This is the one of three courses required for the Iowa Paraeducator Certification. 

Included in this course are the foundational skills for working as a paraeducator in Iowa schools.  

This course will include the essential skills for developing learning environments, content and instruction, and ethical and professional practice competencies.  Participants will gain the skills and strategies needed to implement, assist, support, and maintain a safe environment, educational activities, team interventions, and technology integration when working with colleagues, students, parents, and others. 

This is a 2 credit (30 clock hours) blended course, which requires the completion of online assignments, quizzes and journals in Canvas. The learning is done through a combination of one face-to face zoom session and online coursework. Basic computer skills are highly recommended.  Participants will be expected to submit weekly assignments to complete the additional hours needed to receive a passing grade for this class. 

A minimum of 10 hours of practical experience with students demonstrating application of skills and knowledge of the Iowa Paraeducator Competencies shall be successfully completed. Course completion is contingent upon the fulfillment of clinical hours. Please be advised that while coursework ends in June, clinical hours may extend into the fall. Final grades and transcripts will be issued only upon completion of the clinical component.

Participants need a computer and internet access.