Becoming a paraprofessional in Pennsylvania is an amazing way to make a difference in the lives of students, especially in communities where caring, committed educational support staff are needed the most. If you’ve been thinking about working in a school, supporting teachers, or helping students with academic or behavioral needs, a paraprofessional role might be the perfect fit.
Horizon Staffing Resources connects paraprofessionals with school districts across PA in Delaware County, Philadelphia, Montgomery County, Chester County, Bucks County, and other nearby communities. Whether you’re starting from scratch or switching careers, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to get qualified and hired. Interested in becoming a paraprofessional? Here is our step-by-step guide on how to become a paraprofessional in Pennsylvania.
What Is a Paraprofessional?
Paraprofessionals are sometimes known as paras, paraeducators, teacher’s aides, classroom support staff, special education aides, or instructional assistants. They work directly with students and support teachers throughout the school day. As a paraprofessional you will be providing behavioral, instructional, and emotional support to students in and outside of the classroom. Paraprofessionals aren’t always working only in special education classrooms, they can also provide support to students placed in a general education classrooms as well. Many paraprofessionals in Pennsylvania work with:
- Students with IEPs
- Students with autism
- Small reading or math groups
- Behavioral or emotional support programs
If you enjoy helping children learn and grow, this role can be incredibly rewarding.
How to Become a Paraprofessional in Pennsylvania: A Step By Step Guide
Step 1: Meet Pennsylvania’s Basic Requirements
Pennsylvania follows the federal ESSA Paraprofessional Qualification Standards for Title I schools. According to PDE’s guideline CSPG 101, instructional paraprofessionals in Title I settings must have at least one of the following:
- An associate degree or higher; or
- Completed at least two years of postsecondary study (48 credits); or
- Passed a state or local assessment in reading, writing, and mathematics.
If you don’t have college credits, passing a paraprofessional assessment (the parapro) is one of the fastest paths to becoming qualified.
Step 2: Complete Pennsylvania School Clearances
Every Pennsylvania school employee such as substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and instructional aides are obligated to meet requirements and complete clearances, including:
- PA State Police Criminal Background Check
- PA Child Abuse History Clearance
- Federal Criminal History Record Information (via Identogo).
These clearances must be renewed every five years, and must be completed before starting a job in education. Horizon Staffing Resources can walk you through each step so nothing gets missed.
Step 3: Build the Skills Schools Are Looking For
Philadelphia-area districts and Delaware County schools value paraprofessionals who are:
- Patient and calm under pressure
- Able to work well with children with diverse needs
- Effective communicators
- Comfortable supporting behavior plans
- Reliable and consistent with attendance
- Compassionate and student-centered
Experience helps, but you don’t need to be a certified teacher, just someone who genuinely wants to help kids succeed.
Step 4: Consider ABA or Special Education Experience
Paraprofessionals who can support students with autism, behavioral needs, or learning support classrooms are in extremely high demand in Pennsylvania. Some paraprofessionals go on to become ABA paraprofessionals, RBTs, or special education teachers. If you’re interested in ABA work, you can explore RBT training. Horizon Staffing Resources frequently hires ABA paras and RBTs for districts across the Philadelphia metro area.
Step 5: Apply for Paraprofessional Jobs in PA
Send us your resume, or check out our hot jobs section once you have all the below requirements completed:
- The required education OR you’ve passed the assessment
- All PA clearances
- A resume that highlights child-based or support experience
Horizon Staffing Resources places paraprofessionals in:
- Delaware County
- Philadelphia School District & charters
- Montgomery County
- Chester County
- Bucks County
We offer competitive weekly pay, school-day schedules, ongoing support from our education staffing team, and opportunities to move into long-term or full-time district roles. If you’re looking for paraprofessional jobs near you, our recruiters can match you with positions that fit your strengths and goals.
Step 6: Prepare for Paraprofessional Interviews (Tips That Impress PA School Districts)
Districts in the Philadelphia and suburban PA region typically look for candidates who:
- Can stay calm when working with students who may have behavioral challenges
- Understand the importance of confidentiality
- Are willing to collaborate with teachers, therapists, and aides
- Use positive reinforcement with students
- Show genuine interest in supporting kids academically and emotionally
A good rule of thumb: focus on patience, communication, and compassion.
Why Pennsylvania Needs More Paraprofessionals
Pennsylvania schools, especially in Delaware County and Philadelphia, are experiencing a growing need for paraprofessionals due to increased special education enrollment, greater demand for 1:1 student support, expanded behavioral and emotional support programs, and teacher shortages requiring more classroom assistance. That means job stability, consistent hours, and opportunities for career growth. For many candidates, paraprofessional work becomes a stepping stone to teaching, ABA therapy, social work, or child psychology.
Start Your Career as a PA Paraprofessional With Horizon Staffing Resources
If you’re ready to work in a PA school and want a partner who supports you from your first interview through your first day in the classroom, we’re here to help. Apply for paraprofessional jobs in Pennsylvania via our careers page. Get guidance on PA clearances, testing, and training. Work in Delaware County, Philadelphia, or surrounding areas near you. Horizon Staffing Resources is proud to support local school districts while helping dedicated candidates build meaningful careers.
