How to become a paraprofessional in Oklahoma.

To become a paraprofessional in Oklahoma, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements around education, certification, and training. These standards help ensure that paraeducators are prepared to support students and teachers in meaningful and impactful ways. 

Minimum Oklahoma paraprofessional requirements (Tier 1), at a glance:* 

• High school diploma, GED, or recognized high school equivalency. 

• If only HS Diploma or GED Education, they will need to pass one of the following tests: Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET), ACT WorkKeys, Praxis ParaPro Assessment  

• Background check and fingerprinting 

In addition to Oklahoma state requirements, Kelly Education requires you to: 

• Complete our new-hire online assessment 

In Oklahoma, there’s also a Tier 2 Paraprofessional level (Special Education) where applicants need to meet all requirements under Tier 1, plus special education paraprofessional training, CPR, First Aid, and Universal Precautions / Bloodborne Pathogens training. 

A deeper dive into paraprofessional requirements 

At Kelly Education, we refer to this role as a paraeducator because, like a paramedic or paralegal, it reflects the professionalism and purpose behind the work. School districts may use other titles, such as “parapro” or “teaching aide,” but we believe “paraeducator” better honors the impact you’ll have in the classroom. 

The Oklahoma State Department of Education describes paraprofessionals as individuals who provide instructional support under the direct supervision of a certified teacher. That support can include tutoring, classroom management, library assistance, translation services, and more. 

Education verification 

You’ll need to provide high school and/or college transcripts. You should plan ahead, as you may need to request access to these documents. In some cases, you may need to pay a small fee. 

Employment verification 

Anyone working in schools must prove eligibility to work in the United States. To complete this step, you’ll submit an I-9 form along with valid identification credentials. 

If you work with Kelly Education, we’ll walk you through this process. If you’re applying directly with a district, their HR team will assist you in completing it. 

Background check and fingerprinting 

Every paraeducator must pass a background screening and fingerprinting process. This requirement is a critical step to ensure student safety. 

You can find the official fingerprinting fee information for Oklahoma paraprofessional background checks on the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s Background Checks for School Employment page. 

Here’s a quick summary: 

• Option 1: $58.25. Fingerprints taken electronically at the Oklahoma State Department of Education or satellite sites. This is typically the faster option. 

• Option 2: $45.00. Fingerprints taken manually at a local sheriff’s office or police department and mailed in. This option may take longer. 

We recommend starting this step early to avoid delaying your start date. 

Training 

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), paraprofessionals who work with students receiving special education services are required to receive training to support those learners effectively. 

In Oklahoma, training requirements vary by district. Additionally, some districts or schools may offer specialized orientation or professional development for paraeducators. 

Whether required or not, we strongly recommend pursuing First Aid and CPR certification. These emergency response skills not only enhance student safety but also increase your value as a school support professional. Courses are typically affordable, ranging from around $50, and some districts or employers may cover the cost. 

At Kelly Education, we want you to feel ready on day one as a paraeducator. Every applicant completes our new-hire course designed to walk you through the expectations, duties, and daily responsibilities. This course ensures you’re ready to support students and teachers from day one. 

Become a substitute paraeducator in Oklahoma with Kelly Education. 

If you or someone you know is interested in paraprofessional or substitute teacher jobs, fill out our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions. 

We also have an entire library of helpful articles for paraprofessionals and school educators. They include: 

• What is a paraprofessional in schools 

• Understanding IEP and 504 plans 

• Paraeducator job description, duties, and responsibilities 

*Information subject to change. This is a general guideline as of September 2025. School districts may have additional requirements in addition to state requirements. 

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