Are you a dedicated paraprofessional in the New York City Public School system looking to advance your career and step into a teaching role? The NYCPS offers comprehensive career training programs designed specifically for paraprofessionals like you to earn your bachelor’s degree and teaching certifications. These programs provide financial assistance, release time for study, and pathways to further your education and professional growth within the NYC school system. This guide will explore the various career training program opportunities available, focusing on the Career Training Program (CTP) and other related initiatives to help you navigate your journey from paraprofessional to certified teacher.
Understanding the Career Training Program (CTP)
The Career Training Program (CTP) is a cornerstone initiative aimed at empowering eligible UFT paraprofessionals to achieve their first bachelor’s degree. Recognizing the vital role paraprofessionals play in the educational ecosystem, the CTP offers tuition coverage for undergraduate studies at participating colleges and universities. This financial support extends to 3 to 6 credits per semester, making higher education more accessible and affordable for working paraprofessionals.
Beyond financial aid, the CTP acknowledges the demands of balancing work and study. Participants enrolled in five or more credit hours are granted 2.5 hours of release time per week. This allocated time allows for focused study and academic progress without compromising their professional responsibilities. Additionally, a Summer Stipend opportunity is available to further support study during the summer semester, providing continuous academic momentum.
It’s important to note that while the CTP provides significant support, paraprofessionals are responsible for their academic journey. This includes researching and applying to approved participating colleges and universities, ensuring a proactive and informed approach to their education.
CTP Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Career Training Program, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Full-Time Paraprofessional Status: Applicants must be employed as a full-time paraprofessional within a NYC public school.
- Non-Bachelor’s Degree Holder: The program is designed for paraprofessionals who have not yet attained a bachelor’s degree.
- Payroll Status: Applicants must be on the payroll as a full-time paraprofessional at the time of application and maintain this status throughout the application school year.
- Matriculation Requirement: Proof of mandatory matriculation into a degree-bearing program after completing 45 credits is necessary.
- Exclusion of Substitute Paraprofessionals: Substitute paraprofessionals are not eligible for CTP participation.
- Credit Limit: The CTP covers up to 120 credits towards the first bachelor’s degree. Exceptions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. This 120-credit limit includes any transfer credits or credits earned before program entry.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for program eligibility and must be maintained throughout participation. Falling below a 2.0 GPA will result in voucher ineligibility.
- Course Grade Policy: The NYC Public Schools will not cover courses with failing grades (“F”), late withdrawals, or unofficial withdrawals.
- Financial Responsibility: Paraprofessionals who become ineligible for the CTP are responsible for all subsequent course costs.
Financial Aid and CTP
Financial aid plays a crucial role in managing tuition expenses. For paraprofessionals eligible for the Federal Pell Grant or the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) grant, these resources are prioritized to cover tuition. The CTP then bridges the gap by covering the remaining tuition balance billed by the college or university. However, it is important to note that the NYCPS does not cover course materials or various college fees such as activity, application, or technology fees, which remain the paraprofessional’s responsibility.
CTP Application Windows
Applications for the CTP are available during specific periods for each semester:
- Fall Semester: May 1st – June 30th
- Spring Semester: September 1st – October 31st
- Summer Semester: February 1st – March 31st
A separate application is required for each semester. Unused vouchers cannot be carried over to other semesters.
For more detailed information, refer to the CTP Fact Sheet and CTP FAQ Document. You can also review the CTP UFT Paraprofessional Release Time Memo for details on release time policies. Explore the list of Approved Colleges and Universities to find participating institutions.
Additional Pathways to Becoming a Teacher
Beyond the CTP, NYCPS offers other programs to support paraprofessionals in their journey to becoming teachers:
Paraprofessional Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program
This program provides eligible paraprofessionals with a 40-day paid leave of absence to fulfill student teaching requirements. This is crucial as many institutions require dedicated student teaching that cannot be substituted with paraprofessional work experience. Limited to 100 leaves per year (50 each for fall and spring), this competitive program requires advance application and approval.
Eligibility for Student Teaching Leave:
- Minimum one full school year as a full-time paraprofessional (substitute time excluded).
- Active full-time payroll status during application and leave period.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA in the program of study.
- Enrollment in a NYSED-approved teacher certification program. Online or out-of-state programs must have NYSED approval.
Categories of Eligible Paraprofessionals:
- Category A: Degree in education but lacking student teaching for certification.
- Category B: Master’s program for initial certification requiring student teaching.
- Category C: Undergraduate program for initial certification needing student teaching.
Restrictions: Applications must be submitted well in advance, and leaves are prioritized based on need, especially for those already holding education degrees. This leave is a one-time opportunity for up to 40 days and is exclusively for initial teacher certification student teaching.
For more details, consult the Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program Overview.
Paraprofessional to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program
This program assists paraprofessionals pursuing graduate education to become certified teachers by reimbursing up to 12 graduate credits. New York State certification must be obtained after September 1st of the application year.
Eligibility for Graduate Reimbursement:
- Matriculation in a NYS-approved graduate education program leading to teacher certification.
- Completion of at least 12 graduate credits.
- Minimum one year of paid experience as a NYCPS paraprofessional.
- Active full-time payroll status during application and program duration.
- Coursework must be part of a master’s degree in a classroom teaching discipline leading to NYS certification with a grade of “B” or better.
Restrictions: Reimbursement is at the CUNY graduate tuition rate and does not apply to non-teaching disciplines (counselors, psychologists, etc.), pre-requisite courses, or courses taken before program admission. It is specifically for initial certification coursework.
Access the Para to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program Information for comprehensive details.
Paraprofessional Certification Testing Reimbursement Program
NYCPS offers a one-time reimbursement of up to $400 for state teacher certificate application and NYS certification exams.
Eligibility for Testing Reimbursement:
- NYS teacher certification attained on or after September 1st of the application year.
- Receipts for NYS Examinations and the NYS Teacher Application.
- Reimbursement request within one year of certification.
Refer to the Certification Testing Reimbursement Program Overview and Paraprofessional Certification Reimbursement Application for more information.
Lead Teacher Assistant (LTA) / Bilingual Lead Teacher Assistant (BLTA)
This annual position offers experienced paraprofessionals the opportunity to take on more responsibilities in the classroom, supporting instruction under teacher supervision. It’s a career advancement step and potential pathway to teaching, offering additional compensation up to $5,000.
Eligibility for LTA/BLTA:
- Bachelor’s degree at application.
- Active NYS Teacher Assistant Certificate (Level I, II, or III).
- One year of full-time experience as a NYCDOE paraprofessional.
- Satisfactory attendance and punctuality record.
- Bilingual LTA applicants must demonstrate fluency in the required language.
Learn more from the LTA/BLTA Position Posting.
Take the Next Step in Your Career
NYC Public Schools is committed to supporting the professional growth of its paraprofessionals. These career training programs provide valuable resources and opportunities to advance your education and career within the school system. Whether you are just starting your bachelor’s degree or pursuing teacher certification, there is a pathway designed for you. Explore these programs, utilize the provided resources, and take the next step towards becoming a certified teacher in NYCPS.
For further inquiries about any of these programs, please contact the relevant email addresses or phone number provided in each section. Your dedication and experience as a paraprofessional are invaluable, and these programs are designed to help you reach your full potential as an educator.
