Paraprofessional Resources
Paraprofessional Resources
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Your Path from Paraprofessional to Teacher Starts Here!
Your Path from Paraprofessional to Teacher Starts Here!
What is RISE?
What is RISE?
RISE is an accelerated and rigorous "Grow-Your-Own" teacher program for strong paraprofessionals who do not currently hold a bachelor's degree and want to become a certified teacher AND receive a recommendation from their campus principal.
RISE offers eligible paraprofessionals with 30-40+ college credits a debt-free opportunity to earn their bachelor’s degree and obtain an initial certification in one of the following areas:
EC-6
4-8 Core
7-12 Content-Specific (based on their current transcript hours)
Please note that this program cannot accommodate certifications in SPED, BIL, or specialized MS/HS courses (e.g., DL, CTE, FA) due to funding, legal, and certification requirements. Candidates may obtain a core certification and then add a specialized certification later. After a RISE Instructor completes the program and becomes fully certified, Teacher can take the SPED or BIL content test to obtain certification.
The RISE Program is a partnership between Comal ISD, Teachworthy, and Indiana Wesleyan University designed to support paraprofessionals in their journey to becoming a certified teacher.
RISE candidates must be employed by Comal ISD as a paraprofressional at the start of the school year to be recommended by their campus principal for participation in this amazing opportunity.
Is RISE right for me?
Is RISE right for me?
RISE is designed for principal recommended paraprofessionals without a bachelor's degree in Comal ISD who are ready to take the next step toward becoming a certified teacher. Ideal candidates are those who:
have demonstrated a strong passion for serving students and the education profession,
have completed at least 30-40 college credit hours by program start date,
are currently employed as a paraprofessional in Comal ISD,
and are willing to commit to a rigorous and accelerated schedule.
If this describes you — RISE may be the pathway for you.
If the RISE Program feels like a good fit for you, start by talking to your Principal! HERE is a conversation guide to help with this.
If RISE is not for you...
If RISE is not for you...
Do you need more credit hours, want a specialized certification, or prefer a traditional pathway?
Contact christine.lucas@comalisd.org
The RISE Commitment
The RISE Commitment
Comal ISD is committed to being an employer of choice by investing in the recruitment and retention of high-quality staff. The RISE program provides current paraprofessionals with a debt-free pathway to become certified teachers removing the financial barrier that often prevents career advancement.
This support reflects CISD’s commitment to growing greatness from within and creating long-term opportunities for those already serving our students every day.
📅 Important Dates 2026-2027
📅 Important Dates 2026-2027
RISE Interest Form
RISE Interest Form
RISE at a Glance
RISE at a Glance
Contact Information
Contact Information
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