The “No Child Left Behind” Act requires education paraprofessionals to comply with new Federal guidelines.

Paraprofessionals may prepare learning materials, work with students individually or in small groups, provide assistance in computer laboratories, act as translators for non-English speaking students if they are fluent in another language, or provide support in a library or media center.

Macomb offers current and prospective paraprofessionals a variety of options to address their needs depending on where they are in their careers and where they want to go.

WorkKeys Assessment

Those considering a position as a paraprofessional can meet the NCLB requirements by successfully completing the ACT WorkKeys Assessment, for which Macomb is a testing center. The assessment measures a paraprofessional’s ability to assist in instruction based on specific federal standards.  Test Overview Workshops are also offered to help prepare for the assessment.

Associate’s Degree

For those wanting to broaden their knowledge and their ability to help children learn, Macomb also offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Paraprofessional Education. The 62 credit program includes required courses in paraprofessional theory and practice, educational psychology, music, school-age care and children’s literature. This associate’s degree can be used to transfer to several elementary education bachelor’s degree programs, with most of the credits transferring.

Paraprofessional Theory and Practice

This course introduces students to the role and responsibilities of the paraprofessional in the K-12 setting.  Topics covered include human growth and development, learning principles, instructional strategies for reading, math, and writing, behavior management, professionalism and strategies for working with special needs students. The practicum component (24 hours of field work with a K-12 teacher) complements the classroom material while providing the student the opportunity to directly apply classroom theory in a K-12 educational environment.  *Students are responsible for acquiring a fieldwork site. **Before attending a school to complete the practicum, it is necessary to have a criminal background check.

This course is required for the Associate of Applied Science degree in Paraprofessional Education.

Current paraprofessionals seeking additional information and support in their work with students, may also take this course.