Different Types of Teacher Assistant Certifications in New York
If you’re striving to become a teacher, consider getting your teacher assistant certification first. Becoming a teacher assistant allows you to receive extensive hands-on experience. One thing you should know is that there are different types of teacher assistant certifications in New York. Teacher assistants play a crucial role in supporting educators and students in the classroom environment. For those wanting to be a Teacher Assistant in New York, you must obtain a Teacher Assistant Certification. This blog is going to break down the different types of teacher assistant certifications in New York and the qualifications needed to obtain them.
Teacher Assistant Certifications in New York
The different types of teacher assistant certifications in New York include:
The level I TA Certification is an entry-level certificate for teacher assistants that authorizes the holder to provide direct instructional services to students while under the general supervision of a NYS certified teacher
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- Length of Validity: Valid for 3 years
- Pathway progression to: Level I Renewal, Level II Teaching Assistant Certificate, or Level III Teaching Assistant Certificate (depending on education level)
- Application fee: $35
The renewal certificate is issued when the holder does not meet the Level II specified requirements for experience or semester hours within the time validity of the Level I Teaching Assistant Certificate. In order to receive the renewal, the employer or district must submit a superintendent statement in TEACH.
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- Length of Validity: Valid for 3 years
- Pathway progression to: Level II Teaching Assistant, or Level III Teaching Assistant Certificate
- Application fee: $35
This certificate is issued for teaching assistants at the second level and authorize the holder to provide direct instructional services to students while being under general supervision of a New York State certified teacher.
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- Length of Validity: Valid for 3 years. You cannot renew this certificate.
- Pathway progression to: Level III Teaching Assistant Certificate
- Application fee: $35
The Level III certificate allows holders to be certified at the third-level and allows the holder to provide instruction to a class under the supervision of a New York State certified teacher.
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- Length of Validity: The Level III TA Certificate is continuously valid if the holder completes the required Continuing Teacher and Leader (CTLE) hours during every five year registration period. Any registered holder that practices 90 days or more in a single school district, board of cooperative educational services (BOCES) or nonpublic school that is providing instruction pursuant to Education Law located in NYS must successfully complete approximately 100 hours of CTLE during the 5 year registration period.
- Application fee: $35
The Pre-Professional Teaching Assistant certificate is issued to holders that are enrolled in a New York State teacher education program. Just like all other NY teaching assistant certificate levels, this certificate allows the holder to provide direct instructional services to students under supervision of a certified New York State teacher.
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- Length of Validity: 5 years
- Pathway progression to: This certificate can lead holders to the Pre-Professional Teaching Assistant Certificate Renewal or Initial certificate in classroom teaching
- Application fee: $35
Application process
In order to apply for any of these certificates, candidates must submit an application through the New York State Education Department (NYSED) website. The candidate must provide proof of education, experience, and completion of required workshops or training. Additionally, applicants must pass fingerprint clearance and meet all other eligibility requirements set by the NYSED.
Renewal and Continuing Education
As mentioned earlier in the breakdown of the different types of teacher assistant certifications in New York each level has a specific validity period. Typically, each teacher assistant certification will need to be renewed between 3 – 5 years. By continuing education teacher assistants can stay up to date with the current best teaching practices and maintain their effectiveness in supporting classroom instruction. Teacher assistants can continue education in subject areas such as school violence prevention, child abuse identification, and more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a career as a teacher assistant in New York State involves obtaining the appropriate certification level based on the education, experience, and training. Each level of certification signifies increasing responsibility and independence in assisting classroom teachers and supporting student learning. By meeting these requirements and maintaining certification through continuing education, teacher assistants contribute significantly to the educational experience and success of students in New York. If you’re on the path towards becoming a teacher assistant in New York, check out our current open jobs!
