Teacher Assistant

This program provides training for anyone interested in being employed as a full-time, part-time, or substitute teacher assistant. Topics are consistent with state standards and include: roles and responsibilities of the teacher assistant, human development, diversity, special education, basic rights, school health and safety, the instructional process, school laws, computer and technology skills, positive classroom climate, and team-building.

A certificate recognized by RIDE is awarded upon successful completion of all classes, assignments, job shadowing, and the final exam.

Currently Recruiting Westerly Education Center (WEC) FREE Cohort!

Program Dates: June 2 - June 30, 2025
               In-Person
               Mondays, Tuesday and Wednesdays, 6:00 - 9:00 pm
               Westerly Education Center, 23 Friendship Street, Westerly

To Register for the WEC Summer 2025 course beginning June 2:

This FREE cohort is funded through a Community Development Block Grant which requires that 67% of enrollees are low to moderate income eligible. Please complete the documents below and send them to Lockie Startz via email [email protected]. Once the documents are reviewed and approved by Lockie, you will receive an email from Valerie Serpa with a key code and instructions to register for the class online.

Release Form
Self-Certification Form

Registration Information

1. Open-enrollment online registration is paid by credit card ONLY.
2. Cash, check or money order walk-in registrations will be accepted in our office locations. Please note that offices are currently closed.
3. Review the Teacher Assistant Program Requirements
4. Available funding: WIOA Approved, and other funding opportunities posted when available

Important Information

1. Although this is a noncredit training program, three credits are transferable to CCRI's Human Services programs.
2. The RI Department of Education does not certify individual teacher assistants but sets minimum qualifications that school districts must follow in hiring TAs. Applicants should always check with the district(s) where they want to apply to learn about their specific employment requirements through RIDE Become a Teacher Assistant.
3. Duplicate/Replacement Certificates: To request a duplicate certificate of completion, please complete our online registration form here. There is a $10 charge for a duplicate certificate.

If you want to take the $335 open-enrollment course, you may register online using the button below.

 View Upcoming Open-Enrollment Courses >>