Inclusive Education Teacher Scholars

What

The Woodring Inclusive Education Teacher Scholars Program is a Route 1 Alternative Route cohort-based teacher training program that leads to a Bachelor of Arts in Inclusive Education with a Washington State Residency Certificate with dual endorsements in Special Education (P-12) and Elementary Education.

Who

Program is for Kent School District and Highline Public Schools employees. Available to current employees (instructional staff) and new applicants. To be considered, candidates must meet the following:

• A Direct Transfer Agreement Associate Degree (DTA-AA) from a Washington State community college, bachelor’s degree, or satisfaction of Western Washington University’s General University Requirements (GURs)
• A minimum 2.75 GPA (cumulative or last 45+ graded credits)
• Meet the West-B/Basic Skills requirement
• Meet the English composition course requirement with a minimum grade of B-
• Meet the math prerequisite with a minimum grade of C

For more information on WWU admission requirements, contact Miranda.MyersBarker@wwu.edu.

Where

Teacher Scholars work in schools throughout Highline and Kent School Districts in the greater Seattle area. Content is delivered through a hybrid educational model, with online and in-person instruction. Courses are offered during weekday evenings. Summer quarter schedules may vary. 

When

The program is 8 quarters across two years (Summer 2024 – Spring 2026). The program is currently accepting inquiries for Summer 2024.

Why

Western Washington University’s Special Education Dual Endorsement Program received national recognition from the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) for offering excellent teacher training and high-quality course design. The structure for the WIETS program is designed specifically to meet the diverse needs of teacher candidates balancing professional training and life’s other responsibilities (e.g., family and work).

How

Teacher Scholars work as instructional staff (e.g., paraprofessionals) in their sponsoring district (i.e., Kent or Highline). While in this job-embedded learning role, they practice teaching and develop their inclusive education skills through Western Washington University’s Woodring College of Education.

Scholarships

Limited grant scholarship seats may be available. Scholarship seats are provided by the Professional Educator Standards Board through a conditional loan scholarship totaling $16,000 per recipient. 

Additional financial aid opportunities may be available through Western Washington University. See Financial Aid Checklist for important information regarding FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).