Paraprofessionals
The NCLB Act strengthened requirements for paraprofessionals working in Title I schools. All paraprofessionals hired after January 8, 2002 must have met one of the following requirements: 1) completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education; 2) obtained an associate's degree or higher; 3) met a rigorous standard of quality and be able to demonstrate, through a formal or state or local academic assessment, knowledge and skills needed to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics. Paraprofessionals hired before January 8, 2002 were required to have met this requirement by 2006.
Guidance, Regulations, Legislation, and Announcements
Guidance
Non-Regulatory Guidance, Title I-Paraprofessionals (Word)For specific information on paraprofessionals, refer to sections A1-B25.
Regulations
Final Regulation, Part 200.58—Title I—Improving The Academic Achievement Of The DisadvantagedFor specific information on paraprofessionals, refer to pages 71731-71732.
Legislation
Final Legislation, Public Law print of PL 107-110, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001; Title 1, Part A, Subpart 1, SEC. 1119.QUALIFICATIONS FOR TEACHERS AND PARAPROFESSIONALSAnnouncements
U.S. Department of Education Releases New, Flexible Policies Help Teachers Become Highly Qualified (March 2004)U.S. Department of Education Releases Statement Regarding No Child Left Behind Requirements for Paraprofessionals (June 2005)
Other Resources
Useful Links
USDE's Helping Your Child Publication SeriesOffers to parents booklets that feature practical lessons and activities to help school-age and preschool children master reading, learn core subjects, understand the value of homework, and develop the skills and values necessary to achieve and grow. Part of the US Department of Education's website.
