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The NCLB Act strengthened requirements for paraprofessionals working in Title I schools. All paraprofessionals hired after January 8, 2002 must have met one of the following requirements: 1) completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education; 2) obtained an associate's degree or higher; 3) met a rigorous standard of quality and be able to demonstrate, through a formal or state or local academic assessment, knowledge and skills needed to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics. Paraprofessionals hired before January 8, 2002 were required to have met this requirement by 2006. Guidance, Regulations, Legislation, and Announcements Guidance Non-Regulatory Guidance, Title I-Paraprofessionals (Word) For specific information on paraprofessionals, refer to sections A1-B25. Regulations Final Regulation, Part 200.58—Title I—Improving The Academic Achievement Of The Disadvantaged For specific information on paraprofessionals, refer to pages 71731-71732. Legislation Final Legislation, Public Law print of PL 107-110, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001; Title 1, Part A, Subpart 1, SEC. 1119.QUALIFICATIONS FOR TEACHERS AND PARAPROFESSIONALS Announcements U.S. Department of Education Releases New, Flexible Policies Help Teachers Become Highly Qualified (March 2004) U.S. Department of Education Releases Statement Regarding No Child Left Behind Requirements for Paraprofessionals (June 2005) Related Resources from SchoolsMovingUp Useful Links ACT Describes the WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants, a combination of three assessments and on-the-job observations. ECS Issue Site: Teacher Aides/Paraprofessionals Provides information and links related to paraprofessionals, including research and readings, related ECS projects, a link to their NCLB site's paraprofessional page, and a searchable database on What States Are Doing regarding professional development, certification, and requirements for paraprofessionals. To find this section, choose "Teaching Quality" in the drop-down menu, then click on the "Teacher Aides/Paraprofessional" breakout issue. Part of the Education Commission of the States's website. Educational Information & Resource Center (EIRC) Offers a three-day workshop to prepare paraprofessionals who plan to use the ETS ParaPro Assessment to meet NCLB requirements. Educational Testing Center- ParaPro Assessment Links to the ETS ParaPro assessment, a two and one-half hour test consisting of multiple choice items covering skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as the application of these skills in support of classroom instruction. Pace Learning Systems- ParaPrep Learning System Links to a program consisting of print and software-based assessments and lessons to prepare paraprofessionals for formal assessments and certificate programs. USDE's Helping Your Child Publication Series Offers to parents booklets that feature practical lessons and activities to help school-age and preschool children master reading, learn core subjects, understand the value of homework, and develop the skills and values necessary to achieve and grow. Part of the US Department of Education's website. Readings Beyond Compliance: Preparing Highly Qualified Paraeducators Publication Date: 2005 Publisher: Recruiting New Teachers, Inc. |
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