Paraeducators
Are you looking for information about paraeducators?
Keystone AEA's certification programs are specifically designed for paraeducators already employed by one of the 21 school districts within Keystone AEA1 region. Paraeducators working in districts outside of Keystone AEA should contact their local AEA to enroll in their program. Individuals interested in becoming a paraeducator in order to obtain a school district job should contact their local community college to enroll in their program.
Paraeducators interested in certification must be at least 18 years of age, and show proof of a high school diploma or GED.
How do I become a certified paraeducator?
Are you interested in becoming a certified para educator? Keystone is approved to offer the Generalist Certification. Successful completion of the three Paraeducator Certification courses allows you to apply for an Iowa Paraeducator Certificate.
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How do I add an area of concentration to my certificate?
Already hold a Paraeducator Certificate? Renew your Certificate and add an endorsement to your Certificate with an Area of Concentration course. Keystone currently only offers the Early Childhood area of Concentration. If you would like to add an additional area not offered by Keystone, click here to get started.
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How do I renew my paraeducator certificate?
Paraeducator Renewal Opportunities
MicrocredentialsCustomize your learning by completing 15 hours of learning during one of the four cohort opportunities throughout the year.
Book Study
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The Paraprofessional's Handbook for Effective Support in Inclusive Classrooms by Julie Causton and Kate MacLeod
I'm a newly hired paraeducator looking for resources.
Keystone is excited to offer a new book study this fall to support newly hired paras. Each participant will need to purchase the book, The Paraprofessional's Handbook for Effective Support in Inclusive Classrooms by Julie Causton and Kate MacLeod prior to the first day of class.
Each participant will independently read the book and join the five weekly zoom sessions to participate in discussions about what was read, reflect on current roles and practices and share learning with others. There will be two Zoom options on Wednesdays beginning September 13th through October 11th. The first option will be from 2:00-3:00 p.m. during early outs for some area districts and the second will be from 3:30-4:30 p.m. after school. Participants can register for the option that works best for them.
Participants who would like a licensure renewal credit will need to choose that option at registration and pay the $35 renewal fee.
If you have any questions about registration or would like to learn more, please reach out to Laura Smith.
Successful completion of the Substitute Authorization course allows you to apply for an Iowa Substitute Authorization.
An individual who holds a Paraeducator Certificate without an associates degree or 60 semester hours of credit and completes this course will be authorized to substitute ONLY in the special education classroom (not preschool or ELL) in which the individual is employed, for no more than five consecutive days. Only paraeducators may elect the Paraeducator Credit.
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Transcripts for Courses After June 1, 2019
Transcripts are available when the course has ended and the instructor has closed the course.
AEA Professional Learning Registration System
Transcripts for Courses Prior to June 1, 2019
Keystone AEA Universal Registration System
NOTE: You may have transcripts in either or both locations.
