Are you a dedicated paraprofessional within the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) looking to advance your career in education? The NYCDOE is committed to supporting its paraprofessionals through various programs designed to help you achieve your professional goals. One of the most impactful opportunities available is the Nycdoe Career Training Program (CTP). This initiative provides a pathway for eligible paraprofessionals to earn their first bachelor’s degree, paving the way for further career advancement within the NYC public school system.
This comprehensive guide delves into the details of the NYCDOE Career Training Program, outlining eligibility requirements, financial aid opportunities, the application process, and other related programs designed to support your journey from paraprofessional to teacher.
NYCDOE Career Training Program (CTP): Your Path to a Bachelor’s Degree
The Career Training Program (CTP) is a cornerstone of the NYCDOE’s commitment to fostering the professional growth of its paraprofessionals. This program offers a remarkable opportunity for eligible paraprofessionals to pursue and obtain their first bachelor’s degree by providing tuition assistance at participating colleges and universities.
Key Features of the CTP:
- Tuition Coverage: The program covers tuition costs for 3 to 6 credits per semester for undergraduate studies at approved institutions.
- Release Time for Study: Participants enrolled in five (5) or more credit hours are granted 2.5 hours of release time per week to dedicate to their studies. This release time, as detailed in the UFT Release Time Memo, supports a healthy work-study balance.
- Summer Stipend Opportunity: Eligible paraprofessionals can also apply for a Summer Stipend to further support their academic pursuits during the summer months.
- Credit Limit: The CTP provides funding for up to 120 credits towards your first bachelor’s degree. This encompasses all credits, including transfer credits and credits earned before joining the program. Exceptions to the 120-credit limit are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility Criteria for the CTP:
To be considered for the NYCDOE Career Training Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Full-Time Paraprofessional Status: Applicants must be employed as a full-time paraprofessional in a NYC public school.
- Payroll Status: You must be actively payrolled as a full-time paraprofessional at the time of application and maintain this status throughout the application school year.
- No Prior Bachelor’s Degree: The program is designed for paraprofessionals who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree.
- Matriculation Requirement: Candidates must demonstrate proof of matriculation into a degree-bearing program after completing 45 credits.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 is required to be eligible for the program and must be maintained throughout participation. Dropping below a 2.0 GPA will result in ineligibility for the CTP voucher.
- Course Grade Policy: The NYC Public Schools will not cover courses with failing grades (“F”), late withdrawals, or unofficial withdrawals. Paraprofessionals are responsible for the costs associated with these course outcomes.
- Credit Limit Consideration: Be mindful of the 120-credit limit, which includes all prior college credits.
Financial Aspects of the CTP:
The CTP is designed to minimize the financial burden of pursuing higher education.
- Financial Aid Coordination: The program works in conjunction with federal and state financial aid programs like the Federal Pell Grant and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). These grants will be applied first to cover tuition expenses.
- NYCPS Billing for Remaining Tuition: The NYC Public Schools will be billed directly by the participating college or university for any remaining tuition balance after financial aid is applied.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: It’s important to note that the NYCPS does not cover additional college fees such as activity fees, application fees, technology fees, or course materials. These costs are the responsibility of the paraprofessional.
Application Process and Deadlines:
Applying for the CTP is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to adhere to the application deadlines for each semester:
- Fall Semester: Application period is May 1st to June 30th.
- Spring Semester: Application period is September 1st to October 31st.
- Summer Semester: Application period is February 1st to March 31st.
Important Application Notes:
- Semester-Based Application: A separate application is required for each semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer). Vouchers are semester-specific and cannot be rolled over.
- NYCPS Email Address Requirement: Applications must be submitted using your official NYCPS email address to ensure you receive confirmation and voucher information. Personal email addresses are no longer accepted.
- Confirmation Email: You should receive a confirmation email within 24-48 hours of submitting your application. If you do not receive a confirmation, your application was not successfully submitted, and you will need to reapply.
- Voucher Changes: To change the college or university listed on your voucher, you must submit the CTP Voucher – University/College Name Change Form. Allow 48 hours for processing.
Ready to Apply?
Begin your journey towards a bachelor’s degree today! Access the online application portal here: APPLY HERE.
For detailed step-by-step guidance on completing your application, consult the CTP Application Guide.
Image alt text: NYCDOE paraprofessionals collaborate on career advancement during a training session, highlighting the supportive environment of the Career Training Program.
Additional NYCDOE Programs for Paraprofessional Career Advancement
Beyond the Career Training Program, the NYCDOE offers several other initiatives designed to support paraprofessionals in their career growth within the education system. These programs provide pathways to teacher certification and professional development.
