Frequently Asked Questions:  Para-professionals 

Q: How do I become Highly Qualified?
A: Para-professionals have three ways to become Highly Qualified.

Hold a high school or recognized equivalent AND

• Hold an associate's degree OR
• two years of college (48 semester hours) OR
• pass the HELP exam (Higher Education Learning Profile)

Q: Where can I take the HELP exam?
A: Any certificated staff member may administer the exam. Contact Educational Resources, Inc. www.eriworld.com/help.htm for further information.

Q: When do I have to become highly qualified?
A: All para-professionals must be highly qualified by January 8, 2006.

Q: Can I be released if I am not highly qualified by that date?
A: Yes.

Q: What para-professional educator duties require me to become highly qualified?
A: Para-professional educator duties include:

• Tutoring outside normal class time;
• Assisting with classroom management (such as organizing instructional materials);
• Assisting in a computer laboratory, library, or media center;
• Providing instruction under the direct supervision of a teacher;
• Conducting parental involvement activities; and
• Translating.