Paraprofessionals
A paraprofessional is a teacher’s aide who is paid to assist in instruction under the supervision of a licensed teacher (Non-instructional assistants, such as personal care assistants and translators, are not considered paraprofessionals).
You may work as a paraprofessional if you hold:
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- a valid Professional Educator License (PEL)
- a valid Substitute License (SUB)
- a valid Paraprofessional License
- a Short Term Approval for Paraprofessional
Requirements for the Paraprofessional License (valid for 5 years, renewable)
You must meet ONE of the following requirements:
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- Completed 60 semester hours of college credit at a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Evidence is an official transcript in a sealed envelope.
OR - Obtained an Associate’s Degree or higher at a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Evidence is an official transcript in a sealed envelope.
OR - Passed the ETS ParaPro Assessment with a score of 460 or higher. Evidence is the official score report.*
OR - Passed the applicable WorkKeys assessment. Evidence is the ACT WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants.*
- Completed 60 semester hours of college credit at a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Evidence is an official transcript in a sealed envelope.
Requirement for the Short Term Approval – Paraprofessional (valid for 3 years, non-renewable)
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- High School Diploma or Equivalent
* Proof of high school graduation must also be provided if the applicant does not hold a minimum of an Associate’s degree. Evidence is a copy of your high school / GED diploma or transcript.
Bring or send the above documents to the DeKalb Regional Office of Education, 2500 North Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb, Illinois 60115. Electronic Transcripts can also be sent directly from the university to tacker@dekalbroe.org . The ROE will scan these documents into your ELIS account for ISBE evaluators to access during their evaluation. If your last name is different from what appears on the document, please indicate that, as well.
You must also set up an ELIS account and apply for the appropriate license. Fees apply for the application. Please see the following directions for the appropriate license:
You must renew your PEL, SUB, or PARA license every 5 years. Renewal Directions