Any person employed by a school district as a special education program aide must hold a Special Education Program Aide License issued by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

Note that the DPI does not license regular education classroom aides or paraprofessionals. Educators who hold a valid and current substitute teaching license or permit may work as a special education program aide under the substitute license. The substitute license or permit is acceptable for state categorical aide reimbursement for districts.

License Application Requirements

To apply for a Special Education Program Aide license:

• Applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
• Application must be requested by employing school district administrator.

License Renewal Requirements

To renew a Special Education Program Aide license:

• Renewal application must be requested by employing school district administrator.

Application Form

To apply and renew:

• PI-1602-PA: Special Education Program Aide.

Related information

• Applying for a license/permit
• Renewing a license/permit
• Background check and fingerprint
• License and Assignment