Professional Assistance Program

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WASA places a high priority on supporting its members 24 hours a day. The executive staff are experienced, professional colleagues who are available to advise members on personal and professional matters in all situations related to their roles as education leaders. WASA is dedicated to meeting the needs of its members:

• Advice and Legal Counsel
• Legal Services
• Ethics Assistance
• Conflict Intervention
• Contract Review
• Career Counseling
• Retirement Counseling
• Mentorships

Advice and Legal Counsel

WASA will provide the counsel of qualified, experienced administrators to any member who faces a problem or potential problem related to his or her professional assignment. WASA’s executive director will arrange for confidential help.

Legal Services

WASA members have a $250,000 Educators Professional Liability Policy to protect them in the legal situations they face daily. Sponsored by WASA, the policy is available at no additional cost to members and can be increased to $2 million for a nominal fee.

Members also are eligible for legal assistance with due process, contract rights, and other issues related to their professional assignment. WASA’s contribution for legal assistance is up to a total of $3,000 per individual member.

• Upon approval by the executive director, initial counsel with a WASA-recommended attorney is $500.
• The remaining $2,500 must be approved by the WASA Professional Standards and Ethics Committee.
• For each year of uninterrupted membership, joint WASA/AASA members may be eligible through AASA for an additional $1,000 in defense expense reimbursement up to $10,000, with the $500 deductible paid by WASA.

Call WASA before you call an attorney!

Reimbursement shall not be provided for legal services obtained prior to contacting the WASA executive director.

Ethics Assistance

In 1999, the WASA Board of Directors adopted a Code of Ethics to provide guidance to WASA members. The WASA administrative team is available to provide advice and counsel for members on ethical issues they may encounter as a result of their district or professional responsibilities.

WASA provides the networking capability within the organization or in concert with other agencies to assist school districts or members in problem resolution.

Conflict Intervention

Conflict intervention among parties within school districts is sometimes needed. Teams composed of representatives from WASA, the Washington State School Directors’ Association and the Association of Washington School Principals are available to assist in diffusing conflicts between board/superintendent, board/staff, or board member/board member and to recommend positive alternatives.

Contract Review

Whether negotiating a new employment contract or updating an existing one, WASA provides contract evaluation and recommendations to support members in a variety of employment positions.

Mentorships

WASA provides peer mentors for all new superintendents. Mentors for any new or experienced WASA members will be appointed upon request.

Career Counseling

Confidential and professional support is available for all members with assistance in their career paths, employment opportunities, and contract development.

Retirement Counseling

WASA staff members can assist WASA members in preparing for retirement.