Paras 2 Teach
Earn While You Learn
Earn a teacher's salary while completing your education degree! The base salary for beginning public school teachers in Polk County is $47,500.
ESOL and Reading Endorsements
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsements.
Internships
Complete field experiences and internships in your own classroom.
Are you eligible for the Paras 2 Teach Program?
- Currently employed paraprofessionals within Polk County Public Schools
- Minimum of 60 college credit hours earned
- Minimum of 3.0 GPA from all college coursework
Application Requirements
- Official transcripts of all academic work previously taken at other colleges, universities, or professional schools.
- If fewer than 25 credit hours have been earned from a regionally accredited college or university, also provide:
- Official high school transcript or GED scores
- Official ACT/SAT scores or updated resume
- Up to 7 semester hours of transfer credit may be awarded for military service-connected, educational experiences. Requests should be accompanied by documents describing the educational experience.
- If fewer than 25 credit hours have been earned from a regionally accredited college or university, also provide:
- Personal interview
- Academic interest inventory
- Polk County Public Schools background clearance*
- Letter of recommendation from an administrator
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher
- 15-20 minute teaching video that highlights the use of instructional and classroom management strategies
Post-Acceptance
- Passing score on Subject Area Exam
- Obtain Temporary Teacher Internship Certification from the Florida Department of Education
- Enrolled in Florida Southern College Adult Elementary Education Program
Take The Next Step
Whether you want to learn more or are ready to apply, we’re here to help.
Questions? Contact
Brooke Veal, MATL
Director of Field Studies and Evening Education Programs
Carol J. Barnett / Curry Education Office - 106
863.680.5004