Do teachers get Washington ESD unemployment during summer break?

What exactly counts as 'reasonable assurance'? I have a contract for next year but it's not technically signed yet.

If your district has offered you a position for the fall that's substantially similar to your current job, that usually counts as reasonable assurance even without a signed contract.

That's so unfair! Other seasonal workers can get unemployment between seasons.

Right? But apparently education is treated differently under Washington ESD rules.

I am switching from teaching English to being a librarian next year - would that count as significantly different?

That could potentially qualify since it's a different job classification, but you'd need to apply and let Washington ESD make the determination.

How does that service work? Is it expensive?

It's pretty straightforward - they help you get connected to an actual Washington ESD agent instead of sitting on hold forever. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I've applied to several summer programs but haven't heard back yet. Was hoping unemployment could be a backup plan.

Same here - summer jobs for teachers are really competitive now.

That's a good point. Should I apply right away or wait to see if I get a summer job first?

Apply as soon as possible if you think you might be eligible. There's usually a waiting period anyway, and you can always withdraw the claim if you find work.

Because every situation is different and there are tons of exceptions and special cases.

The Washington ESD website has some info about school employees but it's not super clear.

My position is secure, I'm just changing roles within the same district. Sounds like I won't qualify then.

The role change might actually help your case - definitely worth applying to see what Washington ESD says.

Interesting! I'm full-time though, so probably different rules.

Yeah, full-time teachers with contracts almost never qualify unfortunately.

Exactly! It's like we're penalized for being in education.

Some teachers I know spread their salary over 12 months instead of 10 to help with this.

That's good to know. I might need to try that if I decide to apply.

Thanks for the tip! If I do apply I'll definitely check that out if I need to speak with someone.

That's encouraging. I think I will apply and see what happens.

Good attitude! Let Washington ESD make the official call rather than assuming you're not eligible.

Good point! The requirements and daily duties are pretty different between the two positions.

Yeah, if you can show it's substantially different work, that could help your case.

You're right, I shouldn't wait around. I'll apply tomorrow and see what happens.

Smart move! Better to try and get denied than not try at all.

Good luck! Hope it works out for you.

Keep us posted on what Washington ESD says!

That's really encouraging to hear from a substitute's perspective! The fact that you were able to collect as a sub gives me hope that my situation might be different enough. You're right that the job classification change from classroom teacher to librarian could be the key factor. Even though it's the same district, the daily responsibilities and requirements are completely different. I'm definitely going to apply first thing tomorrow and emphasize how substantially different the librarian role is from teaching English. Thanks for sharing your experience!

This is really helpful! I didn't realize substitutes had different rules. Makes sense that the "reasonable assurance" doesn't apply when you don't know if you'll get called in. Your point about job classification is spot on - librarian positions require different certifications and have completely different daily duties than classroom teaching. I'm feeling more optimistic about applying now. Did you have any trouble with the application process, or was it pretty straightforward once you got through to someone?