Oklahoma Title I School Paraprofessional Credential Requirements
Credential requirements for paraprofessionals (teaching assistants) teaching at Title I schools.
- What must a paraprofessional have in order to be a teaching assistant in an Oklahoma Title I school?
- Are the requirements for a special education classroom paraprofessional different than the requirements for Title I classroom paraprofessionals?
- May I apply for some kind of credential to show that I am a paraprofessional?
- When does a Title I Paraprofessional Credential expire?
What must a paraprofessional have in order to be a teaching assistant in an Oklahoma Title I school?
The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 requires paraprofessionals (teaching assistants) who are employed in Title I schools to meet federal requirements. Those requirements are:
- Have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) diploma, PLUS:
-
Option A:
Hold an associate’s degree (or higher)
OR -
Option B:
Complete at least two years (48 credit hours) of study at an institution of higher education
OR -
Option C:
Pass the Praxis ParaProfessional Assessment Test (Passing score is 455)
Are the requirements for a special education classroom paraprofessional different than the requirements for Title I classroom paraprofessionals?
Yes. In addition to the requirements listed in the question above, a special education paraprofessional has to meet the following:
- Complete Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training (9 modules).
- Complete and maintain training and skills in Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid.
- Complete training in Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens Training.
- Complete an additional 6 hours of professional development and Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens each school year thereafter.
For more information contact Special Education Services, Oklahoma State Department of Education, at (405) 522-3248.
May I apply for some kind of credential to show that I am a paraprofessional?
Oklahoma teaching assistants may apply for a Title I Paraprofessional Credential by submitting the following:
- Recent fingerprinting (background check) needed, unless you are already certified in Oklahoma. For the most up to date information refer to Fingerprints/Background Checks Information.
- Verification of having met Option A, B, C, or D listed in question 47.
- Application for Oklahoma Title I Paraprofessional Credential. Contact Teacher Certification at (405) 521-3337 to obtain the application.
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$10 processing fee (check, cashier’s check or money order) made payable to the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
When does a Title I Paraprofessional Credential expire?
A Title I Paraprofessional Credential is valid for life.
