Considering career in special education?

Question

Hi My name is Laura i am 18 years old and in college I am thinking of become a para. ( the person who follows a particular student around and helps them through the day) i would like to work with younger children such as maybe ages 4- 9

i would like to know what do i need to do to get started towards my career goal?

Answer 1

You are already doing what you need to do to get started in becoming a paraprofessional in special education, attending college and completing your general education requirements.  You might as well finish your associate degree too.  This will help you qualify for  para certification.  You will probably have to take a test too.  Contact teachers and aides working in special education locally and ask them for a union contact.  The union will provide you guidance on job opportunities and how to prepare for the test.

If you like your work as a paraprofessional, you can continue in the field by earning your bachelor's degree and teaching credential.

Answer 2

U can work as a 1:1 AID for children with a 1:1 need,  you need to take to  take a NY for teachers assistants certification test anit is $35  here is more info  http://www.nystce.nesinc.com/NY_toc.asp

Answer 3

You could consider being a "Student Nurse" that will help you a lot!

I've known girls who attend a group called the Aspergers Group near to where I live and they are very helpful...

(I'll never fall for one though coz of complications...)

So... think carefully about that... then that will actually help you to learn more about looking after others...

If you need more info about this... mail me ok?

Answer 4

You can be a para while you are still in college.  You can be working on a degree in education or Special education you may want to teach later.  It will be (a little) better pay and it's not a stable career.