Vancouver, WA. — Clark College’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education (BASTE) program has received full accreditation from the Washington Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB), ensuring that graduates from all current and past cohorts qualify for state teacher certification.
The board approved the accreditation at its Nov. 13 meeting, confirming that the program meets all statewide standards for preparing high-quality preschool–eighth-grade educators. PESB is Washington’s oversight body for teacher preparation programs and reviews institutions on program design, instructional quality, and compliance with state requirements.
“This achievement marks the culmination of a long journey and represents an incredible milestone for Clark College and our students,” said Dr. Donald Ludwig, division chair of Behavioral Sciences. “It stands as a testament to years of vision, perseverance, and collaboration.”
The BASTE program offers endorsements in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, Special Education, and Early Childhood Special Education—many of which align directly with statewide and local teacher shortage areas. According to PESB data cited by the college, English Language Learner enrollment reached 15.1% statewide in 2024-25, with some Clark County districts above 18%, increasing demand for bilingual educators. Special education teachers also remain among the hardest positions to fill both locally and statewide.
Clark College developed the program beginning in 2019 after identifying regional workforce needs and consulting with school districts. The multi-year approval process included a notification of intent, pre-proposal, full proposal, and extensive PESB review. Because the program has been accredited retroactively, all BASTE graduates, including the inaugural 2024 cohort, are eligible for certification.
President Karin Edwards said the program expands the college’s role in supporting community-rooted educators. “It is gratifying to consider how deeply our BASTE-trained teachers will impact the lives of their students, their students’ families, and their communities over their teaching careers.”
The program is also designed to support “Grow Your Own” initiatives, which aim to build a teaching workforce reflective of the communities served. Ongoing partnerships with local districts provide residency placements and pathways into full-time positions.
Enrollment has increased rapidly since the program’s launch. Five students graduated in 2024, followed by 17 in 2025. Twenty-four students entered the new cohort this fall, one below the program’s maximum enrollment.
More information is available at Clark College’s BASTE program page: https://www.clark.edu/academics/programs/public-service-society-and-education/baste/
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