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Education Careers / Paraeducator


Paraeducator Certification

Paraeducators are school employees that assist teachers or other licensed professionals by performing a variety of tasks that enhance instruction and learning. They work under the supervision of teachers or other professional practitioners who are responsible for the design, implementation and assessment of learner progress. Paraeducators are also referred to as paraprofessionals, teacher associates, teacher assistants and teacher aides.

Requirements for Iowa paraeducator certification can be met by completing Kirkwood's paraeducator courses. A grade of at least a "C" is required in each course. Please note, this is certification from the state, not Kirkwood. Kirkwood does offer an Early Childhood paraeducator certificate.

If you are a paraeducator and have taken college courses in the past, you still need to take the required courses for your paraeducator certification. The Iowa Board of Education has specified the competencies required for paraeducator certification. You need to demonstrate and record that you have completed these specific competencies.

There is a great scholarship available for paraeducators. Click on the scholarship link on the right side and scroll down to the Sunny Story Paraeducator Scholarship for more information.


For More Information Contact:

Doug Van Oort
Assistant Professor/Coordinator
1017 Cedar Hall
319-398-4936
800-332-2055 ext. 4936
Doug.Van.Oort@kirkwood.edu