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Title IV Services

Public Notice: Request for Paraprofessional Waiver

Tippecanoe School Corporation (TSC) is applying to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) for a waiver that would allow Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) greater flexibility in meeting paraprofessional qualification requirements. TSC receives Title IV funding exceeding $30,000, which is used to support students, particularly those in at-risk populations, by hiring instructional coaches and paraprofessionals. These positions are crucial in addressing the academic, social, and behavioral needs of students across the district.

The requested waiver would permit TSC to continue hiring paraprofessionals based on Indiana-specific criteria for highly-qualified status. These criteria include:

  • Two years of college experience
  • A two-year college degree
  • Passing the Para-Pro Assessment (within the first year of employment)
  • One year or 1,000 hours of previous employment experience in a school or working with children
  • Passing annual school-level evaluations
  • Completing 48 credit hours of college-level classes
  • Holding Child Development Association (CDA) credentials
  • Completing LEA-required professional development modules/training

This waiver allows increased flexibility in hiring, reduces barriers for potential paraprofessionals, and enables TSC to address the unique needs and educational priorities of our students. By broadening the pool of eligible candidates, the waiver supports our ongoing efforts to meet staffing needs and ensure high-quality support for students.

Given the ongoing challenges of recruiting and retaining qualified paraprofessionals, this waiver will help TSC maintain a flexible, qualified workforce in our schools. This alignment with our district's goals will ensure that we continue to provide effective support for students in the classroom.

As required by the IDOE, TSC is providing this public notice to inform the community about the waiver request and invite feedback. If you have any questions or would like more information on how Title IV funding is being used in our schools, please contact the Director of Student Services at (765) 474-2481.

Public Input Opportunity: Please share any comments or feedback regarding this waiver application by contacting the Director of Student Services. We welcome your input as we work to enhance the educational experience for all students in the Tippecanoe School Corporation.

Thank you for your continued support of our schools.