School Paraprofessional information
$11.25 - $12.67
6% of jobs
$12.67 - $14.10
13% of jobs
$14.20 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.10 - $15.52
22% of jobs
The median wage is $15.92 / hr.
$15.52 - $16.94
15% of jobs
$18.31 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.94 - $18.36
15% of jobs
$18.36 - $19.78
11% of jobs
$19.78 - $21.20
7% of jobs
$21.20 - $22.62
4% of jobs
$22.62 - $24.04
2% of jobs
School paraprofessionals, often called teacher’s aides or instructional assistants, are educational workers who support teachers and students in the classroom. They help with instructional tasks, classroom management, and may provide one-on-one assistance to students with special needs. Paraprofessionals play a vital role in creating an inclusive learning environment by assisting with small group activities, supervising students, and helping with administrative duties. Their work ensures that teachers can focus more on instruction while all students receive the support they need to succeed.
School paraprofessionals work closely with classroom teachers to support lesson delivery, manage classroom behavior, and provide individualized assistance to students with varying needs. They often participate in planning sessions, share observations about students’ progress, and help implement accommodations detailed in students’ IEPs or 504 plans. Collaboration also extends to working with specialists, such as speech therapists or counselors, to ensure a coordinated approach to student support, making teamwork and strong communication skills essential in this role.
To thrive as a School Paraprofessional, you need a solid understanding of classroom management, instructional support, and child development, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and, in some cases, a paraprofessional certification. Familiarity with educational software, assistive technology, and individualized education program (IEP) documentation is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and teamwork are vital soft skills for working effectively with students, teachers, and diverse classroom needs. These skills and qualities are important for fostering a supportive learning environment and helping all students reach their academic goals.
A school paraprofessional and a teacher's aide are often used interchangeably to describe support staff who assist teachers in the classroom, helping with instructional tasks, student supervision, and classroom management. However, job titles and responsibilities can vary by district, and some roles may have different requirements or certifications. Both positions typically require a high school diploma and may involve specialized training or certification depending on the school district's policies.
School paraprofessionals typically do not need a college degree but often must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some districts require or prefer candidates to have completed some college coursework or hold an associate degree, and certification or training in special education or related areas may be beneficial.
To become a school paraprofessional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some districts require completion of a paraprofessional training program or passing a specific assessment. In New York, additional requirements may include passing the ParaPro Assessment or having an associate degree or 60 college credits. Strong communication skills and the ability to work with students with diverse needs are also important.
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