Lending a Hand in the Classroom: A Career Profile of a Teacher Assistant

A Glimpse into the Field

The main function of a teacher assistant is to perform seemingly basic jobs that make the life of a classroom teacher easier. Instruction time is increased as teacher assistants grade papers, make copies, and complete other clerical tasks the teachers would normally take valuable time spent with students to do. Teacher assistants also aid students individually in the classroom, reinforcing lessons or giving special attention to those who are struggling.

Many teacher assistants are needed in the area of special education. As more special education students are mainstreamed into regular classrooms, the need for teacher assistants continues to increase. They must help students with physical disabilities in such activities as eating, moving from one place to another, or riding the school bus. Teacher assistants also help students that speak English as a second language, have learning disorders, or require another form of special attention in the classroom.

Teacher assistants can be found at work in elementary, middle, and secondary schools where they work in classrooms. However, teacher assistants can also work in preschools, child care centers, and religious or community centers. They can work with students ranging from preschool-age to young adults. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, four out of 10 teacher assistants work part-time and 17 percent of full-time assistants work less than a 40-hour week. Those who work in schools work the typical 9- to 10-month school year.

The Tools You Need

While the minimum education for many teacher assistants is a high school diploma and some on-the-job training, a college degree greatly improves one's chances for employment. Many colleges offer certificate programs or degrees that provide current teacher assistants with additional training. A law passed in 2006 states that teacher assistants in Title 1 schools - those with students from low-income families - must have obtained a minimum of two years of college, hold a two-year degree or higher, or have passed a rigorous state or local assessment.  Most teacher assistants will need proficient computer skills, knowledge of record-keeping and the ability to use audiovisual equipment.

Good communication skills, patience with students, an appreciation of different cultural or social backgrounds, fairness in all situations, and a willingness to follow instructions are also qualities a successful teacher assistant must possess. The ability to speak a second language, especially Spanish, is also a desirable trait in teacher assistants.

The Pay Rate

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in May 2006, the average annual salary for teacher assistants was $20,740. The lower 10 percent earned less than $13,910, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $31,610. As with any profession, salary is usually higher in more urban areas and with additional education or experience.

Assessing the Benefits

Full-time assistants can receive health coverage and other benefits as determined by the school or other place of work. Assistants who work part-time usually do not receive any benefits.

Employment Opportunities & Trends

An increase in the number of students speaking English as a second language, a greater focus on school quantity and accountability, and an increase in school enrollment are all factors that translate to good job prospects for teacher assistants. Those that speak a foreign language and have at least a two-year degree are higher in demand due to the current educational needs in schools. An increase in after-school and summer programs will also mean an increase in the number of teacher assistants needed to carry out activities.

Advancement Opportunities

Many employers will offer tuition reimbursement or time away from the job for teacher assistants who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree or higher education for licensed teaching positions. Other than becoming a certified teacher, advancement opportunities that come with experience or additional education tend to involve more responsibility or higher wages.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2008) Occupational outlook handbook: Teacher assistants (2008-09 ed.). Retrieved January 2, 2008, from http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos153.htm