Para to Teacher Support Program
The Para to Teacher Support Program provides support for Florida paraprofessionals who are currently working in Florida’s public schools to earn a degree in special education, deaf education, or visual disabilities.
About the Para to Teacher Support Program
Are you a paraprofessional who works with students with disabilities in the state of Florida? If so, the Para to Teacher Support Program can help make your dream of teaching a reality. This "Grow Your Own" program provides financial assistance from the Florida Department of Education for paraprofessionals currently working in Florida's public schools to earn a degree in special education, deaf education, or visual disabilities. Upon completing the program, participants agree to fulfill a service obligation and teach students with disabilities in a Florida public school.
Para to Teacher Support Program Eligibility
Getting Started
Prior to requesting support, an applicant must enroll in special education degree program that leads to initial certification at an eligible state of Florida college or university of choice.
Upon successful completion of that institution’s registration process, an applicant may apply to the program. Please note a complete application does not guarantee admission for the program.
Qualifications & Application
To be accepted in the Para to Teacher Support Program, applicants must be employed as a paraprofessional or working with students with disabilities in a Florida public school or charter school AND meet all of the criteria listed below for the applicable level.
- Earned at least an Associate of Arts degree with a minimum overall 2.5 GPA
- Passed all portions of the General Knowledge Test prior to applying
- Admitted to a special education teacher preparation program (includes deaf education and visual disabilities) leading to initial certification at one of the state-approved colleges or universities
- Undergraduate application online form
- Additional forms
- Earned at least a bachelor's degree in non-education field with a minimum overall 3.0 GPA
- Admitted to a graduate special education teacher preparation program (includes deaf education and visual disabilities) leading to initial certification at one of the state approved colleges or universities
- Graduate online application form
- Additional forms
Resources for Paraprofessionals
Project Team
- Department: School of Education
- Office Location: Building 85, Room 189
Dr. Keri C. Fogle, an Associate Professor in School of Education, has a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on Special Education.
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