Student support
Elementary Instructional Aide/Paraprofessional
Assists teachers with classroom instruction and student support
- Pay range
- $25,000–$40,000
- Median
- $30,000
- Education
- High school diploma
- Job outlook
- Growing
What you'll do
- Support small group instruction under teacher direction
- Assist with classroom management and routines
- Help students with assignments and activities
- Prepare instructional materials
- Supervise students during transitions
- Provide one-on-one support as needed
A typical day
- Morning classroom setup and preparation
- Small group reading or math support
- One-on-one student assistance
- Playground and lunch supervision
- Material preparation and copying
- Classroom organization and cleanup
- Supporting students with special needs
Education & certification path
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Some college coursework preferred
- Paraprofessional certification test
- On-the-job training
Required certifications
- Paraprofessional qualification test
- Background check and fingerprinting
- CPR/First Aid (sometimes required)
Career progression
- Instructional Aide → Lead Paraprofessional
- Pursue teaching degree → Classroom Teacher
- Specialize in special education support
- Move to administrative support roles
Where and when you'll work
- Work environment
- Elementary classroom working alongside certified teacher
- Typical schedule
- 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM during school days