Classified Staff

Classified positions are those that do not require a valid, Washington State teaching or Educational Staff Associate (ESA) certificate. Positions include but are not limited to: specialists, secretaries, education support specialists, nutrition services, maintenance and operations, transportation, technology, security, Head Start/ECEAP, and non-regular/hourly assignments.

• Application Requirements
• ParaPro Assessment
• Helpful Resources
  

Application Requirements
All Candidates (External and Internal)

• View open positions online.
• Click on the job title to view position details.
• Select "Apply" and then sign in or create an account.
• Complete each of the tabs in your online candidate profile.
  • Employment History (including supervisor information)
  • Education
  • Credentials
  • Supervisor References (three or more)
• Upload an updated resume into your online candidate profile.
• Upload a copy of your high school diploma, GED certificate, high school transcripts, or college transcripts (see job positing for required documentation)
• Cover letters and professional letters of recommendation are encouraged.
  

Education Support Professional Candidates - Additional Requirements
Upload documentation of your ESEA Qualification by scanning and uploading a copy of your:

• College/University transcripts (if ESEA is earned through college credits); or
• ParaPro Assessment test results/ParaPro Portfolio (if ESEA is earned through the ParaPro process)
  

ParaPro Assessment
The ParaPro Assessment measures the skills and knowledge in reading, writing and math possessed by prospective and practicing paraprofessionals (education support professionals). It also measures their ability to apply those skills and knowledge when assisting in classroom instruction.
Who Takes it?
The test is for prospective and practicing paraprofessionals (education support professionals).
How Long is it?
Test takers have 2 1/2 hours to complete the test.
What subjects are on the test?
Test subjects include reading, writing and math.
What are the questions like?
The test has 90 multiple-choice questions, approximately two-thirds of which focus on basic skills and knowledge. The remaining one-third focuses on applying skills in the classroom. All test questions are in English.
How is the test given?
The test is delivered on computer.
How do you prepare for the test?
For help, go to https://parapro.ets.org/testprep.html for free test preparation materials such as the Study Companion and the ParaPro Assessment Tutorial. There are also "priced" test preparation materials available.
How do you set up a testing appointment?
Email HRInfo@tacoma.k12.wa.us.
Test retake policy?
If you feel you did not perform to your potential, you may retake the ParaPro Assessment once every 28 days, not including your initial test date. If you violate this restriction, the scores from your retest will not be reported and your test fees will not be refunded.
You cannot retake a Praxis test within 28 days of your test date. The test may only be retaken on a date that is at least 28 days after the previous test date. For example, if you take a test on the first of the month, you cannot take it again until the 29th day of the month.

• Effective June 21, 2024 an updated policy will allow test takers to complete one retake of the assessment as soon as they would like. If more than one retake is necessary, the test taker can complete another two attempts seven (7) days after their most recent attempt. Continued retakes will follow the same pattern of a 7-day waiting period after two (2) attempts.
  

What are the fees?
Test Fee = $60 for Tacoma Public Schools candidates/employees only.
The fee is non-refundable. Payment can be made with card, exact cash, or check.
Are there any special instructions?
You must show ID before taking the test and know your social security number. Individuals must score 455 or higher to pass the assessment in Washington State.
Questions?
Email HRInfo@tacoma.k12.wa.us.
Helpful Resources

• Salary Schedules - find tables of salary levels for different types of positions
• Bargaining Agreements - Information on Bargaining Agreements at Tacoma Public Schools
• Background Checks - learn about how we fingerprint and run background checks to protect students
• Frequently Asked Questions - our Human Resources Department's answers to common applicant questions
  

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I apply for a classified position?
• How long are classified jobs advertised?
• Is a Washington State certificate required to be an education support professional with Tacoma Public Schools?
  

How do I apply for a classified position?
Visit our Careers page and click on “Apply” for any positions of interest to you.
How long are classified jobs advertised?
Classified vacancies must be advertised for at least 5 work days. Positions may be left open until filled.
Is a Washington State certificate required to be an education support professional with Tacoma Public Schools?
Requirements
Education support professionals (ESP) do NOT require a teaching certificate. However, ESPs must meet the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) federal paraeducator requirements. ESPs can meet that requirement through one of the following paths:

• Proof of having earned a high school diploma or GED, AND
• Proof of having earned an Associate’s Degree or higher; or
• Earned at least 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits (100-level class or above) from an accredited college or university; or
• Proof of scoring at least 455 on the ETS Paraprofessional Assessment Exam
  

Your next career move starts here.
VIEW JOB OPENINGS

• Careers Home
• View All Job Openings
• Benefits for the Whole Educator
• Bargaining and Salary Schedules
• Meet Our Team
  • Certificated Staff
  • Classified Staff
  • Substitutes
  • Athletic Coaches
  • Administrative Staff
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Whole Educator
  

Contact Us
Human Resources
3702 E McKinley Ave, Tacoma, WA 98404
(253) 571-1000
HRinfo@tacoma.k12.wa.us
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