Associate of Science

This program prepares individuals to work as a classroom aide or teacher’s assistant in an educational setting. Emphasis is placed on mastering reading, writing and mathematical skills along with the techniques for assisting students with special needs. The program enables students to work in public or private schools.

Students must have three current clearances: FBI Fingerprint Clearance, a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and a Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Clearance and meet the local requirements of the field placement site, including the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification Clearance.

Upon completion of this program, graduates may seek employment as a teacher’s aide in a regular or special education setting, an educational specialist or an education technician.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:

1. Identify current PA teacher certification requirements, including the development of a professional portfolio and demonstrate behaviors appropriate to the profession.
2. Classify learning theories and psychological principles in relation to the development of an educational philosophy and pedagogical practices.
3. Describe the role of the classroom teacher in observing and meeting the needs of all students including those with sensory, behavioral, physical, language, cognitive, cultural and learning differences.
4. Utilize resources, materials and technology for the classroom, including, but not limited to the Pennsylvania Department of Education resources, (i.e., academic standards).