Seattle Public Schools

Programs and Career Pathways

Education and Human Services Pathway

Education and Human Services Career Pathway

Video with example of Education and Human Services Pathway

Is this the right pathway for me?

  • Do you enjoy working closely with others and have an appreciation for diverse perspectives? 
  • Are you passionate about social justice, empathetic, and a life-long learner? 
  • Are you a strong, honest communicator? 

What is Education and Human Services?

Education and Human Services is a pathway built for the future teachers, social workers, non-profit and other administrative leaders among Seattle Public School students. Students in this pathway learn and practice skills that prepare them for training and/or college after high school for careers in government, education, and human services.  

What sort of work would I do?

Two high school students wearing masks presenting to a group of elementary school students

Teachers, social workers, and principals educate students, providing guidance, safety and structure through reading and writing basics as well as technical training required for the future. Human and social service workers help connect clients with community resources and may provide key mental health support. This is a versatile pathway that leads to a wide variety of careers in providing support and resources for others.   

Leads to these Careers

  • Community Health Worker 
  • Teacher (Pre-K through 12th Grade) 
  • Child, Family, or School Social Worker 
  • Non-Profit Manager 
  • Rehabilitation Counselor 
  • School Counselor 
  • Teaching Assistant 
  • School Administrator 

In-Demand Occupations

Typical Education RequiredCareer TitleAverage Annual SalaryJob Outlook in WA State (2020-2030)
High School Childcare Worker $40,142 22% increase 
Associate’s Degree (or Certificate) Teaching Assistant $45,445 19% increase 
Bachelor’s Degree Interpreter and Translator $59,082 34% increase 
Doctoral Degree Psychiatrist $208,000 18% increase 
Check Career One Stop, Bureau of Labor Statistics for updated career trends

What Courses can I take now?

Check with your school counselor and administrators to find out which classes are available at your school.

Clubs and Activities at SPS

Interested in learning more about education and human services? SPS students have the opportunity to deepen and expand their knowledge alongside their peers through Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). FCCLA hosts competitive events, provides leadership opportunities, and helps students prepare for career and college. Find a chapter at your school here

What training do I need after high school?

For jobs with family wages (in other words, jobs that pay well enough for a person to support a family), it is preferable to enroll in two-to-four-year training programs. Examples of plans for training or college can be found below:  

High School Diploma or Associate’s Degree – Students who are interested in working in schools after graduation without further study may pursue the Paraeducator Certificate and related coursework to become a paraprofessional. Students interested in getting training in this certificate during high school should consider attending Seattle Skills Center’s Teaching Academy.  

Students who want to further explore before committing to a career in education or human services might also consider searching AmeriCorps and/or City Year . These opportunities are currently only available to students who are US Citizens or Permanent Residents (green card holders). 

Bachelor’s Degree (Transfer) (Academy for Rising Educators)Seattle Public Schools works with Seattle Central College, the City of Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning to increase teacher diversity. The Academy for Rising Educators (ARE) trains students underrepresented in teaching to join Seattle Public Schools as a teacher. Tuition costs are paid in full by Seattle Public Schools after eligible grants and scholarships have been applied.  

University of Washington College of Education—University of Washington offers a series of education and human services classes including Bachelor’s Degrees in Education, Social Welfare, and Psychology as well as a variety of Social Work Master’s Degrees.  

Explore more college and training opportunities on Naviance! 

More questions? Contact us at cte@record-room.com.