H.R. 5476: Preparing And Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act

H.R. 5476, the Preparing And Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act, sets up the first federal grant program built specifically around paraprofessionals — the classroom aides, special education aides, and English learner support staff who work alongside teachers in public elementary schools, secondary schools, and preschool programs.

The money would move in steps. The Education Department sends it to states, sized by each state's share of Title I funding for low-income schools. States keep no more than 5% for administration and statewide work, then run a competition where school districts and educational service agencies apply for the rest.

What districts can do with the money is the part paraprofessionals would feel. Funds can go to higher wages or bonus pay, mentoring and induction programs, professional development, and credentials — a special education certificate, an English learner certificate, an advanced paraeducator certification, or a path into full teaching certification. The point isn't only filling open jobs. It's making the job one people stay in.

The targeting is written into the bill. States must give priority to districts that serve more low-income children, districts where every school is classified rural, or districts where every school qualifies under the high-poverty community-eligibility rules for school meals.

There is one large catch. The bill names no dollar amount. It authorizes "such sums as may be necessary" for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, which means whether this turns into real raises or a small pilot depends entirely on what Congress later appropriates.