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  2. Career Pathways
  3. Educator Pathways
  4. Project Para

Project Para

A teacher interacts with a group of students in a classroom setting.

Project Para

Become a paraprofessional for school districts in Alameda County. As a paraprofessional, you gain firsthand experience in supporting the needs of specific students, including students with special needs. This is a great way to enter and grow in the field of education. ACOE is dedicated to supporting candidates in becoming paraprofessionals in our districts.  

To this end, we have launched two initiatives: 

  1. A Paraprofessional Institute, offering paid training and support for candidates as they prepare for their roles in the classroom. 
  2. We have created the Paraprofessional Power Hour to help candidates prepare for the para exam with an hour of focused study just before the Para exam.

Program Overview

The purpose of the program is to train and support candidates in becoming paraprofessionals in Alameda County, thereby enhancing support for local school districts. As paraprofessionals, candidates gain valuable experience assisting students, including those with special needs, and can develop their careers in education.

  • This program is open to candidates who are passionate about helping students thrive in the classroom.
  • It is ideal for those looking to start their career in education.
  • Recently graduated high school seniors are also welcome to apply.
  • Candidates will have the opportunity to join other pathway programs offered by the Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE

Training Opportunities

Candidates can benefit from two key forms of support: the Power Hour, which provides test preparation for the exam, and the Para Institute, a month-long paid training program offering a stipend of $3,000.

Open Eligibility

Project Para is open to anyone interested in pursuing a career as a paraprofessional, including recent graduates, career changers, and candidates looking to make a positive impact in education.

Community Impact

By training more paraprofessionals, the program enhances the educational environment, providing crucial support to students and teachers, ultimately improving the quality of education in the community.

Additional Resources

Contact Us

Olivia RangelOlivia Rangel
Executive Director of Special Education Innovation
(510) 670-1807
orangel@acoe.org

 

Sarah GlasbandSarah Glasband
Executive Director, Educator Development
(510) 670-4559
sglasband@acoe.org

 

Juan MaciasJuan Macias
Entry Pathways Career Guide
(510) 670-1810
jmacias@acoe.org