How We Can Help See how SNAP Path to Work can help you achieve your career goals and support your family’s success.
Programs and Services SNAP Path to Work offers a variety of education and training programs and supports designed to help you prepare for, find, and succeed in your next job.
Eligibility Requirements Interested? Find out who can enroll in SNAP Path to Work and how to get started.
Find a Provider Find free SNAP Path to Work education and training opportunities near you. DTA partners with community colleges, MassHire Career Centers, and community-based organizations across the state.
The Educators’ Academy is providing a 9-week (108 hr) course to orient and prepare participants for the job of Para Educator in the Springfield Public Schools (SPS). The Para Educator, also known as a Teacher Assistant, works with teachers and other school staff to provide instructional assistance, and classroom support, and implement effective classroom strategies to meet the needs of all students.
In this course, participants will receive bilingual instruction in the subject areas of digital and computer literacy, job readiness skills for educators, and test preparation to obtain the American College Testing (ACT) Workkeys Proficiency Certificate and the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). In addition, participants will complete a 15-hour classroom practicum, shadowing an experienced SPS educator, and receive career advice and tutoring. Participants may be eligible for transportation assistance to STCC and the SPS building for the practicum.
Para Educators who successfully complete the course through the Educators’ Academy program (completing the practicum, obtaining the ACT Workkeys Proficiency Certificate, and the National Career Readiness Certificate) may earn a total of 2 credits transferable towards an Associate’s degree at STCC. Para Educators are encouraged to continue their education to develop their professional skills toward employment as classroom teachers through STCC’s Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Transfer Programs.
Individuals at least 18 years of age who have a high School Diploma or equivalency who want to work as a Para Educator in the Springfield Public Schools (SPS).
Program is Offered In
English
Program Hours per Week
12
Program Duration
9 weeks
Rolling Admission
No
Program Start Dates
July 2024, September 2024
Sample Schedule
Hours
Activity Type
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
5:45PM - 8:45PM
Class
✓
✓
✓
✓
Program Requirements
CORI check, SORI check, High school diploma/GED/HiSET
Anticipated outcomes
ACT Workkeys Proficiency Certificate, National Career Readiness Certificate, Stackable Credential(s), Employment/Promotion, Basic skills gain, Industry skills gain
Participant Supports
Participant Support Category
All participants
As needed
DTA SNAP Child Care Referral
✓
DTA SNAP Transportation Support
✓
Test/License Fees
✓
Books/Supplies
✓
Are there any out of pocket expenses for the participant?
