In the Classroom
Becoming an Aide
Note: ATPE is not a provider for aide certification
Educational aides must be employed by a Texas public school district before applying for certification. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) handles educational aide certification. Visit the TEA website to learn more.
Educational Aide I
An applicant for an Educational Aide I Certificate must:
- Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate; and
- Have experience working with students or parents as approved by the employing superintendent. Experience may include work in church-related schools, day camps, youth groups, private schools, licensed daycare centers, or similar experience.
Educational Aide II
An applicant for an Educational Aide II Certificate must:
- Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
- Have satisfied one of the following requirements:
- Have two creditable years of experience as an educational aide I; or
- Have a minimum of 15 semester hours of college credit with some emphasis on child growth and development or related subject areas; or
- Have demonstrated proficiency in a specialized skill area as determined by the local school district.
- Have experience working with students or parents as approved by the employing superintendent.
Education Aide III
An applicant for an Educational Aide III Certificate must:
- Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
- Have satisfied one of the following requirements:
- Have three creditable years of experience as either an educational aide I or II; or
- Have 30 semester hours of college credit with some emphasis on child growth and development or related subject areas.
- Have experience working with students or parents as approved by the employing superintendent.