A free training opportunity is opening the door to careers in Massachusetts schools for people who want to make a difference in students’ lives. The Polus Center for Social & Economic Development is now recruiting Massachusetts residents for a free six-week virtual training program preparing participants for employment as school-based paraprofessionals beginning November 3rd.
Paraprofessionals—also known as teacher’s aides, instructional assistants, or paraeducators—play a vital role in helping teachers provide students with the individualized support they need to succeed. Working under the supervision of certified educators, they assist with lesson plans, provide one-on-one and small-group instruction, and facilitate social integration, helping create inclusive and supportive learning environments where every student can thrive.
The training and job placement assistance are free for Massachusetts residents who are unemployed or underemployed, through a Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly Workforce Success Grant funded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) and administered by Commonwealth Corporation through the state’s Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund. “These grants help job seekers pursue meaningful careers in high-demand fields while also strengthening employers with a skilled and prepared workforce,” said Molly Jacobson, President and CEO of Commonwealth Corporation.
The Polus Center is offering the program in collaboration with Fitchburg State University and partnering with Fitchburg, Gardner, Worcester, and Narragansett Regional Public Schools. Because the training is delivered virtually, applicants from throughout Massachusetts can participate and prepare to pursue paraprofessional positions in their own local school communities.
The program is particularly well suited for parents and recent high school graduates interested in working in an academic setting. No college degree is required. Participants with fewer than four semesters (60 credits) of higher education will receive guided preparation to take and pass the ParaPro Exam. Participants who already hold an associate degree or higher can also enroll in an optional, free, in-person Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification program, preparing graduates for specialized, high-demand positions in local schools.
The program runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. via Zoom, beginning November 3. Classes will be taught by field professionals, industry leaders, and Fitchburg State University faculty.
Participants will receive:
- Fitchburg State University Paraprofessional Micro-Credential
- Polus Center Paraprofessional Training Certificate of Completion
- Crisis Prevention and Intervention Certification
- Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
- Bloodborne Pathogen Certificate
- Paraeducator Training Module Certificates from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
- Mandated Reporter Training Certificate of Completion
In addition to classroom instruction, participants receive personalized career guidance and mentorship to strengthen their resumes, develop interview skills, and prepare to secure employment in the education field.
Class size is limited, and applications are being accepted now.
For more information or to apply, contact:
Katie Moura
978-895-3285 | kmoura [at] poluscenter.org
Roberta Richards
978-894-5627 | rrichards [at] poluscenter.org