No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

Paraprofessionals (teacher aides) must now have a statement of approval from the Illinois State Board of Education

Effective July 1, 2007, all paraprofessionals providing instructional support in Illinois Public Schools must have a letter or certificate of state approval indicating that they meet the state requirements for such a position - i.e., completion of 30 hours of college credit; completion of a training program approved by ISBE or CCB; passage of the ParaPro Test, or passage of the WorkKeys Tests and a local performance assessment.

Paraprofessionals who wish to receive state approval as meeting the federal requirements should complete form ISBE 73-95 and submit it to the Regional Superintendent with the required evidence. There is no fee. Forms will be distributed by your council president at the beginning of the new school year. If you do not receive one, please contact your council president or call the Local 604 office.

Special Education Paraprofessionals

Paraprofessionals providing instructional support for students with disabilities were not previously required to have State approval - BUT YOU ARE NOW REQUIRED. A transition period has been provided for such individuals. Paraprofessionals first employed in programs for students with disabilities on or before June 30, 2005, have until July 1, 2007 to meet the State requirement. These individuals do not have to complete an application for state approval until they meet the requirements. Paraprofessionals first employed in special education programs after June 1, 2005, must meet state requirements at the time of employment Beginning July 1, 2007, all paraprofessionals must have State approval. (NOTE: This extended timeline for state approval does NOT change the Federal timeline for paraprofessionals providing instructional support in a program supported with Title I, Part A funds.)

2008 IFT PSRP Conference