What is the difference between a parapro and a teachers aid?

Question

I applied for a job as a teacher aid. I was required to take a parPRO test. Then they call us para. The thing is when you announce this, they discuss working with specials need children. Pleas help me decide what i am. Thank you

Answer 1

In this case, the dictionary definition of "para" means subsidiary, or assistant. It's like a paramedic doesn't have the same training or scope of practice as a doctor, but they are trained to do certain parts of the job. In the case of school, "paraprofessional" essentially means that you are the subsidiary, or assistant, to the trained professional, meaning the teacher, who has the credential and the overall responsibility. There are usually more job opportunities as teachers aides or paraprofessional in special ed, rather than general ed classes. This isn't because there isn't a huge need for teaching assistants in the regular ed classes; it's because there is usually more funding available through the federal and state education budgets for paraprofessionals in special ed. Don't let that deter you, though; you may really find being a para in special ed very rewarding, even if that wasn't what you initially intended,

Answer 2

A teacher's aide or assistant requires less education and training than a paraprofessional. A parapro must have at least a CDA or AA or 60 credits of college education (at least here in FL). A teacher's assistant must be at least 18, be a high school graduate, and pass background checks and minimal training.

Answer 3

I was once an instructional assistant, and then they changed the name to the more politically correct sounding "paraprofessional". By its definition, "para" means "assistant". This job, as defined at my school, was intended to assist teachers, whether they taught special needs kids or not. They were paid higher (they had salaries) than teacher's aids, who ALWAYS worked with special needs kids, usually at an hourly wage. I would go to your county's school system's website and see if they define the position in their employment section.

Answer 4

they are pretty much the same thing....states and districts that follow the "no child left behind" require all teacher's aides to become certified. you will not necessarily be put into special needs, however, that IS where most teacher's aides work. the other thing that is a little different is a teacher's assistant, which most places require a AA degree.

Answer 5

Nothing. A paraprofessional sounds better than a teachers' aide.

Answer 6

What you are???? It means you are in need of an education.................you will not be "working with specials need children" if you had an education you would be "working with children with special needs". Once you understand that maybe they will hire you.