Rep. Craig Introduces Bill to Support Special Education, Recruit and Retain Paraeducators

EAGAN, MN – U.S. Representatives Angie Craig and Lucy McBath (GA-06) recently introduced their Preparing and Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act to help schools recruit, train and retain paraeducators. The bill would establish a grant program to fund pipeline and credentialing programs, high-quality professional development and higher wages for paraprofessionals and special education teachers.  

“As the mother of a child who benefited from special education, I know just how critical it is that we have talented special education teachers and paraprofessionals in our schools,” said Rep. Craig. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce this legislation alongside Rep. McBath to ensure schools have the resources they need to recruit, retain and train paraeducators. This bill is a long-term investment in our students, teachers and communities.”  

 Since she came to Congress, Rep. Craig has been a strong advocate for Minnesota’s special education programs – consistently leading legislation to fully fund IDEA. In April, Rep. Craig introduced the bipartisan IDEA Full Funding Act, which would finally ensure Congress fulfills its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). She is also a cosponsor of the Protecting Students with Disabilities Act, which would prohibit the use of appropriated funds to eliminate, consolidate or restructure any office with the Department of Education that administers or enforces programs under the IDEA.

And earlier this year, Rep. Craig brought together special educators, paraprofessionals and parents from Minnesota’s Congressional District to form her inaugural Special Education Advisory Council.

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