Paraprofessional qualifications clarified.

Three qualification paths for Minnesota paraprofessionals

Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, Minnesota paraprofessionals meet federal personnel qualifications through any one of three paths. The education path requires two years of college credits from an accredited college, or an associate’s degree or higher. The testing path requires a ParaPro score of at least 440 or passing another Minnesota Department of Education-approved test. The skills path requires showing all listed skills, regardless of prior training hours. These include understanding staff roles, education goals, legal and district rules, and challenges in different learning settings. Paraprofessionals must build student rapport, follow teacher directions, seek clarification, and support safe, healthy learning spaces. They must understand student inclusion, promote independence, understand behavior rules and safeguards, recognize factors affecting behavior, and reinforce positive behavior. They must communicate confidentially and ethically, follow teacher instructions, and work with teachers on student schedules, learning goals, and progress. They must help students reach their potential, model positive behavior, respect diversity, and show willingness to pursue training, self-review, and constructive feedback. The statutory addition takes effect the day after final enactment; the qualification paths apply beginning in 2025–2026.