Paraeducators are also known as teacher aides or teacher assistants. Some paraeducators work with a single student, especially students with special needs. Others work closely with teachers and assist with classroom management and enlisting parental involvement with school activities. They may act as translators for students who are deaf or for students who do not speak English fluently. Some may work as private tutors in student homes. Most schools require paraeducators to have at least an associate’s degree. Teacher certification is not required for paraeducators.
About Sample Paraeducator Resumes
It is important for paraeducators to have a resume detailing their job qualifications and experience. The public school systems are the largest employers of paraeducators and most hiring is done through the school board. The best way to present yourself to a hiring committee is with an attractive and complete resume. There are sources online that offer free sample paraeducator resumes which can provide applicants with ideas for creating their own resumes.
How to Write a Paraeducator Resume
Paraeducators should have either a high school diploma or a GED and most schools also require at least an associate’s degree from an accredited institution. Include the names and addresses of all the educational institutions which you attended and the dates of graduation. Some states require certification for paraeducators and all information regarding your certification should be noted in your resume.
A list of all former employers with their addresses and your job title and responsibilities is an important part of a resume. Also include two or three personal and business references with their contact information. Recent college graduates may wish to include a copy of their student transcript in a separate folder. Any special qualifications, such as proficiency in American sign-language or a foreign language, should be noted.
Paraeducator Job Description
Most paraeducators work in classrooms assisting teachers and students. They work under the direct supervision of the teacher and may be asked to help manage the classroom, conduct study groups and contact student’s parents. Some paraeducators work in school libraries, media centers and computer labs assisting students in locating reference materials and supervising the use of school computers. Paraeducators who work with special needs students usually have a one on one relationship with their assigned student and assist the student with all his or her needs, both academic and physical.
Paraeducator Salaries
The average salary of a paraeducator employed in a public primary or secondary school in the U.S. was $23,700 in 2009. Paraeducators working in preschools and day care centers earned about $20,000. Paraeducators are also employed by pediatric hospitals, substance abuse centers, junior colleges and universities and average salaries for these positions were between $26,000 and $30,000 per year. Salaries are affected by geographic location and in 2009 the highest paid paraeducators worked in Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware and Washington. Education and experience also impact the salaries of paraeducators.
Job growth for paraeducators over the next decade is expected to be at the national average for all jobs, or about 12%. There is currently a shortage of teachers graduating from college and this could create more demand for paraeducators. The overall job outlook is good and those entering this field should be able to find employment quickly.
