Paraeducator Training

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Paraeducator Training

Support Students As They Learn

Paraeducators are a key part of our schools, helping students while working under the guidance of a licensed teacher. They support students in many places, such as:

General education classrooms
Special education settings
Computer and media labs
Lunchrooms and playgrounds
School buses

Paraeducators may also be called paraprofessionals, teacher associates, or teacher aides.

Hawkeye offers courses to help you earn a Paraeducator Generalist Certificate for working with K-12 students and a Paraeducator Area of Concentration: Early Childhood Prekindergarten through Grade 3.

Paraeducator Programs at Hawkeye

Paraeducator Generalist (K-12) As a Paraeducator Generalist (K-12), you'll be supporting and students in the classroom. Your role will involve helping with lesson delivery, supervising students, and providing one-on-one or small group support. You'll also assist with classroom management, administrative tasks, and supporting students who need extra help, including those in special education. While you won't be leading lessons, you'll play a vital role in making sure students have the best educational experience possible.

In this program, you’ll complete the required coursework to earn your Paraeducator Generalist Certification from the State of Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.

Classes:

2024–2025 Tuition: $1,615

Paraeducator Area of Concentration: Early Childhood Prekindergarten through Grade 3 As an Early Childhood Paraeducator: PreK - Grade 3, you'll be working with young children, helping them develop foundational skills in reading, math, and social behavior. You'll assist teachers in planning and carrying out activities, manage the classroom, and provide one-on-one or small group support to children who need extra help. You may also work with special education students, ensuring they receive the individual attention they need. Your role will be crucial in creating a positive, engaging, and supportive learning environment for young children during their early school years.

You must complete the Pareducator Generalist (K-12) prior to beginning this program.

In this program, you will take the coursework required for the Paraeducator Area of Concentration: Early Childhood Prekindergarten through Grade 3 Certification from the State of Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.

Classes:

2024–2025 Tuition: $1,391

Apply for State Certification

Apply online through the Board of Education Examiners (BOEE).

From the navigation menu, select “License Types and Applications” and then “Apply for/Renew My License”.
Review the Before You Begin... instructions and click the "I Agree" button to proceed.

Application Fee for Generalist Certification: $115

Play

Child Care WAGE$® Iowa Salary Supplement Program

The Child Care WAGE$® Iowa program offers salary supplements (also called stipends) to the early care and education workforce, based on the individual’s level of formal education and commitment to their program.

WAGE$ program

Advance Your Career in Education

Early Childhood Education

Elementary Education Transfer Major

Secondary Education Transfer Major

Program Contacts

Faculty Advisor

Last Names A–M

Jane Even
Main Campus
Black Hawk Hall 236
319-296-2329 ext.1431
Email Jane Even

Last Names N—Z

Emily Knutson
Main Campus
Black Hawk Hall 236
319-296-2329 ext.1558
Email Emily Knutson