PSPP FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about PSPP

What is a Paraprofessional?

Paraprofessionals provide assistance to a variety of students including those with and without disabilities, with health needs, with limited English proficiency, and others. Typically employed by school districts and area education agencies, they work in a range of educational settings. The responsibilities of a paraprofessional can vary between districts, schools, and even between classrooms. A paraprofessional is an employee who works under the supervision of teachers and other licensed personnel who have the ultimate responsibility for the design and implementation of education and related service programs. A paraprofessional is employee whose position is either instructional in nature or who delivers other direct or indirect services to children, youth and /or their parents. “Paraeducator” or “paraprofessional” is currently the most generally accepted and recognized job title.

What is the Job Outlook for Paraprofessionals?

According to the National Education Association, teacher shortages, increasing numbers of English language learners, increased employment of one-to-one paraprofessionals for students with severe disabilities, the growing need for compensatory/remedial education, and federal and state mandates are just some of the factors that have resulted in the increased employment of paraprofessionals. Employment of paraprofessionals has grown steadily and their functions have changed dramatically since they were introduced into classrooms as teacher aides in the 1950’s. Their duties are no longer limited to recordkeeping, preparing materials, or monitoring students in lunchrooms and other settings. Today, paraprofessionals are active team members that provide assistance with instruction, classroom management, and other direct services to students and their families. Finally, while education changes constantly, some parts of it never do—there will always be a need for qualified teaching professionals to assist in classrooms and work with students. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the field will continue to grow (by about 6% by 2024).

What Education Do Paraprofessionals Need?

Paraprofessionals can usually get started in the field without a four-year college degree, but it helps to have completed some college courses or an Associate’s degree, particularly in Education. Each state and school district has its own rules for paraprofessional certification, so you should see what your state requires.

Some paraprofessional jobs may only require a high school diploma while others will only hire paraprofessionals with an associate's degree. Depending on the State, paraprofessionals may need to pass a skills assessment test before being able to work.

What Does a Paraprofessional Do?

Paraprofessionals do a lot! Ultimately, a paraprofessional works to assist a teacher throughout his or her daily classroom activities. Some of the duties include helping schedule and implement programs in accordance with the curriculum as well as general classroom and clerical duties such as maintaining a clean and safe environment or printing and preparing educational material. Other responsibilities include:

  • Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the facilitator and classroom teachers
  • Assist in the implementation of Individual Education Plans for the students and monitor their progress
  • Provide support for individual students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities
  • Work with other professionals, such as speech therapist, social worker, occupational and physical therapists
  • Assist classroom teachers with maintaining student records
  • Assist classroom teachers with copying items to support teaching
  • Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills
  • Assist in the preparation and display of student work

Can I Receive Professional or Educational Credit for Completion of the Modules?

That would depend upon many factors. Primary amongst them is the credit requirements for acceptance of by your school, district or governmental agency. All Modules have been rated by NASET/AASEP in study hours. The number of study hours is indicated on each Module certificate which also contain your name, the Module title, and the date of completion. 

How Much Does the Program Cost? 

The cost for NASET members fee is $69/module for each of the 5 Modules or save $50 by paying for all Modules in a single payment of $295.00. (Non-members pay $85.00 each or save $65 with a single payment of $360).

Do I Need to be a Member of NASET or AASEP to Apply for PSPP?

No. Although NASET or AASEP membership does provide a discount, we do not require you to be a member of NASET or AASEP to apply.

Is There an Application Fee?

No. There is no application fee to apply for the PSPP.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the PSPP?

Since the modules and quizzes are available online 24/7, the time it takes is totally up to you. The only limitations are that you complete the 5 Modules within 2 years of your application acceptance. If you start with the NASET member’s discounted fees, your membership must remain active throughout the period, during which you are completing the requirements.

Will I Need to Renew My Certification?

No, renewal is not a requirement of the PSPP, however we may offer addtional updated courses to provide the latest useful information for you in advancing your career. 

Do I Need to Travel to a Location to Access Materials, View a Lecture or Take the Multiple Choice Quizzes?

No. All Modules are all online. There is no need to travel to access anything. The entire program, from start to finish, can be done in the comfort of your home, office or wherever you choose.

Are There Specific Start Dates to Begin the PSPPP?

No, you can begin to start a Module whenever you choose. You work and study at your own pace. As soon as you are notified of your access via email, your access has been “turned on” so that you may begin at your convenience.

When Can I Take the Multiple Choice Exams for a Given Module?

That is also completely up to you. You work and study for an exam at your own pace. There is no specific exam date. You set the pace of the program based on your availability.

If I Do Not Pass a Specific Multiple Choice Exam, Will I Be Given Another Chance?

Yes. You are allowed 3 attempts to complete each of the 5 Module Exams.

How Do I Advance to the Next Module After I Complete the Latest Multiple Choice Exam?

Once you receive a score of 80% or higher on a Module Exam, you can then print a certificate of successful completion. You will need to provide this certificate to the Career Center at NASET by email, fax or mailing. The following is information for each method to send the certificate: Email – careercenter@naset.org Fax: 800-424-0371 or by mail: NASET Career Center, 3642 E. Sunnydale Drive, Chandler Heights, AZ 85142. Lastly payment must be completed before any module is activated.

What If I Have Technical Issues With Online Module Access or Examinations?

Contact the NASET Career Center at careercenter@naset.org or call us at 800-754-4421 ext 102

How Will I Know When Or if I Have Access to a Given Module?

You will receive an email notification that access to the next Module has been activated. You can also see active links for modules with access turned on for you in the Module Access Portal page* (Please note – You must be logged in to see the Module Access Link(s))   

Who Do I Contact If I Have Any Questions About the PSPP Program?

Contact the NASET Career Center at careercenter@naset.org or call us at 800-754-4421 ext 102

Paraprofessional Links

PSPP Application - Click here  

PSPP Cost & Who Can Apply - Click here

PSPP Module Summaries - Click here

Go To Module Access Portal

Go To the Main PSPP Page