• After you have completed the General Certificate, you can complete the subject matter certificates. These certificates are only valid for 5 years. There is a $54 fee for obtaining the certificate and is NOT reimbursed by the District.

• Subject matter certificates are for paraeducators who wish to further their skills in English Language Learner (ELL) or special education instruction. These certificates are optional and are not requirements. To earn a subject matter certificate, a paraeducator must complete 20 hours of professional development in the subject area of the certificate (See forms and links). The certificate expires after five years, and it is not a prerequisite to work in any program. A paraeducator can only earn a subject matter certificate if they have completed their FCS training. A paraeducator may allocate completed subject matter certificate hours towards their general certificate hours. The subject matter certificates have specific standards, learning objectives, and course outlines that must be met to receive the certificate.

• Here is the link to the Special Education and ELL subject matter programs. Scroll down to the appropriate location on the website.

• You may complete the courses and NOT pay for the certificate and the hours will still count for the General Certificate. The Subject Matter Certificates are not required for any positions in the District.