Paras 2 Teach
![Earn While You Learn](/getmedia/0207ee3f-e14d-46f3-93a9-da50ac0695a5/lg-square-unsplash-piggy-bank.jpg)
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](/getmedia/5221f005-0e25-4f94-8e1a-cac72d061e37/sq-lg-graduate-0.jpg)
ESOL and Reading Endorsements
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsements.
![Internships](/getmedia/13abc54d-c869-4f5f-bb9f-88a35323c6bd/ls-istock-elem-ed-classroom-01.jpg)
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](https://flsouthern.edu/getattachment/1094825a-1904-4d43-bb49-ed3cd50ca085/hs-brooke-veal.jpg?lang=en-US&ext=.jpg)
Director of Field Studies and Evening Education Programs
Carol J. Barnett / Curry Education Office - 106
863.680.5004