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2024-25 Apprenticeship/Grow Your Own Para-to-Teacher Pathway | Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do the Para-to-Teacher or Teaching Apprenticeship programs at the school I currently work at?
You can complete these programs at your school if: your school/district or charter is participating, and you are seeking certification and placement in one of the K-12 grade/content areas positions offered at your school.
How will I be placed during my residency year?
Your year 2 residency placement will generally align with the certification that you are pursuing. For example, if you are currently a para in an early childhood classroom, and you are seeking certification in early childhood education, your year 2 residency would be in an early childhood classroom; it may be in the same classroom in which you currently work, but it is possible that you will be placed where there is a need. Reach out to your district/charter HR contact to discuss your interest and hiring needs in your district/charter.
Are all associate’s degrees and college credits eligible to meet the education requirement?
Not necessarily - colleges/universities may have varying policies regarding which credits transfer. Please reach out to your district/charter HR contact to discuss your particular situation. If you still have questions, you may reach out to Ann Hlabangana-Clay, the Education Associate for Educator Equity & Recruitment at ann.hlabangana-clay@doe.k12.de.us.
Can coursework be done at my own pace and/or remotely?
Coursework for these programs is designed for working professionals, so schedules are flexible. However, the college/university makes all final decisions regarding coursework schedules and pacing. You will work with an advisor at your college/university to select a schedule that meets your needs and the program requirements.
What out-of-pocket costs would I still be responsible for?
The Grow Your Own para-to-teacher program covers all costs – participants never see a bill.
The teaching apprenticeship program covers tuition only.
Will I be able to work and earn a full-time wage on the paraprofessional salary scale while enrolled in the program?
Yes! During year 1, you will work full-time as a paraprofessional while you complete your coursework. In year 2, while completing coursework, you co-teach full-time alongside an experienced Cooperating Teacher. Over the two years, you will continue to receive a full-time salary as long as you keep a full-time schedule.
Will my years in the program count towards my pension years of service?
Yes!
As a newly certified teacher, will I start at year one on the teacher salary pay scale?
It depends on how many years of experience you have on the paraprofessional salary scale.
As outlined in SB 156, “In the case of a teacher or specialist with at least 4 years of full-time experience as a Title 1 or instructional paraprofessional in a public school,... the teacher or specialist is given 1 year of experience credit on the salary schedule under § 1305 of this title for every 2 years of full-time experience as such a paraprofessional in a public school.”
How do I apply?
Reach out to the HR contact at your district/charter for more information and to indicate your interest. You may also contact Ann Hlabangana-Clay, the Education Associate for Educator Equity & Recruitment, at ann.hlabangana-clay@doe.k12.de.us.

Grow Your Own Paras-to-Teachers from the Capital School District
Become a Teacher in Delaware: Delaware Department of Education's Grow Your Own Opportunity

 For additional questions,
email Ann Hlabangana-Clay.
Ann.Hlabangana-Clay@doe.k12.de.us

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