1. ParaEd The Paraeducator Certificate Program at Catholic University’s Metropolitan College

2. Who are paraeducators? Teacher’s Assistants Instructional Assistants Teacher’s Aides One-on-one Aides Dedicated Aides.

3. ParaEd: The New 48-Hour Program in Education Studies No Child Left Behind requires an Associate’s Degree or equivalent (48 credit hours) for paraeducators Open to all paraeducators, even those working in Title I and regular education programs.

4. Why is ParaEd needed? Paraeducators are increasingly utilized to provide support to students with special needs in a variety of settings Working with children with low- incidence disabilities requires special skills.

5. What is a low incidence disability? visual and/or hearing impairment significant cognitive impairment autism/autism spectrum disorders multiple disabilities severe physical disabilities severe health impairments any impairment for which a small number of personnel with highly specialized skills and knowledge are needed

6. Metropolitan College Geared towards non- traditional students Accessible

7. Who is eligible to apply for admission to ParaEd? People with a desire to support the education of children with disabilities GED or high school diploma required (minimum) Must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.

8. What do I need to do to apply to ParaEd? Complete an application Get letters of reference from your current Principal and the special education teacher you are assigned to Obtain an official (original) high school transcript or proof of GED plus an official college transcript if you have attended some college Provide official evidence of US citizenship or documentation from the INS that you are a lawful permanent resident of the US Send or deliver the above to Metropolitan College.

9. After your application materials are all in... You will be scheduled to come to Metropolitan College. At that meeting: –you will take a short test of reading comprehension –you will meet the staff and be interviewed.

10. Next... If you are eligible for admission, we will notify you, in writing, about your acceptance and start date. You will be scheduled a time to return to the Metropolitan College so that you can: –complete required paperwork –take part in a University orientation –hear about options for financial aide..

11. 48 Credit Hours! Credits from other universities may be accepted ParaMet credits included/accepted Other college credits you have earned may be accepted CLEP testing may be an option for some students, especially if you are fluent in a foreign language.

12. Completion of the 48-hour program will prepare paraeducators for Meeting No Child Left Behind requirements Providing academic and behavioral supports to children in a variety of educational settings, including support of students with low incidence disabilities Pursuing further undergraduate study in education or a related field Beginning to address local requirements for teacher certification.

13. Questions? Metropolitan College: 202-319-5256 ParaEd Office: 202-319-4732 –Co-Project Directors: Shavaun Wall, PhD Abby L. W. Crowley, EdD

14. We hope that you will be part of this exciting opportunity.