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).