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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.

The Para to Teacher Tuition Support Program removed the financial barrier that might otherwise have prevented me from pursuing my dream of becoming an ESE teacher.
Going to college as an adult can be a financial and time-consuming burden, but the Para to Teacher Program helps alleviate that.
The support I have received from this program has allowed me to continue my education without having to worry about finances. I am so grateful!
P2T Alumni
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A young child using a walker while a volunteer cheers them on

Pathways for Paraprofessionals

Are you a paraprofessional working with students with disabilities?

A UWF students plays cards with a child at the ERCCD

Turn Passion into Impact

Do you desire to achieve more with your passion for the classroom?

A professional educator works with a student in a one on one session

Advance with Your Degree

Do you already have an A.A. degree or Bachelor's degree?

If you answered yes to all three questions, the Para to Teacher Tuition Support Program can help make your dream of teaching become a reality.

This "Grow Your Own" program provides financial assistance for paraprofessionals who are currently working in Florida’s public schools to earn a degree in special education, deaf education, or visual disabilities. The program will provide tuition, textbook, and FTCE support through annual funding from the Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services. Upon completion of the program, participants agree to fulfill a service obligation and teach students with disabilities in a Florida public school.

Prior to requesting tuition support, an applicant must enroll in a special education degree program that leads to initial certification at an elligible state of Florida college or university of choice. Please see the interactive map below for eligible Florida colleges and universities. The applicant should follow the admission policy and course registration procedures for that institution. Upon successful completion of that institution’s registration process, an applicant may apply to the tuition support program. Please note a complete application does not guarantee admission for the tuition support program.

For questions regarding the Para to Teacher Tuition Support Program, contact paratoteach@uwf.edu.

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