While waiting to find your dream teaching position, you can gain experience by becoming a teacher’s assistant. This job is also known as a paraprofessional, instructional aide, assistant teacher, learning support assistant, or educational aide. To land an assistant teaching job (or whatever it’s called in your area), here are 3 steps that you should follow.
1. Complete the Requirements
The requirements for becoming an assistant teacher depends on the state in which you live. It also varies by school district. For the most part, you should have at least a high school diploma and undergo a background check. Some places require a 2-year degree or associate’s degree in assistant teaching, child development, or another related field. Others require you to pass a test. To work in Title I schools, you may also need to pass a state test to become certified, too.
2. Gain Experience
Most schools want to hire assistant teachers who have experience working with children. This experience helps prepare people develop the helpful skills needed for these jobs. Some of these skills include patience, flexibility, organization, and communication. Instructional skills are also helpful if the teacher you’re assisting wants you to teach the class at times.
To gain experience, complete an internship, work at a daycare, or volunteer for a youth organization. Consider any previous employment positions, volunteer opportunities, or classes that you’ve already completed that could also demonstrate your experience for the job.
3. Complete the Application Process
Most schools have an application that one should fill out first. Applicants should include a cover letter and resume, too. These documents should be tailored to the position. Read through the job description to determine what to include. After completing the application, resume, and cover letter, take the time to proofread everything. Have a friend read through it to make sure that it’s polished and ready to go as well.
The next step in the application process is an interview. The assistant teacher applicants typically meet with a panel of several individuals working at the school. Prepare for the interview by reviewing possible questions and thoughtfully formulating your answers.
For people interested in teaching and working with children, learning how to land an assistant teaching job is a great step to finding the perfect job. Even if it’s just a stepping stone to becoming a full-fledged teacher, you can greatly benefit from the experience. Follow this process to help you find the right position for you as an assistant teacher in the school district of your choice.
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