Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher Pathway (PaCT)
Idaho State University College of Education’s Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher (PaCT) scholarship pathway of the Online Teacher Education Program (OTEP) provides working paraprofessionals the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree and teacher certification in one of the following areas:
- Elementary Education K-8 with a Special Education K-12 Endorsement
- Elementary Education K-8 with an English as a Second Language (ESL) K-12 Endorsement
- Elementary Education K-8 with an Early Literacy K-3 Endorsement
- Special Education K-12
PaCT Pathway Information
A notable strength of the PaCT Pathway is its emphasis on continuous field experience as eligible paraprofessionals work full-time in schools while completing their program, allowing them to immediately apply lessons from their courses in K-12 classrooms. The school districts involved in the PaCT pathway also benefit from this structure. By supporting their paraprofessionals' participation in PaCT, districts are investing in their staff's professional growth and development. Upon successful completion of the program, these paraprofessionals can become certified teachers, filling much-needed positions within the districts.
- Affordable and Practical - Paraprofessionals participating in the PaCT Pathway pay the cost of books and certification testing fees. The program's cost is covered by a partnership between school districts and Idaho State University's College of Education.
- Hybrid Online Program - Paraprofessionals will enroll in synchronous online (SO) courses and asynchronous online (AO) courses (no set time) that are part of the Online Teacher Education Program. This allows paraprofessionals to continue working and finish their school work during the time that works best for them.
- Flexible and Accessible- Paraprofessionals can access their classes online, and attend part-time or full-time.
PaCT Program Eligibility
- Currently employed paraprofessionals (self-contained classroom, Title I assistant, etc.) with 3+ years of experience
- Paraprofessionals who do not have a bachelor’s degree
- Recommendation and support by their current school district
Financial Support Eligibility
- Completed FAFSA
- Continuously enrolled in spring and fall semesters, with optional summer attendance
- 3.0 cumulative ISU GPA and maintenance of a C or better in all courses