South Dakota Paraprofessional Requirements
A complete guide to paraprofessional qualification in the Mount Rushmore State. Required assessments, qualifications, career pathways, and salary information.
South Dakota Paraprofessional Quick Facts
Required Score
ParaPathways: 332 (Reading and Writing) and 334 (Mathematics)
Exam and minimum vary by state or district. Verify the current requirement.
Test Duration
145 min total (85 + 60)
ParaPathways: Reading & Writing 85 min, Mathematics 60 min, timed separately
Test Sections
2
Reading & Writing and Mathematics, scored separately
Test Fee
$59 / $75
ParaPathways: $59 at a test center, $75 at home
School Districts
149
Regular school districts (NCES, 2021-22)
Background Check
Required
Mandatory fingerprint-based background checks: (1) South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) state criminal history check, (2) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) national criminal history check. Results reviewed by hiring district to determine eligibility.
Governing Body
South Dakota Department of Education (DOE) sets standards with local implementation. No state license: qualification is "highly qualified" status verified by districts. The DOE lists qualifying scores of 332 on ParaPathways Reading and Writing and 334 on Mathematics; confirm the exact requirement with the hiring district. Large Native American population (9 tribal nations) served. 149 regular school districts (NCES, 2021-22).
Alternative Qualifications
- Associate's degree or higher from accredited institution
- Two years of study (48 semester credits) at accredited institution
- Passing ParaPathways scores (ask the hiring district whether a retired ParaPro score you already earned still counts)
Annual Pay (Middle 50%)
Teaching assistants, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025
Overview of Paraprofessional Qualifications in South Dakota
To comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), South Dakota requires that all paraprofessionals who provide instructional support in Title I-funded programs meet rigorous standards of qualification.
ESSA Compliance and State Standards
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) establishes federal requirements that paraprofessionals working in Title I programs must meet one of three qualification pathways: hold a degree, complete college coursework, or pass a formal assessment.
South Dakota's Local Control Approach
South Dakota operates under a system of state guidance with local implementation. The Department of Education defines the acceptable pathways to becoming "highly qualified," and the state's 149 local school districts handle hiring and verification.
The South Dakota Department of Education lists qualifying scores of 332 on ParaPathways Reading and Writing (5758) and 334 on Mathematics (5759). It does not require you to retake the test once you have passed, though individual districts may have their own policies, so confirm the exact requirement with the district where you want to work. Ask the hiring district whether a retired ParaPro score you already earned still counts. South Dakota does not issue a state-level license or certificate for paraprofessionals. Instead, your qualification is a status ("highly qualified") verified and documented by your employing district.
South Dakota's school system is defined by its vast, sparsely populated geography. The state has a few larger districts in cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City, but the majority of its school systems are small, rural, and often geographically isolated. The state is also home to nine tribal nations, and its schools serve a large and diverse Native American student population. Qualified paraprofessionals, especially those from tribal communities, are critical for providing culturally responsive support.
Requirements for Paraprofessionals in South Dakota
State education codes and federal ESSA guidelines establish clear standards for all instructional paraprofessionals working in Title I programs.
Three Pathways to Qualification
Option 1: Degree
Hold an associate's degree (AA, AS) or higher from an accredited college or university.
- Official sealed transcripts required
- Must be from accredited institution
- Must be from an accredited college or university
Option 2: College Credits
Complete at least 48 hours of college credit.
- Official transcript required
- Ask the hiring district which courses it counts
- Defined as at least 48 semester credits from an accredited institution; official transcripts required
Option 3: Assessment
Pass a formal state or locally approved assessment demonstrating knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- ETS ParaPathways Assessment: 332 on Reading and Writing (5758) and 334 on Mathematics (5759). Ask the hiring district whether a retired ParaPro score you already earned still counts
- Available at home through ETS remote proctoring or at a test center. The retired ParaPro was also given at local school districts and regional education cooperatives; some districts and agencies are participating test centers that you register with directly. ETS decides where its current assessment is offered, so check its test-center locator rather than assuming a site listed here carried over.
- Always confirm the requirement with your target district before testing
Additional Mandatory Requirements
All prospective school employees must undergo a fingerprint-based background check processed by both the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI. The hiring district will provide you with instructions for scheduling your fingerprinting appointment.
