Are you a dedicated paraprofessional within the New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) looking to advance your career in education? The NYCPS offers a remarkable opportunity through the Career Training Program (CTP), designed to support your professional growth. This program provides eligible paraprofessionals with Career Training Program Vouchers to pursue their first bachelor’s degree, paving the way for expanded roles and opportunities within the school system.
The Career Training Program is a tuition assistance initiative that empowers paraprofessionals to take the next step in their educational journey. By offering tuition coverage for undergraduate studies at participating colleges and universities, the CTP removes financial barriers that might otherwise hinder career advancement. This commitment from NYCPS underscores the value and potential of paraprofessionals within their educational framework.
For those enrolled in five or more credit hours per semester, the program further supports academic success by offering Release Time. This valuable benefit provides 2.5 hours per week dedicated to study, recognizing the demands of balancing work and academic pursuits. Additionally, paraprofessionals can apply for a Summer Stipend, offering further financial support for continued studies during the summer months. It’s important to note that while the CTP provides substantial support, paraprofessionals are responsible for the crucial steps of researching, applying, and enrolling in a participating institution that aligns with their academic goals.
Eligibility for the Career Training Program Voucher
To be considered for a career training program voucher through the CTP, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are designed to ensure that the program benefits dedicated, full-time paraprofessionals committed to furthering their education and careers within the NYCPS system.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Full-Time Paraprofessional Status: Applicants must be currently employed as a full-time paraprofessional within a NYC public school. This status must be maintained from the time of application through the application school year. Substitute paraprofessionals are not eligible for the CTP.
- No Prior Bachelor’s Degree: The CTP is specifically designed for paraprofessionals seeking their first bachelor’s degree. Those who already hold a bachelor’s degree are not eligible for this program.
- Matriculation Requirement: Candidates must demonstrate proof of mandatory matriculation into a degree-bearing program upon completion of 45 credits. This ensures participants are on a clear path towards degree completion.
- Credit Limit: The Career Training Program covers up to 120 credits towards the completion of a first bachelor’s degree. This limit includes any transfer credits and credits earned prior to program enrollment. Exceptions to this credit limit are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For example, if an applicant enters the program with 30 existing credits, the CTP would cover up to 90 additional credits.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 is required for program eligibility. Furthermore, participants must maintain a “C” average (2.0 GPA) throughout their program to remain eligible for the CTP voucher. Falling below this GPA will result in ineligibility.
- Course Grade Requirements: The NYCPS will not provide tuition coverage for courses with failing grades (“F”), late withdrawals, or unofficial withdrawals. Paraprofessionals are financially responsible for these courses.
- Financial Responsibility for Ineligible Participants: Paraprofessionals who become ineligible for the Career Training Program are responsible for all subsequent course credits, tuition, and associated fees.
Understanding Financial Aid and the CTP Voucher
The Career Training Program is designed to work in conjunction with other forms of financial aid to maximize support for paraprofessionals. Understanding how the career training program voucher interacts with financial aid is crucial for participants.
Financial Aid Coordination:
For paraprofessionals who qualify for the Federal Pell Grant or the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) grant, these sources of financial aid will be applied first to cover tuition expenses. The CTP voucher then covers any remaining tuition balance after these grants are applied. The participating college or university will directly bill the NYC Public Schools for this difference.
Expenses Not Covered by the CTP Voucher:
It is important to be aware that the career training program voucher specifically covers tuition costs. The NYCPS does not cover additional fees charged by colleges or universities. These non-covered fees include, but are not limited to:
- Course materials (textbooks, supplies)
- Activity fees
- Application fees
- Technology fees
- Any other fees deemed the responsibility of the student by the college or university.
Paraprofessionals should factor these additional costs into their financial planning when participating in the Career Training Program.
Application Process and Important Deadlines for the CTP Voucher
Applying for a career training program voucher is a straightforward process, but adhering to deadlines and utilizing the correct application procedures is essential. Applications are available for each academic semester – Fall, Spring, and Summer – with specific application windows for each.
Application Availability Windows:
- Fall Semester: May 1st through June 30th
- Spring Semester: September 1st through October 31st
- Summer Semester: February 1st through March 31st
Key Application Notes:
- Semester-Specific Application: A separate application must be submitted for each semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer) for which you are seeking a career training program voucher.
- Voucher Usage: Unused vouchers are not transferable and cannot be applied to previous or future semesters. It is crucial to apply for the voucher during the correct application window for the intended semester of study.
- NYCPS Email Address Requirement: To ensure successful application and voucher confirmation, applicants must use their official NYCPS email address when applying. The application system no longer accepts email addresses from other domains. This ensures secure and reliable communication regarding your application status and voucher.
- Confirmation Email: Applicants will receive an email confirmation within 24-48 hours after submitting their application for the Career Training Program. If you do not receive a confirmation email, it indicates that your application was not successfully submitted, and you will need to re-submit it.
- Voucher Changes: To request a change to your voucher, such as updating the college or university name, you must download and submit the “CTP Voucher – University/College Name Change Form.” Allow 48 hours for processing these requests.
How to Apply:
For detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to apply for the Career Training Program Voucher, refer to the CTP Application Guide. This guide provides valuable insights and ensures you complete your application accurately.
Additional Programs for Paraprofessional Career Advancement
Beyond the Career Training Program Voucher, NYCPS offers several other programs designed to support paraprofessionals in their career growth within the education system. While the CTP focuses on bachelor’s degree attainment, these additional programs address different stages and aspects of professional development.
Paraprofessional Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program:
For paraprofessionals enrolled in teacher certification programs, the Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program provides up to 40 days of paid leave to fulfill student teaching requirements. This program is vital as many institutions require dedicated student teaching experiences for certification. Applications for this program are limited and require pre-approval. More information can be found in the Student Teaching Leave of Absence Program Overview.
Paraprofessional to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program:
This program offers reimbursement for up to 12 graduate credits for eligible paraprofessionals pursuing a graduate degree in education leading to teacher certification. Reimbursement is at the current CUNY graduate tuition rate and applies to coursework completed after September 1st of the application year. Details are available in the Para to Teacher Pathway Graduate Reimbursement Program Information document.
Paraprofessional Certification Testing Reimbursement Program:
NYCPS provides a one-time reimbursement of up to $400 for state teacher certification application and examination fees. This program assists paraprofessionals who have achieved NYS teacher certification and seek reimbursement for associated costs. Further details can be found in the Certification Testing Reimbursement Program Overview.
Lead Teacher Assistant (LTA) / Bilingual Lead Teacher Assistant (BLTA) Positions:
These annual positions offer experienced paraprofessionals the opportunity to take on enhanced roles in the classroom, supporting instruction under teacher supervision. LTAs/BLTAs receive additional compensation and gain valuable experience, serving as a potential pathway to a teaching career. More information is available in the LTA/BLTA Position Posting.
Take the Next Step in Your Career Journey
The career training program voucher and associated programs represent a significant investment by NYCPS in its paraprofessional staff. By providing financial assistance, release time, and pathways for professional growth, NYCPS empowers dedicated individuals to advance their careers in education and make an even greater impact on students’ lives.
If you are an eligible paraprofessional, take advantage of these incredible opportunities. Explore the Career Training Program, understand the eligibility requirements, and begin your application process today. Unlock your potential and contribute even more to the NYC public school system.
For further information or if you have any questions, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (718) 935-2449
