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English as a Second Language
Paraeducator Area of Concentration Certification
Course Overview
This course is designed to prepare Certified Paraeducators to work with English Language Learners. Participants will develop an understanding of second language acquisition, including realistic expectations of acquiring a second language. The content of this class is based on the competencies set by the Board of Education Examiners for English as a Second Language - prekindergarten through Grade 12 Paraeducator Area of Concentration Certification. Certified paraeducators and licensed educators can also take this class for three renewal credits.
Registration Eligibility
Through May 1st, 2024, registration is first available to currently certified Paraeducator Generalists OR paras who will directly serve English Learners in 2024-2025. Staff who meet one of these qualifiers are able to register immediately and are also eligible for an $1000 stipend for their time. There is a limited number of stipends available that will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis (in other words, register as soon as possible). The stipend is only available to paras who currently have their Paraeducator Generalist Certification OR paras who will serve English Learners in 2024-2025. Eligible participants will receive the stipend payment upon full completion of the course, including full attendance, engagement, and completion of activities/assignments.
This stipend will be provided through Title III funds, which can only be used to directly support English Language Learners. To ensure that funds are dispersed appropriately, eligible registrants are asked to fill out this short Google Form to describe their work with English Learners.
Should seats still be available, registration will be open to other participants on May 2nd, 2024 for Participant Only or Licensure Renewal Credit.
Course Learning & Objectives
Upon completion of the course, participants will have received training to screen students using the ELPA21 Dynamic Screener, differentiate on the fly, use translation tools effectively, and engage families.
Paraeducators will...
- be able to operate computers and use technology that will enable students to participate effectively in the classroom;
- be able to work with the classroom teacher as collaborative partners;
- be able to demonstrate knowledge of the role and use of the primary language of instruction in accessing English for academic purposes;
- demonstrate knowledge of instructional methodologies for second language acquisition;
- communicate and work effectively with parents or guardians of English as a second language students in their primary language and demonstrate knowledge of appropriate translation and interpretation procedures.
Logistics
This class is blended in nature, with 3 face-to-face classes and learning to take place outside of class.
Face-to-face classes at the Pocahontas PLAEA Office (500 NE 6th St., Pocahontas, IA):
05/31/2024: 08:30:00 AM - 03:30:00 PM
06/06/2024: 08:30:00 AM - 03:30:00 PM
06/20/2024: 08:30:00 AM - 03:30:00 PM
To meet requirements of certification and the course, participants will also engage in approximately 27 hours of learning outside of class. All coursework is due and to be submitted by the last day of class.
100% attendance, active participation, and completion of activities/assignments is required.
Materials Needed
Participants will need a computer, cell phone, and internet access.
Meet Our Instructor
Registration Details
Course #: 226253
Section #: 319247
Fee: $180 for certification & for Participant Only
Last Day to Register: May 24, 2024
TO RECEIVE ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE PARAEDUCATOR CERTIFICATION: Paraeducators who already hold a Paraeducator Generalist Certification are eligible to take this course for the English as a Second Language Paraeducator Area of Concentration Certification. Participants interested in receiving the this additional certification need to register for "Licensure Renewal" credit type (not Participant Only) . Participants then submit their AEA transcript to the BOEE. The BOEE will recognize the course as an approved English as a Second Language Paraeducator Area of Concentration Certification course.
Additional PD Opportunities Provided by PLAEA
Prairie Lakes AEA regularly provides PD opportunities and is continuously adding classes. A list of opportunities, which is updated regularly, can be found at this link: