What does a Paraprofessional do?
A paraprofessional works to assist a teacher throughout their daily classroom activities. Some of the duties include helping schedule and implement programs in accordance with the curriculum as well as general classroom and clerical duties such as maintaining a clean and safe environment or printing and preparing educational material. The typical career advancement for paraprofessionals is to be a teacher following further education and certification being obtained.
Some jobs may only require a high school diploma while others will only hire paraprofessionals with an associate's degree. Depending on the State, paraprofessionals may need to pass a skills assessment test before being able to work. Due to the nature of the job, a strong passion for teaching coupled with patience and discipline is necessary for a successful career. Other important skills include exceptional communication skills and the physical ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
- Assist teacher with lessons and daily classroom activities
- Assist teacher with paperwork such as reports
- Communicate with children and help them understand lessons
- Prepare the classroom setting to promote a healthy learning environment
- Ensure classroom safety standards are met at all times
- Monitor children with particular attention to those with special needs
- Engage with children to enhance learning
- Perform clerical tasks as required
- Must pass a skills assessment test depending on State of hire
- Experience in helping teachers in a classroom environment desired
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
- Good understanding of the educational system
- Strong interpersonal and social attributes
- Discipline and diligent nature
- Enthusiastic and passionate about teaching
- Patient with children including those with special needs
- Ability to stand and move around for long hours at a time
How much does a Paraprofessional make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$36,993
/ yrParaprofessional Career Path
Learn how to become a Paraprofessional, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Paraprofessional Insights
Evergreen Park Elementary School District 124“I love the teachers I get to work with and the principal and secretary are awesome.”
Francis Howell School District“Great opportunity to work with people who share the same goal for working with children.”
Deer Park Independent School District“But if you have a spouse that makes good money then the pay doesn't really matter.”
Van Buren School District“Working with children is my passion and being able to work one on one with children to provide extra resources is amazing.”
The Children's Institute of Pittsburgh“Working here was a an invaluable opportunity to build expertise in my chosen career path while also gaining great insight and skills from interdepartmental collaboration.”
Durham School Services“Low pay and just something to do if your bored and retired.”
LGCS“nice and friendly people to work with.”
Peters Township School District“Good hours and pay.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Paraprofessional
When working as a Paraprofessional, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Positive Learning, Writing, First Aid, Spanish Speaking, and CPR.
- Kindergarten Teacher
- Substitute Teacher
- Elementary School Teacher
- Teacher
The most common qualifications to become a Paraprofessional include a minimum of a GED / High School Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.