Paraprofessionals are at the heart of Minnesota classrooms. They help teachers create inclusive, supportive environments where every student can learn and thrive. Whether assisting in small reading groups, supporting students with special needs, or providing one-on-one academic help, paraprofessionals make a lasting impact on students each day.

In Minnesota, schools continue to see strong demand for paraprofessionals across all grade levels, especially in special education and literacy support. If you’re ready to start a rewarding career in education, here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a paraprofessional in Minnesota and how Zen Educate can help you find the right role.

Step 1: Learn What Paraprofessionals Do

Paraprofessionals (often called paras, teacher’s aides, or instructional assistants) play an important role in classrooms across Minnesota. They work alongside teachers in whole-class, small-group, and one-on-one settings to help students stay focused, complete assignments, and strengthen their reading, writing, and math skills.

Their work extends far beyond academics. Paras often support classroom routines, assist with behavior plans, prepare materials, and track student progress. For a closer look at how paraprofessionals shape student success, read What Is a Paraprofessional Educator: The Unsung Heroes of Education. Every day brings new chances to encourage growth and build students’ confidence.

In addition, many paraprofessionals also work in special education, helping to implement individualized plans, model social and communication skills, and celebrate student progress along the way. It’s deeply rewarding work that lets you see students gain both confidence and independence over time.

Step 2: Meet Minnesota’s Paraprofessional Requirements

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) sets specific qualifications for paraprofessionals working in Title I schools. You’ll need to meet the state’s qualifications, which include a high school diploma or equivalent and one of the following:

• At least two years of college coursework

• An associate degree or higher

• A passing score on the ParaPro Assessment

If you’re just getting started and don’t have college credits yet, don’t worry, because the ParaPro exam offers a direct path into the classroom.

The ParaPro Assessment measures your reading, writing, and math skills and how you apply them in a classroom setting. It’s a key step for many first-time paraprofessionals.

If you’re planning to take it, the ParaPro Test (ETS) Study Guide for 2025 walks you through what’s on the test and gives you a clear, two-week study plan to help you prepare with confidence.

Step 3: Explore Your Pay and Career Options in Minnesota

Before applying, it helps to understand what paraprofessional jobs in Minnesota typically look like. Most positions are hourly and follow the school-year calendar, making them ideal for people who want steady, family-friendly schedules.

Pay varies by district and experience, but most paras in Minnesota earn between $17 and $26 per hour, with many full-time roles offering health insurance and retirement benefits.

If you’re exploring career flexibility, check out Is Substitute Teaching a Good Side Hustle? to see how para and sub roles can complement each other.

Step 4: Apply for Paraprofessional Positions

Once you’ve met the qualifications, you’re ready to start applying. Many Minnesota districts post paraprofessional openings directly on their websites, but there are also statewide resources worth checking. 

You can browse listings on CareerForce Minnesota, which posts openings across multiple regions, or on EdPost, a popular education job board managed by St. Cloud State University. Some districts, like Stillwater Area Public Schools, also share paraprofessional and support-staff positions on their own hiring pages.

You can also explore opportunities in Minnesota-St. Paul with Zen Educate, where we connect you with schools that match your skills and career goals, making it easier to find the right fit.

As you prepare your application, focus on demonstrating qualities that really stand out in the classroom, such as patience, clear communication, and teamwork. These are the traits principals value when hiring paraprofessionals. To help you strengthen your materials, check out Paraprofessional Cover Letter: Tips and Examples and Top 5 Tips for a Strong Teacher’s Aide Resume.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Interview

After applying, you will usually interview with the principal or leadership team. To make a great impression, show up early, dress professionally, and show how excited you are to work with students and support the classroom team.

To make a great impression, focus on sharing examples of times you’ve worked with children, stayed calm under pressure, or helped someone learn something new.

Review Common Teaching Assistant (TA) Interview Questions (and the Best Answers) so you can walk in confidently and respond thoughtfully.

Step 6: Complete Background Checks and Onboarding

After you’re offered a position, all Minnesota school employees must complete a fingerprint-based background check before beginning work. Each district coordinates this process, so check the district’s Human Resources page or ask during your interview. 

You will also provide proof of your qualifications and fill out district paperwork. Some districts also include orientation sessions, where you’ll review safety policies and learn about the students and classrooms you’ll support. Once onboarding is complete, you’ll officially be ready to start your new role.

Want to better understand how school background checks work and what to expect during the hiring process? Check out A Complete Guide to School Background Checks: What You Need to Know When Applying.

Step 7: Succeed in Your First Paraprofessional Role

During your first few days, you’ll likely observe your classroom teacher, learn daily routines, and start getting to know your students. Your first few days can feel a little overwhelming, but use these strategies to  help you adjust to your new role:

• Focus on building relationships. Learn what motivates each student and how they learn best. 

• Be proactive. Ask questions when you’re unsure. Teachers appreciate paras who take initiative and communicate openly.

• Stay flexible. Because no two days in a classroom are the same, embrace change with a positive attitude to help you adjust and support students more effectively.

• Keep learning. To better support your diverse learners, read blogs like Supporting ADHD in the Classroom and Understanding IDEA: A Teacher’s Guide to Special Education.  Once you begin working with students, Accommodations vs. Modifications: A Paraprofessional Guide offers real examples you can use right away.

Step 8: Continue to Grow Your Career

Many paraprofessionals choose to stay in the role long-term, while others use it as a pathway to become licensed teachers.

If that’s something you’re considering, check out How to Become a Teacher in Minnesota to learn how your para experience can help you earn your teaching license.

Final Thoughts

Being a paraprofessional is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, support students as they grow, and become part of a school community built on teamwork and care.

If you’re ready to take the next step, join Zen Educate to connect with schools that match your skills, schedule, and goals.

Want to feel more prepared for your role as a paraprofessional? Read 10 Proven Classroom Management Strategies (That Actually Work) and 10-Minute Small Group Routines That Actually Work in the Classroom for simple, teacher-tested ideas to get you started.