What would you suggest?

Marilyn Likins was recently asked the following question via email. We thought some of you might be interested in the question and Marilyn's response. QUESTION: I have just completed the Paraprofessional Program at the local community college last year, and have graduated this year, 2002. My question is since I have received my certificate from the school and hold a letter from the regional as well as from the state, how does the new change in legislation affect me now? I understand that Para's are now supossed to have 60 college credits and the program at the college I attended didn't require 60 college credits to complete the program. What do I do now? Will I be required by the state to return to school to pick up the extra credits? Would it be in my best interest to return back to school to take the educational classes that were not required in the Paraprofessional Program to protect myself from the changes that will be implemented under the new legislation for Para's? I am a mom and have been in school for the past 10 years and have achieved a certificate. I am willing to return to school if that is what it takes. I would like feedback from you at your convienience. Thank you for your time and consideration of this matter. MARILYN'S RESPONSE: I first want to congratulate you on completing the paraeducator program at your community college! That is no small feat especially as a working mom. Before I can fully answer your questions I need to know: 1) if you work in a Title 1 school. If you do, the current legislation applies...if you are in special education, not in a Title 1 program, the current legislation does not apply. 2) As it appears that you are currently working as a paraeducator, you still have 3 1/2 years to meet the legislative requirements. So don't panic you have plenty of time. There are three ways to do that: a)complete a bachelor's degree in anything...or b)complete 2 years of training in higher ed (This can be at a community college or university.) This is the option that you are talking about. Check with your state office of education-Title 1 director for number of hours required. It varies depending on whether they are quarter or semester hours. or c)take a state developed test in the areas of reading, writing, and math to assess your knowledge and skills (most states are in the process of adopting or developing these instruments now). I'm assuming that many paraeducators will choose this option. Once you know the answers to the questions above, make a plan. You already are close to meeting the 2nd option and you might choose to go that direction. You could also wait to see what your state does in terms of the assessment. That would be a less costly route to go but if you are considering possibly continuing on with your education...many states have paraeducator to teacher programs..you may want to choose taking additional classes. Best of luck with your endeavors...you are already off to a great start! Marilyn L.