Job Description
Teacher’s aids (a.k.a., teacher assistants) provide instructional and clerical support for classroom teachers, allowing teachers more time for lesson planning and teaching. They support and assist children in learning class material using the teacher’s lesson plans and providing students with individual attention. Teacher assistants also supervise students in the cafeteria, schoolyard, and hallways, or on field trips. Other duties may include recording grades, setting up equipment, and helping prepare materials for instruction.

Average Salary
$22,200

Educational Requirements
Many teacher assistants need only a high school diploma and on-the-job training, but employers are increasingly looking for college-trained applicants. In fact, teacher assistants who work in Title 1 schools – those with a large proportion of students from low-income households – must have college training or proven academic skills. They face new federal requirements as of 2006: assistants must hold a 2-year or higher degree, have a minimum of 2 years of college, or pass a rigorous state or local assessment.

Job Outlook
Employment of teacher assistants is expected to grow by 10% before 2018. This growth is about as fast as average, but because turnover is high, the job outlook is favorable.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Become a teacher’s aid – start by filling out the form on the right.