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Programs and Services » Paraprofessional Certification and Substitute Teacher Support » What is a Paraprofessional?

What is a Paraprofessional?

 
Paraprofessional is an individual, employed by a Local Education Agency (LEA), who provides instructional support or assistance.

Working as a paraprofessional is a great way to support students and teachers in your local schools. Often called "teacher's aides / instructional aides," these vital team members play a crucial role in the classroom.

A paraprofessional's day is often full of variety, and their duties might include:

 

  • Working with Students: Offering one-on-one tutoring or helping small groups of students with their assignments.

  • Supporting the Teacher: Assisting with classroom management, preparing materials for lessons, or helping with other tasks so the teacher can focus on instruction.

  • Helping in Other School Areas: Supervising students in the computer lab or library, or even acting as a translator for students and their families.

 

No matter the task, paraprofessionals work under the guidance of a certified teacher, helping to create a positive and effective learning environment for everyone.

 

Education Service Center, Region 20 provides training and technical assistance to districts and charter schools in the areas of:
  • Programs to support paraprofessionals in meeting the Highly Qualified requirements of ESSA
  • Effective instructional strategies that support classroom learning, i.e. reading, writing and mathematics
 
This training is open to any individual who is at least 18 years old and has a high school diploma or GED. If you are interested in attending one of our training sessions, please click the Paraprofessional Certification Training tab. 
 
 
Certification Training Cost:
The fee for this three-day workshop is $250.
To receive your paraprofessional training certificate you must:
     -  Attend all three days of the training
     - Pass the assessment
 
 
 
Register for workshops in Connect20
 
February 25—27, 2025
Session #105198—ZOOM
 
March 19—21, 2025
Session #105199—ZOOM
 
April 22—24, 2025
Session #105200—ZOOM
 
May 20—22, 2025
Session #105201—ZOOM
 
June 24—26, 2025
Session #105202—ZOOM