High school students can embark on a career in education with the K-12 General Paraprofessional Certificate. This certificate provides a solid foundation in educational pedagogy and enables students to contribute to their communities actively. It signifies students' early dedication to education and prepares them for a career focused on teaching and nurturing student development.
Students can earn the certificate by:
- Taking two of the four CTE courses: Teaching Professional 09041, Educational Methodology 09042, Early Childhood Education 09211, and Cooperative Work Experience 09299.
OR - Taking two of the three General Education courses: Teaching Professional 20084, Educational Methodology 20085, Educational Workplace Experience 20086.
OR - Completing any combination of the seven courses, equaling two or more courses.
The NDDPI has a simple online application process.
Find guidance on how to apply for the certificate below.
General Education Paraprofessional Certificate – Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Who can apply for this certificate?
This certificate is available to high school students who are exploring a career in education. It serves as a tangible acknowledgment of their completion of teaching‑related coursework. Individuals who are no longer in high school are not eligible.
Application Process
How do students apply?
Students can apply by completing the online application form.
Is additional documentation required?
Yes. Applicants must upload electronic copies of transcripts or report cards showing they have completed the required courses. These documents can be uploaded directly through the online application.
Required Coursework
What courses are required to earn the certificate?
Students may qualify in any of the following ways:
- CTE Course Pathway (Choose any two of the four):
- Teaching Professional – 09041
- Educational Methodology – 09042
- Early Childhood Education – 09211
- Cooperative Work Experience – 09299
- General Education Course Pathway (Choose any two of the three):
- Teaching Professional – 20084
- Educational Methodology – 20085
- Educational Workplace Experience – 20086
- Combination Pathway:
Any combination of the six courses listed above totaling two or more qualifying courses.
Do dual‑credit classes count toward the course requirements?
Yes, as long as the dual‑credit course uses the approved CTE or General Education course code.
Work Restrictions & Responsibilities
Can students with this certificate work with students on IEPs?
Students earning this certificate are intended to support general education classrooms. They may assist students with IEPs who are in the general education setting, but specialized positions require the separate Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate.
Can a high school senior work as a para‑educator for a half day? Are there hour restrictions?
Yes. Schools may schedule students as needed, provided the hours do not interfere with the student’s other coursework and comply with child labor laws.
Can students working under this certificate be paid?
Yes, students may be paid for their work.
Program Structure
Can one student apply individually, or must applications be submitted as a cohort?
Either option is acceptable. Applications are submitted individually, but schools may choose to apply with multiple students at once.
Can a student serve as a para‑educator while still completing the required coursework?
Yes. Students may work while enrolled in their second required course. After completing all required courses and submitting documentation, they will receive the official certificate.
Is this certificate required before applying for a Title I or Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate?
No. This certificate is not a prerequisite for any other paraprofessional certification. Its purpose is to encourage early interest in the education profession.
Program Timing & Credits
If students completed the required courses before August 1, 2024, can they still apply?
Yes, students who completed qualifying courses prior to the launch date may still submit an application.
Is there a credit requirement for the courses?
No. Schools may determine the credit value of each course, as long as it aligns with North Dakota Century Code and NDDPI Course Code guidelines.
Certificate Purpose & Hiring Flexibility
Is this certificate required for students to work as paraprofessionals?
No. School districts set their own hiring requirements, and students can be employed as paraprofessionals with or without this certificate. The General Education Paraprofessional Certificate highlights a student’s early dedication to education and helps introduce them to a career focused on teaching and nurturing student development.
Please reach out to the Office of School Approval & Opportunity with questions.