ParaPath Program

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.

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

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

Admissions Process

1. Apply and be accepted to SHSU.
2. Submit the ParaPath application
3. Submit the Handbook Acknowledgement form, linked in the ParaPath application.
4. Have your district submit the Proof of Employment form, linked in the ParaPath application.
5. Have your principal complete the Principal Recommendation form, linked in the ParaPath application.

Coursework

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.

Financial 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

FAQs

• Can I be a part of the program if I am not a paraprofessional?

  No, unfortunately the ParaPath program is specifically for instructional paras in an elementary classroom setting.

• Can I be a part of the program if I am a substitute (long-term or otherwise)?

  No, unfortunately the ParaPath program is specifically for instructional paras in an elementary classroom setting. Substitute teachers would not be able to meet fieldwork and mentorship requirements mandated by TEA for certification.

• Can I be a part of the program if I am a paraprofessional at a private school?

  All ParaPath students must be in a Texas public school or accredited charter school. Private schools are not eligible unless they are TEA accredited.

• How long does it take to complete the program?

  If you are core complete and earn a C or better in all your ongoing coursework, you can complete the program in 4-5 FULL-TIME semesters.

• Are the tuition and fees for this program the same as other SHSU programs?

  Yes, the ParaPath program is a standard degree and teacher certification program, and the tuition/ fees are the same as all other SHSU students in the College of Education.

• Is there financial help available from my district?

  Some districts do provide financial assistance to their staff who are pursuing degrees and/or certification. Please contact your campus administrator or Human Resources department for information about your district specifically.

• I already have a degree; would this program work for me?

  The ParaPath program is intended for students who are earning their first undergraduate degree. If you already have your bachelor's degree, our Alternative Certification Program may be a better option for you. You can contact the ACP for more information at ACP@shsu.edu.

Contact Info

For more information, please contact:

Full Handbook

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