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Job outlook for para educators in the United States
Para educator job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected para educator job growth rate is 4% from 2018-2028.
About 55,400 new jobs for para educators are projected over the next decade.
Para educator salaries have increased 14% for para educators in the last 5 years.
There are over 89,088 para educators currently employed in the United States.
There are 56,897 active para educator job openings in the US.
The average para educator salary is $31,394.
Are para educator jobs in demand?
Para educator job and salary trends over time
Para educator jobs over time
Para educator job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 89,088 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 95,538 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 100,084 | 0.03% |
| 2018 | 90,380 | 0.03% |
| 2017 | 88,444 | 0.03% |
Average para educator salary over time
Para educator salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $31,394 | $15.09 | +3.5% |
| 2025 | $30,320 | $14.58 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $29,316 | $14.09 | +2.7% |
| 2023 | $28,544 | $13.72 | +3.3% |
| 2022 | $27,621 | $13.28 | +2.0% |
Para educator jobs by state
Most common states for para educators
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,263 | 23% |
| 2 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 307 | 23% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 135 | 22% |
| 4 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 603 | 20% |
| 5 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 134 | 19% |
| 6 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 655 | 18% |
| 7 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 187 | 18% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 168 | 17% |
| 9 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,139 | 16% |
| 10 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 93 | 16% |
| 11 | Alaska | 739,795 | 114 | 15% |
| 12 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 837 | 14% |
| 13 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 788 | 14% |
| 14 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,617 | 13% |
| 15 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,191 | 13% |
| 16 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 248 | 13% |
| 17 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 224 | 13% |
| 18 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 260 | 12% |
| 19 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 155 | 12% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 117 | 11% |
Most common cities for para educators
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Luis Obispo | 3 | 6% | $34,333 |
| 2 | Apopka | 2 | 4% | $22,539 |
| 3 | El Cerrito | 1 | 4% | $34,710 |
| 4 | Springfield | 1 | 4% | $29,489 |
| 5 | Cheltenham | 1 | 3% | $29,580 |
| 6 | Abington | 1 | 2% | $29,597 |
| 7 | Lompoc | 1 | 2% | $34,222 |
| 8 | Ocoee | 1 | 2% | $22,535 |
| 9 | Winter Garden | 1 | 2% | $22,539 |
| 10 | Orlando | 2 | 1% | $22,507 |
| 11 | Livermore | 1 | 1% | $34,609 |
| 12 | Santa Barbara | 1 | 1% | $33,983 |
| 13 | Philadelphia | 1 | 0% | $29,554 |
Para Educator job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of para educator experts
University of Maine
Georgia College and State University
Auburn University Main Campus
Howard University
Aultman College
Cabrini University
Auburn University-Montgomery
The George Washington University
Lock Haven University
Bank Street College
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
East Tennessee State University
SUNY Brockport
Oberlin College
Elmhurst University
University of South Florida
Springfield College
Berry College
Missouri State University
What Para Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sally Shelton: If you have the opportunity prior to or just after graduation, take some time to become familiar with a museum beyond just visiting, whether that's through volunteering, doing a museum-based project as part of a class, or leading a program. Learning how museums work, and how much goes on behind the scenes, will help you decide what aspects of museum work you'd like to explore. What you see in exhibits and public programs is just the tip of the iceberg. You may discover that you want to work with collections and research, or that you have a talent for teaching and public outreach, or that you have the vision to design meaningful exhibits. Look at museums in your field of interest, but don't limit yourself to that. People working in museums come from many different backgrounds, fields of expertise, skills, and talents. Knowing something about how museums work and what they do can help you decide what further education and training you may want to pursue as part of getting into this field. One of the most important things to do at the beginning is to proactively build networks in the field. Joining professional associations gives you access to meetings, webinars, workshops, and other positive experiences that can help you keep up with evolving standards and best practices in the field. You also meet people at all ages and stages of life and experience, and there is much to share and learn on both sides. The size of the institution you work in does not matter nearly as much as the professionalism of it.
Dr. William Nichols Ph.D.
Professor, Literacy, Language and CultureUniversity of Maine
Education
What will help Para Educators increase their earning potential?
Dr. William Nichols Ph.D.: Future graduating education majors can expect to immediately enter the 'survival phase of teaching.' Up to this point, they have had university faculty, university mentors, collaborating teacher mentors, and their peer candidates all supporting their development into excellent professionals in the field of education. However, upon the first minute of the first day of teaching, they will enter the survival phase and, in many cases, they will fight for personal and professional existence.
