We are one agency with two boards. We work to ensure Washington’s educator workforce is composed of equity-minded, professional educators who meet the diverse needs of students, schools, and districts. We work towards this vision by creating innovative policies that strengthen educator quality, support workforce development, and advance equitable pathways into the profession. The Professional Educator Standards Board and the Paraeducator Board recognize that high standards for all educators are essential to student success and achievement.
About the Professional Educator Standards Board
Created in 2000, the PESB Board is responsible for policy and oversight of Washington’s educator preparation, certification, assignment, and professional growth systems. The Board consists of twelve members appointed by the Governor, the majority of whom are practicing educators. Learn more.
About the Paraeducator Board
Created in 2017, the nine-member Paraeducator Board establishes requirements and policies for paraeducator professional development certificates, and makes policy recommendations for paraeducator advancement through education, professional learning, and increased instructional responsibility. Learn more.
About our Executive Director
Dr. Erica Hernandez-Scott is serving as the Executive Director for PESB. Prior to this role, Erica served as PESB’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership and Learning Director and has been instrumental in her involvement with the revision of Washington’s educator standards and leading the advancing equity grant initiative. Learn more.
