Career Outlook

Employment of teacher assistants is expected to grow somewhat faster than the average for all through 2012. The student population for which teacher assistants are most needed - special education students and students for whom English is not their first language - is expected to increase more rapidly than the general school-age population.

Legislation that requires students with disabilities and non-native English speakers to receive an education “equal” to that of other students, will generate jobs for teacher assistants to accommodate these students’ special needs.

Additionally, a greater focus on educational quality and accountability, as required by the No Child Left Behind Act, is likely to lead to an increased demand for teacher assistants.

An increasing number of after school programs and summer programs also will create new opportunities for teacher assistants.