What will help Para Educators increase their earning potential?
Bailey McAlister PhD: I think that any skills rooted in confident experimentation will be increasingly valuable in the near future. For example, you don’t need to be an AI expert, but you should be curious about AI innovations and open to experimenting with AI in your work. Technical knowledge can be learned. But there's real value in being confident to experiment, make mistakes, learn, practice, reflect.
Andrew Pendola Ph.D.
Associate Professor | Program CoordinatorAuburn University Main Campus
Education
What Para Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Andrew Pendola Ph.D.: Hi Alex, I’d be happy to chat with you — my area is in labor markets for educators—so recruitment, hiring, retention, etc.
James Thomas Jackson Ph.D.
Professor of Special EducationHoward University
Department of Curriculum and Instruction
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
James Thomas Jackson Ph.D.: These skills tend to vary, depending on the needs of a particular district or school. However, in general, potential employers would be looking for someone who has a teaching certification in special education, has experience teaching and working with a diverse student population, is proficient with technology, and has a content area focus (i.e., mathematics, social studies, language arts, etc.).
What soft skills should all Para Educators possess?
James Thomas Jackson Ph.D.: These skills would be many, but I tend to think the following are necessary for good special educators:
-a love for the act of teaching
-emotional and mental stability
-patience
-ability to be flexible
-good interpersonal and intrapersonal skills
-a good relationship builder
-confidence
What hard/technical skills are most important for Para Educators?
James Thomas Jackson Ph.D.: The hard/technical skills that I believe are the most important for special educators are:
-ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form
-strong content knowledge base
-demonstrate effective methods of teaching and instruction
-strong knowledge of technology
-ability to be an advocate
-ability to work with a team
What skills will help Para Educators earn the most?
James Thomas Jackson Ph.D.: The skills that will help you earn the most is an interesting question as most school budgets depend heavily on local property taxes. Because of this, salaries will vary depending on where one seeks employment. However, the skills that generally will lead to the most money are the following:
the possession of a graduate degree and maybe years of experience,
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Jo Ann Donnenwirth: When reviewing resumes, it is always important to view clinical experiences, specialty areas, technical skills (including educational platforms), online teaching, and various course content delivery methods.
Amber Gentile
Graduate Secondary Education Program Coordinator, Middle Level Program Coordinator, Assistant Professor of Teacher EducationCabrini University
Teacher Education Program
What Para Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Amber Gentile: It is recommended that graduates continuously look to enhance their inter and intrapersonal skill sets. It is when we "push ourselves" beyond our "comfort zones" that growth is maximized. Graduates should get involved in something that matters to them and challenges them. Being passionate about something experienced and of interest helps a teacher candidate to stand out. Volunteering in schools and organizations that are mission-oriented in improving children's lives is very beneficial for both personal and professional growth.
Being involved in experiences interacting with and supporting children's holistic development can help build a skill set to guide future work. Social, emotional, and relationship-building skills are critical in the classroom. The key is knowing how to help students develop these skills. It is also an excellent idea to enhance one's comfort with, and knowledge of, technology and how it can increase engagement and student learning. This enhanced skillset can be accomplished through formal courses, webinars, and personal exploration.
Essential skills include data-driven decision-making, lessons to support kids' social and emotional needs, community building, culturally relevant and sustaining education practices, understanding of trauma-informed practices and instruction, and current best practices in literacy and math instruction are essential.
Kate Simmons Ph.D.
Professor of Special EducationAuburn University-Montgomery
Counselor, Leadership, and Special Education (CLSE)
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Kate Simmons Ph.D.: The biggest trends in the field of special education have probably increased during the pandemic. The country and the state of Alabama are in a teacher shortage crisis. I think we may see a pattern of older teachers retiring early because of the stress the pandemic may have placed on them. The state is in desperate need of good STEM teachers.
What soft skills should all Para Educators possess?
Kate Simmons Ph.D.: Graduates should possess the soft skills of being able to address an unfamiliar person and be able to hold a conversation. For special education teachers they need a wider range of soft skills to be affective. They should have excellent problem-solving skills and negotiating skills, whether were there there working with students or parents. They should also be trained and have the ability to explain special education services to someone who might not be educated.
