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Para Assistant information

What is the difference between Para Assistant vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectPara AssistantTeacher Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional trainingHigh school diploma; some positions prefer coursework in education or related fields
Work EnvironmentAssist teachers in classrooms, administrative tasks, and student supervisionSupport teachers by working directly with students, helping with instruction and classroom activities
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutions, special education programsPrimarily in K-12 schools, educational settings

Both Para Assistants and Teacher Assistants work in educational environments supporting teachers and students. While their roles overlap in assisting classroom activities, Para Assistants often have broader responsibilities, including administrative support, whereas Teacher Assistants focus more on direct student instruction and support. The choice depends on specific job duties and required qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a para assistant?

To thrive as a Para Assistant, you need a solid understanding of instructional support, classroom management, and child development, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with educational software, assistive technology, and basic computer applications is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and a collaborative attitude are essential soft skills for engaging students and supporting teachers. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and effectively assisting with students’ academic and behavioral needs.

Are para assistants in high demand?

Para assistants are generally in steady demand, especially in educational and healthcare settings, as they support teachers and healthcare professionals. Employment opportunities can vary by region and require relevant certifications or experience, but the role is considered essential in many institutions.

What does a para assistant do?

Para Assistants play a vital role in supporting both teachers and students by helping with instructional activities, classroom management, and individualized student needs. They often work one-on-one or with small groups of students, including those with special needs, to reinforce lessons and encourage engagement. Additionally, Para Assistants assist with preparing materials, supervising students during transitions, and monitoring student progress, ensuring a smooth and productive classroom environment. Collaboration with teachers and other school staff is a key part of the role, allowing for consistent support and effective communication about student needs and progress.

What is a para assistant?

Para Assistants, commonly known as paraprofessional assistants or teacher's aides, are educational support staff who work under the supervision of certified teachers to help deliver instructional and administrative support in classrooms. They assist with classroom management, work with individual students or small groups, and help with tasks such as preparing materials and supervising activities. Para Assistants often work with students who have special needs, providing them with additional attention and support to enhance their learning experience.
What cities are hiring for Para Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Para Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Para jobs? The most popular types of Para jobs are:
What states have the most Para Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Para Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Para Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Para Assistant jobs are:
Para Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Para Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Instructional Assistant/Para Educator at Keller Elementary

Lake Washington School District

Redmond, WA • On-site

$30.79/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Classroom Support Staff/Instructional Assistant/Para Educator
Date Posted:
7/21/2026
Location:
Keller Elementary
(High-Needs School)
Description:
Instructional Assistant: 183 day working calendar
Para Educator: 180 day working calendar
Hours Per Day: 6.25 (6.0 Para Educator and 0.25 Instructional Assistant)
Shift: Between 9:05-4:05. Shift subject to change.
Location: Helen Keller Elementary
Hourly Rate:
$27.71/an hour (SC11SEIU26-27.pdf) Position is eligible for membership in the Service International Employees Union No. 925
$30.79/hour position (SC7ParaEd26-27.pdf) is eligible for membership in the Teamsters Local Union No. 763 which is part of the Lake Washington School District Trades Bargaining Council No. 763 (TBC).
Job Summary:
Instructional Assistant:
Assists teaching staff by completing instructional tasks and maintaining an orderly classroom to provide a positive learning environment. May be assigned to classroom, lunchroom, library, before or after school academic programs, or office. At elementary level, assignment includes crossing guard and playground duties. May be assigned to an individual student or work with entire classroom.
Para Educator:
Assists teachers with individualized and small group instruction for students of all educational levels who have physical or behavioral needs or are medically fragile. Supports students' special health care needs and develops daily living and behavioral skills. Assists staff with classroom preparation and retrieval, use and storage of equipment and supplies. May supervise and assist students in library, classrooms, resource rooms, self-contained classroom, playgrounds, or getting on and off a bus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
• Must hold an Associate degree (AA) or higher OR have completed two years of study equivalent to 72 college quarter credit hours, OR have passed an Educational Testing Service ParaPro Assessment documenting a score of 455 or higher, OR have passed the Pearson Paraprofessional Assessment with a score of 220 or higher. Official documentation will be required upon hire.
• Must pass criminal background check
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
External and Internal Applicants: To apply to this posting, all applicants must submit an online application https://www.applitrack.com/lakewashington/onlineapp/default.aspx
FINALISTS WILL BE CONTACTED FOR AN INTERVIEW
Please review LWSD Human Resources Employment Policies, which includes our non-discrimination policy. We are not able to sponsor employment at this time.
Lake Washington School District is committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment for all students and staff. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life experiences who share our commitment to educational excellence and equity. We especially encourage applications from individuals who have been historically underrepresented in education.
LAKE WASHINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT IS A SMOKE-FREE WORKPLACE.
Attachment(s):
  • Instructional Assistant
  • Para Educator Updated 2024.pdf

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