(Durham, N.C.) – As some elementary schools in Durham and Orange counties opt to accept more extensive federal Title 1 financial assistance, many longtime teacher assistants must now pass a certification test. For years, federal law has required that all new teacher assistants be certified, but longtime teacher assistants were “grandfathered in” and not required to pass a test. Now, as many schools choose to receive the more extensive Title 1 school-wide financial assistance rather than targeted assistance, teacher assistants without certification are required to pass an assessment test.

Durham Technical Community College now offers a WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants in accordance with the No Child Left Behind Act. This certificate program enables paraprofessional teacher assistants in Title 1-funded schools to demonstrate their proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as their skills in assisting teachers in the classroom. Through testing and on-the-job observation, teacher assistants can demonstrate knowledge and skill levels. The WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants is developed by ACT, a recognized leader in testing and research. Offered in school districts throughout the nation, the Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants is patterned on the WorkKeys job skills assessments, which are used by schools, businesses, and organizations to hire, assess, and train employees.

The WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants can also identify skill gaps. The exams can be taken on the internet or by paper-and-pencil. Durham Tech offers testing for teacher assistants, along with several prep classes that enable them to take practice tests and upgrade their skills.

For more information, visit http://www.durhamtech.edu/html/corporate/crcteachercertif.htm  or contact Mary Moore at 919-536-7222, ext. 4014 or moorem@durhamtech.edu

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