Emergency rule extended to help districts meet in-person training requirements for paraeducators
As communities across our state continue to be affected by COVID-19 and the emerging delta variant, districts must plan how they will be responsive to the health and safety needs of their students, families, and educators. To support schools as they navigate in-person and hybrid learning, the Paraeducator Board has extended an emergency rule providing districts with continued flexibility to meet Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) in-person training requirements for paraeducators.
The FCS consists of 28 hours of training, seven of which districts must provide to paraeducators in person. This emergency rule allows districts to meet the in-person requirement using online synchronous learning. This rule is a continuation of last year’s rule and is in effect until September 1, 2022.
What is synchronous learning?
Virtual environments that use synchronous learning allow participants and the instructor to engage in learning at the same time. An example of synchronous learning includes instructing paraeducators during a live Zoom meeting, or similar software.
What is not considered synchronous learning?
- Assigning an online course for paraeducators to complete (e.g., Paraeducators: what we do matters)
- Assigning paraeducators to watch videos
This type of learning, known as asynchronous, does not include interaction with an instructor.
What are the requirements for school districts during the 2021-22 school year?
School districts are required to provide 14 hours of training on the certificate program during the 2021-22 school year. Paraeducators who have not completed the FCS will continue to receive FCS training. Paraeducators who have finished the FCS will receive 14 hours of training on the general certificate. Training for the 2021-22 school year may begin July 1, 2021.
Resources
|
