A paraprofessional salary—what do they get paid?

Paraeducators (also known as paraprofessionals, parapros, or teacher’s aides in some school districts) bring a unique skillset to schools. They support teachers in ensuring the safety, well-being, and successful learning outcomes for students with special needs. 

If you want to become a paraprofessional, you likely have several questions, including what you might expect for a pay range or if there’s a paraprofessional salary or hourly rate. 

How is paraprofessional pay set?

While each district has its own approach to determining pay for substitute and permanent paraeducators, several common factors typically influence the final rate. Most districts start by reviewing the state wage requirements. They also factor in cost of living (COL), school bond rates, and pay scales for comparable jobs in the area. 

Paraprofessional jobs are usually considered nonexempt or hourly jobs. So, they don’t earn a salary. Instead, they’re paid on an hourly basis. It’s important to note that even when you work with an education staffing agency for placement in a paraeducator job, the pay is still set by the district. 

How much do paraeducators make on average?

A substitute paraprofessional salary can vary greatly between states and districts. So, you’ll want to refer to the job description. There may be a pay difference if you are a substitute or permanent paraeducator. Permanent paras are committed to working every day in the same building. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual permanent paraprofessional salary as $35,550 per year, or $19.09 per hour. According to Zippia, the average salary for a substitute paraeducator is $28,914 per year, with a majority range between $23,000 and $35,000 annually. That breaks down to $13.90 per hour on average, with a range between $11.05 and $16.82 per hour. 

In addition to these figures, some districts offer different paraprofessional levels (e.g., Paraeducator I, Paraeducator II), where advancement or placement in a higher-level position typically leads to increased pay.  

What are other perks and benefits for substitute paraeducators to consider?

While pay is important, it’s not the only factor that matters to those considering a substitute paraprofessional job. Many also appreciate the additional perks that come with the role, such as: 

• Flexible schedule. Substitute school paraprofessionals get to set their schedule and choose how often they work. 

• Earlier end time of the workday. Many paraeducators enjoy a workday that typically ends before most day jobs. They can run errands in the afternoon and still be home in time for dinner. 

• Experience supporting students with special needs. Working as a substitute paraeducator is excellent for those who think they might want to be a special education teacher or are on the path to becoming one. The role provides insight into what the experience is like, provides relevant experience for a full-time job. 

• Transferable skills. Substitute paraeducators acquire and improve on many skills transferable to other professions. Examples include time management, organization, patience, communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills. 

• Steady work. There is a high demand for substitute paraeducators, providing steady work opportunities. 

• Personal fulfillment. Supporting students with special needs can provide a great sense of purpose. 

There’s also another perk for parents considering this role. They are drawn to paraeducator jobs because they have a similar schedule to their children—including holidays, inclement weather days, and the summer months off. 

What are the benefits of working with Kelly Education?

Most paraeducators are part-time, so they aren’t eligible for benefits. However, when working as a substitute paraeducator through Kelly Education, you’ll have access to the following: 

• Kelly-sponsored ACA health coverage 

• Dental insurance 

• Vision coverage 

• Telemedicine 

• Critical illness coverage 

• Life insurance 

• Accident insurance 

• Short-term disability 

• Holiday pay plan 

• Free online training 

• Corporate discounts 

• Weekly electronic pay options 

• Service bonus plan 

• Employee well-being program 

• Transportation spending accounts 

How to become a paraprofessional.

To become a paraprofessional, you’ll want to understand the full paraeducator job description and make sure that you meet all the requirements. Additionally, at Kelly Education, we recruit people who have paraeducator skills that include interpersonal communication, patience, compassion, empathy, and the ability to adhere to policies and procedures.  

Work with Kelly Education to find paraeducator jobs!

Are you ready to start making a difference in a student’s life? Kelly Education works with thousands of schools across the country. We’re ready to help you discover paraeducator jobs or other education jobs near you.  

Fill out our brief interest form and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions and share more about paraprofessional or paraeducator opportunities.