Paraeducator option questions + answers

What license(s) can I earn on the paraeducator option?

You may pursue a license in elementary education (PK-6) or elementary education unified (K-6). An elementary education license prepares you to teach in the general education setting, while an elementary education license prepares you to teach in the general and special education setting.

Does the paraeducator position that I hold meet the requirements for this option?

You must be employed as a paraeducator by a state-accredited school in the state of Kansas. In your role, you must provide 20 hours of educational support each week to students in grades PK-6 (or K-6, if you also add the elementary education unified option). Your role may serve students in a special or regular education setting.

To participate in the paraeducator option, your school district must verify that your position satisfies the qualifications above and the items listed below:

• all course requirements may be fulfilled in your building
• a mentor is available for your training and support

Can I work in a high school as a paraeducator and complete the paraeducator option?

No. When you complete the Paraeducator Option, you will be licensed to teach in grades PK-6 (or K-6, if you also add the elementary education unified option). You must be employed as a paraeducator in grades that align with your desired license.

Can I use previous work experience as a paraeducator to meet the requirements of this option?

Your previous experience as a paraeducator will satisfy a program admission requirement, requiring that all candidates show proof of 100 hours of experience with children and youth. However, you must be actively employed as a paraeducator during your program of study to satisfy field experience requirements.

What are the requirements of student teaching during my last semester?

During the last twelve weeks of your final semester, you will participate in a student teaching experience. During the student teaching experience, you will step away from your responsibilities as a paraeducator. Our goal is to give you a student teaching experience that most closely resembles the responsibilities of an elementary classroom teacher so you are fully prepared for your teaching position. A 12-week student teaching placement allows us to achieve that goal.