What is a Paraprofessional?
Paraprofessionals play an essential role within school districts. Under the supervision of a licensed teacher, a paraprofessional supports teachers and students in many ways. For example, a paraprofessional can tutor students or assist the teacher with classroom management and organizing instructional materials.
If you have a current short-term sub license (STS) with a college degree or SUB license, you may work as a paraprofessional without obtaining additional licensure.
How to get your PARA license:
Make an ELIS account on ISBE.net
Submit a copy of high school diploma/GED and WorkKeys results showing a "4" or higher
OR have transcripts showing an associate's degree sent to mmiller@roe54.org
Apply for a PARA license in ELIS ($100)
After ISBE approval, register license in ELIS under Region 54 - Vermilion County
Requirements:
At least 19 years of age to serve students in Pre-K through grade 12
Beginning January 1, 2023, you may qualify for this license by meeting the requirements outlined below at age 18, but may only serve in Pre-K through grade 8.
ONE of the following required:
Associate's degree or higher
60 semester hours of coursework
High school diploma or HSE and a score of 460 or higher on the ETS Parapro
High school diploma or HSE and a score of 4 or higher on the ACT WorkKeys in Applied Math & Reading for Information/Workplace Documents
Valid for 5 years & is renewable.
Want to work while working towards a PARA?:
Make an ELIS account on ISBE.net
Submit a copy of high school diploma/GED to mmiller@roe54.org
Go to "Apply for a Credential," "Approvals," and apply for "Short-Term Approval for PARAs" in ELIS ($50)
ISBE will email you once your application is approved
You have three (3) fiscal years to either pass the WorkKeys test OR obtain an associate's degree
Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent
While working w/the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license
Valid for 3 fiscal years & is nonrenewable.
*Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30th, 2026, and may not be renewed