Grow Your Career in Education — Become a Certificated Teacher at No Cost!

What is the Academy for Rising Educators (ARE)?

The Academy for Rising Educators is a career pathway program from Seattle Public Schools (SPS) and the City of Seattle’s Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL). It’s designed to support aspiring educators — especially educators of color — in earning their teaching certification tuition-free.

Whether you’re an instructional assistant, high school graduate, or a member of the greater community, this program helps you take the next step toward becoming a licensed teacher.

Next ARE Application Opens: Spring 2025

We’re currently preparing for the 2026–27 ARE cohort. Interested?
Email Matthew Goode, ARE Program Manager, at magoode@seattleschools.org to get updates and notifications.

ARE Pathways to Teaching Certification

Path 1: Starting with a High School Diploma or Fewer than 75 College Credits

Duration: 4 Years
• Attend Seattle Central College – 2 years
• Transfer to City University of Seattle – 2 years
• Graduate with a BA & Teaching Certificate

Path 2: Already Have an AA Degree

Duration: 2 Years
• Attend City University of Seattle
• Graduate with a BA & Teaching Certificate

Path 3: Already Hold a Bachelor’s Degree

Duration: 1–2 Years
• Attend City University of Seattle or the University of Washington
• Includes alternative routes programs and the Seattle Teacher Residency (STR)
• Graduate with a Teaching Certificate

Our Mission: Representation & Equity in Education

The ARE is committed to increasing teacher diversity and ensuring every classroom reflects the community it serves.

We recruit and support future educators who are:

• Rooted in the Seattle community
• Dedicated to long-term careers in teaching
• Committed to anti-racist, equity-centered practices

Watch the Seattle Colleges video about ARE impact

Questions? Let’s Connect!

Matthew Goode
ARE Program Manager
magoode@seattleschools.org