Paraprofessionals

The ESEA strengthened requirements for paraprofessionals working in Title I schools.

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

Articles

Beyond Compliance: Preparing Highly Qualified Paraeducators
Publication Date: 2005
Publisher: Recruiting New Teachers, Inc.

State and Local Implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act; Volume II--Teacher Quality Under NCLB: Interim Report
Author: Birman, B.F., Le Floch, K.C., Klekotka, A., Ludwig, M., Taylor, J., Walters, K., Wayne, A., Yoon, K.
Publication Date: 2007
Publisher: U.S. Department of Education

Useful Links

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.

ACT
Describes the WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants, a combination of three assessments and on-the-job observations.

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.

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.

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.

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.