Elementary Paraprofessional Educator Certificate

The Elementary Paraprofessional Educator Certificate provides students with the fundamental courses that are part of the Elementary/Generic Special Education AAT degree program, including all education courses within the program. This certificate provides students with the minimal required courses and number of credits for employment as a paraprofessional in an elementary education setting (grades 1- 6) in the state of Maryland.

Students learn about developmental and learning theories and how these impact diverse children, families, and classrooms. Students choose developmentally appropriate lessons, learning activities, and curricula, suitable for a multicultural environment, as well as measure children's mastery of learning. Students also learn how to differentiate learning and learning strategies for a variety of students and settings. Finally, students learn the skills necessary to build positive relationships with parents, families, students, the community, and colleagues, as well as the use of effective communication strategies to enhance these relationships.

This is a recommended program of study for students with the goal of gaining employment as a paraprofessional in an elementary education (grades 1-6) or generic special education (grades 1-12) setting in the state of Maryland, and/or students who are currently employed as paraprofessionals and would like to begin work toward their Elementary Education/Generic Special Education AAT degree.

The Elementary Paraprofessional Educator Certificate is for students who desire to become paraprofessionals in the state of Maryland or who are currently paraprofessionals and wish to begin their studies towards the AAT in Elementary Education/Generic Special Education.

Students may transfer all courses earned in this certificate to an Elementary Education/Generic Special Education Associate of Arts in Teaching with the goal of teaching elementary education, grades 1-6 or generic special education, grades 1-12.

Students in this program are required to submit to a criminal background check in order to participate in the required fieldwork courses. More information about the procedure, cost, timeline, etc. can be obtained through the Education Department Advisor.

Participation in the required fieldwork courses is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of the criminal background check. If a student is denied a fieldwork placement (which is required to complete the program) due to a background check result, the student will meet with his or her advisor to discuss options, which could include dropping the course and changing program of study.

Students must earn a grade of C or higher in all courses in this program.

• Apply child development and learning theories when choosing developmentally appropriate practices and curriculum for specific and groups of children
• Differentiate instruction for a variety of purposes and groups of children
• Discuss the skills needed to be an effective part of an educational team
• Discuss the skills necessary to communicate effectively with families and the community
• Plan, implement, assess, and evaluate student learning outcomes for a variety of purposes
• Apply multicultural principles and strategies to the planning, instruction, pedagogical, and assessment processes in a classroom