Cypress-Fairbanks ISD has developed a test to fulfill the requirements of “No Child Left Behind” (NCLB). The district requires that ALL paraprofessional applicants pass the proficiency test. The required test scores for positions may be found on the job postings at http://www.cfisd.net/humanres/opportun/post-para.htm.

NCLB mandates that all instructional paraprofessionals hired after January 8, 2002 at Title I campuses be “highly qualified” by meeting the following qualifications. (A Title I campus has a high percentage of students who qualify for free or reduced meals).

• Two years of study at an institution of higher education [defined as completion of 48 semester hours (or equivalent trimester hours) of college coursework or an applicable number of semester hours as defined by the institution of higher education attended, whichever is less]; or
• An associate’s degree or higher; or
• Meet rigorous standard of quality and can demonstrate, through a formal state or local academic assessment –
  • Knowledge of, and the ability to assist in instructing, reading, writing, and mathematics; or
  • Knowledge of, and the ability to assist in instructing, reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness, as appropriate.

Additionally, the Texas Education Agency requires that certified educational aides be high school graduates or hold a general educational development (GED) certificate.

Part I of the proficiency test consists of 50 multiple choice questions that assess basic skills in spelling, reading, grammar, and math.

Part II consists of 25 multiple choice questions containing school-based scenarios which assess an applicant’s ability to discern students’ needs and demonstrate capabilities for working with adults and students in a professional manner.

Part III assesses how many words per minute an applicant can type with a 3-minute period.

Applicants will have 90 minutes to complete Part I, Part II, and the typing test.

In order to review the major components of the proficiency test, it is recommended that you practice your typing skills using online typing tests. Language arts, reading, and math concepts may also be reviewed by taking online GED practice tests and/or obtaining materials at the library or bookstore.

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