Changing Careers--Help for Parapro Resume Please?

Question

I am preparing my resume for our upcoming Board of Education job fair. I would like to apply for a paraprofessional position and am interested in making my "mom of a special needs child" portion more professional sounding. I have also taken many classes, participated in events, and volunteer at his school often--it was just always more of an interest than career oriented. I have also taken and passed the parapro test.

I'm really nervous because this is a field change for me and I face the possibility of having my salary cut in half (which is a sad, sad fact that I'm trying not to get on a soapbox about...just like the parapro test...) so would definately like to be prepared to be at my best for this fair.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and any possible suggestions you may have.

Answer 1

I think you can first lay your resume out in a style that will be more marketable.

Use headlines such as:

SKILLS or QUALIFICATIONS

- list what some of your traits are here such as being able to follow direction

- work well independently and as a team member

- optimistic

- these are all important that demonstrate you have more to offer to the employer.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

- list any schooling that is appropriate

- if you are lacking education then include the training part here as well that you include the workshops, the events etc.

EXPERIENCE

- include paid and non-paid experience including the volunteer work and being a mom

- however, you want to include what your accomplishments have been in this category instead of just rhyming off what you do.

This may be a different field for you but there are many transferrable skills that you have to offer.

Remember, a resume is your marketing tool to get your foot in the door for an interview - that is it.

Whether you get the job or not depends on how well one does in an interview.

Answer 2

I would list your experience as a Mom just as that. Caretaker / provider for a special needs child.

You could go on to further explain what your specific experience is in... have you taken any trainings / workshops? Sensory, behavior, etc..? Cetainly list those.

But- just because you are looking to be a Para doesn't mean you would automatically be a Para in ESE... our school uses Paras for many positions from P.E. to the clinic as well as general grade level Paras - we also have 1-on-1 (ESE) Paras.

You don't want to market yourself for one specific niche as a Para.  Good Luck!!