You must also hold a high school diploma or GED.
Who Needs to Be "Highly Qualified" in South Dakota?
The "highly qualified" standard applies to all paraprofessionals who provide instructional support in a Title I school. Since many schools in South Dakota operate as Title I school-wide programs, these requirements cover the vast majority of instructional paraprofessional positions.
Must Meet Requirements
- • Instructional Paraprofessionals/Aides: The general title for aides providing academic support in core subjects
- • Title I Paraprofessionals: Aides hired with Title I funds to provide targeted academic interventions
- • Special Education Paraprofessionals: The largest and most in-demand category in South Dakota
- • Native American Education Paraprofessionals: Aides who support the state's Native American students and curriculum
- • Early Childhood/Pre-K Assistants: Aides working in public Pre-K and early childhood programs
May Not Need Requirements
- • Lunchroom or Recess Supervisors: Staff whose duties are purely supervisory with no instructional role
- • Bus Monitors: Staff who supervise students during transportation only
- • Personal Care Attendants (PCAs): Aides whose duties are strictly non-instructional and related to a student's physical, health, or daily living needs
- • Non-Instructional Aides: Staff whose duties are exclusively supervisory and do not involve teaching or academic reinforcement
South Dakota ParaPathways Score Details (332 and 334)
ETS ParaPathways Assessment
- 87 questions across two subtests, 145 minutes total (85 + 60), timed separately
- Passing scores: 332 on Reading and Writing, 334 on Mathematics
- Questions test basic skills and knowledge, plus applying them in a classroom
ParaPathways Assessment Breakdown: A South Dakota Context
The ParaPro was retired after August 31, 2026. Its replacement, ParaPathways (5757), has two separately timed, separately scored subtests: Reading & Writing (5758), 51 questions in 85 minutes, and Mathematics (5759), 36 questions in 60 minutes. Here is what to expect, with examples of how these skills apply in South Dakota classrooms:
Reading (part of Reading & Writing 5758: about 30 of 51 questions)
Skills Tested: Comprehending and analyzing texts, identifying main ideas and supporting details, defining vocabulary from context, and making logical inferences.
South Dakota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a Black Hills school might help a small group of students read a text about the history of Mount Rushmore, guiding them to identify the key figures involved and understand the monument's significance.
Writing (part of Reading & Writing 5758: about 21 of 51 questions)
Skills Tested: Knowledge of grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling, plus the ability to apply these skills when helping students write.
South Dakota Classroom Example: An aide in a Sioux Falls high school could help a student proofread an essay about the history of the city's stockyards, making sure the writing is clear, correct, and well-organized.
Mathematics (subtest 5759: 36 questions)
Skills Tested: Operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages; basic algebra; geometry and measurement; and data interpretation from charts and graphs. The subtest splits about evenly between numbers and operations (about 18 questions) and geometry, measurement and data (about 18), and an on-screen four-function calculator is provided.
South Dakota Classroom Example: A paraprofessional in a rural school in eastern South Dakota might help students with a math project involving the area of a farm or interpreting a graph showing corn and soybean production data for the state.
After the Test: Scores and Next Steps in South Dakota
Once you complete ParaPathways, here is what happens next in South Dakota.
If You Passed
- Step 1: Receive Your Official Score Report. ETS sends your scores to you and any districts you selected during registration. Official scores arrive roughly one to three weeks after the test; if you test at home, you can view unofficial scores on screen.
- Step 2: Submit Your Scores to the District. Provide your official score report to the HR department of the district where you are applying. They will verify that it meets the requirement.
- Step 3: Interview for Positions. Your application will be forwarded to principals with openings, and they will contact you to schedule interviews.
- Step 4: Complete Background Checks and Onboarding. Once you receive a conditional offer, complete the fingerprint-based DCI and FBI background checks, then finalize your new-hire paperwork.
If You Need to Retake
- Step 1: Review Your Score Report. ETS scores Reading & Writing and Mathematics separately, and each score report breaks your results down by content category. Use it to identify which subtest and which areas need more work.
- Step 2: Check the Retake Policy. ETS lets you retake ParaPathways once as soon as you like. After that, you wait 21 days after your most recent attempt, and then you can take it two more times. Use the time for focused study on your weak areas.
