ParaPath
Getting certified made easier
The ParaPath program is designed to assist those already working in the classroom as instructional paraprofessionals to earn their degree and teacher certification. While the curriculum is the same as our traditional teacher preparation coursework, the courses are offered in the evenings, on weekends and online to allow paras to continue to work while attending classes. Additionally, during the program students are able to use their hours in the classroom as a para toward the student teaching requirement, which means they do not have to quit work to complete student teaching.
Program Eligibility
Candidates must: - Currently be employed as an instructional paraprofessional by a public school or accredited charter school - Be core complete - Have an overall GPA of 2.75 or better - Work in a classroom that matches their degree and certification area - Work with a district-assigned, TEA-approved mentor Have a flexible and supportive administrator
- Apply and be accepted to SHSU.
- Submit the ParaPath application
- Submit the Handbook Acknowledgement form, linked in the ParaPath application.
- Have your district submit the Proof of Employment form, linked in the ParaPath application.
- Have your principal complete the Principal Recommendation form, linked in the ParaPath application.
Students admitted into the ParaPath program must have completed the following:
- 6 hrs Communication
- 3 hrs Mathematics
- 6-8 hrs Life and Physical Science
- 3 hrs Language, Philosophy, and Culture
- 3 hrs Creative Arts
- 6 hrs U.S. History
- 6 hrs Political Science/Government
- 3-6 hrs Social & Behavioral Science
- 4-6 hrs Life and Physical Science or Language, Philosophy, and Culture
For more information about the SHSU Core Curriculum, click HERE.
Certification Options
- PreK - 3rd Grade Core
- PreK- 3rd Grade Special Education
- PreK - 3rd Grade Bilingual Education
- Early Childhood - 6th Grade Core
- Early Childhood - 6th Grade Special Education
- Early Childhood - 6th Grade Bilingual Education
Resources
- Teach for Houston is a non-profit partner that will reimburse application fees
- SHSU Transfer Scholarship - amount varies based on transfer GPA
- Educational Aide Exemption
- Foundation Scholarship - up to $2000/year
- TEACH Grant - federal grant up to $4000/year
- Scholarships4Kats, accepted students are encouraged to apply every year
- Student Loans
- Loan Forgiveness - TEA program
- Financial Aid