(1) The professional educator standards board and the state board for community and technical colleges, in consultation with the superintendent of public instruction, the higher education coordinating board, the state apprenticeship training council, and community colleges, shall adopt rules as necessary under chapter 34.05 RCW to implement the paraeducator associate of arts degree.

     (2) As used in this section, a "paraeducator" is an individual who has completed an associate of arts degree for a paraeducator. The paraeducator may be hired by a school district to assist certificated instructional staff in the direct instruction of children in small and large groups, individualized instruction, testing of children, recordkeeping, and preparation of materials. The paraeducator shall work under the direction of instructional certificated staff.

     (3) The training program for a paraeducator associate of arts degree shall include, but is not limited to, the general requirements for receipt of an associate of arts degree and training in the areas of introduction to childhood education, orientation to children with disabilities, fundamentals of childhood education, creative activities for children, instructional materials for children, fine art experiences for children, the psychology of learning, introduction to education, child health and safety, child development and guidance, first aid, and a practicum in a school setting.

     (4) Consideration shall be given to transferability of credit earned in this program to teacher preparation programs at colleges and universities.

[2006 c 263 § 815. Prior: 1995 c 335 § 202; 1995 c 77 § 27; 1991 c 285 § 2; 1989 c 370 § 1. Formerly RCW 28A.04.180.]

NOTES:

     Findings -- Purpose -- Part headings not law -- 2006 c 263: See notes following RCW 28A.150.230.

     Part headings, table of contents not law -- 1995 c 335: See note following RCW 28A.150.360.