Palm Springs Unified launches paraprofessional literacy pilot; cohort 2 to begin Feb. 11

Palm Springs Unified School District on Jan. 27 described a district‑run extended‑learning program that offers targeted literacy training for elementary paraprofessionals.

Jessica Whiteman and Jennifer Abner, district instructional leaders, told trustees the pilot focuses on the science of reading and mirrors elements of teacher training (LETRS‑style modules). Abner said the pilot cohort of 41 paraprofessionals began Nov. 17 and will finish March 24; participants complete asynchronous coursework (about 10 hours across three modules) and attend an in‑person workshop after each module. "All participants, because this is on their own time, are receiving an $850 stipend for their time spent learning," Abner said.

Presenters said the pilot includes staff from special education classrooms (functional life skills, SDC, RSP) as well as paraprofessionals who support TK and kindergarten and reading intervention rooms. District staff emphasized in‑person "bridge to practice" workshops where paraprofessionals apply online content to real classroom scenarios. Abner said the district will issue a digital badge to completers and plans additional cohorts in 2026‑27, with a secondary math academy also launching next year.

Board members praised the work and asked how the program could scale; Abner said cohort 2 begins Feb. 11 with 40 enrolled and a waitlist of more than 46 paraprofessionals, and staff aim for additional cohorts focused on elementary, secondary and extensive support needs classrooms in future school years.

No board action was taken; the presentation was informational.