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Board reviews proposed behavior-intervention paraeducator permit requiring 40 hours of training
Summary
The board reviewed a proposed regulation to add a behavior-intervention paraeducator permit that would require a minimum 40 hours of training in specified areas and become effective Aug. 1, 2026. Members raised questions about interim safeguards for students and staff before the training requirement is fully available.
The Delaware State Board of Education reviewed a proposed regulation on Dec. 11 that would introduce a behavior-intervention paraeducator permit and require a minimum of 40 hours of training in enumerated areas such as positive behavior supports and applied behavior analysis.
Dr. Linnea Bradshaw, executive director of the Professional Standards Board, explained the regulation’s intent and content changes, saying the department sought to establish a clear minimum for those working with students who have behavior needs. "We felt like it was necessary to put a minimum a a 40 hour training," Dr. Bradshaw said, describing how DOE training, district offerings, or Registered Behavior Technician pathways could satisfy the requirement.
Board members supported the objective but pressed officials about safeguards. Several members asked what would happen in the interim period before the regulation takes effect on 2026-08-01, expressing concern about staff and student protections if uncredentialed individuals remain in behavior roles. One member said relying on hoped-for elements of a bachelor’s degree or anticipated district training leaves gaps that could allow harmful incidents to occur before the new credentialing pathway is in place.
DOE presenters said the department is working on an on-ramp and model 40-hour online curriculum to make training accessible; they also noted existing mandatory LEA trainings and other credentialing options that many current staff already hold. The presenters said the regulation would give the department authority to revoke, limit or suspend credentials for reasons that do not reach the level of criminal conduct, which is a new lever compared with the current situation.
The board did not adopt the regulation at Tuesday’s meeting; members received the briefing and asked follow-up questions about implementation details and interim safeguards.
Next steps: the regulation will proceed through the formal rulemaking process; DOE staff will continue to work on training delivery, an on-ramp model, and guidance for districts and credential holders.