- Step 3: Use Free Resources. Khan Academy is excellent for math review. Your local library may offer LearningExpress Library with paraprofessional practice tests (check that they cover ParaPathways).
- Step 4: Re-register and Retake. Schedule through ETS. You can register for just the subtest you need to retake, but ask your district whether a subtest you already passed still counts.
Preparing for Your South Dakota ParaPathways Assessment
How long you need to study depends on your academic background. If you recently completed college coursework, a quick review may be enough. If it has been a while since you worked with math or formal writing, give yourself extra time.
Recommended Study Timelines
Quick Refresher
Best if you recently finished college courses or feel confident in reading, writing, and math. Focus on practice tests and brushing up weak spots.
Solid Preparation
The sweet spot for most people. Enough time to work through a study guide, take practice tests, and revisit rusty topics without feeling rushed.
In-Depth Review
If you have been out of school for a while or math feels unfamiliar, take the extra time. Being well-prepared gives you a real confidence boost on test day.
Free Study Resources
- ETS ParaPathways study materials: ETS publishes the official ParaPathways Study Companion, and when you register, ETS gives you a free interactive practice test for the subtest you sign up for.
- Khan Academy: Free and self-paced, with excellent math content from basic arithmetic through algebra and geometry.
- South Dakota public library databases: Your South Dakota library card may give you access to LearningExpress Library, which includes paraprofessional practice tests (check that they cover ParaPathways).
- Online practice tests: Several test-prep websites offer free practice questions in reading, writing, and math; make sure they cover ParaPathways.
Paid Study Options
You do not need to spend money to pass, but some people prefer the structure of a paid resource:
- Paraprofessional test-prep books ($20-40): Available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. Make sure they cover ParaPathways, not only the retired ParaPro.
- Online prep courses ($50-150): Include video lessons, quizzes, and multiple full-length practice tests. Helpful if you prefer guided instruction.
- Video tutorial packages: Some test prep companies sell video bundles focused on specific subjects. Good if reading-heavy materials are not your preference.
South Dakota-Specific Tip
Since hiring decisions are made locally in South Dakota, your best move is to contact the HR department of your target district before you start studying. Ask them to confirm what they require (South Dakota's ParaPathways cut scores are 332 on Reading and Writing and 334 on Mathematics) and whether they offer any local study resources or testing sessions.
Test Day: What to Expect in South Dakota
Knowing what to expect on test day takes away a lot of the stress. Here is what you need to know.
What to Bring
ETS lists the identification it accepts in your confirmation email and test-day instructions. Check yours against that list before test day.
Bring your ETS confirmation email or the test appointment notice from the district or testing center.
Testing rooms can run cold. A light jacket lets you stay comfortable without distraction.
What NOT to Bring
Check-In Procedure
- 1 Follow the ETS check-in instructions. ETS states how early to arrive and what identification to present in your confirmation email and the test-day instructions for the delivery option you chose. Read them before you leave.
- 2 Store personal items. Your phone, bag, and other belongings go in a designated area.
- 3 Take your assigned seat. The proctor will review the testing rules before starting the clock.
Tips for During the Test
Watch your time
Do not spend too long on any single question. Mark it and move on if you are stuck. You can return to it later.
Read carefully
Pay close attention to words like "not," "except," and "best." They change the meaning of the question entirely.
Eliminate wrong answers
Crossing out answers you know are wrong improves your odds, even when you are unsure about the right answer.
Do not leave blanks
ETS counts only the questions you answer correctly, so never leave a blank. Fill in your best guess for every remaining question if time is running short.
About South Dakota Testing Locations
In South Dakota, the retired ParaPro could be taken at a local school district office, a regional education cooperative, or a testing center at one of the state's colleges or tribal colleges. For ParaPathways, some districts and agencies are participating ETS test centers that you register with directly. At-home remote proctored testing through ETS is also available and can be a good option if you live far from a testing center. Contact your target district's HR department for specifics. ETS decides where its current assessment is offered, so check its test-center locator rather than assuming a site listed here carried over.
Paraprofessional Salary and Employment in South Dakota
Paraprofessional salaries vary by district, experience level, and role specialization.
