MT Parapathways

Special Education Para Pathways Project

The OPI Special Education Para Pathways Project, launched in February 2025, is a groundbreaking initiative to address rural Montana's critical shortage of special education teachers. This program is designed to support paraeducators currently working in schools by providing them with a structured and affordable pathway to earning their teaching credentials in special education.  

Dawson Community College (DCC) is the Level 2 partner in this initiative. It offers specialized coursework, mentorship, and hands-on training to help paraeducators transition into fully licensed special education teachers. Through this partnership, DCC provides a flexible and accessible learning environment tailored to the needs of working professionals, ensuring that all Montana schools have the qualified educators they need to support students with diverse learning needs. 

Please visit the links below for more details on program requirements, eligibility, and the application process.

Benefits of the Para Pathways Project:

  • Recruit and retain qualified professionals working with students with disabilities by providing multiple levels of licensure within Special Education.
  • Increase skills of Montana paraeducators and educators working with students with disabilities
  • Provide free tuition for eligible paraeducators* to enroll and complete the Special Education Technician Program Dawson Community College.

  • Proposal for Montana Administrative Rule:  Upon completion of the Dawson courses, paraeducators would apply to be a certified Special Education Technician.

     

Special Education Technician Levels

The pathway to becoming a certified Special Education Technician can be thought about in levels. To become a Sped Tech, qualified paras must complete Levels 1 and 2. Those seeking to become fully certified Special Education teachers will complete Level 3. 

  • Level 1 - Register and take the 40 designated modules through our learning provider, LRP. Qualified paras who complete all of the necessary paperwork can receive $20.00 for each designated module that they complete, up to $800.00.
  • Level 2 - Take and pass 4 courses (13 credits) at Dawson Community College. Qualified paras are eligible for tuition  payment via OPI, provided they meet the qualifications and have worked for at least 1,000 hours in a Montana public schools and work with students with disabilities for a portion of their day. 
  • Level 3 - Meet with a DCC advisor to learn about completing a college degree in Education. Our advising team will help you find the best fit for your learning preference and locales, even if it is not DCC. 

Learn more about Parapathways Levels 1-3

  • Learn more about Level 1 modules and required paperwork.

  • Learn more about DCC coursework and the OPI tuition payment.

  • Learn more about opportunities to complete your Education degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Para Pathways Project Frequently Asked Questions - Coming Soon!