Frequently Asked Questions

Access to a computer with an up-to-date web browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. The system is not compatible with any version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or Safari. In order to apply you will need an active email address.

Yes, all first-time users of schooljobs.com will need to sign up and create an online profile. For more detailed instructions about how to apply, click here for general Application Help, or you can reference the schooljobs.com application guide.

An active email address is required to create an online profile and apply for positions with Tacoma Public Schools.

Start at the Careers page to view all available positions. Click on the job title to view specific job details and then select “Apply” at the top right-hand corner. For more detailed instructions about how to apply, click here for general Application Help, or you can reference the schooljobs.com application guide.

Yes. All applicants must apply via our online system. 

If you do not have access to a computer at your home, you can access one at your local library or you can make an appointment for assistance by calling Employment Services at 253-571-1250. 

Access our online application system » 

For more detailed instructions about how to apply, click here for general Application Help, or you can reference the schooljobs.com application guide.

Yes.

To request an accommodation during the application process, contact Employment Services for assistance at 253-571-1250 or click here for Application Help.

We hire both United States citizens and non-United States citizens lawfully authorized to work in the United States in accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (Title 8, US Code, Section 1.324A). 

All new employees are required to submit a completed Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9), issued by the US immigration and Naturalization Service, along with specific documentation proving eligibility to work in the United States.​

From the schooljobs.com login screen, select “Forgot Username” or “Reset Password” and follow the instructions that appear on screen. An email will be sent to you with either your username or a link to reset your password, depending on which you need to retrieve. Follow the instructions within the email or call 1-855-524-5627 for assistance.

NOTE: If you get the message: "The email address you've entered does not exist in our records. Please try again." try any other email addresses you may have used to create your account. If you receive the same message using your other email addresses, you will have to create a new profile.

After applying for a job, you will receive an e-mail indicating that your application has been received and that we are processing it.​

Open positions are posted throughout the year.​

Some positions are posted as an Applicant Pool position in order to obtain a list of general, qualified candidates. These postings are not for specific locations. We encourage you to apply to all Applicant Pools for which you are qualified and interested in.

The length that a job posting stays open is dependent on several factors. Typically, all postings are open for a minimum of 5 business days.​

Interviews for open positions can take place at any time.​

If you are under contract with another district, you must obtain a written release from your employer before you can be eligible to receive an official job offer and employment contract from Tacoma Public Schools.​

Yes. As part of our Staff Diversity Plan and our District goals, we continue to place a major emphasis on attracting, recruiting and hiring qualified, minority candidates. We encourage disabled applicants to apply for employment in our District.​

To view specific benefits information, please visit Tacoma Public Schools Benefits webpage.  Additional details will be made available on job postings.

Wage information is included in all job postings. Additionally, you can reference posted salary schedules on the Bargaining and Salary Schedules webpage. Tacoma Public Schools provides a competitive compensation package that includes salaries, benefits and working conditions.​

If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted directly by the school or department Hiring Manager responsible for the position.

Our District complies with state law, which prohibits the use of tobacco on all school district property (Policy 4215). We are also committed to providing a safe environment; both weapon (Policy 4210) and drug free (Policy 5201). 

Find all Tacoma Public Schools Policies » 

Employee wellness information (i.e., tobacco cessation assistance)

Yes. A valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with appropriate endorsements is required to teach in Tacoma Public Schools. A valid Educational Staff Associate Certificate (ESA) is required for school nurses, psychologists, counselors, social workers, audiologists and therapists.​

No. Contact the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for more information by visiting the OSPI website or calling 360-725-6396.​

Endorsements are designated areas that a Washington State teacher has been qualified to teach through OSPI.​

Start at the Careers homepage or jump straight to the Certificated page.​

A certificated one-year or replacement employment contract is considered to be a non-continuing employment contract, which ends at the completion of the specific assignment. One-year/replacement contracts may be issued due to employee leave, grant funding, collective bargaining guidelines or requirements, or because of other circumstances. 

A certificated continuing employment contract is issued for one year at a time; however, employment is considered to be continuing into the next school year unless a reduction in force is in effect. Collective bargaining requirements will be followed during a reduction in force process.​

Yes. Every teacher, including substitutes, must register his/her Washington certificate with Human Resources before beginning a teaching assignment. Additionally, every teacher is responsible for registering all subsequent certificates with the District. 

Please bring your original copy to the Human Resources Office, Employment Services. An HR Staff member will stamp your original certificate and make copies. 

A copy will be placed in your personnel file after updating information on the HR database.​

An offer of employment is contingent upon the ability to obtain a valid Washington State teaching certificate prior to the first day of employment.  

Information regarding certification is available at the Office of State Superintendent of Public Information (OSPI) or at the Education Service District (ESD) 113. 

Office of State Superintendent of Public Instruction

• Telephone: 360-725-6400
• Website: https://www.k12.wa.us/certification/teacher-certificate
• Email: cert@tacoma.k12.wa.us 

Education Service District 113

• Address: 6005 Tyee Drive SW, Tumwater, WA 98512
• Phone: 360-464-6700
• Website: http://www.esd113.org​

A teaching certificate requires fulfilling educational requirements, whereas some vocational education certificates can be obtained through industry experience. For more complete information, contact:

Office of State Superintendent of Public Instruction

• Telephone: 360-725-6400
• Website: https://www.k12.wa.us/certification/teacher-certificate
• Email: cert@tacoma.k12.wa.us 

Start at the Careers homepage or jump straight to the Classified page.​

Classified vacancies must be advertised for at least 5 work days. Positions may be left open until filled.​

Paraeducators do NOT require a teaching certificate. However, paraeducators must meet the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) federal requirements. Paraeducators can meet that requirement through one of the following paths:

1. Proof of having earned an Associate's Degree or at least 72 quarter credits (100-level class or above) from an accredited college or university
2. Proof of scoring at least 461 on the ETS Paraprofessional Assessment Exam​

Start at the Careers homepage or jump straight to the Substitutes page.​

Yes. Tacoma Public Schools requires all substitutes to have teaching certificates. ​

For information regarding unemployment benefits, contact Employment Security Department headquarters in Olympia via the ESD website or at 360-902-9500​

Find salary schedules 

Yes. See Professional Development listings for appropriate classes.

At the end of the school year, you will be sent a notice from Human Resources inquiring of your intent to substitute for the next school year. If you do not respond prior to the beginning of the next school year, your employment as a substitute will automatically be terminated.​