Middle 50% of Earners
Top 10% Earn
Salary by District
Pay varies by district; check the salary schedule the district posts.
Typical Benefits Package
High-Demand Roles in South Dakota
Special Education Paraprofessionals: The most critical area of need statewide. There is constant, significant demand for aides to work with students with a wide range of disabilities.
Rural School Paraprofessionals: Small, remote districts often have the most difficulty filling positions and are in constant need of dedicated staff.
Native American Education Paraprofessionals: South Dakota has nine tribal nations, and districts on or near reservations have a strong need for aides who can work effectively with Native American students in a culturally responsive way.
Pathway to a Teaching Career
South Dakota has a significant teacher shortage, especially in rural areas and special education. The state actively encourages paraprofessionals to become licensed teachers through alternative certification pathways for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree.
The state and local districts, often in partnership with public universities, are developing "Grow Your Own" programs that provide financial and academic support for current paraprofessionals to complete their degree and earn a teaching license.
South Dakota Test Centers
If you take the ETS ParaPathways test, ETS lists community-based test centers by state and also offers at-home testing. Some school districts and agencies are test centers; contact the center directly to book.
Practical notes
- • Check the employment pages of individual school district websites
- • Regional education cooperatives and tribal colleges have served as additional testing centers; check the ETS test-center locator for current ParaPathways sites
How to Register for an Assessment in South Dakota
The registration process typically begins through a school district's Human Resources department or the state education agency.
Step 1: Find Job Openings and Apply
Visit school district websites and apply for paraprofessional positions through their online portals.
Get your proof of qualification ready. Have your official college transcripts in hand or schedule and pass the ETS ParaPathways Assessment (332 on Reading and Writing, 334 on Mathematics).
Step 2: Receive Test Invitation
If you meet minimum qualifications, the HR department will send you testing information and schedule.
In South Dakota, hiring is decentralized. Go directly to the "Careers" or "Human Resources" pages of individual school district websites. Major districts like Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Aberdeen post openings on their own portals.
Step 3: Prepare and Take the Test
Review study materials provided by the district and complete the assessment on the scheduled date.
After a successful interview and conditional job offer, complete the fingerprint-based DCI and FBI background checks. Once cleared, finalize your employment paperwork and attend the district's new hire orientation.
Pathway to Teaching
South Dakota faces a significant teacher shortage, especially in rural areas and special education. The state has alternative certification pathways for individuals with a bachelor's degree, and your classroom experience as a paraprofessional gives you a real advantage.
Local districts and the state's public universities are developing "Grow Your Own" programs that provide financial support for current paraprofessionals to complete their degrees and earn teaching licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions - South Dakota Paraprofessionals
Is there a state-level license for paraprofessionals in South Dakota?
No. South Dakota does not issue a state-level license or certificate for paraprofessionals. Your qualification is a status, "highly qualified," which is verified and documented by your employing school district.
What is the DCI?
The Division of Criminal Investigation is the state's law enforcement agency that handles the state-level criminal background check for school employees. You will also need a separate FBI background check at the federal level. Both are fingerprint-based.
How do I find job openings?
Go directly to the "Human Resources" or "Employment" pages of individual school district websites, especially for Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Aberdeen.
How long does it take to get certified?
The timeline varies by state and district and includes background check clearance. Ask your district or state education agency for the current steps.
Can I work while completing my certification?
Some districts allow provisional or probationary employment while you complete requirements, but this varies by district policy.
What happens if I don't pass the assessment?
ETS lets you retake ParaPathways once as soon as you like; if you need more attempts after that, you wait 21 days after your most recent one. You can register for just one subtest ($37.50 at home, $29.50 at a test center), but ask your district whether a subtest you already passed still counts. Use the time to study the subtest you missed.
I passed the ParaPro in another state. Will South Dakota accept my score?
The ParaPro has been replaced by ParaPathways, for which the South Dakota Department of Education lists qualifying scores of 332 on Reading and Writing and 334 on Mathematics. Ask the hiring district whether a ParaPro score you already earned still counts. Always confirm with the district's HR department.
Ready to Start Your South Dakota Paraprofessional Career?
Take practice tests and prepare for success on your assessment.