Education Requirement in WAC
Outdoor nature-based child care providers must meet certain education for their role (WAC 110-302-0100). Providers have different options available based on the type of child care setting they work in. To know what education is required for your role, review or print the General Staff Qualifications Chart for Outdoor Nature-Based programs.
ECE Stackable Certificates
If your role lists required education, the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Stackable Certificates might be an option for you. Print out the Stackable Certificates guide.
- Stackable Certificates build on one another.
- They lead into an associate degree in ECE and beyond.
- They’re offered throughout the state and are available in-person and online.
GO TO THE CAREER PLANNING PORTAL FOR MORE INFORMATION
Equivalents
Equivalents are alternative ways to meet the education requirement in WAC. See the Outdoor Nature-Based Equivalents guide for a complete list of equivalents for ONB programs.
Timeline
Providers hired before Aug. 1, 2019: House Bill 2556 extended the timeline for existing early learning providers until Aug. 1, 2026.
Providers hired after Aug. 1, 2019: All other child care provider roles have five years from their date of hire or promotion to meet the full education staff qualifications requirements.