Per 22 Pa. Code § 14.105, instructional paraprofessionals are required to meet one of the following qualifications:

       (i) Have completed at least two years of postsecondary study; 
       (ii) Possess an associate degree or higher; or
​       (iii) Meet a rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through a state or local
             assessment.

The Entry Level Credential of Competency Checklist serves as the state assessment and satisfies the third pathway under 22 Pa. Code § 14.105. If a paraprofessional in a local education agency chooses this path, their supervising administrator must document the paraprofessional’s attainment of the seven competencies outlined in the Special Education Paraprofessional Entry Level Credential of Competency Checklist and submit the form to the PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education. Upon review and approval of the submitted documents, the applicant will be issued an Entry Level Credential of Competency.

And now, starting with the 2024-25 school year, the Bureau of Special Education will only accept applications using the revised Entry Level Credential of Competency Checklist. The checklist must be completed electronically and emailed to [email protected].

For questions about the revised Entry Level Credential of Competency for Special Education Paraprofessionals, please email [email protected].