This certification program is designed to allow professionals with a technical background to pursue a career in teaching mathematics at the secondary level. Housed at the CWU-Lynnwood center located on the Edmonds Community College campus, this program is ideal for anyone with a bachelor's degree, a strong background in mathematics and a desire to teach mathematics at the middle or high school level.

The certification is delivered as a cohort program, meaning participant’s progress with their peers through the entire sequence of courses. A team of dedicated mathematics and education faculty deliver these courses directly through on-site instruction. Maintaining a job while enrolled is not recommended due to the academic requirements of the program.

Although the program is designed to be delivered in a concentrated, fast-track timeframe, individualized programs of study may be arranged. The intensive 15-month course of study provides the foundational, professional and pedagogical knowledge and skills required to be an effective, highly qualified mathematics teacher in today's classroom.

Through partnerships between CWU and local school districts, you gain access to secondary classrooms where you benefit from practical, hands-on experience guided by mentor teachers.

Participants who complete the program earn a residency teaching certificate with an endorsement to teach mathematics at the middle and senior high school levels in Washington State.

Prerequisites

All applicants undergo a credit evaluation prior to acceptance. To qualify for the program, you must have completed a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from an accredited institution. Your degree should include at least 15 quarter credits of differential and integral calculus. Washington State certification in secondary mathematics requires coursework in linear algebra and statistics. A longer course of study may be required for those admitted without these prerequisite courses completed.

Admissions

Step 1: Order one official transcript from each institution where you have completed coursework.

Step 2: Apply for admission to Central Washington University. You may apply by downloading the application form and mailing it to CWU-Lynnwood with your other materials.

Step 3: Apply for admission to the CWU Teacher Education Program. The admission form may be found online at http://www.cwu.edu/teacher-certification.

Step 4: Complete a reflective writing assignment. On a separate sheet of paper; use a word processor to answer the following three questions:

1. What do you expect to get out of this program besides a teaching certificate?
2. Why do you think you will be a good teacher?
3. What type of mathematical proficiency does a high school teacher need?

Please keep your answer to each question under one page. The reflective writing has three purposes: 1) it is intended to help you determine if this is the right program for you; 2) it shows whether you understand and agree with the goals of the program; and 3) it allows CWU to assess whether you have the writing skills required for success in the program. Submit your reflective writing assignment with your application to CWU-Lynnwood.

Step 5: Schedule to take the Washington Educator Skills Test (WEST-B). The WEST-B is a basic skills test that is required for all students entering a teacher preparation program in Washington State. For information on the WEST-B testing schedule and registration procedures, visit www.west.nesinc.com.

Mail all official transcripts and the application materials from steps 2, 3, and 4 to:

Certification for Teaching Secondary Mathematics
CWU-Lynnwood
20000 68th Ave W
Lynnwood, WA 98036

Your complete Certification for Teaching Secondary Mathematics application materials must be postmarked by September 1 to be considered for admission to the upcoming cohort. The program begins each June and summer classes are required. Information meetings will be held each spring at CWU-Lynnwood. Contact the Center for details by calling 425-640-1574 x3883.