Initial ESA (Educational Staff Associate) Certification Course: Educational Staff Associate Professional Transitions to the Public Schools is intended for those who already have, or are in the final stages of completion, of a professional certification in either nursing, social work, audiology, speech language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavior analysis and orientation and mobility specialists and would like to take their discipline into the public school setting. This is NOT the correct ESA path for those entering the field of school counselor or school psychology.  

This three-day 15 hour Zoom course is provided by a panel of discipline specific instructors and will include both independent work and synchronous online learning via Zoom for three consecutive Fridays (January 9, 16 & 23, 2026 8am-12:30pm). Participants are expected to engage with video and audio on and be distraction free for the 15 hours of training as if they were in person. Attendance is verified at random intervals. This requires a computer connection in a quiet environment with stable internet, not a mobile device. Participants are expected to clear participation with current employers and plan on taking time off work to complete the course, this includes being relieved of any scheduled work duties.  

This course is approved by the Professional Educators Standards Board (PESB) and satisfies the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction's (OSPI) requirements to complete your Washington State ESA certification (WAC 181-79A-224).  

Please note: Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD) provides the required content and certificate upon completion. OSPI provides the Initial ESA certification. Any questions regarding ESA certification should be directed to the Certification Department at OSPI.