The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 requires higher standards for paraprofessionals who help with instruction in schools or districts receiving Title 1 funding. Paraprofessionals hired after Jan. 8, 2002, are expected to have the following qualifications (and those hired before that date will have until Jan. 8, 2006, to meet them): Completed two years of study at a college or university; or have obtained an associate’s (or higher) degree; or meet a “rigorous standard of quality” determined through a formal state or local assessment of knowledge and skills in assisting in reading, writing, and math instruction.
Other key points:
- School districts with Title I funding must ensure that all paraprofessionals have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Paraprofessionals acting as translators or involved in activities with parents do not have to meet the No Child Left Behind standards.
- Paraprofessionals must work under the direction of a highly qualified teacher.
- Districts can use Title I funds to help paraprofessionals meet the new requirements.
Adapted from the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, Title 1, Part A, Sec. 1119, found at http://www.ed.gov/legislation/ESEA02.