Paraeducator Preparation Academy
Paraeducator Preparation Academy
This program is designed to support aspiring paraeducators in building the knowledge and skills
needed to successfully prepare for and pass the ParaPathways assessment, while strengthening
their readiness to succeed in today’s classrooms. We are excited about your commitment to
making a meaningful impact in the lives of students.
Hartford Location:
When: Mondays and Tuesdays, November 2 - December 22, 2026, 5-7PM. Please note the proposed snow dates in the event of inclement weather: November 19 & December 17
Where: Bulkeley High School, 330 Wethersfield Avenue, Hartford, CT 06114
How: 8-week certified instructional program to prepare for the ParaPathways Test with Spanish language assistance available
Bridgeport Location:
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, October 5 - December 2, 2026, 6-8PM. Please note the below date changes:
- Class on October 12 has been rescheduled to October 13
- Class on November 11 has been rescheduled to November 10
Where: The WorkPlace, 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Suite 501, Bridgeport, CT 06604
How: 8-week certified instructional program to prepare for the ParaPathways Test with Spanish language assistance available
Norwich Location:
When: 5:30-7:30PM on the below dates:
October 13, 14, 19, 21, 26, & 28
November 2, 4, 9, 12, 16, 18, 23, 24, & 30
December 2
Where: Kelly Middle School, 25 Mahan Dr, Norwich, CT 06360
How: Certified instructional program to prepare for the ParaPathways Test
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I register?
Registration can be found at the Fall 2026 Paraeducator Preparation Academy Page.
Registration for the Fall 2026 Session is at full capacity. All new registrations will be added to the waitlist. For this Fall class, a maximum of 25 participants have been accepted.
Seats in the program are offered on a first come, first serve basis. If interest exceeds available seats, you will be added to a waitlist for a place in the current class if a seat becomes available
Where should I park for the program offered this summer?
Bridgeport: Free parking is located behind the class site at The Workplace, 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Suite 501, Bridgeport, CT 06604. No parking pass is needed.
Norwich: Free parking is located onsite at Kelly Middle School. No parking pass is needed.
How to I verify I have met the eligibility requirements?
You need to verify you are at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent to be eligible to take this class.
Please either email scanned versions of documents that verify your age (like a driver’s license) and secondary education (like a high school transcript) to Michelle Belcher-Felton or bring the original versions of these documents on the first day of class.
If you have further questions about which documents would qualify for the age and education verification, please email Michelle Belcher-Felton.
This program is intended for individuals who have earned a high school diploma (or equivalent) and have completed fewer than two years of college coursework. Applicants who have completed two or more years of college coursework are not eligible for this specific program.
What supplies are provided and what do I need to bring?
Computers, computer chargers, scratch paper, and writing utensils will be provided at the site. The test preparation materials do not use audio; headphones are not needed and will not be provided.
What expenses are covered once I register to participate?
The cost of the test preparation materials course and the ParaPathways exam fee are covered through this program. Technology and an instructor are also provided to support your completion of these materials and exam.
What is the purpose of the Paraeducator Preparation Academy?
The Paraeducator Preparation Academy is designed to support aspiring paraeducators in preparing for and successfully passing the ParaPathways exam while building awareness of the important role paraeducators play in supporting student learning. Participants receive structured test preparation, access to technology, and guidance from an instructor throughout the program.
How do I request accommodations?
Participants needing reasonable accommodations should indicate their needs during registration or contact Michelle Belcher-Felton.
How many classes can I miss?
Because the Paraeducator Preparation Academy is designed as a cohort experience, participants are expected to attend all scheduled sessions. If you anticipate an absence, please contact Michelle Belcher-Felton prior to registering to discuss your situation.
Why is this program in person?
The Connecticut State Department of Education is dedicated to equipping paraeducator candidates with the highest quality preparation resources to succeed on the ParaPathways exam.
By offering a collaborative learning environment equipped with an instructor and technology support, this in-person program offers the best possible opportunity for participants to succeed in preparing for the ParaPathways exam and their future profession within Connecticut classrooms.
Can I get ahead on the study materials at home?
The test preparation materials are intended to be self-paced. If you have the time and resources, you are more than welcome to use a personal device to sign onto the test prep site and continue your modules. However, technology will not be available for loan for this purpose, and your instructor will not be available to answer questions.
Regardless of how far you get in the test preparation materials elsewhere, you are still required to attend the Paraeducator Preparation Academy sessions in person and work on test preparations during your time there.
Where do I take the ParaPathways exam?
You will take the ParaPathways exam at the same location as the Paraeducator Preparation Academy. This location at 1064 Main Street, East Hartford has been registered as an official ETS test site.
Upon successfully completing the Academy and passing the ParaPathways exam, your information and exam results will be shared with the Alliance districts you selected during registration. Individual districts will determine their hiring needs and may contact you regarding employment opportunities and available mentorship supports.
How do I get hired afterwards?
The Connecticut State Department of Education will send your passing ParaPathways exam score and the contact information you provided on your registration to the five Alliance districts you selected. As a participant in the Paraeducator Preparation Academy, you are strongly encouraged to work in a CT Alliance district as a paraeducator for at least three years after obtaining your paraeducator credential. This commitment helps ensure continuity for students and supports the goals of the Paraeducator Preparation Academy.
Where can I find additional resources about Paraeducators?
The Paraeducator Information and Resources page provides additional useful information.