April 2006

REVISED TO REFLECT APRIL 2006 CHANGES!

Please also refer to Information Bulletin No. 200505– New Certification Requirements for Teaching Assistants

Number 200610

This document provides information on certification requirements for teaching assistants, particularly the changes that went into effect on February 2, 2004. It also summarizes the characteristics of teacher aides and teaching assistants in the areas of employment, job duties, licensing and certification, including New York State laws and regulations governing each area. Finally, it addresses the most frequently asked questions related to certification and licensure.

This Information Bulletin covers the following topics:

•  Background on the employment of paraprofessionals in the education workforce and the factors contributing to their growth in employment;

•  A summary of New York State laws and regulations governing the employment, job duties, and certification and licensure of teacher aides and teaching assistants;

•  A chart indicating requirements for teaching assistants who applied for certification by February 1, 2004;

•  A chart indicating certification requirements for teaching assistants, as of February 2, 2004, including certificate levels leading to teacher preparation;

•  Portability of a teaching assistant credential across school district and BOCES boundaries;

•  Information on professional development for teaching assistants;

•  Commissioner's Regulation Section 80-5.6 governing certification requirements for teaching assistants;

•  Excerpts from Commissioner's Regulations related to professional development for teaching assistants;

•  Programs and resources from the NYSUT Education and Learning Trust; and

•  Frequently asked questions, with answers provided by NYSUT, regarding teaching assistant certification.

This Briefing Bulletin is provided for general information purposes only. An official response on the interpretation of certification regulations or the determination of individual certification status can only be obtained from the Office of Teaching Initiatives of the New York State Education Department.

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NYSUT's Division of Research and Educational Services serves as the research arm of NYSUT, providing information and assistance to Field Services, to other NYSUT divisions, and to local leaders. In addition, the Division provides a variety of information and workshops to local leaders and to local member organizations.

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