Most people don't realize that special education teachers wear many hats. They are the teacher first but also play the role of parent, guardian, friend, advocate, judge and jury to just name a few. It requires a lot of skills beyond teaching to be an effective special education teacher!
How have salaries changed over time for Para Educators?
Kate Simmons Ph.D.: Over time, the salaries for a special education teacher have increased with some stagnant years in between. And I think that is safe to say for all teaching positions. Teachers are being asked to do with more and more with very little compensation and very little resources. It would be interesting to know how much a teacher spends out-of-pocket on materials and needs for their individual classrooms. I think people would be surprised at how generous and committed teachers are to their profession.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Para Educators?
Dr. Doran Gresham: The whole world has been asked to pivot to online instruction or at least hybrid instruction. This will require graduates to learn from each other and require more from their administrators and coaches on the ground level. For instance, teachers should routinely share best practices with their colleagues to ensure that their lessons move all learners from where they are, forward.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Para Educators?
Dr. Doran Gresham: The world around us is becoming more cultural and at the same time, there is a need for customized education. This is why our advanced master's degree program for culturally and linguistically diverse learners is so popular across the United States. The idea is to create coursework that meets at the intersection of culture and special education. Graduates need content that they can use the very next day and that's what we're providing.
What will help Para Educators increase their earning potential?
Dr. Doran Gresham: Look at your surroundings and fill in the gaps. Find a way to learn something that is unique and then monetize what you know. After all, the happiest educators that I'm acquainted with are the consultants because they get treated like business people.This is a fine time for innovators to shine.
Dr. Erica Moore
Associate Professor and Department ChairpersonLock Haven University
Department of Special Education
What soft skills should all Para Educators possess?
Dr. Erica Moore: In my opinion, all graduates in education should possess the soft skills of motivation, dedication, and enthusiasm. Educators should be constantly evolving and motivated to seek innovative instructional activities to best meet the needs of their students. Dedication to the students and to the profession is a must! Graduates should be entering the field of special education for the love of watching students grow and achieve. Some days can be extremely stressful; therefore, the love and commitment for supporting the success of individuals with exceptionalities makes everything worthwhile.
Finally, enthusiasm to continue learning and sharing the joy in the classroom can be contagious. One of my favorite quotes I have lived by as an educator is; "Nothing great is every achieved without enthusiasm" - Ralph Waldo Emerson. I truly believe that passion and enthusiasm should be at the core of your mission as a special education teacher. If students are able to see an excitement for teaching, their spark for learning will ignite.
How have salaries changed over time for Para Educators?
Dr. Erica Moore: Over the years, salaries have increased as the cost of living has been raised. Certainly, depending on the area in which a graduate is seeking a job, salaries will vary based on rural, suburban, or urban communities across the United States. Special Education continues to remain a high area of need and most states are currently in teacher shortages. As with any field, supply and demand may also impact salary options for teachers.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Erica Moore: In the field of special education, I honestly believe the upcoming trends in the job market will surround the utilization of technology and the inclusion of trauma-informed practices. The pandemic certainly highlighted the need for educators to possess a variety of technological skills and to be seeking unique opportunities to engage students in a virtual learning environment. In addition, graduates in the field will need to be prepared to recognize and respond to students who have been impacted by traumatic stress. Creating a culture of respect and support in a classroom will provide a foundation for coping with extreme situations.
Tara Kirton
Course Instructor, ConsultantBank Street College
Early Childhood Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Para Educators?
Tara Kirton: Yes, I think there will be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates. I think graduates should be prepared to teach children using multiple modalities both online and in person. Children and adults all learn differently and that remains true in any setting. Some children will find entry points into lessons through read alouds and discussions that follow, others will find more meaning through artistic expression or dramatic play. Teachers should keep that in mind as they are planning lessons. In addition, teachers should be prepared to teach in a variety of settings utilizing the lessons learned earlier in the pandemic. Engagement can feel difficult for children, particularly younger ones. Some students have reported feeling more engaged in a remote learning world. It's important to remember that just like there is no one size fits all approach with in person learning the same will be true for remote learning. This will be critical in general education, inclusive settings and special education settings.
What technical skills for a Para Educator stand out to employers?
Tara Kirton: Employers will be looking for students who are well versed or quick studies in Google Suite, Zoom, Google Meet and other online resources. Teachers cannot spend all of their time reading books and using videos during their lessons. Engagement will be critical both online and in person. Tools like Flipgrid, Padlet, Edpuzzle, Kahoot! and Mentimeter can help students feel engaged. It will also be important to consider how tools like Zoom are being used. Breakout rooms can be a great way to create smaller interactions but should be discussed in detail with children beforehand to outline the expectations for that space. This of course may or may not be an ideal learning space for younger children and will depend on how many teachers you have on your teaching team to support students in breakout rooms.
