PARAPROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

In January 2002, the Federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), also known as the “No Child Left Behind Act” were enacted. The new provision specifically mandated that all paraprofessionals hired after January 8, 2002, meet one of the following requirements:

1) Complete two years of higher education study (60 semester hours or 90 quarter

hours), OR

2) Obtain an Associate’s or higher degree, OR

3) Pass a formal state or local academic assessment that demonstrates knowledge

of and the ability to assist in instructing reading, writing and mathematics, or

instructing reading, writing, and mathematics readiness.

With the implementation of new Federal ESEA guidelines, Georgia’s old paraprofessional licensing system is being replaced with a new certification system. All Georgia paraprofessionals must now hold a valid state certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. The Human Resources Department will be responsible for applying for issuance of the paraprofessional certificate through the Professional Standards Commission.

To be eligible for the Clear Renewable Georgia Paraprofessional Certificate:

1) The applicant must be employed as a paraprofessional in a Georgia school

system.

2) The applicant must hold at least a high school diploma or GED equivalent

and satisfy all other federal hiring requirements appropriate and, as stated

above.

The Clear Renewable certificate is valid for five (5) years, with the beginning date to be the date of employment and the ending date to be June 30 of the fifth certificate year.

To renew the certificate the applicant must:

1) Be employed as a paraprofessional in a Georgia school system;

2) Complete six (6) semester hours or ten (10) professional learning units (PLU’s)

of coursework; and,

3) Have had a criminal record check made.

Upon receipt of the Clear Renewable Paraprofessional Certificate from the State, paraprofessionals should provide their school principal with a copy and retain the original in their personal file. All Media Clerks and Clerical Aides are also subject to the new law.

Course offerings for paraprofessionals are available on the Columbia County School System web site at www.ccboe.net under Professional Learning Department. Professional Learning for paraprofessionals is offered throughout the county and at the schools at various times throughout the school year. Renewal training must take place during the five (5) year validity period of the current certification.