Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker announced that registration is now open for the Connecticut State Department of Education’s new Paraeducator Preparation Academy. This free, six-week program aims to prepare aspiring paraeducators for employment by providing comprehensive training and support.
The academy offers instruction from certified bilingual educators, covers the full cost of study materials and the ParaPathways assessment exam, and provides Spanish-language support. The inaugural pilot session is scheduled from August 17 to September 23, 2026, at the Leaders for Educational Advocacy and Diversity (LEAD) Center in East Hartford. Registration remains open until the first day of class, with additional sessions planned across Connecticut this fall.
Governor Lamont emphasized the critical role of paraeducators, stating, “Paraeducators are essential members of our school communities, and Connecticut needs more talented people answering that call. This academy removes barriers, creates new opportunities, and helps build the strong special education workforce our students deserve.” Commissioner Russell-Tucker added that the academy "creates new opportunities for aspiring paraeducators while strengthening Connecticut’s educator workforce.”
Delivered in partnership with various organizations, the program connects successful participants with school districts seeking to hire paraeducators and pairs them with experienced mentors. Tricia Santos of AFSCME Council 4 said it was "a powerful recruitment tool that makes clear this work is a profession," while Shellye Davis of AFT Connecticut highlighted it as "an important investment in aspiring paraeducators." The academy is supported by a $1 million state investment.