Attention Teaching Assistants: ACPS Human Resources (HR) has developed a short survey to help us find out the level of education our current teaching assistants have attained. Also, based on federal requirements that determine highly qualified status, we are trying to identify which of our current teaching assistants can be classified as “highly qualified.” Knowing this information allows HR to develop programming for teaching assistants who need additional education to reach their career goals, and it helps us keep more detailed records for state reporting.

Currently, data on degree attainment is not housed in a single place or in a searchable or reportable manner. HR is working to consolidate all of our state-mandated reporting information into a single system.

Finally, as part of the division’s transition to a Title I Schoolwide model, we must identify teaching assistants who currently meet the federal definition of highly qualified.

Under ESSA and Virginia Code §22.1-298.1, paraprofessionals providing instructional support in programs supported with Title I Part A funds also must meet federal highly qualified standards.

All paraprofessionals must have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent. Additionally, paraprofessionals in Title I schools must meet one of the following three options to meet the designation of highly qualified:

• Complete two years of study at an institution of higher education; or
• Obtain an associate degree (or higher); or
• Meet a rigorous standard of quality and be able to demonstrate, through a formal state or local academic assessment, knowledge of and the ability to assist in instructing, reading, writing and mathematics (or, as appropriate, reading readiness, writing, readiness, and mathematics readiness).

All paraprofessionals, including special education paraprofessionals in a Schoolwide Title I school, must be qualified. This applies to all teaching assistants (TAs) — those in K-1, Special Education, or other TA roles. We are committed to ensuring all TAs meet federal highly qualified standards during the 12- to 15-month transition period.

To that end, we are asking all ACPS teaching assistants to complete a brief survey. The survey, which asks about current level of education and a small bit of additional info, and includes a paraprofessional assessment, will only take about 3-5 minutes to complete. Please click below to participate:

Human Resources appreciates your time and assistance! If you have any questions about this survey, please contact Jason Sears.