How do I become a paraprofessional and do I need to be certified?
Paraprofessional Qualifications
In order to work under the direct supervision of an appropriately certified teacher to provide instructional assistance, paraprofessionals are require to:
- Obtain 60 college credit hours, or
- Have passed the ParaPro Assessment (before September 23, 2013) or
- Have passed the Paraprofessional Assessment through Pearson (September 23, 2013 through June 20, 2024) or
- Have passed the ParaPro Assessment through ETS (July 1, 2024 forward) or
- Completed the 20HR Substitute Certificate Course
Note: Paraprofessionals cannot have a caseload.
For more information about paraprofessionals, please see the Consolidated Federal Programs Administrative Manual or contact the Office of Quality Schools at 573-526-3232 or webreplyfedpro@dese.mo.gov.