To become a short-term paraprofessional in Illinois with just a high school diploma, you need to apply for the temporary Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessional (STA-Para) through the ISBE ELIS system, prove your age (19+ for PK-12, 18+ for PK-8), submit your diploma, pay fees, and commit to working on requirements for the full Paraprofessional License within the 3-year validity, as the STA-Para is non-renewable.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Create an ELIS Account: Go to the ISBE website and log in or sign up for an account on the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS).
2. Verify Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age requirement (19+ for grades PK-12, or 18+ for PK-8) and have your high school diploma or GED.
3. Apply for the STA-Para:
1. On your ELIS homepage, find the "Action Center" and select "Apply for a Credential".
2. Choose "Approval" and then "Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessional".
3. Follow the application wizard, answer background questions, and pay the required application fee online (around $50 plus a service fee).
4. Submit Your Diploma: After applying in ELIS, you must send a copy of your high school diploma or GED to the ISBE (often via the Regional Office of Education or a specific ISBE email address like licensureforms@isbe.net).
5. Work Towards the Full License: While using the STA-Para, you must simultaneously work to meet the requirements for the full ELS-Paraprofessional Educator License (ELS-PARA), which involves passing the ETS ParaPro assessment or completing college credits.
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Key Things to Remember:
· Temporary: The STA-Para is valid for up to 3 years and is not renewable.
· Purpose: It's designed to get you into classrooms quickly while you complete requirements for the standard license.
· Next Steps: After the STA-Para expires, you'll need to apply for the full ELS-PARA license with proof of your college coursework or test scores.
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