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Federal Work Study Can Help Reimburse the Salaries of your Paraeducators

This past year of online learning has probably given parents of school-age children a sneak peek at what it means to be a teacher. Some of them may be your staff members. Perhaps they’d like to advance their careers and become teachers. Thanks to a WGU Federal Work-Study (FWS) funding program, they may be eligible to earn a teaching degree at WGU—as well as a salary while completing their student teaching.

It’s a Simple Plan

For a teacher candidate who qualifies for financial aid and pursues their degree from WGU’s Teachers College in the School of Education, we pay 75% of their parapro salary with FWS funds. The district will cover 25% of the student’s salary as well as any Fair Labor Standards Acts and/or local labor law requirements. Once their FWS funds are exhausted, you’ll pay their wages if they are still your employee.

For those who are starting their student teaching this year, they may also be eligible to be paid during their 12–16 weeks. The district will submit a pay stub to WGU, and we’ll reimburse you at 75%.

Please note: Paid student teaching is only applicable in some states.

WGU is Online and Fully Accredited

Whether your parapros want to teach elementary education, math, science, or special ed, WGU has a teaching degree for them. Because WGU’s courses are online, it’s the ideal way to balance the responsibilities of life and school. Plus, with so many schools changing the way they deliver education, there’s never been a better time to earn a teaching degree. A great opportunity awaits.

Take the Next Step Ready to take the next step in your career?

Accredited, Respected,
Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

"When my daughter started preschool, I decided to go work at the school as a paraeducator. Over the next three years, I was told that I should go back and get my degree, so I finally started looking into it. When I came across WGU, I knew it was the right fit for me. The most rewarding thing about being a licensed educator is that I feel like I am finally where I was meant to be!"

Jodi Milner
WGU Graduate