This is the first of three courses required for the Iowa Paraeducator Generalist Certification available through the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.
Note: This course is not appropriate for RENEWAL of the Paraeducator Generalist Certification.
This course is the introduction to the necessary skills paraeducators will need to be prepared to meet the demands of their supportive roles within a classroom. Included in this course are the foundational skills for working as a paraeducator in Iowa schools and essential skills for providing ethical and professional practice.
This is a 30 clock hours blended course which requires the completion of assignments, quizzes and journals. The course has 3-hours face-to-face (Zoom) followed by instructor-led online learning. Basic computer skills are highly recommended.
In addition to the coursework, paraeducators are required to develop a partnership team with their classroom teacher and building administrator and meet five times throughout the Paraeducator Program (Courses I, II and III). 

Participants must be employed by an accredited Iowa school district as a practicing paraeducator, or work as a substitute paraeducator in an accredited Iowa school district, or have a teacher and administrator who are willing to mentor you through the certification program

- Participants must be at least 18 years old
- Participants must have a high school diploma or equivalent GED