What's a day at work look like for a Para Educator?
Tara Kirton: Recent graduates should not expect teaching to look the way it did before the coronavirus pandemic. While some things should remain the same like having routines in place and communicating with families, some things must look and feel different. A day at work for a recent graduate will probably include teaching responsibilities, checking asynchronous activities (if applicable), updating your learning platform (Google Classroom, iLearn, etc.), team planning and meetings with administrators. Cleaning that is specifically related to the coronavirus on top of the cleaning that would typically take place at the end of the day should also be expected. A day at work may not be so typical until the pandemic ends. Teachers should be prepared to remain flexible since schools may need to switch to remote learning rather quickly due to a positive test result. Flexibility and open lines of communication between colleagues, children and families will continue to be very important and can help to reduce feelings of anxiety during this most uncertain time.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Para Educators?
Jennifer Anne Diliberto Ph.D.: As for our grads completing that licensure within special education, mom some benefits are that they are going to be uniquely prepared to Teach virtually or face-to-face. By the end of the semester most of our candidates will of had experience with both of these modalities of instruction. This is a huge benefit to our grads as most teachers are not taught how to provide virtual instruction Within an educator preparation program. We've intentionally discussed the pedagogical differences between virtual and face-to-face instruction for providing "specially designed instruction" a.k.a. special education.
What technical skills for a Para Educator stand out to employers?
Jennifer Anne Diliberto Ph.D.: Collaborative, problem solver, leader, passion for teaching, learning, and helping others - technology savvy, planner, lifelong learner
What's a good job out of college for Para Educators?
Jennifer Anne Diliberto Ph.D.: Teaching! Right now is the most exciting time to be an educator! We are at a point where systemic changes can potentially be made as our pandemic has highlighted many of the issues surrounding equitable education for all. What I find most exciting is all educators are having the discussions regarding systemic issues related to the barriers of providing an equitable quality education. In the past, special educators often discussed these issues among ourselves due to the over- and under-representations of different populations within special-education found in our child count data. As well as the school to prison pipeline--roughly 50% of incarcerated people have disabilities
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Cathy Galyon: One of the biggest trends in the job market right now are that many teachers close to retirement and retiring so they do not have to worry about COVID-19 nor learning new technology online. While there is always a shortage in special education teachers, the need is even greater than before particularly in rural communities.
Another big trend is that teachers have to be really flexible in how they are teaching. Many are having to learn new online technologies and how to use them to successfully teach their students. this is a very different type of teaching where different tools and technologies have to be used. This can be especially problematic if the teacher is working with young children with disabilities such as preschool age or students with severe disabilities. What does a special education teacher do when most of their teaching is typically very hands on and they are now teaching over the internet?
As well as new technology, many teachers are having work more closely with parents. Sometimes they need to teach the parents how to teach the skills/materials. They also have to be understanding when assignments are not handed in on time. Parents often work and cannot keep up the demands of their job as well as assist in the education of their child. teachers have to keep deadlines flexible and offer necessary extensions when warranted.
What technical skills for a Para Educator stand out to employers?
Cathy Galyon: For Special Education the technical skills that stand out to employers are the ability to use assistive technology, which is Technology children with disabilities use to learn, communicate, participate in the classroom, etc. Some states use a case management tool, such as Easy IEP. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a document created for each student in special education to direct the skills they need to work on, the goals they need to meet and the things that need to be adapted for the student to be successful. Technology such as Easy IEP is used by special education teachers to create the IEPs for their students. School systems are really impressed if a job candidate is familiar with this tool and can successfully use it. Unfortunately, it is difficult to gain access to this technology unless a teacher is working for a school system.
What's a good job out of college for Para Educators?
Cathy Galyon: Most candidates out of college get a job with a school system immediately! Special education teachers are in high demand and some school systems have difficulty finding qualified teachers, with positions going unfilled. Almost all (near 100%) of our graduates find a job the first semester after they graduate. If this type of job is unavailable, a candidate could work as a special education teaching assistant until they find the job for which they are qualified.
Dr. Christian Wilkens Ph.D.
