High School Home Care Aide Training Program

Bring a Career-Ready Opportunity to Your Students!

The High School Home Care Aide Training Program, developed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, helps students earn high school credit while exploring a meaningful career in health care.

This 90-hour course provides hands-on experience and meets Washington state’s training requirements for Home Care Aides. It covers essential health science skills ensuring students gain the knowledge and practical training necessary for certification. Aligned with National Health Science Standards, the program prepares students for various health care career paths, whether they plan to attend college or enter the workforce immediately.

Why Offer This Program?

Prepares Students for a High-Demand Career – Health care is growing fast, and certified Home Care Aides are needed across Washington state.

Offers Pathways for All Students – Whether pursuing college, technical training, or entering the workforce, this program provides adaptable skills for success in any industry.

Equips Students with Life Skills – Teaches empathy, patience, resilience, and leadership – qualities essential for any career.

Provides Job Opportunities – With a Home Care Aide certification, students can start paid work, gaining valuable experience that can open doors to careers in healthcare and beyond.

*Some employers require caregivers to be 18 or older.  See WAC 388-115-0510 and WAC 388-76-10135.

Steps for Schools to Launch the Program:

  • Hire an instructor who meets Washington state requirements  
  • Obtain OSPI approval of the Career & Technical Education framework
  • Provide the necessary equipment & supplies for hands-on training
  • Apply to DSHS for approval and contract to deliver training

Additional Resources Available

Take the Lead: Bring This Program to Your School

Reach out to learn more about implementation and start building a career-ready program. Contact us:

Carly Seagren
DSHS High School Liaison
carly.seagren@dshs.wa.gov | 360.584.3271

OSPI Career & Technical Education
cte@k12.wa.us | 360.725.6245
Visit OSPI Webpage > for information on CTE Programs.

Download a PDF of our flyer to share with schools that may want to add this program.