In Florida, teacher aides provide assistance with instruction in the classroom and may also help with individual tutoring, instructional preparation, and other duties. Teacher aides must either complete additional schooling beyond a high school diploma or pass a locally approved assessment in order to be hired.
Florida Teacher Aide Requirements
| Average Salary for Teacher Aides in Florida (2019)* | $26,640 (teacher assistants, except postsecondary) |
| Required Degree | Associate's degree (or higher) or two years of higher education coursework (minimum 60 hours) |
| Degree Field | Education coursework helpful |
| Testing Requirements | Some districts accept Praxis ParaPro Assessment Test |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Complete Education Requirements
Florida teacher aides must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. In addition, teacher aides must either earn at least an associate's degree or complete two years of coursework at a college or university. Although a specific major or area of study is not required, aspiring teacher aides are encouraged to gain a background that will help them be effective assistants in the classroom. In addition to general education classes that strengthen math, reading, and writing skills, education courses may prove helpful. These classes often cover learning and development and teaching methods for various academic disciplines like art and science. Additionally, they can provide students with an overview of working with students at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels.
Step 2: Complete Testing Requirements if Needed
Prospective teacher aides who don't want to complete the education requirements may have the option to take an assessment instead. Guidelines for teacher aides who haven't completed more than a high school diploma require a formal assessment to measure test takers' knowledge of general education subjects like math and reading along with their readiness to assist in the classroom. The appropriate assessments can be determined at the local level.
In Florida, some school districts and systems accept the Praxis ParaPro Assessment for teacher aides. This computer-based exam consists of 90 multiple choice items and takes about two and a half hours to complete. The majority of questions focus on reading, writing, and math. The remaining questions cover skills paraprofessionals need to apply as instructional assistants in the classroom. Passing score requirements may vary according to school district. After completing the education or testing requirements, prospective teacher aides are ready to apply for jobs directly with school districts in Florida.
Assessment Resources for Florida Teacher Aides
Prospective teacher aides preparing to take the Praxis ParaPro test may find the following test preparation resources helpful.
- Praxis Test Prep
- Praxis ParaPro Assessment Prep
