For high school students passionate about becoming educators, gaining early classroom experience is a game-changer. Through Educators Rising, students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to make a lasting impact in education. But what if there was a way to translate that experience into immediate job readiness? Enter the ParaPro Assessment—a powerful credential that can open doors to meaningful roles in schools.

What is the ParaPro Assessment?

The ParaPro Assessment, administered by ETS, is a nationally recognized exam that evaluates the essential reading, writing, and math skills needed to support instruction in the classroom. Passing the assessment qualifies candidates to work as paraprofessionals (also known as teacher’s aides or instructional assistants) in many states, helping certified teachers enhance student learning.

How Educators Rising Students Benefit from ParaPro Certification

1. Gain a Competitive Edge in the Education Field
Students who successfully complete Educators Rising programs already possess foundational teaching knowledge. By taking the ParaPro Assessment, they validate their skills and gain a professional credential that sets them apart when applying for jobs in schools. This is especially valuable for students looking to work while pursuing their teaching degree.

2. Immediate Employment Opportunities
While not all states require ParaPro certification for high school graduates entering education-related jobs, many school districts accept the credential as a qualification for paraprofessional roles. This means Educators Rising students can secure paid positions in schools soon after graduation, allowing them to gain real-world experience while continuing their education.

3. A Recognized Pathway to Becoming a Teacher
For many future educators, working as a paraprofessional provides hands-on classroom experience that strengthens their teaching skills. Many colleges and universities view paraprofessional experience favorably in teacher preparation programs, making the ParaPro Assessment a stepping stone to full teacher certification.

4. Addressing Teacher Shortages with Skilled Professionals
As schools across the country face staffing shortages, hiring qualified paraprofessionals is more critical than ever. Educators Rising students who pass the ParaPro Assessment can step into classrooms as instructional aides, providing much-needed support to teachers and students alike.

5. Strengthening CTE Pathways in Education
While some states use the ParaPro Assessment as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway completion exam, others simply recognize it as an industry credential that qualifies candidates for employment in schools. Regardless of state requirements, the ParaPro Assessment is a valuable certification that aligns with the Educators Rising mission of preparing the next generation of educators.

Bring the ParaPro Assessment to Your School

Schools and districts can empower their Educators Rising students by making the ParaPro Assessment more accessible. PDK International  can help schools integrate the ParaPro into their career pathways, ensuring students are prepared for success in education roles.

Are you ready to give your students a head start in their education careers? Contact our outreach and engagement team today to purchase ParaPro at a discounted rate.