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What Is a Paraeducator?

Creating an inclusive classroom environment is one of the most important components of K-12 and early childhood education in both private and public schools. Paraeducators stand at the frontlines of these efforts, supporting educators and the students whom they selflessly serve. 

These professionals collaborate with both general and special educators to offer individualized curriculum and instruction that helps students needing extra support achieve developmental and educational goals. They are often known for working with students with disabilities, but they may also work with those with language barriers. 

Paraeducators are known by a few different names, depending on their specific role. However, their responsibilities are generally the same. You might hear them referred to with one of the following titles: 

• Para 
• Paraprofessional teacher 
• Teacher assistant 
• Classroom aide 
• Special education assistant 
• Instructional aide 

This guide is a one-stop shop to answering more than just, 鈥淲hat is a para?鈥� and diving deep into all you need to know about their rewarding career. 

What Does a Paraeducator Do?

On a daily basis, a paraeducator acts as a teaching assistant, helping students complete assignments, improve behavior and use technology. They offer both one-on-one and group support and often bridge communication gaps between students, teachers, and loved ones or caregivers. Additionally, they assist special educators with classroom management and preparation. 

Sometimes duties vary by school, where paraeducator responsibilities specialize in a subject, focus on an area like behavior development or support Individualized Education Program implementation. No matter the location, though, these individuals are essential personnel who make a significant difference in students鈥� lives. 

Essential Paraeducator Skills and Qualities

A paraeducator does more than assist in the classroom. They change lives and help shape futures 鈥� something that requires a unique combination of skills and qualities like: 

How to Become a Paraeducator

Steps to becoming a paraeducator vary by school or district, but often follow a similar path. In essence, you鈥檒l want to have certain education and training that prepare you with the knowledge and skills you need. 

Paraeducator Exam and Education Requirements 

Congress signed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 to reform the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) requirements for paraeducators. The new act requires paraeducators to have demonstrated proficiency in reading and math to work in instructional capacities. Note, however, that each state鈥檚 department of education may measure proficiency differently (e.g. exams, etc.).聽

also require a passing grade on the Praxis ParaPro Assessment, a paraeducator test that measures your reading, writing and mathematics skills and ability to apply them. 

Once you complete the exam and education standards your state鈥檚 department of education requires, you can apply for certification and get a background check and child safety clearance. 

Paraeducator Training and Career Advancement 

Working as a paraeducator is considered an entry-level education career, so you鈥檒l often receive on-the-job training. It not only equips you for your role but could also prepare you for more, as many paraeducators progress to become licensed educators. 

Should you decide to take this step, you鈥檒l need to: 

• Earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in education (where you can specialize in special education, if you like). 
• Get any required licenses or certificates required by your state, district and school. 

Paraeducator Salary and Job Outlook

Paraeducators earn a median annual salary of $35,240.¹ 

About 161,900 paraeducator job openings are projected annually.¹ 

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