Emergency Certificate FAQs

Emergency Certificate FAQs

 

What is the emergency certificate?

The emergency certificate is a permit that the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) adopted as tool to assist pre-service teachers who were impacted by COVID-19 and not able to complete the content exam(s) required for the residency certificate.

How do I qualify for the emergency certificate?

Complete all requirements of WSU’s teacher education program with the exception of your major endorsement content exam(s) (NES or WEST-E).

How do I request the emergency certificate?

You will need to complete the request that can be found on the College of Education’s website found here.

How will I know if my request is approved?

You will receive an email from COE Certification telling you what your next steps are.

Do I have to have my bachelor’s degree to qualify for the emergency certificate?

Yes.

How much does the emergency certificate cost?

When you apply for the certificate in E-Cert, you will be charged $57.

I am eligible for the emergency certificate but I think I will finish my outstanding assessments by the end of June; what should I do?

You are not required to do anything. If you do not want to apply for the emergency certificate, you do not need to request the certificate. If you request the certificate and it is approved, but think you will not need it before qualifying for your residency certificate, you do not have to apply for the emergency certificate in E-Cert.

How long is the emergency certificate valid for?

The emergency certificate is valid for one year.

Can I renew the emergency certificate?

WSU can recommend educators for one additional year. WSU will require an application process to renew the emergency certificate. The ultimate goal is to qualify for the residency certificate.

Can I teach for any district in Washington with the emergency certificate?

Yes, the emergency certificate allows you to teach as a substitute or contracted teacher in the state of Washington.

I am planning to move out of state; will I be able to use the emergency certificate in that state?

Since teacher certification is governed by each state, you will need to check with the state you are planning to move to.

I have the emergency certificate and I finished my content exam(s); how do I get my residency certificate?

You will need to email COE Certification coe.certification@wsu.edu  or sbickel@wsu.edu to notify the Certification Office that you have completed the requirements for the residency certificate.