Career Facts - Education Program
Paraprofessional Certificate
Also see
Secondary Education (Teacher)
Also see Elementary Education (Teacher)
What They Do:
Teacher Paraprofessionals are also called teacher aides or classroom
assistants. They support the teacher in a variety of ways and give special help
to students in groups or individually. Most paraprofessionals work with young
children in pre-school through grade six.
Related Occupations:
Teacher, school administrator, school counselor, sign language
interpreter.
Who Would Enjoy It:
You will probably enjoy being a teacher paraprofessional if you:
- Are interested in a career in a human services field,
- Enjoy being around young children, teenagers or young adults,
- Like solving problems and sharing what you know,
- Think it is important to explore new ideas,
- Hope to make a difference in someone's life.
What They Earn:
Teacher Paraprofessionals are paid hourly.
Beginning wages vary widely (currently $8-$20 per hour) depending on college
credit earned, previous experience and location of school.
How Many Jobs Available:
The need for qualified paraprofessionals varies by school district.
How Much Schooling, Training, or Skill Development:
As of January 2002, all new and currently employed paraprofessionals must
have a high school diploma or equivalent, and ONE of the following:
- Be evaluated by the school district through a local or state assessment that demonstrates knowledge of, and the ability to assist with instruction in reading, writing or math.
- Complete at least two years of study at an institute of higher education.
- Obtain an associate degree or higher.
What They Study at LCC:
Teacher Paraprofessional, Associate in Applied Science Degree
Teacher Paraprofessional, Certificate of Completion
General Associates Degree
Links:
Liberal Studies Division:
Teacher Preparation
Geoff Quick, PhD
Education Lead Faculty
quickg@lcc.edu
Julia Petry,
Social Science and Humanities Department Chair
petryj@lcc.edu
Social Science and Humanities Department
Arts and Sciences Bldg, Room 301
Phone: (517) 483-1018
Additional contact information »