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Academics

25-26 WSW Recipients

Current students participating in the program are required to:

  • Be placed in their advanced practicum placement in a high-need public or tribal school

  • Receive pre-service training in the form of a 30-hour “Community of Practice” with peers across the state

  • Attend a statewide professional networking retreat with peers and mentors

  • Receive their Educational Staff Associate (ESA) certificate

  • Receive career placement support to take a leadership role in a high-need public school after graduation

Community of Practice

All WSW recipients are required to participate in the Community of Practice during the 2025-2026 Academic Year. For any questions you may have, please ensure you connect with Statewide WSW Program Coordinator, Nikki York (nyork529@uw.edu). You may find the 2025 COP Course Summary here. You may find the 2025-2026 WSW Community of Practice Calendar [here]

What qualifies as a WSW-approved Learning Education Agency?

Students are required to complete their advanced practicum placement in a high-need public or tribal school. Please view the approved list here. Please read about eligibility requirements and guidelines for Learning Education Agencies in Washington State here.

Who can I ask for questions about funding distribution and WSW funds?

For the 2025-2026 Academic Year, all WSW funding will be distributed to students prior to 12/31/2025. As a reminder, you are responsible to pay tuition through the regular tuition process, and based on your respective contracts, you may receive up to $30,000 based on your financial need. Please read the following FAQ for questions about what qualifies as “documented need for financial assistance”.

For questions about Financial Aid, please speak with the UW Office of Student Financial Aid. For WSW distribution questions, please email UW-Seattle WSW Program Coordinator, Sofie Aaron.

WSW Post-Graduation Requirements

Learn about Post-Graduation Requirements for WSW recipients here.