Paraeducator Fundamental Course of Study
There have been a number of questions regarding the new Paraeducator Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) training and Certificate Program. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this initial launch of this new requirement. Hopefully, the following FAQs will clarify some of the issues that have been brought to our attention.
What is FCS?
Fundamental Course of StudyOpening in a new window
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Can I take both WEA and ESD trainings at the same time?
No. If you have registered for ESD training you must complete all of the 14 hours through the ESD.
Unfortunately, we cannot track standards taught by different agencies.
What if I am not a WEA member?
You must attend the ESD training. WEA trainings are only open to WEA members.
Who tracks my clock hours?
The paraeducator is responsible for maintaining their own records and upon completion of the 14 hours, each of the agencies will be notifying Human Resources of the paraeducators who have completed the hours.
When will I be paid?
The stipend for completing the 14 hours will be added to the August 2020 payroll.
Who is required to take the FCS?
Paraeducators who are “instructional” (spend any time in a K-12 classroom).
Are all paraeducators required to take the training?
It is important to note that this requirement applies to only paraeducators who assist with instruction in a K-12 classroom setting (not on a substitute basis). Only paraeducators who work exclusively as bus monitors, health room paraeducators, security, and preschool are exempt.
As a para who is exclusively a bus monitor, health room paraeducator, security, or preschool para can I still take this FCS training?
Yes, you may voluntarily attend the training, but you will not receive the stipend.
What happens if I miss a training?
You may register for a later training. Trainings will be offered on the following dates.
*You MUST use these registration links for the ESD training sessions:
Jan. 11 & Mar. 14
*Registration LinkOpening in a new window
February 29 & Apr. 18
*Registration LinkOpening in a new window
July 21 & 22
*Registration LinkOpening in a new window
WEA Trainings
Saturday Training:
Lunch included. All sessions 8 am - 4:15 pm @ WEA Chinook - Tumwater
February 8 - FCS 2 and 11/12
February 22 - FCS 1 and 6
March 14th - FCS 2 and 11/12
March 28th - FCS 1 and 6
April 18th - FCS 2 and 11/12
April 25th - FCS 1 and 6
May 9th - FCS 2 and 11/12
May 30th - FCS 1 and 6
Evening Training
4:30 - 7:30 pm, Tuesday March 31st - FCS 6
4:30 - 7:30 pm, Tuesday April 21st - FCS 11/12
4:30 - 8:30 pm, Tuesday May 5th - FCS 2
What happens if I miss all or some of the trainings offered this year?
You will not receive the stipend and you will be required to complete the 28 hours during the 2020-21 school year. You must complete the full 14 hours this year to receive the stipend.
What if I need to change the date or cancel what I registered for through the ESD?
You can cancel your registration through pdEnroller. If you need to reschedule a training, please contact Dianna Avery at ESD113 at 360.464.6717 or davery@esd113.org
If I completed FCS hours in another district do those hours transfer to OSD?
No, you must complete the entire FCS within the Olympia School District.
I have completed the FCS training and I would like to give feedback. How do I do that?
Paraeducator FCS FeedbackOpening in a new window
For questions, please contact:
Joshua Boe
OPA President
joshua.boe@washingtonea.org
Scott Niemann
Executive Director of Human Resources
sniemann@osd.wednet.edu