The knowledge and skill competencies describe the learning objectives paraeducators should exhibit when working with students. Competencies are associated with each of the standards written in WAC
179-07-030 and are in addition to the knowledge and skill competencies written in WAC
179-07-040:
(1) Supporting instructional opportunities:
Knowledge competencies:
(a) Awareness of the difference between social language and academic language;
(b) Awareness of the stages of second language acquisition;
(c) Awareness of Washington English language proficiency standards; and
(d) Awareness of Washington English language proficiency levels.
(2) Demonstrating professionalism and ethical practices:
Knowledge competencies:
(a) Awareness of the legal rights of English language learners;
(b) Awareness of how to build a culturally and linguistically inclusive learning environment; and
(c) Awareness of what constitutes effective communication with English language learner families and students and fosters respect among each other's cultural and linguistic diversity.
(3) Supporting a positive and safe learning environment:
(a) Knowledge competencies:
(i) Awareness of how to successfully support culturally and linguistically diverse students entering into the public school system; and
(ii) Awareness of students' unique strengths and what value they bring to the classroom.
(b) Skill competencies:
(i) Assist with strategies and techniques for facilitating the instruction of individuals with diverse language learning needs in a variety of settings as specified by certificated staff;
(ii) Assist in providing culturally and age appropriate feedback to students; and
(iii) Assist with supporting individual student needs by using appropriate strategies that are culturally responsive and address diverse student background.
(4) Communicating effectively and participating in the team process:
(a) Knowledge competencies:
Awareness of appropriate and culturally responsive communication strategies.
(b) Skill competencies:
(i) Ability to engage and communicate with certificated staff to build a culturally and linguistically inclusive learning environment;
(ii) Support effective communication with culturally and linguistically diverse students, families, communities, and team members in a professional and respectful manner; and
(iii) Ability to engage in appropriate culturally responsive strategies such as:
(A) Constructs of time;
(B) Verbal and nonverbal cues;
(C) Authority; and
(D) Relationship building.
(5) Demonstrating cultural competency aligned with standards developed by the professional educator standards board under RCW
28A.410.270:
(a) Knowledge competencies:
Awareness of cultural and linguistic diversities and a commitment to build on students' strength.
(b) Skill competencies:
Use culturally responsive communication skills (e.g., written, verbal, and nonverbal).