Find Your Program

Helping students succeed in the classroom is challenging as well as rewarding. Our technical diploma program will prepare you to work in the classroom and provide needed support for the teacher. You will likely work with special education students implementing goals of an Individual Education Plan and adapting instruction to meet student needs. Other duties may include setting up displays, grading assignments, providing one-on-one instruction, playground and lunchroom supervision. The primary focus of the technical diploma is behavior management, developmentally appropriate practices, and special education. 

By law, all school employees working in the school setting with students must have a minimum of 48 credits beyond a high school diploma to be considered highly qualified. This program ensures that our graduates meet these standards. Educational assistants with a technical diploma are in high demand in our schools, and area districts depend on Western to provide this training. 

Program graduates are employed by area school districts as special education paraprofessionals or health office paraprofessionals who work directly under the supervision of a registered nurse. These positions are available in elementary, middle school, and high school special education classrooms. The program comprises the first year of the Foundations of Teacher Education associate's degree.