The salary of a teacher assistant depends on the type of school. Elementary schools, middle schools and high schools all have different pay rates. A teacher assistant can also get paid more if they have additional certifications or degrees.
The average salary for a teacher assistant in Virginia is $34,000 per year. This number is based on a survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2016. The salary range for teacher assistants was between $24,000 and $50,000 per year.
WHAT IS A TEACHER ASSISTANT
Teacher Assistants have a fun job. They get to help provide students direction without having of the responsibility that teachers have. This job is actually a great stepping stone for an aspiring teacher but it’s also just a great position in general.
As a teacher assistant, you’re a glorified tutor. You help provide direction, structure, and explanation to students who need a little more help. Since you primarily work at schools or childcare centers, you probably won’t work during the summer.
Teacher assistants don’t need that much formal education in order to officially start working. In fact, you only need to complete 2 years of college coursework, then you’re well on your way to becoming a teacher assistant.
What Does a Teacher Assistant Do
Teacher assistants work under a teacher’s supervision to give students additional attention and instruction.Learn More About What A Teacher Assistant Does
How To Become a Teacher Assistant
Teacher assistants typically need to have completed at least 2 years of college coursework
Education
Most school districts require applicants to have completed at least 2 years of college coursework or have earned an associate’s degree. Teacher assistants in schools that have a Title 1 program (a federal program for schools with a large proportion of students from low-income households) must have at least a 2-year degree, 2 years of college, or pass a state or local assessment.
Associate’s degree programs for teacher assistants prepare the participants to develop educational materials, observe students, and understand the role of teachers and teaching assistants in the classroom.
Most states require instructional aides who work with special-needs students to pass a skills-based test.
Important Qualities
Communication skills. Teacher assistants need to discuss students’ progress with teachers and parents, so they need to be able to communicate well.
Interpersonal skills. Teacher assistants interact with a variety of people, including teachers, students, parents, and administrators. They need to develop good working relationships with the people they work with.
Patience. Working with students of different abilities and backgrounds can be difficult. Teacher assistants must be patient with students who struggle with material.
Resourcefulness. To reinforce lessons, teacher assistants must explain information to students in a way that meets each student’s learning style.
