They must have good oral and writing skills and be able to communicate effectively with students and teachers. Teacher aides who speak a second language, especially Spanish, are in great demand to communicate with growing numbers of students and parents whose primary language is not English. Aides with instructional responsibilities usually require more training than aides who don't perform teaching tasks. Increasingly, employers prefer aides who have some college training. Some teacher aides are aspiring teachers who are working towards their degree while gaining experience.
Many schools require previous experience in working with children.
Schools may also require a valid driver's license, and perform a background check on applicants. A number of 2-year and community colleges offer associate degree programs that prepare graduates to work as teacher aides. Those who tutor and review lessons with students must have a thorough understanding of class materials and instructional methods, and should be familiar with the organization and operation of a school. Aides also must know how to operate audiovisual equipment, keep records, and prepare instructional materials, as well as have adequate computer skills. About half of all States have established guidelines or minimum educational standards for the hiring and training of teacher aides, and an increasing number of States are in the process of implementing them.