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 ParaEducator (Parent2Para) program is a nine-month, ESOL supported program that prepares participants to pass the Parapro test and for careers as paraprofessionals (also known as teachers assistants, teacher aides or paraeducators).
The program runs on the public-school calendar. During the first semester, the focus is on classroom instruction and job readiness. Classes include English writing and speaking, math, reading, practice tests as well as resume and cover letter writing, interviewing skills, communication, etc. During the second semester trainees participate in a paid internship in a classroom and a three-credit college course at Northern Essex Community College, earning 3 credits that can be applied toward a future degree.
Students also receive individualized financial coaching, employment coaching, test prep review and job search services.
18 + years old who are interested in working as a paraprofessional and have English level 6+, High School or GED certificate, and able to work in the USA and pass a CORI check.
Program is Offered In
English
Program Hours per Week
25
Information About Program Hours
Expected to attend sessions Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 1:00pm and Fridays 9:00am – 12:30 pm
Program Duration
36 weeks
Rolling Admission
No
Program Start Dates
Next session: Sept 2024- May 2025
Sample Schedule
Hours
Activity Type
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
9:00am-1:00pm
Education and job search
✓
✓
✓
✓
9:00am-12:30pm
Education and job search
✓
Program Requirements
CORI check, | High school diploma/GED/HiSET | 18+ | English level 6 and above, | clean criminal record | Be able to work in the US
Anticipated outcomes
ParaEducator certification | Employment/Promotion | Industry skills gain
Participant Supports
Participant Support Category
All participants
As needed
DTA SNAP Transportation Support
✓
DTA SNAP Child Care Referral
✓
Are there any out of pocket expenses for the participant?
Yes
Do participants receive any pay?
Wage
Other, please explain
$17/hr for 15hrs/wk paid internship during 2nd semester
