Yes, ESA statute allows parents to hire certified paraprofessionals. In order to qualify as a paraprofessional for the ESA program, parents must submit proof, on behalf of the paraprofessional/aide, to the Department. To qualify, one the following requirements must be met:
- An Associate’s degree or higher OR
- 60 semester hours of coursework documented on an official transcript from an accredited institution of higher education OR
- Meet a rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through the passage of a formal state assessment listed below:
- Para Pro
- ACT Workkeys
- Master Teacher’s Para Educator Learning Network
For more information on taking the state assessment please contact:
Highly Qualified Professionals
Tel: (602) 364-1842






