How to Become a Paraeducator in New York
Paraeducators in New York get to interact with students from different backgrounds. They get to help bridge the gap of the cultural and possibly economic as well as educational divide that many of these students face. It is a challenging profession that offers the rewards of knowing that it’s possible to make a difference in these students lives. Paraprofessionals need to have a love for young people and a desire to help them succeed as a prerequisite to becoming a paraeducator in New York.
Instructions
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Get a high school diploma or its equivalent. Based on the New York City’s Department of Education website (see Resources) this is the only requirement. Check with the local school requirements where applying, if outside New York City.
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Go to college and get at least 18 college credits. New York City Department of Education doesn’t require it, but does state recommendations of at least 18 credit hours and possibly an associate degree. They also mention a baccalaureate degree, but if you're going that far it would be wise to continue to become a certified teacher.
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Prepare for and pass the Assessment of Teaching Assistant Skills (ATAS) test. This test was once called New York State Assessment of Teaching Assistant Skills (NYSATAS) test. The necessary information can be found at the New York Teacher Certification Examinations website (see Resources). Under the heading preparation information click on "Test Frameworks" and then "Assessment of Teaching Assistant Skills." This will download a seven page document that can then be reviewed before taking the test.
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Volunteer in a local school district. Volunteering in a classroom setting will not only give experience, but also references for potential paraprofessional teachers.
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Create a professional resume and start applying for positions and highlight the Teacher Assistant Skills Test as well as experience that can be verified by other professional educators.
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