Requirements

• At least 19 years of age to serve students in prekindergarten through grade 12.
• Beginning January 1, 2023, you may qualify for the ELS-Paraprofessional license by meeting the requirements outlined below at age 18 but only may serve in prekindergarten through grade 8.
• One of the following required:
  • Associate’s degree or higher
  • 60 semester hours of coursework
  • High School Diploma or GED and a score of 460 or higher on the ETS Parapro
  • High School Diploma or GED and the following scores on the ACT Workkeys:
    • Applied Mathematics/Applied Math (with a score of 4)
    • Reading for information/Workplace Documents (with a score of 4)

Years Valid

5

Limitations

Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed teacher

Renewable?

May be renewed with payment of registration fees

Notes: 

• If you hold a Paraprofessional License and have a Bachelor’s Degree on file, you are qualified to be a substitute teacher.
• Coursework must be at the 100-level or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.

Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessionals

Valid: 3 fiscal years

Renewable: No

*Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30, 2025, and may not be renewed.

• High school diploma (or equivalent), or higher
• While working on the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license.