Para Pathways Project

Disclosure: The modules are provided for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The modules may not contain the most recent legal developments. If participants need legal advice on a particular set of facts or circumstances they should consult with an attorney.

Professional Learning Modules in Special Education are available free to all Montana paraeducators, pre-service teachers, educators, and administrators.

Eligible Paraeducators, who currently work with students with disabilities, verified and accepted into the Para Pathways Project may receive compensation for completion of specific Professional Learning Modules as part of the Special Education Technician Track.

Licensed educators can request renewal units using this form. Note, all courses beginning with code 35 with paraprofessional in the title are not eligible for Professional Learning renewal units.

Access Professional Learning Modules Here:

Need help? Check out the links below under Technical Assistance and Frequently Asked Questions.

Learn more about the ParaPathway Sped Technician Project at Dawson Community College.

Eligibility for incentive pay for Para Pathways

• Must be currently be employed as a paraeducator in a Montana School District working with students with disabilities.

Application for Level 1—Incentive pay for module completion for paraeducators who meet the above criteria:

• Register as an eligible special education paraeducator** in LRP by creating a login and indicate that you are participating in the Special Education Technician Track.

• Submit the Employment Verification Form to Dawson Community College via email at DCCParaPathways@dawson.edu.

• Submit a W-9 Form to Dawson Community College to receive payment(s).
• Note: Only LRP modules included in this list are eligible for compensation ($250 for first 20 modules and $250 after second 20 modules) until annual funding is exhausted. Paraeducators will only be compensated once for each module, maximum of $500 per person effective July 1, 2026. 

Application for Level 2—Para Pathways Project Special Education Technician

• Complete 40 specific LRP modules included on this list.
• Provide verification of a minimum of 1000 hours worked as a special education paraeducator in a Montana District.
• Complete enrollment application with Dawson Community College. Coursework to be completed will include:
  • EDU 201: Introduction to Education
  • EDSP 204: Exceptional Learners
  • EDU 222: Educational Psychology
  • EDU 231: Literature and Literacy for Children
• Complete Tuition & Service Payback Agreement with OPI and Dawson Community College.
• Upon completion of Level 2 courses, paraeducators may apply for a Class 09 Special Education Technician License in TeachMT.
  • The Board of Public Education is currently reviewing what a Class 09 Special Education Technician can and cannot do in a school. Website will be updated when the rule is finalized, anticipated winter 2026/27.

Application for Level 3—TUITION REIMBURSEMENT TO BECOME FULLY LICENSED SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER

• Competitive application for Level 2 completers to receive tuition reimbursement. 
  • Supports tuition towards a degree in education with a special education endorsement in Montana.
  • Must continue working as a paraeducator in a public school. 
  • See application for addition details. Deadline Oct. 16, 2026.

• Tip Sheet: Registration
• Tip Sheet: Enrolling in a Course
• Tip Sheet: Final Assessment
• Tip Sheet: Certificate of Completion

Learn more about the Para Pathways, Special Education Technician Track at Dawson Community College

BreAnn Miller, Interim Director of Academic Affairs, bmiller@dawson.edu, (406) 377-9414

Nick Staffileno, Education Instructor, nstaffileno@dawson.edu, (406) 377-9419