A.A.S. Degree

The Education Paraprofessional program provides theory and practice in the skills for working as effective members of instructional teams. An education paraprofessional works under the supervision of a licensed/certificated staff member to assist and support educational services. Courses within all options address the Washington State Core Competencies for Paraeducators and the Washington State Skill Standards. The core curriculum focuses on current issues and historical foundations of regular and special education, instructional strategies, behavior management, human development and interpersonal skills in the context of a diverse society. Supervised practicum opportunities for hands-on experiences in schools are provided throughout this course of study. The focus on Special Education includes the core curriculum courses described above yet delve deeper into providing services for children identified with disabilities such as learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and developmental disabilities.

AAS Education Paraprofessional, General Education: The goal for this option is to support learners experiencing delays and/or those who are learning English as well as typical students within a general education setting.

AAS Education Paraprofessional, Early Childhood: Courses include the core curriculum described above and is intended to meet the needs of persons who wish to become paraeducators in grades K-3.

AAS Education Paraprofessional, School Library Media Technician: Courses include the core curriculum described above and is intended to meet the needs of persons who wish to become education paraprofessionals or school library technician paraprofessionals in a K-12 library. Library science (LMLIB) classes are taught online and students are required to take an onsite work experience class, LMLIB 267.