3 minute read
BridgeUP: Helping Paraeducators Transition to Certified Teaching Careers
By Will DeShong
Every morning, paraeducators step into classrooms ready to help guide and support students, acting as a vital resource for both teachers and learners. But for many, the leap from classroom assistant to certified teacher has felt out of reach, blocked by barriers of time, cost, and accessibility.
A collaborative effort between the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Point Park University, and BloomBoard is helping prospective teachers take that next step in their careers. Through the BridgeUP program, qualified paraprofessionals across Allegheny County can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education through the Point Park University Residency Program, an online, portfoliobased program that provides aspiring teachers with the knowledge and skills to be eligible for a teaching certificate in Pennsylvania.
The flexible academic program allows those enrolled to work toward their degree while staying in the jobs and schools they love.
“I am truly impressed with this program,” said LeAnn Dupree, a paraprofessional at Pathfinder School in Bethel Park. “The flexibility it offers has been a game-changer, allowing me to balance my studies with work and personal commitments. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to further their education in a supportive, convenient online environment.”
Avryle Schmitt, project specialist at the AIU, said the degree program helps prospective teachers overcome the two most common obstacles to advancing their careers—time and money —by making use of the valuable time paraeducators already spend in the classroom.
“A lot of people can’t quit their job to go to school full time, so this is a great way to allow the people who are interested in becoming a teacher to work while they gain both the experience and credits,” she said. The curriculum is a combination of online learning and classroom exercises, such as leading a lesson under the guidance of the teacher they are working alongside. Support is provided every step of the way through mentorship from both Point Park professors and educators from their own schools throughout the two-year program.
“I am really enjoying my online classes through the BridgeUP Program,” said Sarah Manko, a paraprofessional at Mon Valley School in Jefferson Hills. “It is easy to navigate and to submit assignments—I’m very happy with my classes so far.”
Taylor Earle, a paraprofessional in the Wilkinsburg School District, also said the coursework has exceeded expectations. “The program is amazing,” Earle said. “We have amazing staff that go above and beyond to make sure we are successful in the program. The BloomBoard platform has made online schooling very convenient by providing us with all the tools needed to succeed.”
By enabling paraprofessionals to earn their degrees without leaving their jobs, BridgeUP creates a “win-win” situation for all involved, Schmitt said. Paraeducators can advance their career, schools retain dedicated staff members, and students benefit from educators who already understand their school community.
“These people have ties to the community, the school, the staff, and the students,” she said. “It makes sense to find a way to get them certified where they won’t have to leave their jobs so they can continue building these relationships.”
School districts interested in enrolling paraeducators in the BridgeUP program can learn more by contacting Schmitt at avyrle.schmitt@aiu3.net.
