Paraprofessional Requirements of NCLB

The No Child Left Behind Act has raised the qualifications expected of most paraprofessionals working in Title I.
Under the previous law,Title I paraprofessionals, except those acting as translators, had to have a high school diploma
 or its equivalent or had to obtain one within two years of being employed.

Under NCLB, local school districts had to ensure that as of January 8, 2002, all Title I paraprofessionals, including translators,
 had at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. In addition, districts must ensure that paraprofessionals hired after this
date meet the more stringent requirements described in Box 4-C, which include completing two years of higher education,
or obtaining an associate’s degree, or meeting a “rigorous standard of quality” and demonstrating knowledge by passing a state exam.

By January 8, 2006, all paraprofessionals working in Title I-supported programs must meet the more stringent requirements,
except those who do not carry out instructional duties such as translators and paraprofessionals who work solely on parental involvement activities.

Also, paraprofessionals cannot provide direct instruction to students unless they are under the direct supervision of a teacher.