Para Educator Training

Brenda Shoemaker and JoAnn Sullivan
Jan. 4 – Feb. 11, 2027, Mondays – Thursdays*, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

*Week 5 will be Tuesday – Friday due to the holiday.

Interest Form

This six-week training will provide new Para Educators an opportunity to:

  • Develop skills and confidence in new Para Educator positions
  • Prepare for and obtain the ParaPro Assessment certification
  • Participate in Mental Health First Aid for Educators training
  • Complete Effective Communication in the Classroom training
  • Engage in practical scenarios, collaborative problem-solving, and strategies they can immediately apply in school environments

Admission

  • This is an entry-level course
  • Must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent
Para-educator training student in a classroom

Teach. Support. Inspire.

Train locally and empower the next generation.

Para Educators play a vital role in supporting teachers in the classroom. It is also a first step toward a meaningful career in the field of education.

The BCC Para Educator program covers areas such as instructional techniques, classroom management, child development, special education, and effective communication strategies. Participants learn how to assist in the delivery of educational content, provide one-on-one or small group support to students, and help manage classroom behavior. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to work as effective, compassionate paraeducators, contributing to a positive and inclusive learning atmosphere.

  • Gain hands-on support from experienced mentors
  • Earn the industry-recognized ParaPro credential
  • Receive career preparation and job placement support
  • Graduates will be prepared to work as paraprofessionals in a public or private K-12 education setting

workforce@berkshirecc.edu
413-236-2115

Grant-funded scholarships may be available for those who qualify. Self-pay option is also available to those not covered through scholarship funding.

Para-educator student sitting in a classroom

Testimonials

This course has been an amazing opportunity! It has started me on a path to further my education and shown me that, as a single mom of two, 10 years out of school, it is possible to go back and be successful!

Julie Doucette

The Paraprofessional Training program helped me gain the skills and knowledge I needed to become a para. Visiting classrooms to see firsthand how they operate, along with the hands-on training, was a crucial part of the experience! I came to BCC with only a passion for education and walked out a highly qualified Para for passing the Parapro Exam, CPR certified, and a job in hand! My favorite part of being a para is the bond you build with students and staff, and seeing them thrive in everyday skills!

Jazmyn R.