The Educational Aide program aims to prepare students for entry-level positions as educational aides, teacher assistants, or paraprofessionals in the TK-12th grade classroom. This program features a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the knowledge and skills required to support classroom teachers to work effectively with diverse student populations. In the program, students will learn about effective communication strategies, working with diverse student populations, and the theories and practices aimed at supporting student learning. Students will also learn about the historical foundations of the U.S. schooling system, critical theories regarding teaching and learning, the various subject standards (English Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Science, Physical Education, and Art), and best practices for designing student-centered and inclusive learning activities.
The program will have an explicit focus on developing students’ knowledge of diverse student populations and ability to work with teachers, students, and parents in student and equity-centered ways.
Requirements for educational aide positions vary per school district requirements. This certificate may not be a necessary requirement for employment in California school districts. Students are advised to contact the specific school district for employment requirements.
A Certificate of Achievement is awarded upon completion of all required courses with a grade of C or better.
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate subject matter competency and practical knowledge of working with TK-12th grade students in a classroom setting.
- Implement culturally relevant, equity-minded practices with TK-12th grade students in diverse settings.
- Analyze how racial, cultural, economic, political, and historical contexts and facts affect children’s development and experiences in U.S. schooling.
Requirements for the Certificate of Achievement
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| ENGL C1000 | ACADEMIC READING AND WRITING | 4 |
| or ENGL C1000H | ACADEMIC READING AND WRITING - HONORS | |
| CHDV 017 | TEACHING CHILDREN IN A DIVERSE SOCIETY | 3 |
| PSYC 021 | DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY: THE CHILD | 3 |
| or PSYC 021H | HONORS DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY: THE CHILD | |
| COMM C1000 | INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING | 3 |
| or COMM C1000H | INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING - HONORS | |
| Complete ONE of the following courses: | 3 | |
| INTRODUCTION TO CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM TEACHING | ||
| TEACHING AS A PROFESSION | ||
| CURRICULUM FOR SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO SECONDARY EDUCATION IN DIVERSE SETTINGS | ||
| Total Units | 16 | |
This Certificate of Achievement is not eligible as a major for an Associate Degree.