STCC to offer free course to prepare to become a teacher assistant
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College will offer a free nine-week course to prepare for the job of para educator in the Springfield Public Schools.
The para educator, also known as a teacher assistant, works with teachers and other school staff to provide instructional assistance, classroom support and implement effective classroom strategies to meet the needs of all students.
The in-person course runs April 24-June 22 from 5:45 p.m.-8:45 p.m. Registration deadline is April 21.
An STCC student assists children at an elementary school.
“We are excited to offer this program through the Educators’ Academy free of charge to help people get started on the path to a degree from STCC and a career as an educator,” said Gladys Franco, Assistant Vice President for Workforce Development at STCC. “Sign up now, as space is limited.”
Participants will receive bilingual instruction in digital and computer literacy, job readiness skills for educators and test preparation to obtain the American College Testing WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate.
Para educators who successfully complete the course through the Educators' Academy program may earn credits transferable toward an associate degree at STCC. Para educators are encouraged to continue their education to develop their professional skills toward employment as a classroom teacher through STCC's Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Transfer Programs.
Register via instant enrollment: https://www.stcc.edu/wdc/descriptions/para-educator/
To enroll in person, go to Building 27, second floor, at STCC, or call (413) 755-4225. For more information, call or email workforcetraining@stcc.edu.
About Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu