Also called: Instructional aide, One-on-one aide
Supports a student with significant disabilities throughout the school day.
One-on-one aides help a student follow class activities, use communication devices, handle personal care, and calm down when overwhelmed. They build deep bonds with students.
BLS teaching assistants.
High school diploma, about 1 year after high school. High school diploma plus some college or a paraprofessional exam.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Certification. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Special Education.
Growing slowly (about 0% over 10 years). BLS projects little change.
Low risk for 10 years. AI can help adapt worksheets, but a 1:1 aide's personal care and calm, steady presence stays human.
Age 18+. One way to start: Take the ETS ParaPro test (about 2.5 hours) and apply to district para openings First: ParaPro test or 2 years of college (Title I rule), plus background check
Classes: Child development CTE class, Psychology, Health.
Official data: O*NET occupation 25-9043.
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