Critical Factors Affecting the Success of Paraprofessionals in the First Two Years of Career Ladder Projects in Colorado

Abstract

The growing number of students limited in English proficiency enrolling in U.S. public schools has led to a critical shortage of bilingual teachers. Districts across the nation have addressed this shortage by employing bilingual paraprofessionals to work under licensed teachers. Currently, school districts work collaboratively with institutions of higher education to develop locally based programs that provide paraprofessionals opportunities to complete the necessary basic education that may lead to a teaching license while they continue their employment as a paraprofessional. This article describes a model that provides social, financial, and academic support to paraprofessionals while they navigate their way through the first 2 years of college. The article also addresses critical factors that contribute to paraprofessionals' success in a college setting.