Allegheny, Boyce, North, South
Associate of Arts

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.

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. Utilize resources, materials and technology for the classroom, including, but not limited to the Pennsylvania Department of Education resources, (i.e., academic standards).
3. Observe students in their learning environment and empirically document these observations.
4. Classify learning theories and psychological principles in relation to the development of an educational philosophy and pedagogical practices.
5. Discuss past and present issues in education.
6. Describe the role of the classroom teacher in meeting the needs of all students including those with sensory, behavioral, physical, language, cognitive, cultural and learning differences.

Students must be eligible for clearance through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal History Record (Act 114), Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check (Act 34) and the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance  (Act 151) and meet local requirements of the placement site.

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.