Students who earn the Paraprofessional Educator A.A.S. degree typically begin work at a school or other program as a paraprofessional or similar role. Paraprofessional educators serve an important role in our education system. They work in a variety of settings, including elementary schools, special education classes, secondary (high school) programs, and social-service agencies. Duties of paraprofessional educators vary widely, but common tasks include assisting in instruction under the supervision of teaching staff, grading exams, preparing learning materials, keeping records, and using educational technology.
Moraine Valley’s program provides you with a strong foundation for a career in education through classroom work and observation in the field. This program also offers an internship option that allows you to gain valuable on-the-job experience to apply what you have learned in your courses. Clinical sites are in the southwest suburban area, and the hours are flexible based on workable schedules between your busy life and the needs of the clinical sites. The Illinois State Board of Education has more information on the paraprofessional credential.
$29,360
Median Annual Salary
This program prepares students for a career as a paraprofessional educator (teacher’s aide) in regular and special education classes in elementary and secondary schools and in social service agencies. Moraine Valley’s program provides students with a strong foundation for a career in education through classroom work and observation in the field. Employment of paraprofessionals is expected to grow.
Employment of teacher assistants is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Rising student enrollment along with state and federal funding for education programs should affect growth.
Teacher assistants are more of a supplementary position, as opposed to teachers, who hold a primary position. Therefore, teacher assistants’ employment opportunities may depend on school districts’ budgets. Schools are more likely to eliminate teacher assistant positions rather than teacher positions when there is a budget shortfall, and more likely to hire teacher assistants when there is a budget surplus.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics
Program Details
| Program Name | Type of Credential | Curriculum Code | Department or Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paraprofessional Educator | A.A.S. | 1470 | Education |
Questions?
Contact the program coordinator, Gail Ditchman at (708) 974-5564 or the form below.
