The Teaching Assistant degree program is appropriate for both current and prospective teacher aides and assistants. These paraprofessionals perform a variety of functions within schools such as:

• Working with an individual student • Working with a small group of students • Working in a classroom or resource room • Working with students in a technology room or computer lab

Students will be provided with courses that are directly relevant to the responsibilities normally assigned to Teaching Assistants working in prekindergarten through high school. Students will receive a solid foundation in both the Liberal Arts and Sciences as well as the educational functions of Teaching Assistants. This program has three areas of concentration:

• Generalist • Developmental Disabilities • Learning Strategies and Technologies

Students will also complete a field assignment in the community. By completing the first 18 credit hours at GCC, they will meet the necessary college requirements for two state certificates: • The New York State Level II or III Teaching Assistant certificate • The New York State Pre-Professional Teaching certificate

To earn the Pre-Professional certificate, students must enroll in a program registered as leading to teaching certification, such as this Teacher Education Transfer program. In addition, completing the first 30 credit hours will qualify them to receive the GCC Teaching Assistant Certificate.

Students may also choose to participate in a wide array of professional development and service learning opportunities designed to enhance their professional goals and college experience through GCC’s Education Club.