Preparing And Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act

The PARA Educators Act would establish a new federal grant program to help recruit and retain paraprofessionals (teacher aides and similar staff) in public elementary schools, secondary schools, and preschool programs. The U.S. Secretary of Education would allot funds to State Educational Agencies (SEAs) to pass through to states, local education agencies (LEAs), and educational service agencies (ESAs) on a competitive basis. Funds could be used for activities such as evidence-based mentoring, high-quality professional development, credentials or certifications (e.g., special education, English learner, advanced paraeducator, or teaching certificates), and wage increases or bonuses to paraprofessionals. Priority for subgrants would go to programs serving more low-income students or serving high-need schools. The bill includes reporting and evaluation requirements, prohibits changes to existing collective bargaining rights (though compliance with labor laws remains required), and authorizes appropriations as needed for 2026–2030.