Teaching Assistant Training

Educational requirements, which vary by school district and position, range from a high school diploma to an associate’s degree.

Some districts require applicants to have a high school diploma; others require at least 2 years of college or an associate’s degree. Teacher assistants in schools that have Title 1 programs (a federal program for schools with a large proportion of students from low-income households) must have at least a 2-year degree, or 2 years of college, or pass a state or local assessment.

Associate’s degree programs for teacher assistants prepare the participants to develop educational materials, observe students, and understand the role of teachers in the classroom.

Most states require passing a skills-based test for instructional aides who work with special needs students.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition