Special Education Paraprofessional - Certificate of Achievement
Plan Code: 3301
This program seeks to inspire and prepare students and professionals in the field with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to support all children in special education and general education settings where children with exceptionalities are cared for and educated in inclusive settings. Program curriculum focuses on the origins of special education and legislation and strategies for supporting neurodiverse individuals. Students acquire foundational knowledge, teaching techniques, and strategies for building positive, inclusive classroom environments for all children. A certificate increases students’ employment opportunities and salary potential, including employment opportunities as a special education paraprofessional in school districts, residential care centers, Department of Rehabilitation, or private agencies.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate current policies related to special education law and inclusion.
- Explain the needs of children with disabilities and their families, along with interventions designed to address them.
- Identify community resources serving individuals with special needs.
Program Requirements
| Code Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| REQUIRED COURSES | ||
| CDECE 47 | Human Development | 3 |
| CDECE 48 | Child, Family and Community D2 | 3 |
| CDECE 59 | Guiding Young Children DS3 | 3 |
| CDECE 271WE | ECE Work Experience | 3 |
| or EDUC 20 | Intro to Elementary Classroom Teaching | |
| CDSED 5 | Community Resources/Special Education | 3 |
| CDSED 67 | Intro to Children with Special Needs | 3 |
| Subtotal Units | 18 | |
| IN ADDITION, complete THREE (3) units from the following: | ||
| Teaching in a Diverse Society D3 (3) | ||
| Challenging Behavior in Early Childhood (3) | ||
| Curriculum for Special Needs (3) | ||
| Subtotal Units | 3 | |
| Total Units | 21 | |