SOE Header 2

Options for Instructional Aides

The following academic criteria must be met prior to submitting an application:

  1. The student must be in the last semester of required education courses.
  2. The student must be within 12 hours of graduation by the start of the semester (within 9 hours of the major and 3 hours of the minor).
  3. The student must meet all other eligibility requirements for admission.
  4. The student must submit an application by the posted application deadline. The application must include a letter stating that the student wishes to substitute the option for instructional aides for student teaching.

The following job-related documentation must be submitted for a teaching assistant (paraprofessional) to be considered for this option at UTPB:

  1. The student must submit a copy of an official service record showing completion of at least two years as an instructional assistant during the previous eight years.
  2. The student must submit copies of work evaluations for previous years.
  3. The student must be currently employed as an instructional assistant and must submit a letter from his/her principal, documenting the current assignment and work duties.
  4. The student must submit evidence that some of the experience as a teaching assistant is in the area of the certification the candidate is seeking.

During the semester, the teaching assistant completes the following:

  1. The instructional aide must be assigned for at least part of the day to a classroom in his/her teaching field during the semester.
  2. The instructional aide must enroll in and attend a seminar related to the experience.
  3. The instructional aide must follow the syllabus as specified by the professor.