Para-Educator FAQ's

What is the job description for a para-educator

Does the phrase "para-professional" or the word "para" mean the same thing as a para-educator?

Are there any requirements to be a para-educator?

Yes. To be considered for a para-educator position in USD #261, one must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma (or equivalent). Para-educators are also required to be “highly qualified” as mandated by the No Child Left Behind legislative act. An Associates Degree (or higher) from an accredited institution, or a minimum of 48 college hours meets the NCLB “Highly Qualified” criteria. Another method of attaining “Highly Qualified” status is by passing the Para-Pro Assessment, the Para-Educator Assessment, or the Work Keys Assessment. These are the only assessments recognized by the state of Kansas for “Highly Qualified” status.

If I don't have an Associates Degree, or 48 college hours, how do I go about taking one of these tests?

Which test would I be taking and what do I need to know?

USD #261 uses the Para-Educator Learning Assessment, which is a general intelligence test, given on a computer. The test is made up of multi-choice questions and normally takes approximately an hour and a half complete. If an individual fails the test, it can be taken over. A pre-test study program is also available upon request. The test is scheduled with the Special Education department and taken at the Central Office.

What does this test cost?

What if I passed a similar test in another state, will their certificate count?

Will I be subject to a background check?

If I apply for a para-educator job, do I automatically get an interview?

What types of para-educator jobs are available in the school district?

Why does Special Education employ so many para-educators?

The Special Education department regularly identifies students for special learning needs. Approximately 20% of all the students in USD #261 have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), which qualifies them for special education services. The IEP document outlines any special accommodations and educational needs for each student, which may include para-educator assistance. In many cases, para-educators are assigned as assistants to Special Education teachers and help instruct a variety of subjects and special needs students.

What do Title I para-educators do?

What might the Section 504 para-educators be required to do?

What do Regular education paras do?

How many hours would a para-educator work each day, or each week throughout the year?

Are there any fringe benefits if employed as a para-educator?

When does the school day start and end for a para-educator?

Are para-educators eligible for other positions or jobs, such as coaching, sponsoring student activities, or taking tickets at a sporting event?

What kind of vaccinations must I have if I am interested in being a para-educator?

Will I always be assigned to one building as a para-educator?

Are para-educators involved with any student discipline?

Para-educators may be placed in situations with students where disciplinary action is necessary. However, all paras work with their direct supervisor to outline corrective procedures and responsibilities. In some cases, para-educators are required to complete “Mandt” training, a specialized restraint procedure for Special Education students. The cost of the training is covered by the school district.

What other kinds of training or endorsements might I expect?

Will I be evaluated?

How many months do I work and how often do I get paid?

What is KPERS?

If I only work nine months a year, can I file for unemployment benefits for the other three months?

Does a para-educator get any paid days off?

Is my lunch paid for throughout the year?

How am I supposed to dress if I get a para-educator job in the school district?

How do I apply for a para-educator position?

Gillian Macias Asst. Superintendent for Personnel Tel: 316-554-2200 email: [email protected]	Kristan Walker Certified Personnel Clerk Tel: 316-554-2200 email: [email protected]
Heather Nichols Classified Personnel Clerk Tel: 316-554-2200 email: [email protected]