West Virginia University at Parkersburg adds two new credentials for education pathways

West Virginia University at Parkersburg has added two new credentials to its education programs to allow students to become qualified Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teachers and Paraprofessionals. Each new credential has been approved by the West Virginia Department of Education and will prepare students to fill gaps in the early childhood and K-12 classrooms around the state.

According to an article on West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s website, Dr. Megan McKnight, who serves as the Director of Teacher Education, was quoted as saying of the new credentials, “These programs create accessible pathways for students to pursue careers in education, supporting both our communities and the state’s educational mission.”

Students who are working toward a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education leading to licensure will be interested in these credentials, as well as those who are interested in working at licensed childcare centers. These credentials prepare students to work in real classrooms through field experience and hands-on projects. 

The Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher credential can be completed in one semester of study. It will prepare students to work in childcare centers, early learning facilities, and K-12 classrooms. The Paraprofessional credential can be completed in two semesters, dependent upon course load. This credential will prepare students to work as instructional support for classroom teachers, providing classroom management assistance and personalized student assistance.

Credentials are offered in a hybrid format. Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher and select Paraprofessional courses can be completed online, but licensure track courses are primarily held in person. 

The education program and credentials within have been designed to both immediately address staffing needs at area K-12 schools, as well as prepare to meet long-term goals through a pipeline of qualified educators leaving the WVU Parkersburg program.

For more information about West Virginia University at Parkersburg, visit the school’s website.