Paraprofessional Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program
For paraprofessionals nearing teacher certification, the Paraprofessional Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program offers a valuable opportunity. This program provides up to 40 days of paid leave to complete mandatory student teaching requirements.
Key Aspects of the Student Teaching Leave Program:
- Paid Leave: Eligible paraprofessionals receive 40 days of paid leave to fulfill student teaching obligations.
- Limited Availability: The program has a cap of 100 leaves per year (50 in the fall and 50 in the spring), making application deadlines crucial.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be full-time paraprofessionals with at least one full school year of service, maintain a 2.5 GPA, and be enrolled in a NYSED-approved teacher certification program. Specific categories (A, B, C) define eligibility based on education level and certification status.
- Application Deadlines:
- Fall Application: July 1st – October 1st
- Spring Application: December 1st – March 1st (Note: Check for current application status as caps may be reached).
- Restrictions: Applications are reviewed based on need, with priority given to those closer to certification completion. Leave is granted only once per applicant and is exclusively for student teaching leading to initial teacher certification, not for non-teaching roles.
APPLY HERE for the Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program.
Paraprofessional to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program
The Paraprofessional to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program assists paraprofessionals pursuing graduate degrees in education. This program reimburses up to 12 graduate credits for eligible paraprofessionals enrolled in a graduate program leading to teacher certification.
Program Highlights:
- Graduate Credit Reimbursement: Reimbursement of up to 12 credits at the CUNY graduate rate for eligible coursework.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be matriculated in a NYS-approved graduate education program, have completed 12 graduate credits, possess one year of NYCPS paraprofessional experience, and maintain full-time paraprofessional status. Coursework must be part of a master’s degree in a classroom teaching discipline with a grade of “B” or better.
- Application Availability: Annually from February 1st to March 31st.
- Restrictions: Reimbursement is limited to courses required for initial certification in classroom teaching disciplines and does not apply to non-teaching roles like counselors or psychologists. Pre-requisite courses are not eligible.
APPLY HERE to explore the Graduate Reimbursement Program.
Paraprofessional Certification Testing Reimbursement Program
To further ease the transition to a teaching career, the Paraprofessional Certification Testing Reimbursement Program offers a one-time reimbursement of up to $400 for state teacher certification application and examination fees.
Key Details:
- One-Time Reimbursement: Up to $400 reimbursement for certification-related expenses.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have achieved NYS teacher certification on or after September 1st of the application year and provide receipts for application and exam fees. Reimbursement requests must be made within one year of certification.
- Application Period: Annually from March 1st to April 30th.
- Required Documentation: Application form, NYS Teacher Application and exam receipts, and proof of passing certification exams.
Lead Teacher Assistant (LTA) / Bilingual Lead Teacher Assistant (BLTA)
The Lead Teacher Assistant (LTA) / Bilingual Lead Teacher Assistant (BLTA) position provides an opportunity for experienced paraprofessionals with a bachelor’s degree and a Teacher Assistant Certificate to take on expanded roles in the classroom.
LTA/BLTA Position Overview:
- Enhanced Classroom Role: LTAs support classroom instruction under teacher supervision, utilizing their skills and experience to benefit students.
- Additional Compensation: Eligible full-time paraprofessionals in LTA/BLTA roles receive additional compensation up to $5,000 annually.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, a NYS Teacher Assistant Certificate, have one year of NYC DOE paraprofessional experience, and demonstrate satisfactory attendance and punctuality. BLTA positions require bilingual fluency.
- Application Availability: Annually from January 1st to March 31st.
APPLY HERE to learn more and apply for the LTA/BLTA position.
Image alt text: A NYCDOE paraprofessional supports a student’s literacy development, illustrating the vital role paraprofessionals play in student education and classroom support.
Take the Next Step in Your Education Career with NYCDOE
The NYCDOE Career Training Program and its related initiatives represent a significant investment in the professional development of paraprofessionals. By leveraging these programs, you can gain the education, skills, and credentials needed to advance your career and make an even greater impact on the lives of NYC public school students. Explore these opportunities, take advantage of the resources available, and unlock your full potential within the NYC Department of Education.
For further information or questions about any of these programs, please contact the relevant departments via email or phone:
- Career Training Program (CTP): [email protected] or (718) 935-2449
- Paraprofessional Student Teaching LOA Program & Para to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program & Paraprofessional Certification Testing Reimbursement Program: [email protected] or (718) 935-2449
- Lead Teacher Assistant (LTA/BLTA): [email protected] or 718-935-2449
