The ParaPro Assessment measures the skills and knowledge in reading, writing, and math possessed by prospective and practicing paraprofessionals. It also measures their ability to apply those skills and knowledge when assisting in classroom instruction.
The NWESD is using The Master Teacher: Paraeducator Online Assessment, a 2-part assessment that consists of 105 total questions.
- Reading, Writing, & Math – Instructional Support: Evaluates the paraeducator’s ability to support reading, writing, and math instruction. (30 questions) – a score of 65% or higher is passing
- Reading, Writing, & Math – Knowledge and Application: Evaluates the paraeducator’s knowledge and skills to solve problems in reading, writing, and math. (75 questions) – a score of 65% or higher is passing
After passing both assessments, paraeducators will be provided with certification showing they have met the Title I Requirements for assisting in classrooms in Washington.
At the time of registration, potential paras will receive access to 150+ Master Teacher professional development on-line courses.
- 13 of these courses are specifically designed to prepare them for taking the Title I assessment exam.
- There are two practice tests in the bundle that paras may take as many times as they wish.
These preparation courses may be done on their own at home. However, the assessment is proctored and must be done at the NWESD.
Please note if you have taken the Assessment in another state, this does not qualify you in Washington and you must retake the test.
To register or see a list of available dates visit our online catalog. Click these search criteria check boxes – Subjects: check – Special Education; NWESD: check – Paraeducator Certificate
Cancelling Registration
To cancel your registration, please contact Kristi in writing 48 hours prior to the test date to be refunded any portion of your registration fee.
- Participant may transfer their registration to a different date for no fees/charges.
- Cancelling your registration without accessing The Master Teacher courses: you will receive a $95 refund if the cancellation is received in writing prior to 48 hours of your test date. NWESD retains an administrative fee.
- Cancelling your registration in writing prior to 48 hours after accessing The Master Teacher courses: you will receive a $43 refund. NWESD retains the cost of the license and administration fee. Participants may request a transcript of seat hours prior to cancellation. These are not paid clock hours, only a report of seat hours for courses taken through The Master Teacher program.
All refunds are issued by check. NWESD will require the name and address on the credit card that was used to pay for the registration to issue the refund.
Resources
- Paraeducator Minimum Employment Requirements [PESB] – read this to ensure that you aren’t already qualified
- Revised PESB – July 23, 2023
- Paraeducator Support [OSPI]
Other testing alternatives:
- ETS Paraprofessional using GACE portal for home online testing
- Cut score using GACE scale is 250
- ETS Paraprofessional in-person testing
- Cut score for Washington is 455
- Pearson Paraprofessional Assessments (coming December 2023)
- Cut score not yet available
After being hired by a district
Paraeducators who have passed the assessment and have been hired by a school district will need to reach out to the Human Resource department to determine their next steps regarding the district requirements for paraeducators.