The Special Education Assistant – Level 1 Certificate of Completion program provides the essential instruction that will enable Special Education Assistants to effectively support general education and special education instructors in the classroom and school settings. Students will explore various concepts including inclusive education, IEP and Section 504 plans, effective instructional strategies, and assistive technology. Special Education Assistants help K-12 general and special education instructors with a variety of tasks such as providing academic and clerical support, utilizing behavior management strategies, and documenting student performance/progress.  Students will also complete apprenticeship training and prepare to pass the Instructional Assistant examination for existing and aspiring Special Education Assistants.

Completion of the Noncredit Special Education Assistant courses (SPEA 3410-SPEA 3460) will not result in Paraprofessional certification. Passage of the Instructional Assistant Examination is required to obtain Paraprofessional certification.

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses.

Total Hours: 216

Program Outcomes

• Discuss the components of an inclusive classroom and explain how each element equitizes the learning environment and provides essential support for special education students during the learning process.
• Describe the components of an IEP (Individualized education plan) and explain how the IEP guides the SPEA’s efforts to support students in achieving their educational goals.
• Demonstrate various instructional strategies that support learning in the special education and general education classroom.
• Explain how assistive technologies aid learning for special education students.

Required Courses