ChairSUNY Brockport
Department of Education & Human Development
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Para Educators?
Dr. Christian Wilkens Ph.D.: In teaching - yes. The technical skills are certainly important (learning how to do remote and hybrid instruction, managing students face to face in classrooms and simultaneously at home, using digital tools to organize instruction, delivering assessments, providing feedback, etc.). We're not going to unlearn any of those things, and I suspect they'll remain important in the years ahead. For example, many teachers that have learned to use Google Classroom or Teams for their classrooms are likely to continue use once the immediate crises have tapered; they're useful.
And school districts are looking hard at things they previously considered set - like policies for snow days, or remote instruction for hospital and homebound students. The ability to reach and support students across geography and through crisis is a huge improvement in skills for teachers and schools alike. But perhaps the most enduring aspect of all this for recent graduates is flexibility. Everyone is finding a way. If there's a silver lining in any of this tragedy, it's that teachers entering the workforce now are figuring out, day by day, how to reach students even in the face of obstacle after obstacle. I have to think this will serve them throughout their careers. Years from now, when the copier breaks or a student calls in sick, I don't think any of pandemic-experienced teachers are going to freak out.
What's a day at work look like for a Para Educator?
Dr. Christian Wilkens Ph.D.: Right now (still in the middle of the pandemic), teachers are going to work in schools that are either fully remote (hence, they're teaching from home using a variety of digital tools), hybrid (rotating smaller groups of students, sometimes synchronous live in school and remote to students at home), or in-person with spacing, sanitization, and PPE requirements in place. Preparation for teaching often takes longer because teachers must get ready for two approaches for every lesson (remote and face to face)... so teachers are putting in incredibly long hours. At the same time, the work they do has never been more important. Many families and students are struggling with isolation, economic insecurity, etc. Teachers may be the only non-family adults a student sees regularly - and can be the ones who notice and uplift.
What technical skills for a Para Educator stand out to employers?
Dr. Christian Wilkens Ph.D.: Adaptability and problem-solving. The pandemic has meant so many changes so quickly, the teachers that have proven the most useful to schools are the ones who find a way around, over and through. Certainly the ability to organize classrooms digitally, videoconference, and use software like Nearpod and Flipgrid are handy, but those can be learned quickly. It's really the orientation that's important. Teachers that want to learn new things, and who actively take steps to find ways to engage students - that's what schools and principals need right now.
Corey Barnes Ph.D.
Robert S. Danforth Associate Professor of ReligionOberlin College
Religion Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Corey Barnes Ph.D.: I cannot speak in any meaningful way to pandemic-related trends in the job market aside from the obvious that flexibility and adaptability are and will remain essential skills. We are encouraging our students to cultivate good practices of independent work and of collaborative work carried out remotely.
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Corey Barnes Ph.D.: We work with our students to develop their skills in effective written and oral communication targeted for various media. We believe these attuned communication skills best showcase our students' critical thinking, independent research, creative problem solving, and ability to develop understanding across difference.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Para Educators to find work opportunities?
Corey Barnes Ph.D.: Our students find employment and attend graduate school across the country and around the world. Within the United States, most of our students move to one of the coasts for work. The religion major at Oberlin equips our graduates with broad knowledge and transferable skills that prepare them for success in a variety of endeavors. Most of our majors are double majors, and they tend to pursue employment opportunities at the intersection of their various courses of study.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Linda Dauksas: The job market that I am referring to is education and the hiring of teachers. School districts are anticipating a higher-than-average number of retirements. Districts are beginning their hiring processes earlier than usual. Some school districts are encouraging teacher candidates to apply now for Fall '21 employment.
What technical skills for a Para Educator stand out to employers?
Linda Dauksas: School districts are seeking resilient teachers. These teachers can teach using a variety of different instructional delivery systems (traditional face to face, remote or hybrid instruction). ALL of these formats will be desired after the health pandemic. Districts will continue to use a variety of instructional formats for a variety of reasons (e.g. health-related needs, weather related, natural disasters).
What's a good job out of college for Para Educators?
Linda Dauksas: "Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life". Any job that you LOVE is a good job out of college! No one can teach you to love your job or to love teaching. During the interview process, the candidate should be selective about the job opportunity, just as much as the district is making a decision about or selecting the candidate.
Dr. Elizabeth Doone Ph.D.
