Special Education Assistant Teacher / Behavioral Support Assistant Teacher

Authorizations may be issued to individuals hired and assigned to Aide V or Aide VI positions in a WV public school or to those who have completed all requirements for a permanent authorization.  

Applicant Requirements

You may be issued an authorization if:

• You are hired and/or assigned to an Aide V or Aide VI position by a West Virginia school system OR
• You have completed all requirements for a permanent authorization.

Review Policy 5202, Minimum Requirements for the Licensure of Professional/Paraprofessional Personnel and Advanced Salary Classifications, and Certifications for complete requirements.

General Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or hold eligible documentation (see Policy 5202, Minimum Requirements for the Licensure of Professional/Paraprofessional Personnel and Advanced Salary Classifications).
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be physically, mentally, and emotionally qualified.
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent. 

Employment and Recommendations

• You must be employed to obtain a temporary authorization.
• You must have an official recommendation from the County Director or Superintendent of the county you are employed by.
• Pass the current state competency exam for aides developed pursuant to W.Va. Code §18A-4-8e.
• Permanent authorizations do not require employment. 

Renewal

You must complete one specialized training after your previous authorization was awarded.

Permanent Requirements

Speak to your employer to help you determine your eligibility. 

Application Instructions

If this is your first time filling out an application with us, you will need a background check.  Follow the instructions for first-time applicants. 

1. Download the application form.
2. Fill in the applicant information and the Disclosure of Background Information.
3. Have your county submit your application or mail all supporting documentation to the Office of Certification:
   
   West Virginia Department of Education
   Office of Certification 
   Building 6, Suite 550
   1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
   Charleston, WV 25305-0330
4. If this is your initial application, you will receive an email with a code to make an appointment for a background check after your application has been received.  

This application costs $35.