Paraprofessional Training and the No Child Left Behind Act

Success for Every Child

How does NCLB affect me?		In January 2002, the federal law that governs public education was re-authorized and name the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). This law brings major reforms to public schools and is designed to increase accountability and improve student achievement. The law aims to ensure that students in these schools receive the best possible education from well-trained qualified staff.
What does "highly qualified" mean?
How can I meet these standards? Will the district help?
Contact information
Associate of Arts Degree Pursuit
Credit Pursuit
Test Preparation Workshops
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	How does NCLB affect me?
	If you are a classroom aide, tutor or teacher assistant working in a school that receives Title I federal funding, you are directly affected by this law. NCLB requires that paraprofessionals like you be “highly qualified” to work with students. In order to meet the standards outlined by the law, you may need to get additional education or pass a rigorous exam. If you are not certain whether your school receives Title I funding or whether your position is affected, contact the Anchorage School District Title I department at 907-742-4496 or check here.

	What does "highly qualified" mean?
	In terms of this law, there are three ways a paraprofessional can meet the “highly qualified” standard: Have an associates degree Have two years of higher education (48 credits); or Pass a test designed by the State of Alaska.

	How can I meet these standards? Will the district help?
	Many paraprofessionals in Title I schools already meet the requirements. If you are unsure, you should contact the Title I department, 907-742-4496, for clarification. If you do not yet have the coursework needed to meet the requirements or pass the exam, the school district will help you. An Anchorage School District para-professional committee has been meeting to discuss ways to support your efforts to meet the requirements. There is funding available for the following three programs: Associate of Arts Degree Pursuit Credit Pursuit Test Preparation Workshops - Associate of Arts Degree Pursuit

	For more information, contact
	Title I Department www.asdk12.org/depts/titleone/ 907-742-4496 or 907-742-4494 TOTEM Association www.totemassoc.org 907-562-1183

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