UG and MAT in ESE Programs CoordinatorUniversity of South Florida
College of Education
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Elizabeth Doone Ph.D.: During the pandemic the workload for many teachers has compounded as they are expected to teach face-to-face and online simultaneously. Engaging students with special needs in an online environment while beneficial to a few students has proved challenging for others. Imagine engaging a class of three-, four-, and five-year-olds with language impairments and developmental delays in an online format. This becomes a challenge for both working families and teachers.
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Dr. Elizabeth Doone Ph.D.: Teachers must be responsive, engaging, flexible and creative. While these skills are not so notable on resumes, having experience with online teaching and a range of educational apps to engage and target instruction is beneficial. For ESE teachers, identifying specific student needs and targeting interventions with appropriate strategies to meet those needs while monitoring progress and adjusting accordingly is a crucial skill set.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Para Educators to find work opportunities?
Dr. Elizabeth Doone Ph.D.: The need for ESE teachers and paraprofessionals is a national trend, low salaries, lack of respect, an increased work load contribute to an increased need in Florida.
Dr. Linda Davis-Delano
Director, Educator Preparation & Licensure, Professor, Physical EducationSpringfield College
Educator Preparation
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Linda Davis-Delano: Many more job openings as teachers retire early.
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Dr. Linda Davis-Delano: Ability to teach remotely and use a variety of pedagogical techniques including the use of a variety of technological platforms (e.g., YouTube, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Nearpod, Kahoot, Brainpop, TedEd).
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Para Educators to find work opportunities?
Dr. Linda Davis-Delano: Graduates will be successful securing teaching positions all across the country.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Frances Roe: One of the biggest current trends in education is that the pandemic has prompted many teachers to retire or to leave the teaching profession. This exodus from the profession means that there will be more jobs available for our graduates. Locally, administrators from different districts have asked me if the Teacher Education Department knows of any recent graduates who do not have teaching jobs. They are ready to hire our recent graduates right now! The certification area did not matter. They need certified teachers now!
A trend is one that continues from pre-pandemic days. That trend is the need for math and science teachers for middle and high schools. Foreign language and special education teachers are also remain in demand.
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Dr. Frances Roe: In my opinion, student teachers must include language at the top of their resume that aligns with the language listed in the advertisement for the teaching position. The HR Department of most school districts receive the resumes first. The personnel in HR sorts the resumes according to their needs, so graduates should state near the top of their resumes skills that align with the school district's needs. Also, they should highlight that they have had experience teaching virtually. All of our graduates have had some experience in this area. Virtual teaching is likely a trend that will be with us for a while.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Para Educators to find work opportunities?
Dr. Frances Roe: Urban and large suburban areas are typically excellent places to our graduates to find teaching jobs. Large districts such as Hamilton County in Chattanooga, Cobb, and Gwinnet Counties in Georgia, as well as our local school districts are regulars at our Teacher Recruitment Fairs. The districts are holding their own district teacher recruitment fairs earlier and earlier in hopes of hiring our graduates. It is not usual for districts of various sizes to either email or call me asking for help finding certified teachers in the areas I identified earlier.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Para Educator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Ximena Uribe-Zarain: Even though the pandemic has had an enormous impact on the social, economic, and emotional fabric of our society, jobs in our field have not been greatly affected by it. Graduates from the field of educational assessment, program evaluation, and research in education will find plenty of opportunities even in harsh times like these. The trends in the job market continue to be in industry in the area of psychometrics, program evaluation firms, and higher education.
What the pandemic has changed is the way we conduct business. The pandemic has made more evident and even widened systemic inequalities. As researchers, we need to pay close attention to our own cultural responsiveness and be mindful of the disparities in terms of health, racial justice, and technological access. We need to be intentional in our designs, analyses, and the dissemination of results; ultimately thinking on the way our work contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.
What skills stand out on Para Educator resumes?
Dr. Ximena Uribe-Zarain: Graduates of programs in the realm of educational assessment, program evaluation, and research in education tend to excel at critically evaluating social issues, and at using sophisticated methodologies to solve such issues. They are prepared to understand psychometric theory and to implement program evaluation. All of these are good skills to highlight. However, we cannot forget that graduates are more often than not avid users of technologies capable of navigating complex research and statistical software. I believe that highlighting technological skills (quantitative and qualitative analysis software, programming, use of VPN, etc.) is a good bet, especially now that working from home is so prevalent. Also, it is important to mention that being a good communicator could be the deciding factor, especially as we are communicating clearly and professionally more and more often using different media.