Non-Teaching Careers in Education
Information On Para-Professional and Support Positions
You don't have to have a Bachelor's Degree to work in education. There are several opportunities for support staff/para-professionals.
Talk with pretty much any educator and they’ll tell you how rewarding their career is. Sure you might hear about problems with administration, and of course problems with certain students and their behavior; but overall, education has proven to be a very rewarding and enjoyable career for many. In order to become a public school teacher, one will need a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree and certification in the state in which they will teach. Educational Administrators typically hold a Master’s Degree and many in larger districts even a Doctorate. This can be discouraging information for someone who wants to work in the field of education, but does not have the desire, or is unable to invest in a four year college education.
Unbeknownst to many, there are several support positions in the public schools that require an Associates Degree or less. Be sure to check with your district for more specific information as every school district’s requirements are different.
Cafeteria Employee - Typically this is a very part-time position. One can expect to work about two to three hours per day. This position usually requires that you have a high school diploma and the ability to work with both children and adults. It may also require some experience with computers and/or cashiering.
After-School Programs - Many schools receive funding for what is called an “after-school” program. Staffing for this program is usually made up of a Supervisor and several aides. Program supervisors in many districts are teachers who are paid extra for running the program, or the program might even be run by the Assistant Principal. In some instances, the district may hire someone from the outside. In these cases, supervisors will typically need to have at least an Associates Degree, but preferably a Bachelors Degree in a Human Service Field along with experience working with children. They oversee the entire program including staffing, activity planning and overall administration. Aides typically supervise student activities. They are usually required to have a high school diploma and some work experience. This is a great entry-level position for someone looking to get their foot in the door. Aides will need to enjoy working with children, and have the physical ability to interact with them. Both supervisory and aide positions are part-time.
Teacher’s Aide/Assistant - Many para-professional positions fall under the category of Teacher’s Aide/Assistant. This includes health care assistants (they assist students with special physical needs/limitations), classroom assistants, library aide, computer technology and detention/in-house suspension aides. Most of these positions are full-time. Some districts will desire a Bachelor’s Degree, but many will want two or more years of college. Most districts will also require a standard assessment test for these positions.
Bus Driver - Bus drivers are responsible for transporting students safely to and from school. Districts usually require a high school diploma , and a good driving record. Most states will also require a commercial driver’s license.
Administrative/School Secretary - This is typically a full-time position. The school secretary provides administrative support to the staff and administration. Applicants for this position will need at least a high school diploma, computer experience and general secretarial experience.
Other Para-Professional Positions - Depending upon the school district there are many other para-professional positions available. Some of these positions include custodian/maintenance, crossing guard, campus security and groundskeeper.
For all of these positions, a criminal background check and fingerprints will more than likely be required.
