Paraeducator +

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This certificate prepares students for paraprofessional roles in K-12 settings. Students gain foundational knowledge and professional skills needed to provide instructional, behavioral, or social supports to students under direct supervision of licensed or certified school staff. The certificate aligns with Vermont’s Title I Paraprofessional Requirements Standards and prepares students to meet the State of Vermont’s requirements for Highly Qualified Paraprofessionals.

Courses in this program may be applied to the Liberal Studies (A.A.) with Specialization in Education + degree program.

+ This program can be completed fully online.

Paraeducator Certificate-Sample Semester Map

Program Outcomes

Students who complete the Paraeducator certificate will be able to:

apply developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and professionally accepted practices used by paraeducators to support diverse K–12 learners;
utilize evidence-based instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional support strategies under the direction of licensed or certified school staff;
practice effective communication with students, school staff, and families;
demonstrate professional, legal, and ethical conduct in K-12 school settings.

Total Credits: 30

Required Courses

Courses are listed in the order in which we recommend you take them.

Choose two courses from the list below:

Note:

Background checks are common in education settings. Those with prior justice system involvement are encouraged to research employment exclusions that may arise depending on role, employer, and/or licensing criteria.