Paraeducator Pathways Program
Associate of Arts | Education Studies
Program Description
The Paraeducator Pathways Program was designed to address a shortage of special educators in Pennsylvania. Launched in Spring 2024, the program provides working paraprofessionals with a pathway towards a bachelor’s degree and special education teacher certification.
Major coursework involves studying the background, theory, and current trends within education including instructional and classroom design; assessment of student learning; identifying the needs of typical and atypical students; and cognitive development. Additionally, communication strategies for teachers to engage in with children and their families are researched and practiced through the program coursework.
In a cohort model, students move through the program together in remote classes from the location of their choice. Program participants can earn up to 18 credits through a professional portfolio, reducing the number of credits for the degree earned through classes to 48. With this model, paraeducators can earn an Associate Arts in Education Studies in just six academic terms.
Upon degree completion, NPRC can work with graduates to identify their next step and apply to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree and special education teacher certification.
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What You'll Learn
Paraeducator Pathways Program
In interactive class sessions, students may be involved in learning experiences that include:
Studying the processes involved in learning with sensitivity to the diverse and exceptional needs of children and families.
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Role playing parent communication, child behavior management, and scaffolded learning strategies.
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Practicing observation and assessment strategies for evaluating student learning and development.
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Communication and collaboration skills for co-teaching lessons alongside a lead teacher.
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A practical approach to special education for working paraeducators to use in all classrooms from PreK to 12th grade.
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Development of a professional portfolio demonstrating experience and development of program concepts and competencies.
Career Outlook in Education
Career opportunities in PreK – 12th grade schools include assistant teacher and paraeducator.
Career opportunities in childcare include group supervisor, school-aged childcare, and community organization staff.
There are 161,900 projected job openings in Pennsylvania over the next 10 years for teaching assistants and preschool, elementary, middle, secondary, and special education teachers. (O*Net OnLine)
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Paraeducator Pathways FAQ's
See What Our Students Have to Say
Growing up in rural Potter County, Pennsylvania meant if I wanted good educational and employment opportunities, I would have to move. When NPRC started offering classes less than 30 minutes from my home (almost an hour closer than the next closest college), my future was no longer dependent on living in a more urban area. I received a quality education without spending the tens of thousands of dollars on room and board a traditional school would have required. And now, I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the team making this story possible for so many other people in rural Pennsylvania. NPRC’s mission is a necessary one, helping serve a part of the population that has lacked affordable and quality higher education for decades. This school helped me avoid debt, find my path in life, and now, I have a job I love and opportunities I never expected.
- Brian, NPRC Graduate
While attending NPRC, I am enrolled in 16 credits and working toward a degree in business administration. This switch is already positively benefitting me as a student. I have been keeping up with classes and shifting out of bad habits that may hinder my success. As someone who is diagnosed with anxiety and ADHD, it sometimes gets hard to effectively communicate. However, NPRC continues to provide opportunities to not only challenge myself, but to help me grow as a student, and more importantly, as a person. NPRC was my second chance. My second chance to help me build myself better, and I feel like my future is already better than what it was before NPRC.
-Noah, Business Administration Student
My time at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College has been a great experience even through the COVID-19 pandemic. Never did I imagine doing a year of college in my own home and still be able to be on the Dean’s List and be extremely proud. I am 39 years of age, and it has taken me this long to attempt college. I have to say that starting college at this age was hard. However, everyone at NPRC has made it easy for me to understand what it means to be studious. You can feel the care that is given to you through the staff at NPRC. The instructors are always willing to help and they will always answer the questions that we have. This college is a great way to get started on your new path through life. There are so many options to pick from if you are undecided.
-Claudia, NPRC Graduate
I started with NPRC right after graduating high school in 2018. I was not sure what I wanted to do career-wise, but the criminal justice field had always piqued my interest. Before finishing my two-year degree with NPRC, I decided to transfer to a four-year university to further my education in both sociology and criminal justice. Without the affordability of NPRC and their knowledgeable staff, I would never have dreamed of being where I am today. I will be graduating from RIT in August of 2022 having majored in Sociology and Criminal Justice, as well as having minored in Criminal Justice. I am excited to start a career in the federal Criminal Justice system or within admissions/counseling in higher education. I plan to put myself through law school while working full time after graduating from RIT.
-Ally, Former NPRC Student
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