Teaching assistants need basic knowledge in reading, writing and math.
Tutoring students in essential skills, working with special education students, grading papers and supervising recess or lunch are some of the many duties of a teaching assistant. According to the 2010 Occupational Outlook Handbook, teaching assistant positions are expected to grow by 10 percent in the coming years. Higher educational standards for teaching assistants and an average salary of $22,000 a year, though, create high turnover in this field. However, if you love working with children and desire promotion opportunities, a career as a teaching assistant may be right for you.
Instructions
1. Contact your state's Department of Education. The federal government has created standards for teaching assistants at schools, which receive federal funding through the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). Each state has different requirements and educational standards for teaching assistants. For a list of state education departments, see Resources.
2. Get an associate's degree or have two years of college. NCLB requires that teaching assistants at Title I schools (schools with a majority of students at or below the federal poverty level) have at least two years of college or pass a test in basic reading, writing and math skills.
3. Apply for a teaching assistant position in your school district and undergo training when hired. Most districts train teaching assistants in the rules and regulations of the school, HIV/AIDS safety, classroom management strategies and computer skills.
