ParaPro: what changed
By the team. Checked 15 Nov 2026.
The short answer
On 27 October 2025 Washington's Professional Educator Standards Board approved ParaPathways to replace ParaPro as a paraeducator assessment. Candidates could use it from 1 November 2025. ParaPro still counts through 31 December 2026, then stops. The credits route, 72 quarter or 48 semester credits, did not change.
The key dates
PESB lists the dates on its current paraeducators page. They matter if you planned to take ParaPro or if you already passed it.
- 23 July 2023: all employed paraeducators must meet the minimum employment requirements.
- 27 October 2025: PESB approved ParaPathways to replace ParaPro.
- 1 November 2025: candidates could start using ParaPathways.
- 31 December 2026: last day ParaPro can be used; the use was extended from an earlier 31 August 2026 end date.
Passing scores now
ParaPathways has two subtests, and both must be passed. PESB also keeps two other assessments on its list. Always check the PESB page before you book, because scores and options can change.
| Assessment | Passing score (PESB) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ParaPathways | 324 Reading and Writing, 325 Mathematics | Approved 27 Oct 2025 |
| ParaPro | 455 | Usable through 31 Dec 2026 |
| Pearson Paraprofessional | 220 | On the PESB list |
| Master Teacher Inc. | 65% on each of two assessments | On the PESB list |
What did not change
RCW 28A.413.040 still gives the same four options after the diploma. The credits option is still 72 quarter or 48 semester credits, which PESB describes as 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university. The associate degree and registered apprenticeship options are also unchanged. The swap only affects which test you can take.
The four-day fundamental course of study that districts provide after hiring is a separate step and is not replaced by any test.
If you already passed ParaPro
A passing ParaPro score already meets the assessment option. If you are being hired, give the district your official score report and ask them in writing to confirm it is on file. If you have not taken ParaPro yet and your test date would fall after 31 December 2026, plan for ParaPathways instead.
If you are already employed and met the rule with a ParaPro score, the change described on the PESB page is about which assessment candidates can book from now on. If you are unsure whether your score stays on file, ask your district in writing. Keep a copy of your score report with your own records, because a new district may ask for it when you move.
A short checklist for anyone choosing a route now
Use this list before you book a test date or pay for any course. It keeps you inside the rule and avoids paying twice.
- Check the PESB current paraeducators page for the latest list of assessments and scores.
- Count your existing college credits and convert quarter credits to semester credits (multiply by two thirds).
- Ask the hiring district in writing which documents it wants: score report or official transcript.
- If you choose credits, ask the college in writing how it evaluates ACE-recommended or NCCRS-recommended courses.
- Book the test or enrol only after both answers are in your inbox.
Should the change push you toward credits?
For some people a new test is a good moment to think again. If you need to learn the new format anyway, compare that effort with the credits route. Credits take longer, but they can count toward an associate degree later, which a test score never does.
If you go the credits route with UPI Study, remember the order: the district counts credit only from an accredited college transcript, so a college must evaluate the ACE-recommended or NCCRS-recommended courses first. TESU and UoPeople are partner colleges that consider that kind of credit.
What to ask in writing
Before you enrol
Ask the district's human resources office in writing whether 48 semester credits on an accredited college transcript, including credit that college transcribed from ACE-recommended or NCCRS-recommended courses, meet RCW 28A.413.040 before you enrol.
UPI Study is not a college and is not accredited. ACE and NCCRS review our courses and recommend credit; a college decides whether to give that credit and records it on its own transcript.
ACE and NCCRS have over 2,100 cooperating colleges that will consider accepting credits; the final decision is with the universities.
Questions people ask
When was ParaPathways approved in Washington?
PESB approved ParaPathways on 27 October 2025 to replace ParaPro, and candidates could use it from 1 November 2025. ParaPro remains usable through 31 December 2026, after which it will be discontinued for Washington paraeducators.
Does my old ParaPro score still count?
The assessment option asks for a passing score on a board-approved test, and ParaPro is on the list with a passing score of 455. Give the district your official score report and ask them in writing to confirm it meets the rule for your hire.
Do I have to pass both ParaPathways sections?
Yes. PESB says both passing scores must be met: 324 in Reading and Writing and 325 in Mathematics. PESB also describes a Bridge option for near-miss scores; ask ETS or PESB how it works before you rely on it.
Courses that fit
ACE-recommended or NCCRS-recommended courses, studied online at your own pace.
English Composition 1
Self-paced online English Composition 1 course (ENG 101). NCCRS recommends 3 semester credits; each college decides how it applies them.
See the course →
Introduction to Psychology
Self-paced online Introduction to Psychology course (Psychology 110). ACE and NCCRS recommend 3 semester credits; each college decides how it applies them.
See the course →Start when you have it in writing
Plan your 48 semester credits course by course, then send them to a college for its transcript.
Sources
- RCW 28A.413.040: Minimum employment requirements (Washington State Legislature) (official)Age 18 and a diploma, plus one of: a passing score on a board-approved assessment, an associate of arts degree, 72 quarter or 48 semester credits at an institution of higher education, or a registered apprenticeship; amended 2017, 2018 and 2023. Checked on 15 Nov 2026.
- PESB: Current paraeducators (minimum employment requirements) (official)Since 23 July 2023 all employed paraeducators must meet the requirements; credits must be 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university; ParaPathways approved 27 Oct 2025, usable from 1 Nov 2025; ParaPro use extended to 31 Dec 2026; passing scores listed. Checked on 15 Nov 2026.