Sep 13, 2024  
Yakima Valley College Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Yakima Valley College Catalog 2024-2025

Para-Educator, AAS


The Paraeducator or degree prepares graduates for employment as assistant teachers in public and private schools. The curriculum is based on the Washington State Core Competencies for Paraeducators and the Washington State Skill Standards for Paraeducators.  Students who complete the paraeducator AAS degree are well prepared to support the learning of the diverse student population in inclusive education settings.  As the student progresses through the degree requirements, she/he will be awarded the Basic Paraeducator, Initial Paraeducator, and State Paraeducator Certificates.  check with an Education Department advisor to get the latest information.

Required Courses


Total Credits 90


Students must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in all required courses to receive this degree.

Students will be able to: 

  1. Identify evidence-based strategies to support education outcomes.
  2. Apply the concepts of professionalism and ethical practice to the education setting.
  3. Evaluate strategies to support a positive and safe learning environment.
  4. Examine effective communication and teamwork in the educational setting.
  5. Analyze strategies that support cultural competency in an educational setting.

Core Competency Codes


♦ Computation
• Communication
■ Human Relations