Loughran Cappel measure to let paraprofessionals with short-term approval licenses become fully licensed

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is spearheading a measure that would allow paraprofessionals who have a short-term approval license to become fully licensed once their short-term license expires.

"Paraprofessionals are an important part of our education system," said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "They provide crucial support for instructional, behavioral and personal care for students under the guidance of teachers and administrators."

Short-term approval licenses for paraprofessionals are valid for three years, but they cannot be renewed. Currently, the short-term approval license allows someone to act as a paraprofessional while working to meet the qualifications for a full-time license.

The measure would create another pathway for someone to receive a full-time paraprofessional license. Once their short-term license expires, paraprofessionals would be able to earn an Educator License with Stipulations if they have been employed for three years with good evaluations and have completed a minimum of 60 professional learning hours directly related to the job. The legislation would allow these people to continue working as paraprofessionals, as long as they are under the supervision of a teacher.

"We need to do something about Illinois' shortage of teachers, especially because it affects children's futures too," Loughran Cappel said. "Adding and keeping more paraprofessionals helps classroom teachers and makes for a more supportive learning environment for students."

Senate Bill 2773 passed the Senate Education Committee Tuesday, and it will now head to the full Senate for further consideration.